Research Methods Overview

• A cross-sectional study gathers data from various subjects at a single point in time to observe changes across different stages.
• Evaluation research assesses the merit, success, effectiveness, or efficiency of policies or practices within a group.
• Experimental research enables researchers to infer causal relationships between independent and dependent variables.
• A sampling frame serves as a list of potential participants for a study.
• When studying consumer preferences, data from a group representative of the larger population of coffee drinkers provides more generalizable insights than data from a specific customer list.
• Sample size in quantitative research requires careful calculation to ensure statistical accuracy.
• Systematic sampling begins with arranging the list in a specific order.
• Snowball sampling is suited for reaching individuals difficult to identify through traditional methods.
• Probability sampling can be costly and time-consuming.
• Purposive sampling involves the researcher selecting respondents based on their judgment.
• Simple random sampling gives each individual an equal chance of selection via random selection.
• An instrument measures student engagement in research design.
• A valid instrument is always reliable, consistently measuring what it intends.

Conceptualizing Research

• Avoid sensitive and debatable questions when forming research questions.
• Use simple, clear language in survey questions.
• Avoid jargon or technical terms.
• Survey questionnaires use checklists and rating scales to quantify behaviors, attitudes, and opinions.
• Data collection involves gathering student test scores and attendance records for later analysis and interpretation.
• Web-page questionnaires are efficient for data collection due to faster distribution and response.
• Face-to-face interviews can establish good rapport between researcher and respondent.
• An online platform survey is a modern method of data collection.
• Research methodology provides a systematic approach to a research study.
• Research methodology includes research design, data treatment, and instrument validation.
• Recommendations belong in the conclusion or discussion section.
• Population and Sample focuses on participant selection, sample size, techniques, and characteristics
• Treatment of Data outlines the statistical analysis of collected data.
• Research methodology gives a structured plan to research
• Research instrument defines the tools and techniques for data collection
• Data Gathering outlines participant steps and procedures
• instrument validation involves expert feedback to ensure validity and reliability

Transparency

• To enhance transparency, the methodology should clearly outline the steps and procedures of the process.
• When presenting a written research methodology, discuss limitations to acknowledge potential biases or errors.
• A thorough literature review identifies validated instruments for effective measurement.
• Paper-pencil questionnaires are easily converted to electronic forms for online distribution.
• Case study research uses a combination of instruments like summation of questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and observation
• The focus group discussion (FGD), interview, and observation instruments are suitable for evaluating a program
• Pure science research uses experiments and observation.

Data Presentation

• Tabular and graphical forms should both be used to present and interpret data.
• A scatter plot represents the correlation between two continuous variables
• A histogram shows the frequency distribution of continuous data
• A pie graph displays how total monthly household expenses are divided among different expense categories
• A pictograph uses pictures or symbols to visually represent data.
• Bivariate analysis is used to explore the relationship between two variables
• The "Pearson r" value determines the correlation between variables.
• Chi-Square test determines the relationship between variables measured on a nominal or ordinal scale.
• T-tests compare means of two groups
• ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) compares the means of more than two groups.
• Conclusions come from findings and results.
• Avoid unsupported generalizations and draw conclusions based on results.
• Research questions guide research conclusions.
• Write precise and concise conclusions
• Recommendations rely on research conclusions, findings, and questions.
• Recommendations should rely on findings to support actions or changes.
• Base recommendations on findings and evidence, not on discoveries.
• Recommendations should be well thought of and logically reasoned.

Research Topics

• Academic Productivity and Rank in General Physics 1 is appropriate for a correlational study because it is used to explore the relationship between academic productivity and academic rank, which are both measurable variables.
• Effects of ICT Integration to Class Performance is the best topic for experimental research.
• ICT integration allows for observation of its direct effect.
• Slovin’s formula is used to determine the sample size (𝑛) from a given population (𝑁) while considering a margin of error (𝑒):
• The appropriate sample size for a study in three Pasig City private schools with 1000 students, using Slovin's formula and a 5% margin of error, is 286.

Sample Size

• When a calculation results in a decimal you should round up and not down.
• Survey Questionnaires use checklists and rating scales for quantifying behaviours and attitudes via standardized questions and responses.
• A rank-order question asks respondents to arrange items based on preference, importance or criteria.
• If Instrumental music improves the mathematical skills of Grade 5 students, then that means, “The use of instrumental music in mathematics improved the mathematical skills of the students on post-test scores”
• Face masks significantly reduce the immediate virus exposure
• It is recommended that face masks should be included as part of strategies to safely and significantly reduce viral transmission in the community setting
• Use a scatterplot to study to analyze the relationship between study hours and exam scores
• A combination of FGD, interviews, and observations allows for a more thorough assessment
• Focus group discussions enables participants to share diverse experiences, perspectives, and suggestions in a group setting
• Interviews provide in-depth feedback
• Observation allows a direct assessment of the program implemented and its impact on employees in real-time.