Chapter $3$Methodology of the Study

$1\mathrm{.}1$ Research Design

The knowledge acquired from previous studies serves as the qualitative component of this conceptual research. This study exclusively considers articles published in the English language, with a primary focus on private higher education institutions in Bahrain. Research design comprises a series of procedures that establishes a connection between the research questions and the methodologies employed in the study. It functions as an overview for structuring data collection and analysis to effectively meet the research objectives. This investigation utilized a qualitative descriptive research methodology to explore the relationship between service quality and its dimensions specifically empathy, responsiveness, reliability and student retention in private higher education institutions. The study indicates that both the independent and dependent variables are informed by prior research, thereby reinforcing the deductive approach adopted in this investigation. The primary data will be analyzed using regression analysis, which has been successfully employed in similar studies conducted globally. To gather the required information, interviews will be utilized to operationalize the independent variables identified within the framework.

$3\mathrm{.}2$ Respondent of the Study

$3\mathrm{.}2\mathrm{.}1$ Population of the Study$$

The study's population includes students who are currently enrolled in private higher education institutions in Bahrain. This particular group was selected due to the significant impact that service quality has on student retention rates within these institutions. By concentrating exclusively on students, the research seeks to collect direct insights into their experiences and perceptions about the aspects of service quality, specifically empathy, reliability, and responsiveness, and how these elements influence their decision to continue their enrollment.

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$3\mathrm{.}2\mathrm{.}2$ Sampling Method

In this study, a purposive sampling technique will be employed to choose respondents capable of offering pertinent information based on their experiences in private educational institutions. The selection criteria will encompass students from various academic disciplines and age groups to guarantee a well$-$rounded representation of perspectives on service quality. This non$-$random sampling method facilitates a focused approach to gathering in$-$depth qualitative data from individuals who possess a clear understanding of the service quality dimensions being examined.

$3\mathrm{.}2\mathrm{.}3$ Sample Size

The study intends to involve around $80-100$ participants. This sample size is deemed adequate for qualitative research to reach data saturation, meaning that further interviews do not yield any new themes or insights. The chosen participants will offer a range of perspectives that deepen the understanding of how the dimensions of service quality namely empathy, reliability, and responsiveness impact student retention in private higher education institutions.

$3\mathrm{.}3$ Research Instrument

The main research tool for this study will be semi$-$structured interviews. This approach has been selected to promote open dialogue, enabling participants to share their perspectives and experiences related to service quality in private higher education institutions in Bahrain. The semi$-$structured format allows the interviewer to pose targeted questions while also providing the flexibility to ask follow$-$up questions based on the respondents' answers, thereby ensuring the collection of detailed insights.

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Set the Data Gathering Procedure: