Research Methodology

Study Notes

Research Process

Planning for research involves developing a research proposal that outlines the research question/hypothesis, methodologies, and timeframe.
Managing resources requires evaluating available resources and creating a plan for monitoring them.
Conducting research involves collecting and recording data, which can be accessed from individuals, groups, print, or digital formats.
Interpreting research involves presenting findings graphically and textually, and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data.

Research Fundamentals

Planning for Research

A research proposal contains a question or hypothesis, an overview of the selected research methodologies, and a timeframe for the complete research project.
A diary can be used to keep track of resource usage.

Conducting Research

Recorded data should be free from bias and based on a combination of primary and secondary resources.
Backups should always be created.
A diary should document progress, difficulties faced, potential solutions, and evidence of decision-making.

Interpreting Research

Research findings can be presented graphically using tables, graphs, diagrams, and charts (quantitative), or textually in the form of a report (qualitative).
Quantitative data analysis is straightforward, involving understanding and commenting on created graphs, while qualitative data analysis involves identifying common themes and writing a summary.

Purpose of Research

The purpose of research is to advance knowledge, educate others, inform practice, prove/disprove hypotheses/questions, and increase understanding.

Focus of Research

The aim of research is to answer a question or prove/disprove a hypothesis.
A research question explores the topic while a hypothesis provides a positive statement of what the researcher expects to find.
It's important to frequently refer back to the hypothesis to ensure the research stays on track.

Sampling

Sampling involves selecting individuals from the population to represent the focus of the study.
Methods of sampling include random, systematic, stratified, cluster, convenience, and volunteer sampling.
The sample size is the number of participants selected for the research study.
The sample size must be appropriate for the purpose of the project and should consider time, access to individuals, and the need for a wider representation of the population.

Description

This quiz covers the essential processes involved in conducting research, including planning a research proposal, managing resources, and interpreting findings. Learn about the importance of unbiased data collection and effective resource monitoring while implementing research methodologies.