Descriptive Research Design Explained

Introduction

This chapter aims to describe the methodology employed by the researcher to achieve the research objectives. The chapter explains the research design and different types of research designs with more emphasis on a descriptive research design which was used in this study. Various research philosophies and strategies are explained, pointing out the reason for choosing a qualitative research strategy for the present study. This chapter elaborates on the sampling strategy, data collection instrument and analysis used in this study. Furthermore, reliability and validity are explained to determine the credibility of the data collected. The chapter points out the limitation of the present study and ethical consideration as they apply to the present study. Thus, this chapter provides a vivid understanding of the research methodology adopted for this study.

Research Design

Research design provides a framework for the study. It is a plan that helps the researcher identifies respondents and collect study data from them (Kumar, 2019: 225). According to Clandinin and et. al (2017: 87), it is defined as a plan or blueprint that maps out how research is intended to be conducted. Research design precisely involves structuring the overall issues that are involved in the execution and planning of the research. In other words, it gives an overview of the method selected for the research and reasons for choosing a particular method. Research design aims at the products, which includes proper planning for the research process and expectation of suitable outcomes (Silverman, 2016: 46). Research design helps to collect needed data to fulfil research objectives. Various types of research designs include causal-comparative research, correlational research, explanatory research, exploratory research and descriptive research.

Causal-comparative research

Causal-comparative research design aims to find the causative relationship that exists between dependent and independent variables post an action (Fletcher, 2017:89). Often, the goal is to find if the outcome of the action was affected by either the independent or dependent variables. It channels effort towards establishing causal relationships between events and circumstances (Gombert and et. al, 2017:56). Hence, it compares certain circumstances around observed effects and notes the factors that are present in certain occurrence and non-occurrence. Causal-comparative research design aims to identify association among variables. It can identify relationships without fully establishing the cause. However, it does not establish cause-effect relationships (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:32). It is a type of research design that focuses on determining the relationships between the independent and dependent variables after every test and action has been completed. Goal of the researcher through such research studies is to explore and determine whether the independent variables influence the outcome or the dependent variables. In such type of investigation, the researcher focuses on determining the cause or the outcome of the differences that are already existing between or among the groups of individuals. It is also known as ‘ex post facto’ research. There are three types of causal comparative research studies – exploration of effects, exploration of causes and exploration of consequences. In such types of studies, the researcher selects two types of groups of participants – experimental and control groups. They are mainly referred to as comparison groups.

Correlational research

Correlational research is used to measure the relationship that exists between two or more variables. In correlational research, the researcher does not have control over the variables; therefore, cannot manipulate the (Page and et. al, 2017:119). The aim is to find if the relationships are positive correlation, negative correlation or zero correlation (Clandinin and et. al, 2017:92). Positive correlation happens when the variables change in the same direction while a negative correlation is when variables change in opposite directions. Zero correlation occurs when there is no relationship between the variable. It can further be defined as the research design that measures the relationship between two variables. In this type of test, researcher has no control on either of the two variables. This way the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the data as well as the data analysis process can be enhanced. By using the correlational research, the scholar can determine if the variables are positively or negatively correlated with one another. There are two types of situations in which the correlational research design can be used. In one situation the researcher aims at determining if there is a relationship between two variables. Herein the researcher does not aim at finding any causal relationships between the variables. While in the second situation, the researcher aims at finding causal relationship between two variables. But if the researcher conducts an experimental research that manipulates or changes even one of the variables, then it can be impractical or unethical on part of the researcher. Surveys, naturalistic observations and archival data can be used by the researcher to conduct a correlational research.

Ethnographic Research

The term ethnographic research design reflects an approach of research design that focuses on the extended narrative data over a period within a natural setting. This process is done by gaining insight into the other pre-determined researches. In this approach, the data are collected at a particular point with a sustained period (Attia and Edge, 2017:85). The direct observation has been delivered to provide a complete snapshot of the case that is studied in an ethnographic research approach. Such a type of approach is taken when the knowledge of the phenomenon is unknown. Therefore, the sample size is small. In such research studies, the researcher focused on using methods such as direct observations, diary studies, video and audio recordings, photos, artefact analysis. The role of observations is very crucial in such types of studies and generally helps in conducting studies that focus on using in-depth and detailed analyses. By conducting such a study, the researcher can get a better understanding of how users see the world and also how they interact with one another. There are two main methods with the help of which an ethnographic study can be carried out. They are passive observations and contextual interviews.

Exploratory Research

It refers to a type of research approach that aims to provide an examination for little understanding of the phenomenon and the issue (Silverman, 2016:45). According to the various author, the approach of the exploratory research must follow the criteria mentioned below:

The phenomenon of the topic must be studied outside its natural setting.

