Introduction To Research Methodology

Introduction The purpose of this chapter is to discuss and define research methodology and state its contents which include; the research design , target population, research instrument, pilot study, data collection, data analysis, limitations of study and ethical considerations.

O’Leary (2004) exemplifies methodology as the framework which is associated with a particular set of paradigmatic assumptions that we will use to conduct our research.

Brown (2006) say methodology is the philosophical framework within which the research is conducted or the foundation upon which the research is based.

3.1Research Design

Kerlinger (1986) state research design as the road map that you decide to follow during your research journey to find answers to

The qualitative research was used because it assisted the researcher to collect data which is quality. The qualitative approaches offer the researcher with a wide range of information needed. Marutha (2011) explains that a qualitative approach helps to explain the understanding and interest of the population.

Qualitative approach may require individual interviews, focus groups, observations, a review of existing documents or a number of these. Although these data resources would result in a wealth of rich information, considerable time and resources may be required to adequately represent the area being studied (Hancock & Algozzine: 2006).

3.2Target Population

Target population is the number of people the researcher is going to contact when carrying out the research; the targeted people are employees who are dealing with organizational records on daily basis being records officers, action officers and some of staff members like secretaries.

Walsh (2001) says target population it is a specified group of people the researcher wish to investigate in a study.

The target population was 20 Botswana Police Headquarters personnel, as shown in table 3.1

Table 3.1 Target

Research instruments include questionnaires, observation, interview and checklist. The instrument used in this study to collect data is questionnaire. The researcher is able to gather data from a widely scattered sample thus less time consumed.

3.4 Pilot Study

Dawson (2009) piloting refers to testing the questions of the study to see it is obtaining the results the researcher need. The pilot study was carried out to test if the targeted population will understand the grammar, to eliminate repetition and improve clarity and after pilot study amendments were made for alignment with the research.

3.5Data Collection Access letter was given from school and presented to the Director Departmental Management Service’s office to get permission first and after the permission was given the letter was also given to the sample group for them to understand why the researcher needs their help. The questionnaires were then distributed to the sample group.

3.1.6 Data Analysis

The researcher distributed the questionnaires; the outcomes of the questionnaires were analyzed through the use of tables and charts where data was converted into percentages to show frequency readings. Indicating the findings, interpretation and link with literature