Research Methods: Background of the Study

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following elements should NOT be included in the background of a study?

Description and detailed explanation of the situation

Summary of past research methodologies (correct)

Legal basis related to the study

Relevant literature

What defines a research gap?

A well-studied area lacking new findings

An area that has not been researched or explored (correct)

An established theory that supports future research

A collection of data that contradicts existing findings

Which type of research gap arises when there is contrasting research findings?

Classic literature gap

Theoretical gap

Disagreement gap (correct)

Contextual gap

Which of the following is NOT typically included in the background of the study?

Personal anecdotes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a theoretical framework in a study?

To support the investigation with relevant theories Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a contextual gap?

Absence of research on a specific population or setting Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is essential to include as part of the broader objective of a study in the background section?

A general overview of the field of study Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a classic literature gap?

Limited studies on a newly discovered phenomenon Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of a dependent variable in research?

It reflects the change brought about by an independent variable. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes an independent variable?

It is the reason for the changes in the dependent variable. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Input-Process-Output Model (IPO) primarily demonstrate?

The transition of inputs into outputs through a process. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of including a 'Definition of Terms' section in a study?

To clarify technical terms and their meanings within the context of the study. Signup and view all the answers

How does an operational definition differ from a conceptual definition?

Operational definitions define terms based on how they are used in the study, while conceptual definitions are based on formal definitions. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of diagram can be categorized as a form of a concept map?

Flowcharts Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of defining the terms used in a study?

To ensure clarity and understanding for the readers. Signup and view all the answers

In the Input-Process-Output model, which component is typically considered the output?

The findings or outcomes of the research. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of writing a definition of terms in a research paper?

To provide a clear understanding of specific terms Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes extraneous variables?

Other factors that may influence the outcome but are not controlled Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a confounding variable from an extraneous variable?

Confounding variables influence outcomes when not adequately controlled Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would be classified as a quantitative variable?

The temperature readings from various cities Signup and view all the answers

Which definition best describes discrete variables?

Countable whole numbers that do not take negative values Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with acronyms or initials when defining terms?

Define them clearly after the full term Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important not to include too many technical terms in the definitions?

It can overwhelm the reader with information Signup and view all the answers

What is one key guideline for formatting terms in a definition of terms section?

Terms should be arranged alphabetically Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Background of the Study

Contextualizes the research by providing the backdrop against which the study takes place.
Includes research problem, significance, context, and relevant literature.
Must address existing literature, current issues, legal basis, and present problems.
Requires at least two legal bases for credibility.
States the general or broad objective of the study.
Should include detailed explanations supported by data and statistics.

Research Gap

Represents an area within a topic that remains unexplored or under-researched.
May involve gaps concerning different variables, conditions, or populations.

Types of Research Gap

Classic Literature Gap: Limited exploration of new concepts or phenomena.
Contextual Gaps: Existing research is lacking in specific contexts:
- Specific populations (e.g., age groups, gender, or ethnicity).
- Geographic areas (e.g., cities, countries, or regions).
- Time periods where older studies exist before recent changes.
Disagreement Gap: Contradictory findings among existing research.

Theoretical Framework

Anchors studies to well-established theories relevant to the investigation.
Examples include Second Language Acquisition Theory, Multimedia Learning Theory, and Gamification in Education.

Conceptual Framework

Reflects the ideas, beliefs, and tentative theories supporting the study's foundation.

Concept Map

Visual tool depicting relationships between ideas.
Begins with a main topic, branching into sub-topics.
Formats include charts, graphic organizers, tables, flowcharts, Venn diagrams, and timelines.

Variables

Dependent Variable: The effect or outcome presumed from the research problem.
Independent Variable: The presumed cause that affects the dependent variable; can be manipulated by the researcher.

Input-Process-Output Model (IPO)

Conceptual model analyzing inputs, processes, and outputs.
Input: Generally corresponds to the independent variable.
Process: Interventions and analyses used to achieve results.
Output: Findings or outcomes derived from the processes applied to solve the problem.

Definition of Terms

Also known as Operational Definition of Variables (ODV); defines key terms as used in the study.
Conceptual Definition: Dictionary or encyclopedia meaning.
Operational Definition: Usage and context-specific meaning within the study.
Benefits include clarification of technical terms, aiding reader comprehension, and providing quick reference.

Guidelines for Writing Definition of Terms

Begin with a brief introduction of the terms' scope.
List terms alphabetically with proper indentation.
Each term should be concise; avoid excessive technical jargon.
Clearly define any acronyms with full terms and meanings in parentheses.

Extraneous Variables

Factors influencing the dependent variable that are not controlled by the researcher.
When not controlled, they may become confounding variables impacting study conclusions.

Quantitative Variables

Numeric and measurable variables utilized in quantitative research.
Discrete Variables: Countable whole numbers, limited to non-negative values (e.g., number of students).

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Description

This quiz explores the essential components of writing the background of a study in research papers. You'll learn about key elements such as the research problem, significance, relevant literature, and the legal bases needed for contextual clarity. Test your understanding of how to effectively present this vital section.