The study or research must focus on varied contemporary events.

Manipulation and control of the subject or occurrence must be possible.

The phenomenon of interest must rely on a theoretical base.

However, the primary aim of exploratory research is to search for the hypothesis, patterns and ideas to contribute to the formulation of the hypothesis and problem statement. In such types of studies focus of the researcher is on obtaining a better understanding and viewpoint of the problem which has not yet been clearly defined. Such study is conducted so that a better understanding about the topic can be obtained, but it does not provide any type of conclusive results. As the name suggests such study only explores the subject matter.

Explanatory Research

It extends the reach of the research beyond the descriptive research by describing and analysing the characteristics discussed in the descriptive approach. This research was rooted in theory and used to focus on the questionnaires based on "why and how." Such type of study is carried out on research problems that have not been researched and analysed well in the past. It is a type of research design that emphasises on explaining different aspects of the study or the investigation in a detailed manner. In such type of study, the researcher can focus on explaining the research topic and different aspects that are associated with it. The researcher aims at explaining the various variables, i.e. how the independent variables affect the dependent variables. It starts with a general idea about the research and the researcher then focuses on analysing different subjects and topics that can be considered for future investigations. Such type of studies are carried out to determine a finding that has not been studied in-depth by past researchers in their investigations.

Descriptive Research

This study chose a descriptive research design using qualitative data to achieve the research objectives. In descriptive research design, the phenomenon is described, as they are pre-determined and already exist. Descriptive research lies on the raw data and summarises the whole into a descriptive form. It is primarily based on the qualitative data but can be a quantitative or mixed form of research (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:121). Descriptive research design is used in providing relevant information regarding the population that is studied. It is intended to provide an explanation to what is prevalent, common, or already exists in a population. It aims to answer what, who, when, where and how questions but do not ask why questions (Clandinin and et. al, 2017:88). This study chose a descriptive research design because it helps to provide more information on the research topic. Also, it describes the relationship that exists between one or more variables. It does not find reasons or cause and effect; instead, it describes one or more variables. Descriptive research is a common design used in many disciplines and has become very rampant (Page and et. al, 2017:56). It can be used in varieties of qualitative and quantitative research to investigate a variable or more. This study chose a descriptive research design because it was suitable for answering research questions which are all 'what' questions. Also, it enables the researcher to achieve the research objectives. It describes as well as explains the behaviour or experience of subjects. Descriptive research design is not grounded on statistic as this research utilised a qualitative approach. Descriptive research design is mostly qualitative; however, it can gather qualitative data as well (Clandinin and et. al, 2017:90). It describes, explains or validates hypotheses or objectives of a specific group of people. The three main methods of descriptive research designs are observation, survey and case study (Gombert and et. al, 2017:65). This study utilised a case study to explain the challenges and opportunities immigrant entrepreneurs meet as they manage their businesses in towns in Eastern Cape Province. Therefore, this study deemed descriptive research design suitable as it gathered a detailed data in order to identify the characteristics of narrowly defined subjects in the case which is one of the characteristics of descriptive research (Attia and Edge, 2017:101). It focuses more on what about the subjects rather than why about them. This means that it describes without a focus on why a specific phenomenon occurs. The focus is to describe certain nature of demographic segments. The present study focuses on describing the challenges and opportunities of the identified case without focusing on why they encounter those challenges and opportunities. The descriptive research design was therefore deemed appropriate for this study.

Research Philosophy

Research philosophy is the measure through which the researcher attains knowledge about the relevant topic. It is considered as the first step in conducting any research study. It describes about the way the data is accessed and collected by the researcher. It is a very important aspect for any type of research investigation. By selecting an appropriate philosophy, the researcher can determine the most suitable approach of data collection. Furthermore, it also sheds light on the beliefs and assumptions of the researcher. Since each stage of the research process is based on assumptions about the sources and the nature of knowledge, it is imperative for the scholar to select the most appropriate philosophy through which the study can be carried out effectively. There are two basic types of research philosophies, namely, positivist and phenomenological research paradigm. The positivist research philosophy is used to carry out quantitative research while the phenomenological research paradigm is used to carry out qualitative research. Qualitative research is based on producing approximate results of the research. On the other hand, quantitative research tends to put the results of the research into numbers and provide exact information about the research topic (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:111).

Positivist Research Paradigm

Positivist research paradigm or quantitative research is based on exacting the knowledge generation process. The positivist research is generally used when the researcher tends to prove the facts and topics that have already been proved or are supernatural. For example, if a researcher tends to prove that the sun rises in the east. It is a scientific fact. Thus, for such type of research, the positivist research paradigm is most suitable. From the above example, it can be understood that the knowledge acquired through this approach helps in easily attaining real objectives. This approach helps the researcher to carry forward the belief that single attainable research can be revealed or can be attained by using the thematic variables and scheme.

