Examination of Delphi and Quasi-experimental Research Designs

Research plays a vital role in more deeply understanding library science. Thoughtful consideration of how evidence-based research is conducted is essential to its effective use. Research helps professionals identify and explore areas of concern or interest in addition to providing possible solutions for known problems. The Delphi and quasi-experimental studies provide examples of research performed in library science.

The Delphi Study

The Delphi study was developed by The RAND Corporation in the 1950s for the Air Force and was primarily used to forecast future events based on expert opinions (Wildemuth, 2009). Delphi studies provide an alternative to the traditional round-table type discussion (Cypher & Gant, 1971). The Delphi design depends on three components: anonymity, controlled feedback and statistical analysis of ranked items (Fischer, 1978). Each study uses a group of experts that can remain anonymous as their work is done through a series of questionnaires. The absence of meetings gives participants the freedom to respond without pressure from other members. Conformity based on majority opinion is also avoided (Fischer, 1978). Each study consists of several rounds of questionnaires in which items of interest are ranked numerically on a scale. As the rounds progress, feedback is controlled as each set of responses is organized and summarized in a subsequent questionnaire. The goal is to eliminate alternate solutions by aiming at consensus (Kochtanek & Hein, 1999). Statistical analysis of the items is performed at each round.

While the original intent of a Delphi study was to predict future events, the study is now also used for alternative purposes like gathering information. The design of the questionnaire attem...

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Olson, C. A., Tooman, T. R. & Leist, J. C. (2005). Contents of a core library in continuing medical education: A delphi study. The Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 25, 278-288.

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Wildemuth, B. M. (2009). Applications of social research methods to questions in information and library science. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.