Research Writings & Ethics: An Introduction - PDF

OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN RESEARCH WRITINGS AND ETHICS An Introduction Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept of Computer Science...

OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN RESEARCH WRITINGS AND ETHICS An Introduction Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept of Computer Science and Engineering RESEARCH WRITINGS & ETHICS An Introduction Objectives 1)Meaning of Research 2)Objectives of Research 3)Motivation in Research 4)Types of Research 5)Research Approaches 6)Significance of Research 7)Research Methods versus Methodology 8)Research and Scientific Method 9)Importance of Knowing How Research is Done 10)Research Process 11)Criteria of Good Research 12)Problems Encountered by Researchers in India (Self Study) RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Meaning of Research Research is composed of two terms combined: ○ a prefix re ○ a verb search Re means again, a new, over again Search means to examine closely and carefully, to test and try, to probe The two words form a noun to describe a careful and systematic study in some field of knowledge, undertaken to establish facts or principles. Research is an organized and systematic way of finding answers to questions RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Meaning of Research A careful investigation or inquiry specially through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge Redman and Mory define research as a “systematized effort to gain new knowledge.” A movement from the known to the unknown It is voyage of discovery RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Meaning of Research Clifford Woody - 1) Defining and redefining problems, 2) formulating hypothesis or suggested solutions; 3) collecting, organising and evaluating data; 4) making deductions and reaching conclusions; 5) carefully testing the conclusions to determine whether they fit the formulating hypothesis. D. Slesinger and M. Stephenson in the Encyclopaedia of Social Sciences - “The manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the purpose of generalising to extend, correct or verify knowledge, whether that knowledge aids in construction of theory or in the practice of an art.” RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Objectives of Research To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it. To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, situation or a group. To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which it is associated with something else. To test a hypothesis of a causal relationship between variables. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Motivation for Research 1) Desire to get a research degree along with its consequential benefits; 2) Desire to face the challenge in solving the unsolved problems, i.e., concern over practical problems initiates research; 3) Desire to get intellectual joy of doing some creative work; 4) Desire to be of service to society; 5) Desire to get respectability RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Types of Research 1) Descriptive vs Analytical 2) Applied vs Fundamental 3) Quantitative vs Qualitative 4) Conceptual vs Empirical RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction 1) Descriptive Research Vs Analytical Research Major purpose of descriptive research is description of the state of affairs as it exists at present (ex post facto Research) Characteristic: The researcher has no control over the variables - he can only report what has happened, or what is happening; e.g.: frequency of shopping, preferences of people Methods used: Comparative and Correlation. In analytical research, the researcher has to use facts or information already available and analyze these to make a critical evaluation of the material. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction 2) Applied Vs Fundamental Research Applied Research Immediate problem facing a society or an industrial business organization aimed at conclusions Example : Market research, design, safety, health, pollution, societal, environmental, industrial, pharmaceutical, etc. Fundamental Research Mainly concerned with generalizations and with the formulation of a theory RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction 3) Quantitative Vs Qualitative Research Quantitative Research Based on the measurement of quantity or amount Controlled, rather easy to carry-out Objective and repeatable Easy to draw conclusions and decisions Qualitative Research is concerned with qualitative phenomenon, i.e., involving quality or kind aim is to discover the underlying motives of human behaviour; attitude or opinion research (how people feel or think about a particular subject or institution). difficult job; should seek guidance from experimental psychologists. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction 4) Conceptual Vs Empirical Research Conceptual Research Related to some abstract idea(s) or theory; generally used by philosophers and thinkers to develop new concepts or to re-interpret existing ones Empirical Research Relies on experience or observation alone, without due regard for system and theory. It is data-based research, coming up with conclusions which are capable of being verified by observation or experiment. Characterised by the experimenter's control over the variables under study and his deliberate manipulation of one of them to study its effects. Evidence gathered through experiments or empirical studies is today considered to be the most powerful support possible for a given hypothesis. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Other Types of Research 1. One Time Research 2. Longitudinal Research 3. Field Research 4. Laboratory Research 5. Simulation Research 6. Clinical Research 7. Diagnostic Research 8. Exploratory Research 9. Historical Research 10.Conclusion Oriented Research 11.Decision Oriented Research RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Research Method Vs Methodology Method – Technique / method adopted to conduct Research. Can be put in 3 groups- Data Collection Methods Statistical Techniques – establish relationships between data and unknowns Evaluation Methods for accuracy of results. Methodology – Way in which research problem is solved systematically. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Research Process RESEARCH METHODOLOGY : An Introduction Research Process The order/sequence concerning various steps provides a useful procedural guideline regarding the research process: 1) Formulating the research problem 2) Extensive literature survey 3) Developing the hypothesis 4) Preparing the research design 5) Determining sample design 6) Collecting the data 7) Execution of the project 8) Analysis of data 9) Hypothesis testing 10) Generalizations and interpretation, and 11) Preparation of the report or presentation of the results, 1) i.e., formal write-up of conclusions reached. OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN THANK YOU Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept of Computer Science and Engineering OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN Research Writings & Ethics An Introduction Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept of Computer Science and Engineering Research Writings & Ethics An Introduction to RM Priya Badarinath. Department of Computer Science and Engineering Introduction to Research Methodology Contents: I. Research Process II. Criteria for Good Research Research Process Research Process The order concerning various steps provides a useful procedural guideline regarding the research process: 1) Formulating the research problem; 2) Extensive literature survey; 3) Developing the hypothesis; 4) Preparing the research design; 5) Determining sample design; 6) Collecting the data; 7) Execution of the project; 8) Analysis of data; 9) Hypothesis testing; 10) Generalizations and interpretation, and 11) Preparation of the report or presentation of the results, i.e., format write-up of conclusions reached. 1) Formulating Research Problem 2 steps for formulating research problem Understanding the research problem thoroughly Re-phrasing same in meaningful terms. 2) Extensive Literature Survey Abstracting and indexing journals and published / unpublished biographies. Academic journals, conference proceedings, government reports, books, etc.. Earlier studies similar to research topic in hand. Good Library. Internet to search articles. Search Engines – Google / Google Scholar http://scholar.google.com ChatGPT 3) Development of Working Hypothesis Working Hypothesis - Temporary assumption made in order to draw out and test its logical consequences. They affect the manner in which tests are conducted. Process to go about developing Hypothesis. Discussion with colleagues and experts about problem. Examination of data and records concerning to the problem. Review of similar studies in the area. Exploratory personal investigation which involves – field interviews. 4) Preparing the Research Design Preparation of research design involves following consideration. ○ Obtaining Information ○ Availability and skills of researcher and his staff Explanation ○ Time available for research ○ Cost Factor relating to research – finance available. 5) Determining the Sample Design Simple random sampling. Systematic sampling. Stratified sampling. Quota sampling. Cluster sampling and area sampling. Multi stage sampling. Sequential sampling. 6) Collection of Data Data in hand is inadequate. So need to collect appropriate data Ways to collect data Primary Data – Observation and Surveys Observation Personal Interview Telephonic interview Mailing of questionnaires Through Schedules. Collection of Data 7) Analysis of Data Coding Editing Tabulation Computation of percentage coefficients Statistical tests Statistical measures Hypothesis -- Meaning A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon. For a hypothesis to be a scientific hypothesis, the scientific method requires that one can test it. Scientists generally base scientific hypotheses on previous observations that cannot satisfactorily be explained with the available scientific theories. ~ Wikipedia 8) Hypothesis Testing Various tests like Chi-square, t-test, f-test have been developed by statisticians. Hypothesis may be tested through use of one or more such tests depending on nature and object of research. Result – either accepted or rejected. 9) Generalization and Interpretation Real value of research lies in its ability to arrive at certain generalization. If researcher had no hypothesis to start with, he might seek to explain his findings on basis of some theory – Interpretation. 10) Preparation of Report / Thesis Preliminary pages – date, acknowledgement, foreword. Main text – introduction, summary of findings, main report, conclusion. End – appendices, bibliography – list of books, journals, reports, etc... Report should be concise. Charts and illustrations – clearly and forcibly Criteria for a Good Research Criteria for a Good Research 1) Purpose should be clearly defined. 2) Procedure used should be described in sufficient detail. 3) Design of research should be carefully planned to yield result as objective. 4) Report – complete frankness, flaws in procedural design. 5) Analysis should be sufficiently adequate, method of analysis should be appropriate. 6) Conclusion should be confined to those justified by data of research. Criteria for a Good Research Good research is systematic ○ Research should be structured with specified steps to be taken in specified sequence. Good research is logical ○ Research is guided by rules of logical reasoning and logical procedure of induction and deduction. Good research is empirical ○ Research related to basically to one or more aspect of real situation and deals with concrete data. Good research is replicable ○ Allows research results to be verified by replicating the study and thereby building on sound basis of decision. OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN THANK YOU Research Writings & Ethics OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN Research Writings & Ethics Literature Review Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept. of Computer Science and Engineering Research Writings & Ethics Literature Review Prof Priya Badarinath Department of Computer Science and Engineering Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Chapter Objectives: 1)Review of Literature (RoL) What, Importance, Why/Purpose, Goal 2)Sources of Literature 3)Technique of Reviewing 4)Organization 5)Writing LR 6)Good LR Properties Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review REVIEW OF LITERATURE (RoL) A broad, comprehensive, in-depth, systematic, and critical review of scholarly publications. A Literature Review surveys, summarizes, and links together research (a.k.a., literature) in a given field Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review RoL Important step in Res. Process; laborious but essential An account of what is already done/known about the issue Describe, summarize, evaluate. Clarify & integrate the content of primary reports Research Writings & Ethics: Literature Review What is Review of Literature? It is a CRITICAL EVALUATION of available literature on the topic of research to be carried out Provides an overview of the problem to be studied Continued…. Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Importance of Review of Literature? Identification, development, refinement of RQ’s Identification of gaps/inconsistencies Strength and weaknesses of designs/methods /instruments used in research work Development of plan – research methodology Development of Research Hypothesis Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Why Review of Literature? Purpose For the chosen Research Problem, RoL Determines : 1. Design/Md. of study – Instruments, data collection, analysis 2. Replication needed 3. What is till date known 4. Gaps / inconsistencies & consistencies 5. Unanswered questions 6. Strengths / weaknesses 7. Refinement of research problem 8. Hypothesis 9. Justification Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Function of RoL The literature review is a critical look at the existing research that is significant to the work that you are carrying out. To provide background information To establish importance To demonstrate familiarity To “carve out a space” for further research Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Primary and Secondary Sources Primary source: Secondary source: is written by a person(s) who developed is written by a person(s) other than the the theory or conducted the research individual who developed the theory or conducted the research Reasons for using secondary sources: 1. Primary sources is literally NOT available 2. A secondary source can provide different ways of looking at an issue or problem Secondary sources should not be overused Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Primary and Secondary Sources Primary source: Example Secondary source: Example An original qualitative on patient A literature review on patients experiences in the ICU: experiences in the ICU: Feeling safe the psychosocial needs Patient experiences of being in an of ICU patients. intensive care unit Hupcey, J. E. (2000). Stein-Parbury, J. & Mckinley,S. (2000) : Journal of Nursing Scholarship, a select literature review. 32:361-367 American Journal of critical care, 9:20- www.drjayeshpatidar.blogspot.com 27 www.drjayeshpatidar.blogspot.com Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Sources for RoL Electronic data-bases Journals Research Reports - thesis Books Conference Papers Magazines/newspapers Encyclopedias and dictionaries Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review When you read an article: Questions to consider: Has the author clearly defined the problem/issue? How good is the study design? How valid are the results? Are there flaws in the logic of the discussion? What problems has the author avoided or ignored? Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review TECHNIQUE OF REVIEWING OF LITERATURE Key words / refined / focused Shortlist articles – basis, ABSTRACT Data base / s Latest first & backwards - year Table – authors, place, year, Journal Methods (Expt. Details) Data collection, analysis Findings, results, inference Organize (acc. to time / theme / method) Transition – linking Intro. - Body – Conclusion (justify) Comprehensive, Cohesive, Concise Write-up Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review B E F O R E W R I T I N G RoL Sketch of Scheme Organize Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Organize ฀ Consider organization ฀ You've got a focus, and you've narrowed it down to a thesis statement. ฀ Now what is the most effective way of presenting the information? ฀ What are the most important topics, subtopics, etc., that your review needs to include? ฀ And in what order should you present them? Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review How to organize studies Chronological – By publication date – By trend Thematic – A structure which considers different themes Methodological – Focuses on the methods of the researcher, – e.g., qualitative versus quantitative approaches 21 Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review What should you write? ฀ the accepted facts in the area ฀ the popular opinion ฀ the main variables ฀ the relationship between concepts and variables ฀ shortcomings in the existing findings ฀ limitations in the methods used in the existing findings ฀ the relevance of your research ฀ suggestions for further research in the area. Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review A F T E R W R I T I N G RoL Read for coherence Logical Use critiquing Criteria - Checklist Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review When you read your RoL: CRITIQUING CRITERIA 1. Uncover gaps, inconsistencies & consistencies 2. Relevant concepts & variables included 3. Reveal components of study of design (Expt.) 4. Strengths, weaknesses & conflicts depicted (in rel. to current area) 5. Conceptual & Data based literature included 6. Summary and synthesis done (Integration) 7. Follow a logical sequence (Time, theme, method, trend..) 8. Signify what to be researched (Justification & lead to HYPOTHESIS) Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Organization of literature review A general organization looks like a funnel – Broader topics – Subtopics – Studies like yours 27 Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review A Good Literature Review is: Focused - The topic should be narrow. Present ideas and report on studies that are closely related to topic. Concise - Ideas should be presented economically Logical - logical progression from one idea to the next Developed - Don’t leave the story half told Integrative - What commonality among articles? How are some studies different? Your paper should stress how all the studies reviewed contribute to your topic. Current - Your review should focus on work being done on the cutting edge of your topic OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN THANK YOU RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Literature Review Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept. of Computer Science and Engineering OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN Research Writings & Ethics Literature Review Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept. of Computer Science and Engineering Research Writings & Ethics Literature Review Prof Priya Badarinath Department of Computer Science and Engineering Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Chapter Objectives: 1)Review of Literature (RoL) What, Importance, Why/Purpose, Goal 2)Sources of Literature 3)Technique of Reviewing 4)Organization 5)Writing LR 6)Good LR Properties Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review REVIEW OF LITERATURE (RoL) A broad, comprehensive, in-depth, systematic, and critical review of scholarly publications. A Literature Review surveys, summarizes, and links together research (a.k.a., literature) in a given field Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review RoL Important step in Res. Process; laborious but essential An account of what is already done/known about the issue Describe, summarize, evaluate. Clarify & integrate the content of primary reports Research Writings & Ethics: Literature Review What is Review of Literature? It is a CRITICAL EVALUATION of available literature on the topic of research to be carried out Provides an overview of the problem to be studied Continued…. Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Importance of Review of Literature? Identification, development, refinement of RQ’s Identification of gaps/inconsistencies Strength and weaknesses of designs/methods /instruments used in research work Development of plan – research methodology Development of Research Hypothesis Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Why Review of Literature? Purpose For the chosen Research Problem, RoL Determines : 1. Design/Md. of study – Instruments, data collection, analysis 2. Replication needed 3. What is till date known 4. Gaps / inconsistencies & consistencies 5. Unanswered questions 6. Strengths / weaknesses 7. Refinement of research problem 8. Hypothesis 9. Justification Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Function of RoL The literature review is a critical look at the existing research that is significant to the work that you are carrying out. To provide background information To establish importance To demonstrate familiarity To “carve out a space” for further research Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Primary and Secondary Sources Primary source: Secondary source: is written by a person(s) who developed is written by a person(s) other than the the theory or conducted the research individual who developed the theory or conducted the research Reasons for using secondary sources: 1. Primary sources is literally NOT available 2. A secondary source can provide different ways of looking at an issue or problem Secondary sources should not be overused Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Primary and Secondary Sources Primary source: Example Secondary source: Example An original qualitative on patient A literature review on patients experiences in the ICU: experiences in the ICU: Feeling safe the psychosocial needs Patient experiences of being in an of ICU patients. intensive care unit Hupcey, J. E. (2000). Stein-Parbury, J. & Mckinley,S. (2000) : Journal of Nursing Scholarship, a select literature review. 