Research Process
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Transcript of Research Process
The Research Process
Hypothesis
Data
Empirical Generalizations
Theory
Theory
A logically interrelated set of propositions about empirical reality.
Theory shapes research and research shapes theory.
Analytical Framework/Guide to Research
Deterrence Theory
Prevalent in Criminological Research Evaluates the impact of punishment
on crime. Expects punishment to deter crime
in two ways: Specific vs. General Deterrence
Research Topic/Question
Domestic Violence is a prevalent social problem in the Belizean society; it is a problem that has tragically escalated over the years, thus the issue demands much attention and societal redress.
To what extent does arresting spouse abusers reduces their likelihood of re-offending?
Hypothesis
A tentative statement about empirical reality, involving a relationship between two or more variables.
Consists of an independent variable(s) and dependent variable(s).
Arresting an abusive spouse after a domestic dispute decreases the likelihood of he/she re-offending.
Conceptualization/Operationalization
Outline and Define Variables Indicate measurement of those
variables. Domestic Abuse: Definition Operationalize: Crime Statistics Social Research
Literature Review
Find out everything you can about your topic/hypothesis.
Read and analyze other research projects: library, journals, web documents etc.
On going process: From beginning to end.
Methodology
Developing the research design. Quantitative, Qualitative or
Triangulation How am I going to gather data to
test my hypothesis? What tools/data collection
instruments will I use to gather my data?
Methodologies
Quantitative Surveys Experiments
Qualitative Interviews Focus Groups Participant
Observation
Sampling
Several types of sampling techniques.
Target population Generate sample or subset Generalizability and Sampling go
hand in hand. Representative sampling
Data Collection
The fun part!!! Going out into the field and
gathering the data. Many obstacles and hindrances may
come about. Strategizing and contingency
planning is necessary.
Data Analysis
Putting things into perspective Turning raw data into information Quantitative and Qualitative
Analysis Do my data support/dismiss by
tentative statement about observable reality (hypothesis)?
Presenting the Data
Written Presentation:Charts; Graphs; Tables
Oral Presentation: Audio and Visual Aids; Power point
etc.
Conclusions
1. Provide a clear synopsis of your findings.
2. Summarize the research experience
3. Present ideas for future research4. Make formal recommendations
based on your findings
References
Giving credit where it is due. Proper citations throughout the
research project is imperative. Social Sciences: APA
Appendix
Supplemental Data and Information to enhance your research
Copy of questionnaire instrument Local conference reports Statistical data International or Regional Trends
Publication
Scholarly Journals Social Science Research Journals:
Criminology; Criminology and Public Policy; Criminology and Criminal Justice
Organization of Interests School Purposes
Back to Theory:
The research cycle starts again. Developing new theory or building
upon old theory. Deterrence Theory: Arresting abusive spouse works to
deter re-offending only in high status/economic class communities.