Describe the key elements of a research study.

The research objectives and type of study that is being done will determine the key components of each study. Researchers should first create a hypothesis, or purpose statement, that outlines the goals of their study. Researchers must identify their target population and sample size, as well as the appropriate method of data collection (e.g. interviews, focus groups etc.). In order to gather relevant data, which will help them answer their question. Researchers must collect all relevant data and then analyse it using the appropriate statistical methods. Final steps would include drawing conclusions from the analysis, while also considering the limitations that were encountered in the process of research.

A rapid critical appraisal was completed on two separate studies identified in order to compare them; these were ‘The Effects of Exercise Training Programs on Depression: A Systematic Review’ by Ahmed et al. (2017) as well as ‘Health-Related Quality Of Life Correlates Of Physical Activity In Non institutionalized Elderly People With Arthritis: Results From The National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey’ by Robbins et al. (2011). The two studies had different design approaches and the results were subsequently varied. They did however agree somewhat on implications in context of physical activity environment. This promotes healthy lifestyle choices for elderly people suffering from arthritis. It also improves quality life throughout the community. These effects have positive consequences for overall morale.

It appears there are some similarities between the research, but they ultimately share the same purpose: to better understand and improve quality of life.