Researchm

Chapter 3

Research methodology

3.1

INTRODUCTION

This chapter outlines the research methodology of this study. The research was conducted in two phases and the research methodology will thus be discussed under the two phases.

Data in Phase 1 were collected by using a qualitative approach. Written narratives were obtained from South African nurses working and living in other countries. In Phase 2 a quantitative approach was followed. Data in this phase were obtained through a structured questionnaire completed by nurses who completed their basic training in 2002.

3.2

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to

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identify and describe the internal and external factors that contribute to the emigration of South African nurses

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explore and describe the experiences of South African nurses working in other countries

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make recommendations for enabling larger numbers of South African nurses to continue working in the RSA (by addressing internal and external factors contributing to their emigration potential)

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recommend strategies to recruit ex-South African nurses working in other countries to return to the RSA as practising professional nurses

3.3

RESEARCH DESIGN

According to Burns and Grove (1997:225), the design of a study is the end result of a series of decisions made by the researcher concerning how the study will be conducted. The design is closely associated with the framework of the study and guides planning for implementing 88

the study. It is a blueprint for conducting the study that maximises control over factors that could interfere with the validity of the findings. According to Polit and Hungler (1995:160), research designs vary with regard to how much structure the researcher imposes on the research situation and how much flexibility is allowed once the study is under way. The research designs of most quantitative studies are highly structured, while the research...