Research Process and Design

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Questions and Answers

What is the key focus of the research design step in the research process?

Implementing data collection methods (correct)

Identifying the research gap

Reviewing existing literature

Determining the research question

Which of the following options is NOT a characteristic of research as described?

Research is random (correct)

Research is question-based

Research is organized

Research is systematic

What purpose does basic research primarily serve?

To support business decisions

To add knowledge to a field (correct)

To explain practical phenomena

To solve specific issues

Which of the following best describes the outcome of having a poorly defined research question?

Loss of direction in the research process Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is research most likely aimed at aiding decision-making?

Analyzing market trends Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately represents a valid purpose of research?

To understand a complex scenario Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research primarily focuses on practical problem-solving within organizations?

Applied research Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinguishing feature of quasi-experimental research?

It estimates the causal impact of an intervention Signup and view all the answers

Which step in the research process involves identifying gaps in existing knowledge?

Detailed review of literature Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research is characterized by a systematic approach to observe and test a theory?

Deductive research Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'flexibility' in the research process imply?

Researchers can revisit earlier steps when necessary Signup and view all the answers

Which type of data typically involves numerical values and statistical analysis?

Quantitative data Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of ethical approval in the research process?

It safeguards the integrity of the research and participants Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic differentiates experimental research from non-experimental research?

Manipulation of independent variables Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of inductive research?

Collecting data to develop theories based on observations Signup and view all the answers

Which study design involves examining the same individuals repeatedly over time?

Longitudinal study Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following research areas is NOT explicitly mentioned as a part of computer science?

Bioinformatics Signup and view all the answers

In software engineering research, which aspect does NOT pertain to investigating social processes?

Usage of programming languages Signup and view all the answers

Cross-sectional studies often analyze data from a population at which point in time?

A single point in time Signup and view all the answers

Which category of computer science research involves concepts specific to a particular problem domain?

Problem-domain-specific concepts Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of software engineering research?

Focus solely on theoretical frameworks Signup and view all the answers

What type of concepts do systems/software management concepts pertain to in computer science research?

The strategies for managing software projects Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Research Process vs. Research Design

Research design is a critical phase in the broader research process, focusing on implementation methods.
Key considerations include data collection methods, target subjects, timing of data collection, and analysis techniques.

Characteristics of Research

Organized: Requires a structured approach with defined steps.
Systematic: Must adhere to established scientific procedures for reliable outcomes.
Central to research are questions, which provide purpose and direction.

Purpose of Research

Basic research: Aims to add knowledge, primarily conducted by academics.
Applied research: Seeks to solve problems and assist in decision-making, typically executed by consultants.

Type of Data Used

Quantitative research: Involves numerical data and statistical analysis.
Qualitative research: Focuses on narrative data and interpretative analysis.

The Research Process

Steps include: selecting a topic, identifying problems and gaps, formulating hypotheses, and setting objectives.
A literature review is essential for grounding the research framework.
Ethical approval is necessary before data collection, followed by data analysis and presentation of findings.

Research Process Flexibility

The research process is non-linear, allowing for revision of earlier stages as necessary.

Types of Research Classification

By purpose: Theoretical/basic vs. applied research.
By depth of scope: Exploratory, descriptive, and explanatory research.
By variable manipulation: Experimental, non-experimental, and quasi-experimental studies.

Types of Inference in Research

Deductive research: Starts with a theory or hypothesis, tested through observation.
Inductive research: Involves data collection to form theories based on observed patterns.

Temporal Classification of Research

Longitudinal study: Observes changes over time in the same individuals.
Cross-sectional study: Analyzes data from a population at a single point in time, assessing conditions like obesity among diabetic individuals.

Nature of Research in Computer Science

Core areas include software engineering, computer security, networks, algorithm design, cloud computing, AI, and machine learning.
Research can focus on problem-solving, systems/software, data/information concepts, and organizational or societal implications.

Software Engineering Perspective

Involves real people using specific tools and processes within environments.
Investigates technical processes of software development, the use of tools, and social processes including team coordination and productivity issues.

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Description

Explore the essential differences between the research process and research design in this quiz. Understand the structure and steps involved in conducting effective research, including data collection and analysis methods. Test your knowledge on the characteristics and organization of research.