 Understanding the nature of the problem  Know the goal of the research  What questions do we wish to answer with this research? Understanding the problem

 Carefully decide on and define variables to be studied  Make sure the methods chosen address the variables desired Deciding Measures

Understanding the problem Deciding Measures

 Is existing data accurate, or is new data needed?  Understand the limitations of data  Consider analysis as you develop collection methods Data Collection

Understanding the problem Deciding Measures Data Collection

 Graphical and numerical summaries  Descriptive statistics  Preliminary Analysis helps guide further analysis Summarization & Pre-Analysis

Understanding the problem Deciding Measures Data CollectionSummarization & Pre-Analysis

 Selecting the appropriate statistical methods based upon types of data collected and methods used to collect. Formal Data Analysis

Understanding the problem Deciding Measures Data CollectionSummarization & Pre-AnalysisFormal Data Analysis

 What conclusions can be drawn from the analysis?  How do the results inform us about the research problem?  How can our results guide future research? Interpretation of Results

Understanding the problem Deciding Measures Data CollectionSummarization & Pre-AnalysisFormal Data AnalysisInterpretation of Results