Research Methods Introduction

Research Fundamentals

• Searching the web is not the only aspect of research, as it involves more than just gathering information.
• Simply using statistics, theories, or information from sources without original thought or analysis is not considered research.

Research Purpose and Audience

• Considering the purpose and audience for a research project is crucial to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

Research Approach

• When doing research for academic work, it's essential to maintain objectivity and avoid being influenced by personal biases.
• The medium for presenting research can impact the kind of information you search for, and should be considered.

Research Topic Selection

• Choosing a narrow topic is often better for a research paper, as it allows for more focused and in-depth information.
• A broad topic can be overwhelming, making it harder to manage and find relevant information.

Research Organization

• Keeping a working bibliography of all sources consulted is vital for a research project.
• Reference librarians can provide valuable guidance on the most appropriate reference works for your research project.

Research Topic Focus

• Narrowing down the focus of a research topic makes it easier to find and manage specific information.
• General encyclopedias and other reference works can be helpful for providing an overview of a research topic.