Phenomenological Research Paradigm

In this study, phenomenological (qualitative) research paradigm was used as it analyses non-statistical data. On the other hand, a positivist (quantitative) research paradigm aims to quantify the problem and tries to understand the degree of prevalence by observing or expecting the possible projected outcomes over a large number of populations. It is the more logical and data-led approach for knowledge to a majority of the population with a glance at the numerical and statistical view. While on the other hand, the qualitative research method is used when one is not able to identify the expectation of the outcomes, definition of the problem and develop approaches to the problem (Fletcher, 2017:87). Moreover, it is used to establish a frequency of the occurrence of the research participants. It has also been observed that a qualitative research approach involves techniques that allow the researchers to interpret the information or the data gathered during the operation of the research. Qualitative research is more suitable for this study because unlike the positivist (quantitative) paradigm that is based on the data and number, a qualitative approach is more focused on what the people think, how they think, and why they used to make certain choices. This research approach allowed an in-depth knowledge about the challenges immigrant entrepreneurs face as they conduct their business and how they encounter their business opportunities to enhance their business performance and operation process. Moreover, qualitative research allows the researcher to answer the complex questions that depend upon the phenomenon of business performance. Also, it is characterised by gathering and evaluating the data that are collected via interview, survey, individual groups, or controversial analysis. This type of research seeks to interpret and understand the meaning of the situation or event in the perspectives of the people that are involved with the business process. The outcome of the qualitative approach may result in the rejection of appetence. However, the results are likely to contain tentative hypothesis or answers that are rooted for an emerging pattern.

Research Strategies

Research strategy can be defined as the proper outline of the entire research process that helps the researcher in deciding the flow of the research towards attaining the set objective. Therefore, the research strategies help the researcher in an adequate planning, executing the plans and monitoring the proceedings of the research in a better manner (Gombert et. al, 2017:97). The following are the three kinds of research strategies used by researchers based on their requirement.

Positivist Research Strategy

The positivist research strategy is also known as a quantitative research strategy. This kind of research strategy is used when the researcher requires carrying out quantitative research. Those researchers using this approach believe that the outcome of the research can either be revelled or discovered using scientific methods (Clandinin et. al, 2017:43). This strategy helps the researcher in the experimenting, observing, measuring, relying and validating the processes involved in the course of research. This research strategy helps the researcher to validate the hypothesis using precise and systematic answers to the research questions and the hypothesis thus discussed. The positivist strategy makes use of the scientific methods that are universally applicable. There are three main facts concerning the positivist approach that is as follows: The prime source of knowledge in positivist strategy is experience. However, in the exceptional case where time, cause and space are to be included, the other factors are given preference. This strategy also assumes that some kind of relationship exists among all the variables used in the research. It is also believed in a positivist strategy that the findings lack insights into the in-depth issues.

Phenomenological research strategies

The phenomenology research strategy is also known as a qualitative research strategy. This strategy is helpful for those researchers who tend to study and understand the lives and experience of the people. Furthermore, this strategy allows the researcher to capture the experience and feelings of the participants regarding the research topic. Therefore, the prime focus of the research is to reach to the descriptive answer of any phenomenon being researched by the researcher. There many ways through which the researcher can make use of the phenomenological research strategy. The following are the instruments through which the phenomenological research strategy can be applied in the research. This research mechanism was used in the current study, as it deals with qualitative research. The present study focuses on qualitative research rather than quantifying the research variables (Silverman, 2016:121). Interviews are instruments that are used to gather information from the clients through semi-structured or fully structured questions. The interview questions involve the likes dislikes of the interviewee and various facts related to the research. This supplies an opportunity to the interviewer to have one to one conversation with the interviewee. Focus group is another method used in the phenomenological research strategy. Under this method, the researcher picks a sample of 6-10 participants and gathers their information about their views regarding the researched product or topic. It is generally in the form of discussion to arrive at the outcome and common opinion of the research. The researcher makes a note of the answers given by the group members after each question has been asked. The case study is yet another method of applying a phenomenological research strategy. This method is based on the identification of the research results through real-life contexts. Furthermore, case studies are based on investigating in-depth about the individual, group of people or event based on the requirement of the researcher. Action research is a method in which the researcher takes action and carries out research that is linked together through critical reflection. The next in line is the grounded theory method. This method is the one in which the data is collected and analysed systematically. It is basically used to discover the behaviours and relationships among the different variables are used in the research. Last but not the least Ethnographic research is another method where the researcher interacts with the real-life context of the participants. It is a qualitative method used to analyse and understand the issues that are unexpected (Page and et. al, 2017:93).

