Introduction to Research Methods

Definition of Research

• Systematic investigation aimed at discovering or interpreting facts.
• Involves collection, analysis, and presentation of data.

Types of Research

1. Basic Research

   • Aims to increase fundamental knowledge.
   • Not focused on practical applications.

2. Applied Research

   • Seeks to solve specific, practical problems.
   • Often interdisciplinary.

3. Qualitative Research

   • Explores phenomena via non-numerical data (e.g., interviews, focus groups).
   • Emphasizes understanding human behavior.

4. Quantitative Research

   • Involves numerical data and statistical analysis.
   • Used for hypothesis testing and predictions.

5. Mixed Methods Research

   • Combines qualitative and quantitative approaches.
   • Provides a comprehensive perspective.

Research Process

1. Identifying the Problem

   • Define a clear research question or hypothesis.

2. Literature Review

   • Review existing research related to the topic.
   • Identify gaps in knowledge.

3. Research Design

   • Choose a methodology (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed).
   • Determine data collection methods (surveys, experiments, etc.).

4. Data Collection

   • Gather data systematically.
   • Ensure reliability and validity.

5. Data Analysis

   • Analyze data using appropriate statistical or qualitative methods.
   • Interpret findings in context.

6. Conclusion and Reporting

   • Summarize results and implications.
   • Publish findings for scholarly communication.

Ethical Considerations

• Informed consent from participants.
• Ensure privacy and confidentiality.
• Avoid plagiarism and maintain integrity.

Importance of Research

• Drives innovation and knowledge advancement.
• Informs policy-making and social change.
• Enhances understanding of complex issues.

Definition of Research

• Research is a systematic approach to uncovering or interpreting facts.
• It involves gathering, analyzing, and presenting data.

Types of Research

• Basic research focuses on expanding fundamental knowledge.
• Applied research aims to solve practical problems.
• Qualitative research explores phenomena through non-numerical data, often focusing on human behavior.
• Quantitative research uses numerical data and statistical analysis for hypothesis testing and predictions.
• Mixed methods research combines qualitative and quantitative approaches for a comprehensive understanding.

Research Process

• Research begins with clearly identifying a research question or hypothesis.
• A literature review helps identify gaps in existing knowledge about the topic.
• Selecting a research design involves choosing a methodology and data collection methods.
• Data collection must be systematic and ensure the gathered data is reliable and valid.
• Data analysis interprets findings using appropriate statistical or qualitative methods.
• Research concludes with reporting findings and implications for scholarly communication.

Ethical Considerations

• Research requires informed consent from participants, ensuring their privacy and confidentiality.
• It's crucial to avoid plagiarism and maintain research integrity.

Importance of Research

• Research drives innovation and expands knowledge.
• It informs policy-making and societal change.
• It enhances understanding of complex issues.

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of research, including its definition, types, and the research process. Explore basic, applied, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research. Test your understanding of how research questions are formulated and the importance of literature reviews.