32:361-367 American Journal of critical care, 9:20- www.drjayeshpatidar.blogspot.com 27 www.drjayeshpatidar.blogspot.com Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Sources for RoL Electronic data-bases Journals Research Reports - thesis Books Conference Papers Magazines/newspapers Encyclopedias and dictionaries Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review When you read an article: Questions to consider: Has the author clearly defined the problem/issue? How good is the study design? How valid are the results? Are there flaws in the logic of the discussion? What problems has the author avoided or ignored? Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review TECHNIQUE OF REVIEWING OF LITERATURE Key words / refined / focused Shortlist articles – basis, ABSTRACT Data base / s Latest first & backwards - year Table – authors, place, year, Journal Methods (Expt. Details) Data collection, analysis Findings, results, inference Organize (acc. to time / theme / method) Transition – linking Intro. - Body – Conclusion (justify) Comprehensive, Cohesive, Concise Write-up Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review B E F O R E W R I T I N G RoL Sketch of Scheme Organize Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Organize ฀ Consider organization ฀ You've got a focus, and you've narrowed it down to a thesis statement. ฀ Now what is the most effective way of presenting the information? ฀ What are the most important topics, subtopics, etc., that your review needs to include? ฀ And in what order should you present them? Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review How to organize studies Chronological – By publication date – By trend Thematic – A structure which considers different themes Methodological – Focuses on the methods of the researcher, – e.g., qualitative versus quantitative approaches 21 Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review What should you write? ฀ the accepted facts in the area ฀ the popular opinion ฀ the main variables ฀ the relationship between concepts and variables ฀ shortcomings in the existing findings ฀ limitations in the methods used in the existing findings ฀ the relevance of your research ฀ suggestions for further research in the area. Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review A F T E R W R I T I N G RoL Read for coherence Logical Use critiquing Criteria - Checklist Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review When you read your RoL: CRITIQUING CRITERIA 1. Uncover gaps, inconsistencies & consistencies 2. Relevant concepts & variables included 3. Reveal components of study of design (Expt.) 4. Strengths, weaknesses & conflicts depicted (in rel. to current area) 5. Conceptual & Data based literature included 6. Summary and synthesis done (Integration) 7. Follow a logical sequence (Time, theme, method, trend..) 8. Signify what to be researched (Justification & lead to HYPOTHESIS) Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review Organization of literature review A general organization looks like a funnel – Broader topics – Subtopics – Studies like yours 27 Research Writings & Ethics : Literature Review A Good Literature Review is: Focused - The topic should be narrow. Present ideas and report on studies that are closely related to topic. Concise - Ideas should be presented economically Logical - logical progression from one idea to the next Developed - Don’t leave the story half told Integrative - What commonality among articles? How are some studies different? Your paper should stress how all the studies reviewed contribute to your topic. Current - Your review should focus on work being done on the cutting edge of your topic OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN THANK YOU Research Writings & Ethics Literature Review Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept. of Computer Science and Engineering OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN Research Writings & Ethics Defining the Research Problem Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept of Computer Science and Engineering Research Writings & Ethics Ch. 2: Defining the Research Problem Department of Computer Science and Engineering Chapter 2: Defining the Research Problem Contents – 1. What is a Research Problem? 2. Selecting the Problem 3. Necessity of Defining the Problem 4. Techniques in Defining a Problem What is a Research Problem A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, contradiction, or gap in knowledge that you will aim to address in your research. A research problem is a statement about an area of concern, a condition to be improved, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or in practice that points to the need for meaningful understanding and systematic investigation. Difficulty which a researcher experiences in a context of either theoretical or practical situation and wants to obtain the solution to overcome the same. What is a Research Problem Textbook Definition: “Research Problem, in general, refers to some difficulty which a researcher experiences in the context of either a theoretical or practical situation and wants to obtain a solution for the same.” A RP does exist if the following conditions are met: I = Individual N = eNvironment (def by uncontrolled variables, Yj) C1, C2 = two Courses of action O1, O2 = two Outcomes P(Oj | I, Cj, N) = Probability P(O1 | I, C1, N) != P(O1 | I, C2, N) The choices must have unequal efficiencies for the desired outcomes. Topic, Problem, Purpose & Questions General Topic Online Learning Research Lack of students in the Problem online classes Deductive Process Purpose To study why students Statement do not attend online education classes Research Whether technology deters Question students from enrolling in an Specific online education class? The 5 Elements of Problem Statement Topic Subject area Social Work Issue A concern / problem needing solution Evidence for Evidence from literature the Issue Evidence from practical experience What is missing in evidence? Deficiencies What do we need to know more? in the Evidence How the solution helps: Remedy of Researchers; educators; policy makers; Deficiencies persons in the field It helps whom? Sources of Research Problems Experience Previous Consultation Research with experts Sources of Existing theory Research Exposure to field situations Problem Intuitions Social Brainstorming issues Selecting of a Research Problem 1. Subject which is not overdone is chosen 2. Controversial subject should be avoided 3. Avoid vague problem 4. Subject should be familiar and feasible 5. Selection of problem must be preceded by preliminary study Necessity of Defining the Problem Clearly stated research problem is half solved: 1. What data are to be collected? 2. What characteristics of data are relevant? 3. What relations are to be explored? 4. What techniques are to be used for this purpose? Technique Involved in Defining a Problem 1. State the problem in a general way 2. Understand the nature of the problem 3. Survey the available literature 4. Develop ideas through discussions 5. Rephrase the research problem Technique Involved in Defining a Problem a) Technical terms and words or phrases, with special meanings used in the statement of the problem, should be clearly defined. b) Basic assumptions or postulates (if any) relating to the research problem should be clearly stated. c) The criteria for the selection of the problem should be provided. d) The suitability of the time-period and the sources of data available must also be considered. e) The scope of the investigation (or the limits within which the problem is to be studied) must be mentioned explicitly.  In Conclusion The task of defining a research problem follows a sequential pattern — the problem is stated in a general way, the ambiguities are resolved, thinking and rethinking process results in a more specific formulation of the problem so that it may be a realistic one in terms of the available data and resources and is analytically meaningful. All this results in a well defined research problem that is meaningful from an operational point of view, paves the way for the development of working hypotheses and means of solving the problem. OBJECT (OOMD)ORIENTED MODELLING & DESIGN THANK YOU Research Writings & Ethics Defining the Research Problem Dr. Deepu R [email protected] Dept of Computer Science and Engineering Case study of how to select a problem for the Research By Dr. Deepu R Department of Computer Science & Engineering. The process of selecting a research problem involves identifying a broad area of interest, conducting a literature review, narrowing down the focus, and ensuring the problem is relevant, feasible, original, and ethical. By following these steps, you can select a research problem that is not only interesting but also contributes meaningfully to your field.  1. Identify Your Broad Area of Interest Step: Begin by identifying a broad area of interest that aligns with your expertise, resources, and future career goals. Casework Example: As a professor in Computer Science & Engineering with a focus on underwater robotics, your broad area of interest might be autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) navigation. 2. Conduct a Literature Review Step: Review the existing literature to understand the current state of research in your area of interest. Identify gaps, unresolved questions, and areas where more work is needed. Casework Example: Through a literature review, you discover that while significant work has been done on AUV navigation in open waters, there is limited research on AUV path planning in complex underwater environments like coral reefs or shipwrecks. 3. Narrow Down the Research Area Step: Focus on a more specific aspect of the broad area that is both interesting and feasible for you to explore, given your resources and constraints. Casework Example: You decide to narrow down your research to path planning for AUVs in cluttered underwater environments.  4. Identify Practical Relevance and Impact Step: Consider the practical relevance of the research problem. Is it addressing a significant issue? Will the results have a meaningful impact on the field or industry? Casework Example: You realize that improving AUV navigation in cluttered environments could enhance marine exploration, underwater archaeology, and environmental monitoring, making the research highly relevant. 5. Assess Feasibility Step: Evaluate the feasibility of the problem. Consider the availability of data, required equipment, time, funding, and your own expertise. Casework Example: You have access to a small-scale underwater testing facility and simulation tools, making the problem of path planning for AUVs in cluttered environments feasible for you to tackle.  6. Define the Research Question Step: Formulate a clear, concise, and focused research question that guides your study. It should be specific enough to be manageable but open enough to allow for exploration. Casework Example: Your research question might be: “How can we improve the efficiency and accuracy of path planning algorithms for AUVs navigating cluttered underwater environments?” 7. Consider the Research Methodology Step: Think about the methodology you will use to answer your research question. This includes the data you will collect, the tools you will use, and the analytical methods you will apply. Casework Example: You decide to use a combination of simulations and real-world experiments to test different path planning algorithms in a controlled underwater environment. 8. Evaluate the Originality and Contribution Step: Ensure that the research problem is original and contributes new knowledge to the field. It should not simply replicate previous studies but should offer new insights or approaches. Casework Example: Your research on improving path planning for AUVs in cluttered environments offers originality by addressing a less-explored aspect of underwater navigation, potentially contributing new algorithms or techniques to the field.  9. Seek Feedback and Refine Step: Discuss your research problem with peers, mentors, or experts in the field. Their feedback can help refine your research question and approach. Casework Example: After discussing with colleagues and attending a few conferences, you refine your focus to developing a hybrid algorithm that combines machine learning and traditional path planning techniques for AUVs. 10. Define the Scope and Objectives Step: Clearly define the scope of your research and set specific, measurable objectives that you aim to achieve. Casework Example: You set objectives such as: (1) Develop a hybrid path planning algorithm; (2) Test the algorithm in simulated and real-world environments; (3) Compare its performance against existing algorithms. 