Which research approach is best suited to the positivist approach?Question 19Select one:a.questionnaireb.case studyc.ethnographyd.secondary data analysis

To determine the best research approach suited to the positivist approach, we should analyze the characteristics of the positivist philosophy and how they align with each of the given options.

Step 1: Understanding Positivism

Positivism is a philosophical theory which asserts that only knowledge derived from empirical evidence—specifically, data obtained through observation, experimentation, and logical reasoning—can contribute to a valid understanding of the world. This approach values quantitative data and often employs statistical analysis.

Step 2: Evaluating Each Option

1. Questionnaire: This method typically involves structured data collection through surveys. It is quantitative in nature, though it can also gather qualitative data, making it suitable for positivist research.

2. Case Study: This approach often involves in-depth qualitative analysis of a single case or a small number of cases. While it can be rigorous, it doesn't typically align with the positivist emphasis on generalizable quantitative results.

3. Ethnography: This qualitative research method focuses on understanding cultural phenomena through direct observation and engagement in the participant's environment. It generally seeks deep insights rather than numerical data, making it less aligned with positivist principles.

4. Secondary Data Analysis: This method uses existing data collected by other researchers. While it can be quantitative and suitable for positivism, its effectiveness often depends on the type of data and how it was collected.

Step 3: Conclusion

From the analysis, the questionnaire method stands out as the most fitting for a positivist approach because it allows for the collection of structured quantitative data that can be statistically analyzed and ensures objectivity.

Final Answer

The best-suited research approach to the positivist approach is a. questionnaire.