Research Methods Overview

Research

• The research process encompasses defining a question, gathering information, identifying connections, and documenting findings.
• Research is essential in any field. It identifies problems, compares solutions, and presents better options.
• Research is important for understanding human behavior from the respondent's perspective.

Types of Research

• Qualitative Research:
  • Deals with words and meanings.
  • Uses open-ended questions.
  • Data collection involves interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), observations, etc.
  • Sample size is smaller.
• Quantitative Research:
  • Deals with numbers and statistics.
  • Uses close multiple choice questions.
  • Data collection includes surveys, experiments, etc.
  • Sample size is large

Mixed Method Research

• This approach merges aspects of both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• It's used to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of a research topic.

Research Papers

• Thesis:
  • Required for bachelor's and master's degrees.
  • Presents theories and principles to support an argument or proposal.
  • Developed from a proposition or argument.
• Action Research:
  • Used in academia and industry to offer immediate solutions to urgent problems.
• Dissertation:
  • Required for doctorate degrees.
  • Bridges theory and practice, focusing on the effectiveness of solutions in real-world settings.

Traits of a Good Researcher

• Thirst for Knowledge: A good researcher is always seeking new information.
• Observant: They pay attention to details and their surroundings.
• Reflective: They contemplate the information they encounter.
• Articulate: They can express their ideas effectively.
• Systematic: They use a methodical approach to evaluate situations.

Guidelines for Choosing a Research Topic

• Specific: Narrow down the research topic as much as possible.
• Time-Bound: Select a topic that can be researched and explained within a reasonable timeframe.
• Contextual: Choose a topic relevant to the local area and situations.
• Beneficial: Opt for topics that fulfill a need for further information.
• Accessible Information: Choose a topic with readily available resources or data that is easy to collect.

Research Paper Preparation

• Identify and Develop the Topic: This is the crucial first step and should be done properly.
• Conduct a Preliminary Search: Determine if enough context and data exist for the research.
• Locate Materials: Gather resources related to the chosen topic.
• Evaluate Sources: Assess the quality of the collected data.
• Make Notes: Consult resources and take notes on relevant information for the paper.

Components of a Research Paper

• Topic: Defines the broad subject matter covered by the study.
• Research Problem: A specific issue requiring improvement, change, or a solution. It explains why a study is necessary.
• Purpose: The main objective of a study. It clarifies the research's intent and explains its goal.
• Research Questions: Specific questions that the researcher wants to answer.
• Theory: Provides a framework for examining a subject in greater detail.

CUPs (Capitalizations and Punctuation)

• Cite: To give credit to a source.
• Site: A location or place.
• Data: Plural form, referring to multiple pieces of information.
• Datum: Singular form, referring to a single piece of information.
• Stationary: Not moving
• Stationery: Refers to writing materials.
• Compliment: A polite expression of praise.
• Complement: Something that completes or enhances something else.

Sentence Structures

• Run-on Sentences: Sentences that incorrectly combine two or more independent clauses without proper punctuation.
• Comma Splices: Two or more independent clauses separated by commas without coordinating conjunctions or semicolons.

Visual Display

• Bar Graph: A chart that uses bars to represent numerical data for specific categories.
• Pie Chart: A chart that uses sections of a pie to illustrate the proportional sizes of data.

Explore the different types of research methodologies including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Understand the significance of each approach in gathering and analyzing data. This quiz will help you identify the key components and processes involved in effective research.