Combined Research strategies

This research mechanism is not a single mechanism; instead, it is a combination of various other methods that are used in phenomenological research strategies. It may be a combination of two or more research strategies that helps the researcher to conduct valid research along with attaining the research objectives. It may be a combination of positivist and phenomenological research strategies. It is used in those kinds of researches that require both qualitative and quantitative data. In this type of research methodology, the researcher uses a combination of different methods of data collection and analysis. It integrates both qualitative and quantitative methods thereby enabling the researcher to conduct the study in a better and more effective manner. The main reason for selecting this research strategy is to improve overall quality of the investigation and also to enable the researcher to access and collect a considerable amount of information pertaining to the subject matter and conducting a detailed and thorough investigation about the topic.

Target Population

The study population is the total numbers of a specific class of people, place, objects, events or outcomes selected solely because they are pertinent in answering research questions (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:24). The research population is expected to be explicitly defined and clearly stated inclusion and exclusion criteria. In this study, the target population is African-immigrant entrepreneurs and Asian-immigrant entrepreneurs operating in the selected towns in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study focused mainly on Ghanaians, Senegalese, Congo, Nigerians, Somalis, Pakistanis, Bangladeshi, and Chinese. This is because most immigrant entrepreneurs in the selected towns are from these countries. The selected towns are Aliwal-North and Sterkspruit. The two towns are selected as they record a high number of immigrant entrepreneurs and for their proximity to the researcher.

Sampling

Sampling is the process which is used to select a group of individuals from a population in order to study them, and the population is thus characterised as a whole (Attia and Edge, 2017:90).

Kinds of Sampling

The two major types of sampling techniques are probability and non-probability techniques. According to Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al (2017:97), probability sampling is a sampling technique which enables data gathering using a process that allows equal chances of being selected to all individuals in the population while non-probability sampling technique does not allow equal chances of being selected to all as discussed next.

Probability sampling

It is a sampling method where every subject in the target population has equal chances to be selected in the sample (Kumar, 2019:43). This makes the sample a true representative of the target population. Various types of probability sampling are stratified sampling, cluster sampling, systematic sampling and multistage sampling. In probability sampling, the equal opportunity to be selected is given to all elements in the target population.

Non-probability

The non-probability sampling technique was used in this study to collect reliable data. The researcher selected two purposeful sampling strategies which fall under a non-probability sampling technique. These are convenience and criterion sampling. The researcher made use of convenience sampling because it saves time and money (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:56). Only immigrant entrepreneurs that meet the criteria are included in the sample. The criteria include, businesses had to be: (a) engaging in entrepreneurial activities (b) located in Aliwal-North or Sterkspruit in Eastern Cape; (c) own and manage by immigrant from the selected countries (d) must have being in the business in the area for the minimum of two years and maximum of five years. Studies have found that the age of the business matters in determining the growth phase while businesses grow most between two to five years (Gombert and et. al, 2017:65). Given the criteria for inclusion in the sample, it was evident that few of the small businesses in Aliwal-North and Sterkspruit would be part of the research sample size. Thus, a sample size of 10 was deemed enough for the present study. Ten immigrant entrepreneurs out of which six are operating in Aliwal-North while the other four are operating in Sterkspruit all in Eastern Cape. The following table describes the research participants.

Research Instruments

Research instruments are implemented here for gathering the required data. As opined by Clandinin and et. al (2017:89), instruments involve questionnaires, interviews, test and focus group. Primary and secondary data collections are the two methods regarding data collection, which could make the data collected either primary data or secondary data.

Semi-structured Interview

The semi-structured interview was used to collect qualitative data in this study. Questions related to respondents’ business profiles, demographic information, personal experiences, business knowledge, and management procedures of the business were covered during the interview. Also, a set of questions to determine the opportunities and challenges they encounter in their businesses were covered. The study data were collected by a face-to-face semi-structured interview which warranted the interviewer to visit each respondent. The time limit of the interview was relatively short and lasted between 20 minutes to 45 minutes. Semi-structured type interview was chosen for this study because it provides the interviewee's total freedom to state their personal views freely. As opined by Fletcher (2017:95), this type of interview process might provide comparable as well as reliable qualitative data. Also, the semi-structured interview captures the concerns and perceptions of a group without using any other types of data collection method (Attia and Edge, 2017:98). Therefore, the semi-structured interview became the most appropriate data collection method for this study because the respondents are to narrate their experiences in their entrepreneurial ventures. Also, it is the only data collection method used in this study. This technique of data collection is mostly used in qualitative studies. Through this technique, the researcher can collect detailed information about the subject matter from the respondents. Use of this method enables a researcher to present thoughts and opinions of the participants. This technique is a very good way of collecting information that cannot be quantified or that cannot be presented numerically.

