Approaches in Information Research

Abstract

Research approaches are general techniques that researchers follow when conducting a study. Employing research approaches in information research is noted to vary from one researcher to another based on the investigator’s choice as well as the nature of the topic under investigation. The differences in the use of research approaches in information research do not rely on data gathering alone, but also on the practical consequences of the inquiry and the interpretation of the findings. The study looked into the three most major research approaches, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods, and discussed how the adoption of these approaches fit into information research. It was found that application of research approaches in information research is beneficial. However, information researchers are advised to be cautious of the weaknesses of the approaches they would adopt for a study.