Update

Continuing work on research rigor, validity, and methodological decision making.

Research Rundowns was created to help students and emerging researchers better understand research concepts such as validity, research design, and methodological decision making. Over the years, posts on topics including pilot studies, triangulation, and conceptual frameworks have been widely used in courses and research training settings.

I am pleased to share that this work has recently developed into two new peer-reviewed publications that further explore formative research practices and strategies for strengthening rigor and quality in social science research.

Visual models, piloting, and triangulation as core formative research practices
https://trace.tennessee.edu/handle/20.500.14382/53528

Biddix, J. P. (2025). Visual models, piloting, and triangulation as core formative research practices. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 1–10.

Keywords: visual models, pilot testing, triangulation, formative research practices, mixed methods, research design

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Using formative assessment approaches to enhance rigor and quality in research
https://trace.tennessee.edu/handle/20.500.14382/53527

Biddix, J. P., & Bourke, B. (2025). Using formative assessment approaches to enhance rigor and quality in research. Quality & Quantity, 1–20.

Keywords: formative assessment, research rigor, research quality, validity, evaluation practices, methodological decision making

These publications build on ideas introduced in earlier Research Rundowns posts and reflect an ongoing interest in translating methodological thinking into accessible guidance for researchers.