Means-End Analysis/

Means-End Analysis involves:

1. Describe the desired outcome.


2. Define the goals necessary to reach the end state.
a. Global objects, traits, skills, behaviors, or specific conditions that characterize the goal(s).


3. Describe the current state.


4. Analyze the means necessary to get the desired outcome.


5. Construct and implement a plan.


6. Review, evaluate, and refine the plan.


Data Collection Plan

Ask yourself the following questions as you decide what data to collect. You may start your research with specific data in mind but you may realize that other data will help corroborate or clarify.

What information would help answer your research question? What data collection would generate the information?
In what ways does group work on a computer influence student decision-making?
Types of questions asked during group work Tape recording of student talk; field notes
Student’s opinions about working in groups Survey; interview
Development of content and/or thinking skills over course of study Student journals, assignments, test scores.
Theory or research about computer group work Literature

How do actions and reactions of participants shape what is possible, desirable and ethical?

DATA TYPE Who or What When
Reading literature
Interview
Listen
Observe
Measure
Record Time
Count Behaviors
Use Checklist
Implement Survey
Existing Data
Take photos or video
Record interactions