A typical method of descriptive research is the use of a case study. Case studies examine behaviors, skills or problems in individuals or small groups. Researchers try to observe and uncover general trends or results. Using case studies in descriptive research requires the use of multiple case studies to form conclusive theory. The observational approach used in case studies requires the use of researcher observation for data collection. These observations allow for human error or bias to skew research results. To form conclusive theories, multiple case studies are required to average out possible poor training or societal bias.
Observational or naturalistic observation observes living organisms within their natural setting. Researchers using this descriptive research method to covertly observe behaviors to determine trends or specific behaviors. Observational research techniques include behavioral checklists, time sampling behaviors during specific periods or event sampling behaviors during specific events such as birth or death. For observational research to be successful, subjects cannot know of the observer's presence since this discovery may change behaviors. Tools used in observational research include radio tracking, videotaped observation and audio monitoring.
Survey research consists of structured questions to assess behaviors, beliefs or attitudes within a population. Descriptive research uses surveys because of their correlative nature that allows researchers to compare and group question responses based upon age, gender or other demographic responses. Longitudinal and cross-sectional surveys are two types of surveys used in descriptive research. Longitudinal surveys collect survey information at periods to study changes over extended time points. Cross-sectional surveys use specific samples of a population at a specific time.
Archival research is the analysis of pre-existing records or research data. Content analysis of existing information can provide a qualitative analysis of behaviors, attitudes, economics or other recorded data. For example, researchers can analyze the occurrence of cancer in specific geographic areas based upon achieved medical information. Archival data comes from a variety of sources including government records, medical or university studies, past research and other sources of information. Researchers use archival research in descriptive research to establish trends or develop hypotheses.