What should data analysis methods be based on in a research study?

Data analysis methods in a research study should be based on specifications made in advance of the study. This involves careful planning during the research design phase, where researchers outline the objectives, hypotheses, and the specific analytical techniques that will align with the data being collected. By establishing these specifications ahead of time, researchers ensure that their analyses are methodologically sound and directly relevant to the research questions they aim to answer. This pre-defined approach aids in maintaining the study's integrity and rigor, as well as facilitating replication and validation by other researchers.

While current trends in research, data collection methods, and feedback from study participants are all important aspects of conducting research, they are not the primary basis for selecting data analysis methods. Current trends might inform methodological choices but should not dictate them solely. Similarly, while data collection methods provide necessary context for analysis, they are part of the overall research design and should be considered alongside pre-established specifications. Feedback from participants, while valuable for understanding their experiences and potentially improving the research process, does not directly inform the analytical techniques employed. Therefore, grounding analysis in pre-defined specifications is the most rigorous approach to ensuring that the methods are appropriate and consistent throughout the study.