RM2. Research Process

7/31/2019 RM2. Research Process

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Research Process


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The Research Process

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;


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The Research Process

(9) Hypothesis testing;

(10) Generalizations and interpretation, and

(11) Preparation of the report or presentation of the

results, i.e., formal write-up of conclusions

reached.


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Common Error in the Research Process

Since research by definition involves asking a new

question or solving a problem that has not beenaddressed before, every research project is different.

Even the most experienced of researchers often

finds "trouble spots" during the research process. It

is helpful to learn what possible problems might

arise and watch for these. This partial list of the

more common mistakes made during research may

useful in designing the research plan.

Problem statement too vague to develop a specific

plan

Objectives not stated in measurable terms


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Neglecting to review the related literature to

prevent duplication of effort

Failure to define assumptions in designing the

research plan

Bias enters into the wording of research questions

Failure to define research populationSampling techniques not clearly outlined

Plan not developed for the distribution of results

Expected results not describedPlan not developed for implementing or applying

project results, for action research


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Formulating the research

problem


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Before a researcher can conduct a research project,

he must have a research problem to work on.

Hence, problem selection is considered the first

step in research. Therefore, it is essential that

utmost care and close attention be given to the

selection of the research problem.

There are two basic types of research problems:

those which relate to states of nature, and

those which relate to relationships between

variables.


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At the very outset the researcher must single out the

problem he/she wants to study, i.e., he/she must

decide the general area of interest or aspect of a

subject-matter that he would like to inquire into.

Two essential steps are involved in formulating the

research problem:

(a) understanding the problem thoroughly, and

(b) rephrasing the same into meaningful terms from

an analytical point of view


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How to select a research problem

There are two major criteria classified to identify

research problem :

1. External and

2. Personal

External criteria deal with such matters as novelty

and importance for the field, availability of data and

choice of method, and institutional or

administrative cooperation.

Personal criteria considers as interest, training, cost

and time.


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Research Problem:

Major Criteria's are as follows:

Unnecessary duplication

Practical value of the problem

Researchers interest in the problemAvailability of data and choice method

Training and special qualifications

Time required to investigate the problemCost involved in conducting the research

Institutional and administrative cooperation

Addi i l i i i E l i


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Additional criteria in EvaluatingResearch Problem

The following are BEST questions for evaluating a

proposed research problem:

Is this problem that can be effectively solved through the

process of research?

Can relevant data be gathered to test the theory or findthe answer to the problem under considerations?

Is the problem significant?

Is an important principle involved? Would the solution make any difference as far as

educational theory? If not, there are undoubtedly more

significant problems waiting to be investigated.

Is the problem a new one and problem is feasible?


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Source of Problem

Graduate students are often times confronted with

the difficulty of where to locate a research problemthat is not only worthy of investment of time,

money, and effort but is academically significant as

well.Following as the most likely sources to which one

may go for a suitable research problem in

educational environment:1. Actual problems encountered: class room, school

or community to investigates;

2. Technological changes & circular developments;


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Source of Problem

3. The graduate academic experience

4. Consultation

In addition to the above, there are another five

sources of research problems suggested by famous

scientists are worth considering:

Specialization

Analysis of an area of knowledge

Consideration of existing practices and needs

Repetition or extension of investigation

Off-shoots of studies under way.


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Research Proposal

After selecting a suitable research problem, the

researcher should next prepare a research proposalor plan. The research proposal serves a dual

purpose,

First, it provides a systematic plan of procedure forthe researcher to follow;

Second, it provides a basis for the evaluation of the

project and gives the advisor a basis during theperiod of his or her assistance.

A well designed research proposal is likely to result

in a worthwhile research project.


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Research Proposal

A research proposal must contain followings:

Introduction and problem description Statement of the objectives or hypotheses

Listing of possible tests or measures to be used in

the study Description of the proposed sample and sampling

Research design

Chronological description of the procedure to beused in carrying out the project

Plan for carrying out analysis of data to be

collected.

A d h l h f ll


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A good research proposal has to followthe essential elements:

1. The statement of the problem, either in questionfrom or as declarative statement

2. Hypothesis

3. The significance of the problem4. Definitions, assumptions, limitations and

delimitations

5. Review of related literature6. A careful and detailed analysis of proposed

research procedures along with budgets

7. Time schedule


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Hypothesis

This approach clearly establishes the nature of the

problem and the logic underlying the investigationand gives direction to the data gathering process. A

good hypothesis has several basic phenomena's:

It should be reasonable,It should be consistent with known facts or

theories,

It should be tested and found to be probably trueor probably false and

It should be stated in the simple possible terms.


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Standard Format for a Research Proposal

I. Title of the study

II. Introduction (background and need)

Theoretical Framework

i. Review of Related Literature

ii. Theories That Have Bearing on the Problem

iii. Conceptual Framework

iv. Hypotheses

v. Objectives

III. Materials and Methods (Research Design)

i. Description of the sources of Data and Sample

ii. Methodology


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Standard Format for a Research Proposal

iii. Descriptions of Instruments Used

iv. Data Gathering Procedure

v. Statistical Treatment Applied

IV. Project Timetable (Milestone of Project)

V. Statement of Expenses (Budget Estimates)

i. Transportation

ii. Supplies andiii. Materials

VI. Bibliography/References

RM2. Research Process

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