Case study Research

The case study design approach depends upon an in-depth study about a particular individual group, organisation, or institution. The data may be collected via interview, field observation, biographical and archival data. This design approach is the most common approach, as this involves qualitative research methods. This study used qualitative case study as a methodology, and this type of methodology equips the researcher with tools needed to study phenomena that are complex within a particular context as applicable to present study (Gombert and et. al, 2017:115). It brings a better understanding of the complex issues that extensive experience and contributes a significant part for adding experience and strength of what is already known from the previous researches. Case study emphasises a comprehensive contextual analysis of various events or conditions that are limited and finds their relationships. Many researchers have used this type of research method for years in various disciplines. The case study research was defined by Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al (2017:103) as an empirical inquiry which investigates a contemporary phenomenon which exists in a real-life context especially as the boundaries that exist between the phenomenon and context are not known and which require multiple sources of evidence. However, there are several criticisms, along with the use of the case study research method. The critics pointed out that using a case with a small number may not offer a ground to establish reality or generalise findings (Fletcher, 2017:114). The critics also believe that because a case study requires intense exposure to study the case and that could bias the findings while some of the critics regard case study research as only useful as a tool for exploration. However, many types of research continue to use the case study research method with successful outcomes in studying real-life problems, situations or issues (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:89). Case study research method is used in the present study as it investigates contemporary phenomena within a real-life through empirical inquiry (Clandinin and et. al, 2017:95). Investigating the challenges and opportunities of Immigrant entrepreneurs in Eastern Cape Province is an investigation of a contemporary phenomenon that exists in a real-life situation, and this study is in-depth as it empirically enquires. Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al (2017:34) pointed out that case study research methods permit an examination of a related complex phenomenon which has different units of analysis from individuals to class or groups. This type of research method is suitable for this study because it explored the experiences of the immigrant entrepreneurs in doing business in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.

The Pilot Study

A pilot study is a preliminary study that investigates the feasibility of the vital components of the main study (Fletcher, 2017:56). It targets to validate various aspects of the study design. The pilot study is conducted in order to find out if the main study is to be continued as planned or if it requires alterations. In other words, it aims to improve the efficacy and quality of the main study (Clandinin and et. al, 2017:46). The outcome of the pilot study will either advise the researcher to proceed with the plan of the main study or advise alteration of the plan. In this study, the pilot study tested a portion of the semi-structured interview with a sample size of three. The respondents were selected using the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the main study. The pilot study used the semi-structured interview as an instrument for data collection and found it appropriate for the main study. The pilot study found that the semi-structured interview is effective in eliciting information from the interviewees. The interviewees replied to the interview questions freely as they wished and in their own words. The pilot study found that sometimes, the interviewees gave their responses in descriptive or narrative forms which let to deviation from the contents of the questions. This was altered in the main study by including prompts in the interview guide. The prompt serves to redirect the interviewees to focus on the questions the matter the descriptive or narratives. On basis of the pilot study conducted herein, it can be said that the use of semi-structured interview is highly effective and useful in conducting this study. It would enable the researcher to present the data adequately while ensuring that the readers are able to understand the data. It would also enable the researcher to conduct the study effectively and thus achieve aim and objectives of the study. From the pilot study the researcher has learned that the participants gave their responses in a very descriptive form. On this basis changes can be made to the data collection instrument, thereby enabling the participants to answer the questions better. This way the researcher can improve overall quality and effectiveness of the study as well. The primary study planned to use both audio recording and note-taking in collecting inter responses; however, this was foiled in the pilot study. The interviewees expressed their concerns towards audio recording their responses. The pointed out that no "foreigner" in South Africa would want to take such risk as they could be identified since they would also be talking about the challenges they face. All aspects of ethic consideration were ensured and explained to the interviewees. However, they insisted on note-taking only. Also, the researcher anticipated that fear of identification could bias their responses. Thus, only note-taking was utilised with good effect. The interviewer employed assistance to help with the note-taking to ensure that all responses are noted. The two notes from the interviewer and the assistant were compared and utilised for data analysis. All necessary alterations were made in the methodology before embarking on the main study.

