Blog #7

After tonight’s class I have a better understanding of the different research designs that are applicable for my research project. Initially, I thought I would be using a qualitative method to assess a parents’ Latino cultural values. However, I realized that I will actually be using a mixed methods design. My survey will consist of both quantitative data collection as well as qualitative, open-ended questions. They will be collected simultaneously, based on available participants (CPS parents, aka parents from a large urban public school). Utilizing this method will allow me to cast a wider net of information. I have a feeling there might be a correlation between Latino cultural values and sociodemographic factors; for example, I think there may be a correlation between an individual’s identification with their Latino culture and whether they are first, second, or third generation. Additionally, I also believe the neighborhood in which they live in, and who they surround themselves with, might also be another factor. Collecting my participants sociodemographic information may be a useful piece of the puzzle in providing more background information that will allow for more connections to be made. It is important to be able to identify the appropriate research design for my study because there is not a lot of research on my topic out there. Laying the foundation and providing as much information as possible will make it easier to pick up where I leave off and complete other research studies.