What is Study Design?
Study design refers to the overall strategy used to answer a research question and collect evidence in a structured, logical and reliable way.
Selecting an appropriate design is essential to ensuring that the evidence generated is robust, relevant and capable of answering the research question.
The design you choose will influence your methods, sampling approach, recruitment plans, analysis and dissemination activities.
What You Will Learn
By completing this section you will understand how to select and plan an appropriate study design.
Research Design Types
Understand experimental, cross-sectional, longitudinal and case study designs.
Research Methods
Learn when to use qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods approaches.
Sampling & Recruitment
Identify participants and estimate recruitment requirements.
Dissemination
Plan how findings will be shared through reports, articles or public updates.
Common Study Designs
Experimental
Often used to examine cause-and-effect relationships and may include randomised controlled trials.
Cross-Sectional
Collects information from a population at a single point in time.
Longitudinal
Follows participants over time to understand changes and outcomes.
Case Study
Provides detailed investigation of a particular service, event, organisation or group.
Choosing Your Research Method
- Quantitative: Focuses on numerical data and measurable outcomes.
- Qualitative: Explores experiences, views and perspectives.
- Mixed Methods: Combines qualitative and quantitative approaches.
Things to Consider
- Identify the relevant patient population.
- Understand eligibility criteria and recruitment potential.
- Review existing referral and care pathways.
- Consider additional time, staffing and costs.
- Engage service managers, administrative staff and clinicians throughout the project lifecycle.
- Plan dissemination from the outset.
How to Complete this Stage at BCHC
- Define your research question.
- Select an appropriate study design.
- Choose the most suitable research method.
- Develop a sampling and recruitment plan.
- Review operational impacts and resource requirements.
- Identify stakeholders and gain engagement.
- Plan dissemination and implementation activities.
Support Resources
| Resource | Purpose | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Research & Innovation Team | Support with study design and research delivery. | Contact the R&I Team |