11. Ensure Ethical Considerations Step: Consider the ethical implications of your research, including the environmental impact if applicable, and ensure that your study complies with ethical standards. Casework Example: You assess the potential environmental impact of your underwater experiments and ensure that your study adheres to ethical guidelines for marine research. Research Ethics By Dr. Deepu R Professor in CSE What is Research Ethics? Research ethics provides guidelines for the responsible conduct of research. In addition, it educates and monitors scientists conducting research to ensure a high ethical standard. Research ethics are the norms and guidelines that guide researchers in conducting their studies with integrity, respect for life, and adherence to human rights. They are also known as research integrity and are critical in the scientific community. Some examples of research ethics include: Voluntary participation Informed consent: The person who is invited to be part of the research should understand both the benefits and the risks involved. Anonymity Confidentiality: A core principle of research ethics and a standard practice in social research. Breaching confidentiality may expose informants to harm. Potential for harm Results communication: Scientists, as well as the general public, believe that the findings and theories are accurately reported and earnestly discussed. Some Ethical Principles Honesty: Honestly report data, results, methods and procedures, and publication status. Do not fabricate, falsify, or misrepresent data. Objectivity: Strive to avoid bias in experimental design, data analysis, data interpretation, peer review, personnel decisions, grant writing, expert testimony, and other aspects of research. Integrity: Keep your promises and agreements; act with sincerity; strive for consistency of thought and action. Carefulness: Avoid careless errors and negligence; carefully and critically examine your own work and the work of your peers. Keep good records of research activities. Openness: Share data, results, ideas, tools, resources. Be open to criticism and new ideas. Respect for Intellectual Property: Honor patents, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property. Do not use unpublished data, methods, or results without permission. Give credit where credit is due. Never plagiarize.  Some Ethical Principles……. Confidentiality: Protect confidential communications, such as papers or grants submitted for publication, personnel records, trade or military secrets, and patient records. Responsible Publication: Publish in order to advance research and scholarship, not to advance just your own career. Avoid wasteful and duplicative publication. Responsible Mentoring: Help to educate, mentor, and advise students. Promote their welfare and allow them to make their own decisions. Respect for Colleagues: Respect your colleagues and treat them fairly. Social Responsibility: Strive to promote social good and prevent or mitigate social harms through research, public education, and advocacy. Non-Discrimination: Avoid discrimination against colleagues or students on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, or other factors that are not related to their scientific competence and integrity. Competence: Maintain and improve your own professional competence and expertise through lifelong education and learning; take steps to promote competence in science as a whole. Legality: Know and obey relevant laws and institutional and governmental policies.  Animal Care: Show proper respect and care for animals when using them in research. Do not conduct unnecessary or poorly designed animal experiments. Human Subjects Protection: When conducting research on human subjects, minimize harms and risks and maximize benefits; respect human dignity, privacy, and autonomy. Seven main principles to guide the conduct of ethical research: Social and clinical value. Scientific validity. Fair subject selection. Favorable risk-benefit ratio. Independent review. Informed consent. Respect for potential and enrolled subjects. Social and clinical value Every research study is designed to answer a specific question. The answer should be important enough to justify asking people to accept some risk or inconvenience for others. In other words, answers to the research question should contribute to scientific understanding of health or improve our ways of preventing, treating, or caring for people with a given disease to justify exposing participants to the risk and burden of research. Scientific validity A study should be designed in a way that will get an understandable answer to the important research question. This includes considering whether the question asked is answerable, whether the research methods are valid and feasible, and whether the study is designed with accepted principles, clear methods, and reliable practices. Invalid research is unethical because it is a waste of resources and exposes people to risk for no purpose Fair subject selection The primary basis for recruiting participants should be the scientific goals of the study — not vulnerability, privilege, or other unrelated factors. Participants who accept the risks of research should be in a position to enjoy its benefits. Specific groups of participants (for example, women or children) should not be excluded from the research opportunities without a good scientific reason or a particular susceptibility to risk. Favorable risk-benefit ratio Uncertainty about the degree of risks and benefits associated with a clinical research study is inherent. Research risks may be trivial or serious, transient or long-term. Risks can be physical, psychological, economic, or social. Everything should be done to minimize the risks and inconvenience to research participants to maximize the potential benefits, and to determine that the potential benefits are proportionate to, or outweigh, the risks. Independent review To minimize potential conflicts of interest and make sure a study is ethically acceptable before it starts, an independent review panel should review the proposal and ask important questions, including: Are those conducting the trial sufficiently free of bias? Is the study doing all it can to protect research participants? Has the trial been ethically designed and is the risk–benefit ratio favorable? The panel also monitors a study while it is ongoing. Informed consent Potential participants should make their own decision about whether they want to participate or continue participating in research. This is done through a process of informed consent in which individuals (1) are accurately informed of the purpose, methods, risks, benefits, and alternatives to the research, (2) understand this information and how it relates to their own clinical situation or interests, and (3) make a voluntary decision about whether to participate. Respect for potential and enrolled participants Individuals should be treated with respect from the time they are approached for possible participation — even if they refuse enrollment in a study — throughout their participation and after their participation ends. This includes: respecting their privacy and keeping their private information confidential respecting their right to change their mind, to decide that the research does not match their interests, and to withdraw without a penalty informing them of new information that might emerge in the course of research, which might change their assessment of the risks and benefits of participating monitoring their welfare and, if they experience adverse reactions, unexpected effects, or changes in clinical status, ensuring appropriate treatment and, when necessary, removal from the study informing them about what was learned from the research  Research misconducts? (a) Fabrication - making up data or results and recording or reporting them. (b) Falsification - manipulating research materials, or