Engineering Research Fundamentals

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Questions and Answers

What is one of the primary objectives of engineering research?

To limit the use of new technologies

To explore uncharted territories and expand knowledge (correct)

To publish as many papers as possible

To guarantee financial rewards

Which of the following describes the type of research that focuses primarily on real-world applications?

Qualitative research

Fundamental research

Conceptual research

Applied research (correct)

What aspect of research involves the formulation of hypotheses and analyzing whether conclusions fit these hypotheses?

Research ethics

Research motivation

Research methodology (correct)

Research problem identification

Which of the following is considered a driving factor for personal motivation in engineering research?

Desire for respectability and intellectual joy Signup and view all the answers

What term is used to describe research that is based on direct observation and experimentation?

Empirical research Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of motivation in engineering research?

Coerced motivation from higher authorities Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding research methodologies?

Research does not require systematic approaches Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a longitudinal research design?

Research that follows subjects over an extended time frame Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of qualitative research?

Exploring and understanding human behavior and experiences Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is important when defining a research problem?

Measurability of the problem Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in George Polya's problem-solving procedure?

Develop predictive models Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT listed as a consideration for solving a worthwhile problem?

Market viability Signup and view all the answers

What type of data is primarily collected in qualitative research?

Non-numerical data Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the iterative process in solving a problem?

Continuously refining solutions based on feedback Signup and view all the answers

In qualitative research, what is a common method for collecting data?

Focus groups and in-depth interviews Signup and view all the answers

What is one implication of stakeholder involvement in identifying research problems?

It enhances the relevance and significance of the research. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of descriptive research?

To measure existing states of affairs Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of descriptive research?

National census Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes fundamental research from applied research?

Fundamental research seeks to expand theoretical knowledge Signup and view all the answers

Which research method focuses on collecting numerical data?

Quantitative research Signup and view all the answers

What type of research can be characterized by the inability to control variables?

Ex post facto research Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a characteristic of analytical research?

It relies on existing information for analysis Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario would applied research be best suited?

Increasing student engagement in learning Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following research approaches involves larger sample sizes to ensure reliability?

Quantitative research Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary requirement for the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects?

The voluntary consent of the human subject is essential. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a principle outlined for conducting ethical experiments?

Experiments must be conducted to achieve maximum profit. Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if a human subject feels unable to continue participating in an experiment?

They are at liberty to terminate their participation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a scientist in charge of an experiment regarding its termination?

To assess and terminate the experiment if it risks harm to subjects. Signup and view all the answers

According to ethical standards, how should the risks of an experiment be determined?

In relation to the societal importance of the problem being addressed. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of individuals should conduct the experiments, according to ethical guidelines?

Individuals who are scientifically qualified. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following questions did Whitbeck raise regarding authorship in research?

Who should be included as an author? Signup and view all the answers

Why are ethical standards in research important?

They establish trust between researchers and participants. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary reason why ethics are important in engineering research?

Because of the potential impact on humans Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a type of research misconduct?

Acknowledgment Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes fabrication in research?

Creating false data and presenting it as factual Signup and view all the answers

What term is used for authors who contribute equally to a research paper?

Equal contributors Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical principle emphasizes the need for fairness and bias awareness in research?

Social and cultural sensitivity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents an ethical concern during the design phase of a project?

Human-centric development Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of falsification in research?

Adjusting study data to enhance significance Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the corresponding author in a research paper?

To communicate with the journal and address inquiries Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of Research

Research is a systematic and objective method for finding knowledge.
It involves formulating hypotheses, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and ensuring the conclusions align with the starting hypothesis.
It is crucial to define the problem being addressed and its significance.
A research question helps narrow down the scope of information needed.

Objectives of Engineering Research

Advance knowledge by exploring new areas and expanding existing understanding.
Solve real-world engineering problems and challenges.
Explore creative and unconventional solutions to engineering challenges.
Enhance system performance through optimization.
Contribute to the development of new technologies and methodologies.

Motivation in Engineering Research

Intrinsic motivations like interest, challenge, and learning are important.
Extrinsic factors like rewards, recognition, and status can also be motivating.
Influences from others, such as competition, collaboration, and encouragement, are significant.
Personal motivations like solving unsolved problems, intellectual joy, service to the community, and respectability are driving factors.

Types of Research

Descriptive vs. Analytical:
- Descriptive research describes existing conditions and has no control over variables. Examples include surveys, censuses, and market research.
- Analytical research analyzes existing data to evaluate and interpret it.
Applied vs. Fundamental:
- Fundamental research aims to expand knowledge and understanding of natural phenomena. It focuses on theory development and understanding underlying principles.
- Applied research seeks to solve practical problems and apply knowledge to real-world situations.
Quantitative vs. Qualitative:
- Quantitative research uses numerical data to identify patterns, relationships, and statistical significance. It involves structured surveys, experiments, and observations.
- Qualitative research explores complex human experiences and social phenomena. It involves non-numerical data like interviews, focus groups, and observations.

Finding and Solving a Worthwhile Research Problem

Identifying a Worthwhile Problem:
- Relevance: Consider the problem's impact and significance.
- Significance: Assess the importance of the problem and its potential contribution.
- Gaps in Knowledge: Identify areas where existing knowledge is insufficient.
- Stakeholder Involvement: Engage stakeholders to ensure the research addresses their needs.
Defining the Problem:
- Clarity: Ensure the problem is clearly defined and understood.
- Scope: Define the boundaries and limitations of the problem.
- Measurability: Ensure the problem can be objectively measured and evaluated.
Solving the Problem:
- Innovative Solutions: Generate creative and unique solutions.
- Feasibility: Consider the practicality of the solution.
- Iterative Process: Refine solutions based on feedback and testing.
- Ethical Considerations: Address potential ethical concerns.
- Collaboration: Encourage shared efforts for comprehensive results.
Problem-Solving Procedure (Polya):
- Understand the problem.
- Develop strategies to solve it.
- Execute the plan.
- Reflect on the process and results.

Ethics in Engineering Research

Ethics define acceptable and unacceptable conduct in research.
International norms for ethical research exist, emphasizing informed consent, minimal harm, and responsible conduct.
Authorship Criteria:
- Substantial Contribution
- Drafting and Revising
- Final Approval
- Accountability
Order of Authors:
- First Author: Primary contributor.
- Last Author: Senior researcher or supervisor.
- Middle Authors: Other contributing researchers.
Ethical Concerns in Data Use:
- Privacy and Consent
- Fairness and Bias
- Transparency and Accountability
- Security
- Social and Cultural Sensitivity
Ethical Implications of Research Outcomes:
- Human-Centric Development
- Avoiding Harm
- Long-Term Sustainability
- Transparency and Accountability
- Social Acceptance
- International Collaboration
- Public Trust

Types of Research Misconduct

Fabrication: Creating and reporting false data.
Falsification: Altering or manipulating data to misrepresent findings.
Plagiarism: Using someone else's work without proper attribution.

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Description

This quiz covers the foundations of engineering research, including definitions, objectives, and motivational factors. Test your knowledge on how these elements contribute to advancing technology and solving real-world problems in engineering.