The administration of the interviews

The semi-structured interview, which is a type of interview, is used in this study. An interview is a primary data collection instrument which is used in gathering primary data. Semi-structured type interviews are used in order to gather primary or firsthand information from the chosen study respondents. The semi-structured interview was conducted as two-way communication between the interviewer and the interviewee. Its framework was fairly open with a focused content using a conversational approach. The interviewer followed a planned guide, however, remained flexible by making allowance for following topical trajectories within conversations which might have deviated from the guide when deemed necessary. Again, most of the interview questions were established at the time of interview following the interview guide. This allowed the interviewer and the respondent the flexibility, which makes them give detailed information when required and feel comfortable to do so.

Data Analysis

At the time of the interview, transcripts were generated from respondents’ responses and transformed into detailed analysis. As opined by Fletcher (2017), written information was interpreted, analysed and transcribed in order to categorise the responses of the interviews properly. In the current research, Interpretative Analysis has been chosen during the interview. The data transcription, analysis and interpretation were done using techniques and analytic techniques that enabled the researcher to categorise interview questions and responses according to the research objectives. On this note, “Interpretative Analysis” was used to analyses qualitative data collected. According to Page and et. al (2017:89), interpretative analysis can allow the researcher to get proper insights into the interviewees. Gombert and et. al (2017:92) pointed out that interpretative analysis solely provides full descriptions meaning that thorough descriptions of the process, transaction, characteristic and context that made up the study phenomenon is provided. The steps of the interpretive analysis according to Page and et. al (2017:65) which was implored in this study involve: Step 1: Immersion and familiarisation: In this step, the researcher goes through the interview transcripts and get familiar with the collected data and engages deeply in gathered material which could be interview transcripts. This might provide direction to the researcher for identifying the nature of the interpretations that are supported through the gathered data (Clandinina and et. al, 2017:167). Step 2: Inducing theme: the induction refers to the process of stating the rules and regulations of the interview from the proper instances (Attia and Edge, 2017:151). At this step, the researcher looks deeply at the material to find universal organising principles that underline the material. The themes are then developed at this stage. Step 3: Coding: As the themes are being developed, the researcher also codes the data. Coding involves marking various sections as they relate to themes developed. Step 4: Elaboration: The themes and codes are inducted by breaking up sequences that exist in the collected data. The various remarks or events that are far apart are brought together. In this stage, the researcher has continued to do the elaborating, recording and coding until no significant new ideas or insights emerges. Step 5: Checking and interpretation: This stage can be regarded as the final stage or process of detailed analysis (Silverman, 2016:143). The researcher provides written accounts regarding the phenomenon of the study. The researcher forms subheadings from thematic categories of the analysis.

The Trustworthiness

Qualitative research seeks trustworthiness in place of validity and reliability (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:134). This is because qualitative research is rich in seeking in-depth information and attempts gaining knowledge and insight associated with how people give meaning to their experiences (Gombert and et. al, 2017:90). This is totally different from qualitative research which gathers measurable data and seeks validity and reliability. Hence, validity and reliability are not measurable in qualitative research. In qualitative research, subjects are studied in their natural environment; thus, naturalistic derived means of addressing reliability and validity through establishing the trustworthiness of research (Fletcher, 2017:89). This can be achieved by establishing credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability as explained below.

Credibility

Credibility confirms the richness of data and its analysis (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:97). To maintain credibility, an appropriate sampling method was used to select study subjects. The semi-structured interview questions were worded carefully and precisely even with questions that were not pre-planned before the interview. On maintaining reliability, the data collection method was applied consistently. Each measurement followed the same steps. Responses are compiled in a secure manner, while questions are constructed the same way for each subject. Also, circumstances are consistency during data collection to minimise the influence of possible external factors which can affect results by creating variations. The study respondents were interviewed under the same circumstances.

Transferability

This implies the generalisability of the research result (Attia and Edge, 2017:76). Hence, the researcher is required to provide a full description to inform the reader that the research finding could be transferable. The present study provided a full description of the research findings by giving a thorough description of the research context, including detailed information on respondents’ biographical information and business backgrounds.

Dependability

The semi-structured interview has high dependability as it permits the respondents to talk in detail and able to reveal meanings for action since they have the liberty of speaking their mind without being pinned to close-ended questions. However, it is hard for the researcher to determine when a respondent is telling lies as there is no real way of finding out. The researcher saw that the main reasons respondents tell lies are when they perceive it could bring them a positive or negative reward. Hence, in order to enhance validity, the researcher explained the anonymity of responses to the respondents and pointed that there is no benefit or rewards for responses that are negative or positive thereby acknowledging truthfulness in responses. Moreover, the respondent may not intentionally produce responses that are untrue but may be due to having imperfect recall of events. The respondents were informed about the contents of the interview during the first time; the researcher approached them to seek consent. This was anticipated to help the respondents gather necessary information on the past event by having perfect recall of events in their businesses. Page and et. al (2017:95), argue that the semi-structured types of interviews would not be very reliable. Repeating the semi-structured interview precisely the same way could be difficult. The sample appears to be small, and the respondents could be asked different questions when repeated. However, Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al (2017:89) pointed that interpretative researchers do not presume that their investigations are on the reality that is stable and unchanging and does not expect the same result when the investigation is repeated. It is anticipated that changing contexts could make people behave differently with varying opinions. For a study to be reliable its findings are to be dependable and (Blanche et al., 2006:93) refers to dependability as the degree at which readers agree that the research findings are actually as the researcher presented them. In this study, dependability was achieved by providing detailed and abundant descriptions of responses in relation to interview questions and contexts. Also, the research provided the reader with a sincere and clear statement on the research methodology and data analysis.

Confirmability

According to Silverman (2016:98), confirmability aims to establish that research interpretation and findings are driven from the data collected. This requires the researcher to describe how the conclusion and interpretations are achieved. In this study, the reason for choosing qualitative research design and using descriptive analysis was provided. This provided the readers with the knowledge of how the conclusions were made and the reasons behind it. This indicates that interpretation and decision are not made based on the researcher's opinions or interest.

Limitation of the study

This study was restricted to the immigrant entrepreneurs in Sterkspruit town and Aliwal-North town in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A sample size of ten was considered sufficient solely for the purpose of this study. Therefore, the study findings cannot be generalised beyond the respondents. The primary study focus was the opportunities and challenges faced by immigrant entrepreneurs in the selected towns in Eastern Cape. However, other aspects of their business management practice were not included in the study.

Elimination of Bias

The use of gender-neutral language helped eliminate gender bias in this study. Gender-specific terms were exchanged with gender-neutral terms. The researcher avoided using male pronouns when addressing groups that are mixed gender. Singular pronouns are made plural to avoid using gender-specific terms. Pronouns were replaced with definite articles. In a situation where gender-specific pronouns are inevitable due to repetitions, the researcher chose the use of nouns instead. On the same note, ethnic or cultural bias was equally eliminated. The respondent acknowledges as research participants with no reference to their ethnicities or cultural backgrounds. It was mentioned under-population and sampling that the population groups are Asians and African immigrants in the selected towns for the purpose of clarity. However, this was never mentioned during data collection to avoid bias, stereotype or influences on answers provided by respondents. It is noted that the study focused mainly on Ghanaians, Senegalese, Congo, Nigerians, Somalis, Pakistanis, Bangladeshi, and Chinese. However, the respondent was not addressed according to their cultural background, ethnicity or country of origin throughout the research. Also, languages that create bias or stereotypes were avoided throughout the research. The researcher used formal languages and avoided the use of languages that re-enforce reference to gender, ethnicity, culture or religion. Languages that re-enforce assumptions to a certain group of peoples by showing inferiority or superiority are avoided throughout the study. Therefore, the study deemed it important to eliminate bias and remain object throughout the study.

Ethical Consideration

Ethics in research aims to guarantee that people involved in research activities are not harmed or suffer negative consequences due to their participation (Page and et. al, 2017:67). Thus, ethical consideration in research ensures the protection of the research respondents' autonomy as well as be treated with courtesy and respect and be allowed to give informed consent (Attia and Edge, 2017:56). This means that all parties involved in research should show ethical behaviour. However, due to unpredicted constraints, there is no straightforward perspective on ethics.

Ensuring participants have given informed consent

Under ethical consideration, the researcher must ensure to get written consent from all the participants. It is one of the most important requirements of those researches that necessitate human involvement. It is an inevitable requirement of any research. In order to get written consent from the subjects, the researcher needs to describe the research and its benefits to the participants (Cuervo‐Cazurra and et. al, 2017:78). This implies that the researcher is required to share information such as the personal information required to be given by the participants, the procedures that would be followed during the research, the promise of confidentiality of the information of the participants are some of the points that the researcher needs to discuss. These are included under the rights of the participants, and the ethical committee, along with the researcher and the sponsor is required to ensure them. It is mentioned as the very first section under ethical consideration. The participants are informed about any alternate procedure or course of action that would be followed in case of an emergency. The respondents are also informed about the duration of the procedure along with the remuneration that might be paid to the participants if any. After knowing and analysing all the particulars related to the information confidentiality, compensation and various other facts, the participants sign the letter of consent which is a green signal for the researcher to begin the research (Kumar, 2019:89). Through the letter of consent the researcher asked the participants for their permission and to include them in the study. In any investigation that involves it is important for the researcher to take consent from the participants. If they do not consent to participate in the study and yet relevant information is obtained from them, then it can have a negative impact on the whole study and can also hamper its overall reliability. From an ethical point of view the role of consent form is crucial to successfully conducting any investigation.

