Research Methods and Academic Writing

Research Methods

• Quantitative research: focuses on numerical data, uses statistical analysis, and aims to identify patterns and trends
• Qualitative research: focuses on non-numerical data, uses descriptive analysis, and aims to gain in-depth understanding of phenomena
• Mixed-methods research: combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches
• Research methods can be classified into:
  • Experimental research: involves manipulating variables to observe their effect
  • Non-experimental research: involves observing variables without manipulating them
  • Survey research: involves collecting data through self-report measures
  • Case study research: involves in-depth examination of a single case or a small number of cases

Data Analysis

• Descriptive statistics: summarizing and describing data
• Inferential statistics: making inferences about a population based on a sample
• Data analysis techniques:
  • Univariate analysis: examining a single variable
  • Bivariate analysis: examining the relationship between two variables
  • Multivariate analysis: examining the relationship among multiple variables
• Data visualization: using graphs, charts, and other visual aids to communicate data insights

Research Design

• Research design refers to the overall plan for collecting and analyzing data
• Types of research design:
  • Experimental design: involves manipulating variables and controlling for extraneous factors
  • Quasi-experimental design: involves manipulating variables but without controlling for extraneous factors
  • Non-experimental design: involves observing variables without manipulating them
• Research design considerations:
  • Internal validity: ensuring that the study measures what it claims to measure
  • External validity: ensuring that the study can be generalized to other populations and settings

Philippine Research

• Philippine research focuses on issues and problems specific to the Philippines
• Research areas in the Philippines:
  • Education: studying the Philippine education system and its challenges
  • Health: studying health issues and healthcare systems in the Philippines
  • Economy: studying the Philippine economy and its development
  • Culture: studying the diverse cultures and traditions of the Philippines
• Philippine research methods:
  • Using local language and cultural context to collect and analyze data
  • Collaborating with local stakeholders and communities
  • Adapting international research methods to the Philippine context

Academic Writing

• Academic writing is a formal and structured way of communicating research findings
• Characteristics of academic writing:
  • Clarity: using clear and concise language
  • Objectivity: avoiding personal biases and opinions
  • Organization: using a logical and coherent structure
  • Accuracy: ensuring that information is accurate and reliable
• Academic writing styles:
  • APA (American Psychological Association) style
  • MLA (Modern Language Association) style
  • Chicago style
• Academic writing process:
  • Pre-writing: planning and organizing the research paper
  • Writing: composing the research paper
  • Revising: reviewing and revising the research paper
  • Editing: proofreading and correcting the research paper