IT Research Characteristics Module 1

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Questions and Answers

What is one of the key characteristics of good research?

Simplistic

Replicable (correct)

Intuitive

Subjective

Which of the following is not a purpose of conducting research?

To promote health and prolong life

To discover new facts about known phenomena

To maintain the status quo (correct)

To find answers to partially solved problems

What distinguishes a capstone project from a thesis?

Capstone projects focus on theoretical aspects.

Thesis work often includes immediate practical applications.

Capstone projects address existing problems significantly in a professional field. (correct)

Thesis work is solely empirical.

Which type of research typically involves direct observation or experimentation?

Experimental Research Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the cyclical nature of research?

Findings lead to further questions and additional research. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of descriptive research?

To describe characteristics of a population or phenomenon. Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of good research emphasizes logical reasoning and valid procedures?

Logical Signup and view all the answers

What is an objective of conducting research in business and industry?

To provide a basis for decision-making Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of 'Design Purpose' in research?

To create functional solutions to identified problems Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research is primarily focused on practical applications within the IT field?

Applied research Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of capstone projects in IT?

They provide practical solutions and design. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes 'Software Customization' in IT research projects?

Customizing software solutions for specific needs Signup and view all the answers

Which research area involves studying algorithms that help in decision making?

Expert Systems and Decision Support Systems Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of an IT track project?

Creating interactive gaming solutions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT typically represent applied research in IT?

Basic computer theory analysis Signup and view all the answers

Why is quality data important in research?

It ensures accuracy and reliability of results. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes accidental sampling from other sampling methods?

It does not involve any intentional selection criteria. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of interview is characterized by its use of pre-set questions?

Structured interview Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of stratified sampling?

To ensure representation from different strata of the population. Signup and view all the answers

In what way are guided-response survey questions structured?

Respondents must select from provided answer options. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about convenience sampling is true?

It primarily focuses on individuals easy to access for quick results. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of observational data gathering?

It is done by watching subjects in their natural setting. Signup and view all the answers

When planning an interview, which is NOT considered a pointer?

Select an unsuitable location for the interview. Signup and view all the answers

Why is data collection crucial for research?

It provides a foundation for informed analysis and conclusions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for a research problem or topic to be considered significant?

It should contribute to human knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

Which guideline pertains to the writing of a research title?

It should be formulated and possibly revised during research. Signup and view all the answers

Which element is NOT part of Chapter 1: Introduction in a research project?

Project Outcomes Signup and view all the answers

What is one key characteristic of a manageable research topic?

It can be completed within a reasonable period. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of the scope in a research project?

It should outline the boundaries of the study. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of sampling in research?

To make inferences about a larger population from a subset Signup and view all the answers

Which sampling method is considered best for IT research?

Stratified Sampling Signup and view all the answers

What is the ideal margin of error when determining sample size?

3% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an element of a research problem?

Funding sources Signup and view all the answers

Why is stratified sampling particularly useful in IT research?

It allows for examination of varying levels of expertise Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of research does minimizing bias impact?

The reliability and validity of outcomes Signup and view all the answers

Which guideline is NOT important in selecting a research problem or topic?

Recommended by a government body Signup and view all the answers

What role does sampling play in reducing the costs of research?

It allows for a focused study of a portion of the population Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Characteristics of a Good IT Research

Empirical: Seeks to gather data through direct observation or experimentation.
Logical: Employs valid methodologies to ensure findings are reliable.
Cyclical: Involves an ongoing process where results prompt new inquiries.
Analytical: Uses established analytical frameworks to interpret data accurately.
Replicable: Designed so that others can reproduce the study to confirm results.
Critical: Requires careful evaluation and confidence in findings.

Importance of Research in IT

Enables discovery of new insights about known phenomena.
Addresses partially solved problems by proposing new solutions.
Alleviates workload burdens across various sectors.
Informs decision-making in business, education, and government.
Satisfies researcher curiosity and advances understanding of existing knowledge.
Promotes health and longevity through research findings.

Types of Research

Descriptive, historical, experimental, ex post facto, and case study research explored within the IT context.

Research Methods

Descriptive Research: Explores existing conditions without manipulation.
Historical Research: Investigates past events to understand current phenomena.
Experimental Research: Tests hypotheses through controlled methods.
Ex Post Facto Research: Analyzes data post occurrence to infer relationships.
Case Study Research: Provides in-depth analysis of specific instances.

Capstone Projects Vs Thesis

Thesis explores theoretical problems that can be solved through computing practices.
Capstone projects focus on practical solutions to real-world issues.
Thesis may lack immediate practical applications unlike capstone projects.

Research in IT Courses

Capstone projects serve as substantial research undertakings, emphasizing applied research principles.
Suggested projects include software customization, web applications development, and IT security assessments.

Computer Science Research Areas

Software development theory.
Mobile computing systems.
Expert systems and decision support systems.
Bioinformatics.
Parallel computing.

Importance of Quality Data in Research

Quality data is critical for meaningful research outcomes.
Data sources are classified into primary and secondary categories.
Proper sampling techniques enhance the validity and reliability of research findings.

Sampling Concepts and Methodologies

Accidental Sampling: Random selection based on chance rather than systematic criteria.
Quota Sampling: Ensures certain proportions of sub-groups are represented.
Convenience Sampling: Gathers data from readily accessible individuals.
Pure Random Sampling: Each individual has an equal chance of selection.
Stratified Sampling: Facilitates representation across different strata of a population.

Data Gathering Techniques

Observation involves watching subjects in their natural context.
Interviews provide in-depth personal insights through direct interactions.
Surveys collect structured data from a broad audience.

Types of Interview Techniques

Standardized Interviews: Utilize fixed questions for consistency.
Non-standardized Interviews: Allow for open-ended discussions to explore topics more freely.

Survey Types

Surveys can be conducted personally, via phone, by mail, or online.
Questions can vary from open-ended to multiple-choice, numerical, and intensity measures.

Best Sampling Method for IT Research

Stratified Sampling is recommended for IT research to ensure diverse representation.
It enhances accuracy and reflects varied expertise within the population.

Determining Sample Size

Calculate population size based on the scope of the study.
Aim for a margin of error typically not exceeding 5%, with 3% being preferable.

Guidelines for Formulating a Research Problem

Choose topics of personal interest and expertise.
Ensure the research issue is feasible within available resources and time.

Writing the Research Title

Titles should encapsulate the study's subject and locale.
Must be concise yet comprehensive, reflecting multiple facets of the research.

Chapters in Research Introduction

Context establishes the relevance of the research project.
Objectives clarify the intended outcomes of the study.
Significance highlights the value of the research contributions.
Scope and limitations define boundaries for the research efforts.
Definitions clarify terminology used throughout the study.

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Description

Explore the essential characteristics and importance of research in information technology with this quiz. Learn about the definitions, aims, objectives, and goals of IT research, and understand its significance in various fields such as business, education, and government.