MASTERCLASS

Research Methodology Masterclass

Choose, justify and implement a methodology that answers the research question.

Move from methodological determinants to design, sampling, instruments, fieldwork, data quality and a defensible methodology write-up.

F1RMA ScholarResearch. Develop. Advance.

Enrol now →

Course summaryIntermediate level8 modules6–8 hours estimated learningSelf-paced deliveryPractical exercises includedBest for: Researchers designing Chapter 3 or planning real data collection

8 modulesStructured learning sequence

IntermediateRecommended level

6–8 hoursLearn at your own pace

PracticalApply the learning directly

Certificate eligibleOn successful completion where enabled

ABOUT

About this course

Move from methodological determinants to design, sampling, instruments, fieldwork, data quality and a defensible methodology write-up.

The course is structured around practical research decisions rather than memorised definitions. Each module connects concepts to real research tasks, examples and tools.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Learning outcomes

Determine whether a question requires quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods.
Distinguish major designs and the types of inference they support.
Justify methodology instead of merely defining terminology.
Select an appropriate sampling strategy and sample-size approach.
Design and pilot questionnaires, interview guides and electronic forms.
Plan enumerator training, field deployment and quality control.
Identify threats to validity and field-data quality.
Connect research objectives to evidence collection and analysis.

COURSE CONTENT

8-module curriculum

Module 1

How Methodology Is Chosen

Research question, purpose, evidence required, feasibility and methodological determinants.

4 lessons · 35 min

Module 2

Quantitative Research

Cross-sectional, correlational, cohort, case-control, experimental, quasi-experimental and time-series designs.

7 lessons · 55 min

Module 3

Qualitative Research

Phenomenology, case study, ethnography, grounded theory, narrative research and netnography.

7 lessons · 55 min

Module 4

Mixed Methods

Convergent, explanatory sequential, exploratory sequential and integration.

5 lessons · 40 min

Module 5

Sampling

Population, sampling frame, probability and non-probability sampling, sample-size reasoning.

6 lessons · 45 min

Module 6

Research Instruments

Questionnaires, interview guides, observation tools, piloting and cognitive interviewing.

6 lessons · 50 min

Module 7

Fieldwork & Data Collection

Enumerator training, Kobo/ODK deployment, offline collection, supervision, back-checks and data quality.

7 lessons · 50 min

Module 8

Writing the Methodology

Alignment, justification, limitations, reporting guidelines and methodology audit.

5 lessons · 40 min

SKILLS YOU'LL GAIN

Research DesignQuantitative MethodsQualitative ResearchMixed MethodsSamplingQuestionnaire DesignFieldwork PlanningData QualityResearch EthicsMethodology Writing

TOOLS & RESOURCES

KoboToolboxODKREDCapExcelSPSSJASPR

DETAILS TO KNOW

DeliverySelf-paced online learning

LanguageEnglish

AudienceResearchers designing Chapter 3 or planning real data collection

PracticeWorked examples and applied tasks

SupportCan be combined with F1RMA research consulting

CompletionCertificate eligibility where enabled

READY TO BEGIN?

Start Research Methodology Masterclass.

Enrol for the structured course, or book guidance if you want help applying the learning to your own research.

Enrol now →

Research HubUse the public research knowledge base →Research ResourcesOpen calculators, matrices and planning tools →Research SupportWork with a F1RMA research consultant →