Ravalier PhD Theis.pdf - Anglia Ruskin Research Online

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Chapter VI: Methodology
The current chapter will address how the research questions detailed at the end of Chapter I and reiterated
below are to be answered, and will also depict how the background literature discussed critically in the previous
chapters is incorporated into the research methodology utilised in the presented study. It begins with a critical
discussion about the design of the study, outlining what qualitative and quantitative approaches to data collection
and analysis are, as well as an analysis of the approach to research in the current study. It evaluates the use of
this approach and the philosophical standpoint within which this research method fits. The methods used in the
initial data collection stage are detailed, including the psychometric properties of the quantitative survey
components as well as an analysis of the merits of the use of three further phases: a log phase, semi-structured
interviewing, and focus groups.
Objectives:
o To develop a local stress theory.
o To develop an appropriate intervention strategy based on staff views.
Primary Research Question:
1. Can the results of a participatory Appreciative Inquiry methodology be successfully implemented into a local borough council
organisation
Secondary Research Questions
2. What are the sources of day-to-day stress (i.e. ‘daily hassles’) for employees in the borough council.