MAFS 303: Biostatistics and Research Method Lecture 1 PDF

MAFS 303:Biostatistics and Research Method Lecture 1: Introduction to Research  Learning Objectives Research(Overview) Types of research Aspects and core elements of research  Research Research is a systematic process of inquiry that involves gath...

MAFS 303:Biostatistics and Research Method Lecture 1: Introduction to Research  Learning Objectives Research(Overview) Types of research Aspects and core elements of research  Research Research is a systematic process of inquiry that involves gathering data, recording important information, and then analyzing and interpreting that data and information in accordance with appropriate procedures established by academic and professional disciplines. It involves inductive and deductive methods. Through research, information and knowledge needed for problem solving and decision-making are obtained.  Characteristics of Research The characteristics of a research shows whether it has flaws, misconceptions, and subjective errors. A good research is characterized by the terms; 1. Controlled 2. Rigorous 3. Empirical 4. Systematic 5. Employs Hypothesis  Characteristics of Research 1. Controlled The idea of control suggests that the research design should minimize the influence of other factors affecting the relationship while examining causality in respect to two variables (factors). 2. Rigorous  A good research ensures that the methods used to get answers to questions are relevant, appropriate, and justified requires caution. 3. Empirical The processes adopted should be tested for the accuracy and each step should be coherent in progression. This means that any conclusions drawn are based upon firm data gathered from information collected from real life experiences or observations.  Characteristics of Research 4. Systematic The procedure or process being developed to undertake a study should be carefully drafted to ensure that resources utilization is optimized. The steps should follow a logical sequence to get to the desired outcome. 5. Employs Hypothesis Making a hypothesis is the first step in any research project. It is a theory or assumption put forward based on limited information as a place to start looking into the matter further.  Types of Research Research can be classified into various categories depending on the perspective under which the research activity is initiated and conducted. The categorization of research depends on the following perspectives in general:  Application of research study  Objectives in undertaking the research  Types-Classification based on Application Pure / Basic / Fundamental Research A research undertaken to examine some parts of a topic or issue for the first time is referred to as fundamental or pure research. It entails developing and testing ideas that the researcher finds intellectually demanding but may or may not have immediate or long-term practical applications. Pure research is universal but theoretical. It is more focused on generating scientific data and recommendations for future research. Applied / Decisional Research Applied research is carried out for the purpose of solve specific problems, formulating policies, managing operations, and understanding processes Applied research is carried out on the foundation of pure or fundamental research.  Types- Classification based on Objectives Descriptive Research It focuses on expanding knowledge on current issues through a process of data collection. Descriptive studies describe the behavior of a sample population. Only one variable is required to conduct the study. It is used to answer questions of who, what, when, where, and how associated with a particular research question or problem.  Types- Classification based on Objectives Explanatory Research Explanatory research focuses on developing, clarifying, testing , or explaining why something happens. The emphasis is more on demonstrating, describing, and presenting what we currently have. Running experiments is the most popular form. For example, a study that is conducted to understand the effect of sea winds on the seasonal variation in temperature and its impact on upwelling. Explanatory research establishes the cause-and-effect  Types- Classification based on Objectives Exploratory Research Exploratory research is carried out to identify a solution for an issue that has not yet been thoroughly investigated. It aims to set objectives, create operational definitions, and enhance the final study design. Exploratory research helps determine the best research design, data- collection method and selection of subjects. A researcher begins with a broad concept for this type of research and utilizes it as a tool to pinpoint problems that could serve as the focus of more investigation. Such a research is usually carried out when the problem is at a beginning stage.  Types of Research Qualitative Research  Is a method of research that collects data using conversational methods, usually open-ended questions. The responses collected are essentially non-numerical. This method helps a researcher understand what participants think and why they think in a particular way. Quantitative research Deals with numbers and measurable forms. It uses a systematic way of investigating events or data. It answers questions to justify relationships with measurable variables to either explain, predict, or control a phenomenon.  Types of Research Analytical research  Is a method of research that, requires the researcher to use facts or information already available, to analyze and make a critical evaluation of a situation. Conceptual research  Is associated to some theoretical idea(s) or presupposition and is generally used by philosophers and thinkers to develop new concepts or to get a better understanding of an existing concept in practice. Empirical research  This type of research draws together the data based on experience or observation alone, often without due regard for system and theory. Comparing research types  Scientific method of research Five steps in scientific research 1. Observe and ask questions 2. Research 3. Formulate a hypothesis 4. Test hypothesis 5. Analysis and Conclusion  How to conduct accurate research 1.Identify the main trends and issues, opportunities, and problems you observe. Write a sentence describing each one. 2. Keep track of the frequency with which each of the main fi ndings appears. 3. Make a list of your fi ndings from the most common to the least common. 4. Evaluate a list of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that have been identified in a SWOT analysis. 5. Prepare conclusions and recommendations about your study. 6. Act on your strategies 7. Look for gaps in the information, and consider doing additional inquiry if necessary 8. Plan to review the results and consider efficient methods to analyze and dissect results for interpretation.  The End Thank You