PhD Final Thesis April 2013.pdf - Anglia Ruskin Research Online

Thesis Keith Gale 20134. Testing of each hypothesis is achieved through empirical means usingstatistical techniques to provide conclusions.4.6 Research method paradigmsA predominant research method used by construction management researchers isquantitative (Dainty, 2007), supporting a dominance set within a positivist paradigm.This approach is often selected because empirical information provides compellingevidence in order to explain phenomena and provides answers to measure extent(how much) and quantum (how many). Analytical manipulation of quantitative dataallows recognition of variables through a scientific process (Walker, 1997). Resultsare subjected to statistical comparison of samples undertaken, with a purpose beingto measure these against standardised populations allowing explanatory statements tobe made (Czaja and Blair, 1996).A predominant quantitative research paradigm places emphasis upon facts and effectof behaviour (Bogdan and Biklen, 1998) where results are summarised throughestablished mathematical processes and expressed using statistical terminologies(Charles, 1995). In support of quantitative methods, qualitative methods are used inthis research to discover views of practitioners – an important feature of professionaldoctorate research.4.7 Framework of research methods for this researchA rationale of methods placed in context to this research is explored in detail,supported with reference to published studies where appropriate. An overarchingmethod applied is through the primary use of a single case study to the whole thesis,with a deeper discussion of this method undertaken at the next chapter. Othermethods secondary to this principal paradigm and are used to support the conceptualmodel and test proposed hypotheses.4.7.1 Case study approachCase studies provide data of highest quality and depth (Wineburg, 1997), but whenapplied to construction project life cycles require a long period of time to amass86