Methods of Research

METHODS OF RESEARCH

MODULE I

1. What is research?

Research is a scientific approach to knowledge generation when the processes that are used adhere to principles of logic. It is a systematic way of asking questions, a systematic method of inquiry to obtain knowledge or information that pertains to some question. The root meaning of the word is to search again or to examine carefully.

2. What are the types of research?

The types of research are as follows:

a. Basic Research

This is known as "fundamental" or "pure" research. This refers to research directed towards discovering basic truths or principles. It provides new knowledge but does not specify a way this knowledge can be used to solve a problem. It is carried out without looking for long-term economic or social benefits other than advancement of knowledge.

b. Applied Research

This is known as action research. It refers to researchers, which are directed towards practical application of knowledge. It aims at finding the explanation for certain problems that stem from the situation. Thus, it may support, modify, revise or provide a new theory.

c. Business research

This is seen as applied or action oriented. As a strategic move, research is undertaken by firms either through in houses research

units or through private or public research entities. These business enterprises will activate resources in research support once convinced of relevant results that can lead to goal-achievement. Rapid changes in the socio-political environment, the interaction of business people in industry, and the dynamics within the enterprise show that business research must focus more on research and development, assessment, baseline studies, policy formulation and current trends/practices. Academic institutions, particularly the graduate and post-graduate schools, need to continue basic research for the development of new framework and models to analyze expanding knowledge in business.

Edralin(2000) Ð'- Defined business research as a systematic process of answering a question or a problem, involving formulation of a theoretical framework and methodology; a collection, analysis and interpretation of pertinent data, and presentation of recommendation from which courses of action can be taken.

MODULE 2

What are the stages of the research process? Enumerate them.

Stages in the Research Process are as follows:

1. Formulating and writing a research problem

2. Conceptualizing a research design

3. Constructing an instrument for data collection

4. Selecting a sample

5. Collecting Data

6. Analysis of data

7. Writing and presentation of data

8. A research report

MODULE 3

What are the considerations in selecting a research problem?

In formulating the problem statement, the following criteria should be considered:

1. The research problem is written in question form.

2. The research problem identifies a specific area.

3. The topic is phrased in workable and manageable terms.

4. The scope is limited to realistic parameters that are not too narrow nor too broad.

5. The words used are unbiased, objective, and not emotion-laden.

6. The relationship between variables to be studied are clearly cited,

7. The phrases and wordings are measurable and can be empirically proven.

8. The research problem identifies the data and techniques needed to answer the questions.

9. The research problem is stated clearly in grammatical terms.

MODULE 4

Why is there a need for a good literature review?

The literature review is integral to a research paper. It is not just a routine step taken to fulfill formal requirements. It allows you to explain much further and elaborate more about the topic.

You need a good literature review because it:

1. Demonstrates that you know the field. This means more than reporting what you've read and understood. Instead, you need to read it critically and to write a critical review of each literature or in such a way that shows you have a feel for the area; you know what the most important issues are and their relevance to your work, you know the controversies, you know what's neglected, you have the anticipation of where it's being taken. All this would allow you to map the field and position your research within the context.

2. Justifies the reason for your research. This is closely connected with demonstrating that you know the field. It is the knowledge of your field, which allows you to identify the gap, which your research could fill. However, it is not enough to find a gap. You have also to be able to convince your reader that what you are doing is important and needs to be done.

3. Allows you to establish your theoretical framework and methodological focus. Even if you are proposing a new theory or a new method, you are doing so in relation to what has been done.

MODULE 5

Define hypothesis. Discuss and cite an example.

A hypothesis is the expected answer to the problem; the outcome of the research work. Its features are:

1) Measurability. It states expected relationships