Writing a thesis presents a unique challenge for students, particularly in determining the appropriate research method. The choice of research methodology significantly influences how the study is conducted, how data is collected, and how the results are analyzed. Therefore, understanding the characteristics and differences between research methods is a crucial initial step in the thesis-writing process.

Formulating clear research questions and defining the study’s focus will help students select the most suitable research method. Students must carefully outline and reflect on the primary objectives of their research to establish a strong foundation for their study.

Additionally, consulting with academic advisors is an essential step to ensure that the thesis is structured systematically and coherently. Discussions with supervisors also enable students to receive constructive feedback on their research, equipping them with better preparation for their thesis defense and allowing them to present their findings more convincingly.

Once students have determined their research topic, the next step is selecting an appropriate research method. In general, there are two primary approaches commonly used in academic research: qualitative and quantitative research. Understanding the differences between these two approaches will significantly aid students in designing a thesis that aligns with their topic and research objectives.

Understanding Qualitative and Quantitative Research

Qualitative research focuses on gaining an in-depth understanding of a phenomenon. This method is more flexible and is often used in social sciences, humanities, and fields that require subjective interpretation. Qualitative research results are typically presented in narrative descriptions that explain how and why a phenomenon occurs.

Quantitative research, on the other hand, is based on numerical data and statistical analysis. This method is used to test hypotheses and identify patterns of relationships between variables. While qualitative research emphasizes "why" something happens, quantitative research focuses on "how much" or "how often" a phenomenon occurs through mathematical analysis.

The selection of qualitative or quantitative research techniques should not be based solely on preference. Each study has its own characteristics, which may require nominal data and mathematical analysis. Therefore, several key aspects should be considered when determining the appropriate research method:

1. Purpose and Approach

• Qualitative: Aims to understand meanings, perspectives, or experiences of individuals and groups within a specific context.
• Quantitative: Aims to measure variables, test hypotheses, and systematically identify patterns or relationships between variables.

2. Data Collection Methods

• Qualitative: Data is collected through in-depth interviews, direct observations, case studies, and document analysis. The number of respondents is usually smaller, but the information obtained is more detailed.
• Quantitative: Data is gathered through surveys, questionnaires, experiments, and statistical data. Quantitative sampling techniques generally involve a large number of respondents to generate data that can be generalized to a broader population.

3. Data Analysis and Presentation

• Qualitative: Research findings are typically presented in the form of narratives, quotations from respondents, or detailed thematic descriptions.
• Quantitative: Research results are presented in numerical form, including tables, graphs, and statistical tests that illustrate relationships between variables.

Selecting the appropriate research method is a critical first step in writing a thesis. Qualitative research is more suitable for exploring experiences and meanings, whereas quantitative research is ideal for measuring and testing relationships between variables. In some cases, a combination of both methods can be used to obtain more comprehensive results. By understanding these differences, students can choose the most suitable approach for their research and develop a well-structured and substantial thesis. Hopefully this article will serve as an introductory stage for Dian Nusantara University students to start planning ahead for their research topics and ideas.