1. Definitions (2 marks each) 1. Research A careful study to discover new information or understand existing knowledge. 2. Research Paradigm A set of ideas and practices that guide... 1. Definitions (2 marks each) 1. Research A careful study to discover new information or understand existing knowledge. 2. Research Paradigm A set of ideas and practices that guide how we conduct research, like different viewpoints on reality and knowledge. 3. Epistemology The study of how we know what we know; it looks at the nature and sources of knowledge in research. 4. Hypotheses Predictions about how variables might relate to each other, which we test to see if they're correct. 5. Variable Anything that can change or vary in a study, such as age or income. Variables can be independent (cause) or dependent (effect). 6. Sampling Choosing a smaller group from a larger population to represent the whole in a study. 2.1 Qualities of Good Research (4 marks) Good research should be: • Objectivity: The results are fair and unbiased. • Reliability: The results can be repeated by others. • Validity: The study actually measures what it’s supposed to. • Replicability: Other researchers can repeat it and get similar results. 2.2 Characteristics of a Good Research Design (4 marks) A good research design should: • Flexible • Appropriate • Efficient • Effective 2.3 Components of Research Design (8 marks) Important parts of a research design include: • Sampling Design: How the sample is chosen. • Observational Design: How data is collected and under what conditions. • Statistical Design: How many items will be observed and how data will be analyzed. • Operational Design: How to put all the steps and techniques into action. 3.1 Differences between Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches (6 marks) • Qualitative Research: Focuses on understanding experiences and behaviors, often with open-ended data from interviews or observations. • Quantitative Research: Uses numbers and structured data to find patterns or test ideas. 3.2 Elements of a Research Proposal: 1. Introduction and Background: Provides an overview of the topic and context of the study. 2. Research Problem: Explains what issue or question the research aims to address. 3. Significance of the Study: Describes why this study is important and what it can contribute. 4. Literature Review: Summarizes past research related to the topic. 5. Theoretical Framework: Shows the theories or concepts guiding the study. 6. Aim: States the overall goal of the research. 7. Research Questions: Lists the main questions the study will answer. 8. Objectives: Specific steps or goals the research will accomplish. 9. Research Methodology: o Research Approach and Paradigm: Describes the overall method and beliefs guiding the study (e.g., qualitative or quantitative). o Population and Sampling: Defines who the study is about and how participants are chosen. o Sample Size: The number of participants in the study. 10. Methods of Data Collection and Data Analysis: Explains how information will be gathered and analyzed. 11. Ethical Considerations: Discusses how the study will protect participants’ rights and well-being. 12. Anticipated Problems (Cost Involved): Any expected challenges or costs. 13. Conclusion: Wraps up the proposal, summarizing the study’s importance and goals. Read more