Achieving Methodological Rigor in Education Research

Unfortunately, there is no magical rate to quality as a “good” participation rate, especially as rates have fallen over time [2]. [...]the methods should indicate techniques to increase the participation rate such as repeated mailing, individual reimbursement, lottery for a larger prize, or having local champions. Missing Data and Attrition Another concern at the time of data collection is the number of missing values for each variable. Different techniques exist to address missing data, but thoughtful data collection or selection of already collected data can minimize the problem. Articulating the analytical approach prior to data collection enhances the confidence of readers that the study is not a fishing expedition, meaning that analysis was continued until there was a significant finding. For clinical trials, posting the study design and analytical approach is required prior to data collection (or soon after it is initiated) to avoid selective reporting of “desired” findings.