Step 4:
Research design

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implementation of the appropriate research design. A
realistic sampling plan appropriate for the design is
essential. Qualitative or quantitative methodology may
be utilized, depending on the research question and
goals. Quantitative research may be experimental where
there is an intervention, or nonexperimental, if no
intervention is included in the design. Causation can
only be established with experimental research. Popular
types of nonexperimental research include descriptive
and survey research. Research findings may be
disseminated via presentations, posters, and
publications, such as abstracts and manuscripts
Open Access
literature reviews to synthesize large bodies of knowledge. Many types of literature reviews have been
developed, each targeting a specific purpose. However, these syntheses are hampered if the review type’s
paradigmatic roots, methods, and markers of rigor are
only vaguely understood. One literature review type
whose methodology has yet to be elucidated is the
state-of-the-art (SotA) review. If medical educators
are to harness SotA reviews to generate knowledge
syntheses, we must understand and articulate the
paradigmatic roots of, and methods for, conducting
SotA reviews.
Methods We reviewed 940 articles published between
2014–2021 labeled as SotA reviews. We (a) identified
Select Resource
Open-source
NotebookLM
AI-powered research and writing assistant that works best with the sources you upload
Prompts
"I am a [specific role/position] specializing in [specific subfield] with [X years/relevant experience] in [specific research area]. Help me formulate [number] specific research questions exploring the relationship between [independent variable/factor of interest] and [dependent variable/outcome] in [specific context/population/setting].
The research questions should be suitable for [specific purpose, e.g., grant proposal, publication] targeting [specific funding bodies/institutions/journals]. Use [desired language style, e.g., formal academic] and ensure the questions align with [relevant standards/guidelines/frameworks] in [your field].
Present each research question with:
- The main question
- Sub-questions if applicable
- Key variables to be measured
- Potential methodological considerations"
"I am a medical researcher specializing in public health with 5 years of experience in epidemiology research. Help me formulate 3-4 specific research questions exploring the relationship between urban air pollution and respiratory health outcomes in Southeast Asian cities. The research questions should be suitable for a grant proposal targeting the National Research Council of Thailand and international health organizations. Use formal academic language and ensure the questions align with current WHO air quality guidelines and public health priorities.
Present each research question with:
- The main question
- Sub-questions if applicable
- Key variables to be measured
- Potential methodological considerations"
"I am a mechanical engineering researcher specializing in renewable energy with 8 years of experience in solar technology. Help me formulate 3 specific research questions exploring the relationship between novel photovoltaic materials and energy conversion efficiency in tropical climate conditions"
Prompt example3
"I am a clinical psychology researcher specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy with 6 years of experience in anxiety disorders. Help me formulate 3 specific research questions exploring the relationship between social media use and anxiety levels in adolescents."