changing or omitting data or results such that the research is not accurately represented in the research record. (c) Plagiarism - the appropriation of another person's ideas, processes, results, or words without giving appropriate credit. (d) Research misconduct does not include honest error or differences of opinion. Thanks Legislative Framework of IP Administration Legislative Framework of IP Administration Department of IP &P covers The Patents Act, 1970 (as amended in 2005) The Patents Rules, 2003 (as amended in 2006) The Designs Act, 2000 The Designs Rules, 2001 (as amended in 2008) The Trade Marks Act 1999 The Trade Marks Rules 2002 The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999 The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Rules, 2002, Department of Education covers The Copyrights Act 1957 (amended in 1999)  CONTROLLER GENERAL OF PATENTS, DESIGNS AND TRADEMARKS (CGPDTM) IPTI ,NIIPM, PATENT OFFICE T M REGISTRY G.I. REGISTRY P.I.S. Nagpur Head Office Head Office DESIGN OFFICE CHENNAI MUMBAI KOLKATA Branch DELHI DELHI KOLKATA Branch KOLKATA CHENNAI Branch CHENNAI MUMBAI A’BAD  Law and Regulations Patents Act, 1970 – Amended in 1999 2002 2005 Patents Rules, 2003 – Amended in 2005 2006  Legislative Measures -Patents From 1.1.1995 – Mail-Box for pharmaceutical and agrochemicals products – Exclusive Marketing Rights From 1.1.2000 – Patent term increased to 20 years – Definition of invention – inclusion of inventive step – Reversal of burden of proof – on the infringer – Mandatory compulsory licence provision for food, drugs and chemicals removed – Right of patentee (importation also included) From 1.1.2005 – Product patents for food, chemical and pharmaceutical We have met our international commitments Patent Law - Salient Features Both product and process patent provided Term of patent – 20 years Examination on request Both pre-grant and post-grant opposition Fast track mechanism for disposal of appeals Provision for protection of bio-diversity and traditional knowledge Publication of applications after 18 months with facility for early publication Substantially reduced time-lines 6 Safeguards in the Patent Law Compulsory license to ensure availability of drugs at reasonable prices Provision to deal with public health emergency Revocation of patent in public interest and also on security considerations 7 Scope of Patentability Under The Patents Act  What is an Invention? Sec.2(1)(J) “Invention” means a new product or process involving an inventive step and capable of industrial application  Patentable subject matter Invention must relates to a Process or Product or both be new (Novel) involves an inventive step be Capable of industrial application not fall under Section 3 and 4  “NEW” MEANS Invention must not be Published in India or elsewhere In prior public knowledge or prior public use with in India Claimed before in any specification in India  Inventive step A feature of an invention that involves technical advance as compared to the existing knowledge or have economic significance or both and makes the invention not obvious to a person skilled in the art Industrial application means Invention is capable of being made or used in any kind of industry  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(a) Frivolous inventions Inventions contrary to well established natural laws Examples Machine that gives more than 100% performance Perpetual machine  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(b) Commercial exploitation or primary use of inventions, which is Contrary to public order or Morality Examples – Gambling machine, – Device for house-breaking ,  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(b) Commercial exploitation or primary use of inventions , which Causes serious Prejudice to health or human, animal, plant life or to the environment Examples ▪ Biological warfare material or device, weapons of mass destruction ▪ Terminator gene technology, ▪ Embryonic stem cell  Checks and Balances Section 3(b) Excludes patents on GMOs – exploitation of which could be contrary public order or morality or prejudicial to human, animal or plant life or health or to the environment Effect : Only genetically modified micro- organisms (GMOs) which do not fall under section 3 (b) are patentable.  Section 3 exclusions Section 3 ( c ) Mere Discovery of a Scientific Principle or formulation of an Abstract Theory or discovery of any living thing or discovery of non–living substance occurring in nature Examples Newton’s Laws Superconducting Phenomenon as such Property of certain material to withstand mechanical shock Discovery of micro-organism Discovery of natural gas or a mineral  Checks and Balances Section 3(c) Excludes patents on Naturally occurring Micro-organisms Effect Genetically modified microorganisms (GMOs) are however, patentable.  Section 3 exclusions Section3 (d) The mere discovery of a new form of a known substance which does not result in the enhancement of the known efficacy of that substance  Section 3 exclusions Section3 (d) Explanation For the purposes of this clause, salts, esters, ethers, polymorphs, metabolites, pure form, particle size, isomers, mixture of isomers, complexes, combinations and other derivatives of known substances shall be considered to be the same substance, unless they differ significantly in properties with regard to efficacy. Examples – Crystalline forms of known substance  Checks and Balances Section 3 (d) Explanation Effect Salts, esters, ethers, polymorphs, metabolite, pure forms, particle size, isomers, complexes, combinations and derivatives of a known substance with enhanced efficacy are patentable  Section 3 exclusions Section3 (d) Mere discovery of any new property or new use for a known substance or of the mere use of a known process, machine or apparatus, unless such known process results in a new product or employs at least one new reactant. Examples – New use of Aspirin for heart ailments, – Mere new uses of Neem  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(e) Substance obtained by mere admixture resulting only in the aggregation of the properties of the components thereof or a process for producing such substance Examples Combiflam [Paracetamol (Antipyretic) + Brufen (analgesic)] Solution of sugar and color additives in water to form a soft drink However, A mixture resulting into synergistic properties of mixture of ingredients however, may be patentable - Soap, Detergents, lubricants etc  Checks and Balances Section 3 ( e ) Effect Substance obtained by mere admixture resulting only in the aggregation of the properties of the components thereof or a process for producing such substance are not patentable However Synergistic formulations are patentable  Section 3 exclusions Section 3 ( f ) Mere arrangement or re-arrangement or duplication of known devices, each functioning independently of one another in a known way Examples ▪A Bucket fitted with torch, ▪ An Umbrella with fan ▪ A Clock and radio in a single cabinet ▪ A flour-mill provided with sieving  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(h) Method of Agriculture or Horticulture Examples ▪ Cultivation of algae , ▪ Producing new form of a known plant, ▪ Preparation of an improved soil