Ensuring no harm comes to participants

While research is being carried out at, it is the duty of the researcher to ensure that no harm would be caused to the participants. In researches that involve any kind of medical procedures to be followed during the research or any procedure that might harm the respondents, in any case, must not be used. The researcher must identify the no kind of physical harm has been done to the participants during the course of the study. Furthermore, apart from the physical harm, no mental and psychological stress should be laid on the respondents during the study. Moreover, leaving apart the physical and mental stress, the researcher must ensure that the respondents must not have any social disadvantage by participating in the study. Neither the objectives of the research must be inappropriate, nor must the investigator reveal the personal data of the participants so that they remain free from any harm. The researcher must not try to deceive the participants in any case and should ensure the mental and physical health is intact before and after the research. Before approving the research project the ethical committee and the sponsor must ensure that the ethical consideration is duly followed (Clandinin and et. al, 2017:90). The researcher ensured the participants that no harm will come to them by explaining them that the study required only verbal and/or written answers from them. They did not have to do any physical activity, which could harm them. Moreover, the researcher also ensured that their responses are taken in an environment or location that does not present the risk of any kind of physical or mental harm. For instance, they were asked the questions in an open public area.

Ensuring confidentiality and anonymity

Considered as one of the most important practical and ethical issues related to every research it is one of the crucial parts as well. After the participants offer to be a part of the research and hand over the personal data to the researcher, it becomes the responsibility of the researcher to ensure that the data is not leaked or revealed without informing the participants. The participants trust the researcher and thus hand over the information. However, if the researcher deceives the participants and makes use of the information incorrectly then it becomes difficult for respondents to believe in any such research further and hey withdraw their help from any other similar kind of researches. This not only offends the respondents but also creates a loophole through which the overall outcome of the research may get altered. The data of the participants can be revealed at different stages of research, starting from information gathering to the end. The information revealed at the time of data collection might alter the responses of the other the participants, and thus the data itself will get manipulated. This would in turn not let the researcher reach to the actual outcome. The ethical committee must ensure that at any stage, the personal data of the participants do not get revealed without their permission. To maintain confidentiality of the respondents, the researcher did not ask for their names. This way the researcher never knew about their names. Apart from this, the researcher also explained and ensured them that they will never be recognised on the basis of answers they have given. This meant all kinds of personal information such as name, age, gender, and others were avoided, until and unless they were relevant for the study.

Ensuring that permission is obtained

Getting permissions from the ethical committee is the most difficult and pivot task in any research. This because even after planning and managing all the activities starting from data collection to analysing and producing the outcome of the research, the researcher needs to get the approval of the ethical committee. This might prove to be a nightmare for those who are not aware of the various points that are required to be eliminated from the study. Furthermore, no researcher is allowed to carry out the research until the ethical committee approves. The consent would not be possible unless all the above-mentioned points are covered in the proposal of the study. This step ensures that the researcher is not intended to create fake results, fake data or carry out any harm while conducting the research. The ethical committee also ensures that various standards set for every step of the research are duly met and carried out. Moreover, the ethical committee makes sure that the study has factual data that has been analysed properly for fetching authentic results altogether. This also makes sure that the researcher in no way deceives the participants. The ethical committee is also responsible for protecting the rights of the participants by ensuring that no monetary loss or physical/psychological harm has been made to the participants. Ten immigrant entrepreneurs participated in the research, and the researcher ensured their informed consents and autonomies. The researcher approached all participants individually and sought permission to interview them. Also, the autonomy of their identity and data collection process was explained, allowing them to make an informed consent. All participants gave informed consent, knowing that they could withdraw at any stage and that their anonymity is guaranteed. The researcher did not bribe or coerce anyone, and the results were reported in such a way that it could not be traced back to the participants by making use of pseudonyms instead of the actual names. The researcher gathered data securely for protecting proper confidentiality (Attia and Edge, 2017:95).

Conclusion

The process utilised by the researcher was elaborated. Thus, this chapter assisted in understanding the research process. Moreover, this empirical study used qualitative data collected through a semi-structured interview. The researcher used non-probability sampling in identifying the sample size for accurate and useful data collection. The sample size is believed to represent the population which will be used to conclude the research findings. Having an explicit knowledge of the research mythology will help in understanding the discussion and interpretation of the research findings for better assimilation of the research results. The next chapter presents a proper discussion on the research results, including the discussion and interpretations of the findings.