However, Agricultural Equipments are patentable  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(i) Any process for medicinal, surgical, curative, prophylactic, diagnostic, therapeutic or other treatment of human beings or a similar treatment of animals to render them free of disease or to increase their economic value or that of their products Examples Removal of cancer tumor Removal of dental plaque and carries Surgical processes Processes relating to therapy Method of vaccination, Blood transfusion However , ▪Treatment performed on tissues or fluids permanently removed from the body ▪Surgical,therapeutic or diagnostic Apparatus or instruments are patentable  Section3 exclusions Section 3(j) Plants & animals in whole or any part thereof other than micro- organisms, but including seeds, varieties an d species and essentially biological process for production or propagation of plants & animals  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(j) Plants & animals in whole Parts of plants & animals Seeds Varieties & species Essentially biological processes for propagation or production of the animals & plants  Checks and Balances Section 3(j) Excludes patents on Plants and animals in whole or any parts thereof, …… including seeds, varieties and species and essentially biological processes for production or propagation of plants and animals Examples – Clones and new varieties of plants – A process for production of plants or animals if it consists entirely of natural phenomena such as crossing or selection – Essentially biological Process  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(k) * mathematical method or * business method or * algorithms or * computer programme per se Examples – Computer program by itself or as a record on a carrier However – New calculating machine – combination of hardware and software is patentable  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(l) A literary,dramatic, musical or artistic work or any other aesthetic creation including cinematographic work and television productions These subject-matters fall under the copyright protection  Section 3 exclusions Section 3(m) A mere scheme or rule or method of performing mental act or method of playing game Examples Scheme for learning a language Method for solving a crossword puzzle, Method of learning a language Method of teaching /learning However, Novel apparatus for playing game or carrying out a scheme is patentable  Section 3 exclusions Section 3 (n) Presentation of information Examples Any manner or method of expressing information whether by spoken words Visual display symbols diagrams Information recorded on a carrier  Section 3 exclusions Section 3 (o) Topography of integrated circuits. Examples Mask works - circuits layout  Section 3 exclusions Section 3 (p) Inventions which are Traditional Knowledge or an aggregation or duplication of known properties of traditionally known component or components Examples Traditional Knowledge already in public domain - Wound healing property of Haldi However, Any value-addition using Traditional Knowledge leading to a new process or product ,which is novel with inventive step and industrial applicability, Extraction of Azadirachtin from Neem can be patented Non Patentable inventions Section 4 Inventions falling within Section 20(1) of the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 are not patentable Effect Inventions relating to compounds of Uranium, Beryllium, Thorium, Plutonium, Radium, Graphite, Lithium and more as notified by Central Govt. from time to time. Stages from filing to grant of a patent  Obtaining a patent File an application for patent – With one of the patent offices based on territorial jurisdiction of the place of office or residence of the applicant /agent – Pay the required fee Information concerning application form and details of fee available at www.ipindia.nic.in Guidelines for applicants also available on this website  Formality Check An Examiner checks the formal requirements before accepting the application and the fee – this is done immediately Issue of application number and the cash receipt – this is done the same day In case of receipt of application by post, cash receipt, application number is sent by post within 2-3 days  Publication Application is kept secret for a period of 18 months from the date of filing In 19th month, the application is published in the official journal – this journal is made available on the website weekly Applicant has an option to get his application published before 18 months also In that case, application is published within one month of the request  Request for Examination Application is examined on request Request for examination can be made either by the applicant or by a third party A period of 48 months, from the date of filing, is available for making request for examination  Examination Application is sent to an Examiner within 1 month from the date of request for examination Examiner undertakes examination w.r.t. – whether the claimed invention is not prohibited for grant of patent – whether the invention meets the criteria of patentability  Issue of FER A period of 1 to 3 months is available to Examiner to submit the report to the Controller 1 month’s time available to Controller to vet the Examiner’s report First Examination Report (FER) containing gist of the objections is issued within 6 months from the date of filing of request  Response from the Applicant 12 months’ time, from the date of issue of FER, is available to the applicant to meet the objections If objections are met, grant of patent is approved by the Controller – within a period of 1 month  Pre-grant Opposition After publication, an opposition can be filed within a period of 6 months Opportunity of hearing the opponent is also available  Examination of Pre-grant Opposition Opposition (documents) is sent to the applicant A period of 3 months is allowed for receipt of response  Consideration of Pre-grant Opposition After examining the opposition and the submissions made during the hearing, Controller may – Either reject the opposition and grant the patent – Or accept the opposition and modify/reject the patent application This is to be done within a period of 1 month from the date of completion of opposition proceedings  Grant of a Patent A certificate of patent is issued within 7 days Grant of patent is published in the official journal  STAGES - FILING TO GRANT OF PATENT FILING OF APPLICATION IF P.S.IS FILED C.S. TO BE FILED WITHIN 12MONTHS PROVNL. / COMPLETE PUBLICATION OF APPLICATION PROMPTLY AFTER 18 MONTHS FROM P.D. REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WITHIN 48 MONTHS FROM F.D. EXAMINATION-ISSUE OF FER 3rd Party Representation ALL OBJECTIONS TO BE COMPLIED WITHIN 12 MONTHS GRANT OF PATENT OPPOSITION WITHIN 12 MONTHS Decision of Controller Appeal Revocation/Amendment Appellate Board  Renewal Fee To be paid within 3+6 months from date of recording in the register [sec 142 (4) ] No fee for 1st and 2nd year Renewal fee, on yearly basis, is required to be paid for 3rd to 20th for keeping the patent in force Delay upto six months from due date permissible on payment of fee for extension of time Patent lapses if renewal fee is not paid within the prescribed period