College of Arts and Sciences Education

Third Year-AB Political Science Program

Mones, Virgelyn C.
POS 300 (3424)- Methods of Research
Prof. Alger Dura

First Examination

1. How do you define research? (10 points)

In our daily lives, we all come across research. When we read
newspaper articles, books, and studies, the findings of research are all present
on a variety of themes. However, it’s not limited alone on articles because
research is also evident in radio or television broadcast. For instance,
television news broadcasts provide us with crime statistics, and some topics,
such as health, is particularly popular in publications and TV programs
because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, we have become use to seeing,
reading, and hearing about research from various media, and we have become
used to generating our own judgments about study findings, even if we are
clueless of it.

Another example is diet and health. Many of us have considered

material on healthy eating and made our own diet decisions on the basis of
our own lives. We evaluate the information we are given, form an opinion
about the research's validity and significance, and draw our own conclusions
based on our findings. We can choose to disregard the facts, determine we
don't understand what the findings indicate, disagree with the findings, or
agree with the findings and either change our eating habits or conclude the
costs of change are too great relative to the advantages. For some, the
information may be of little immediate benefit due to their life circumstances,
such as those experiencing a food scarcity. In other words, even if you aren't
aware of it, you already have a basic awareness of the research process,
research's role, research principles, and research evaluation.

As cited by Kabir (2016). The word "research" originates from the

French recherché, which implies "to search closely." In French, "chercher"
means "to search." Its literal meaning is 'to fully investigate.' It implicitly
believes that the previous search was not exhaustive and complete,
necessitating a new search. From the root of its concept, Socrates coined, “For
a human being, life without inquiry is not worth living". Socrates (469–399
BC) was a key figure in the fifth-century Athens intellectual movement. He
came to the conclusion that individuals were not wise because they believed
they knew things when they didn't. He discovered that he was wiser than other
individuals only in the sense that he was conscious of his own ignorance. The
development of new knowledge is based on the recognition of a need to know,
the act of inquiry, and deductive or inductive reasoning (Sebell Dustin, 2016).

In practice, research is a scientific method which separates scientific

research from other types of inquiry and scientific knowledge from other types
of knowledge. It’s a method of answering a research question, addressing a
research problem, or developing new knowledge by collecting, organizing, and
analyzing data in a systematic and orderly manner, with the ultimate purpose
of making research findings helpful in decision-making. Empirical
observation is the foundation of scientific knowledge about the world.
Observation is used to construct theory in order to better comprehend,
characterize, and anticipate how our environment works. Methodology refers
to the processes of collecting, evaluating, and applying observations to
generate new knowledge.

With all that being said, the goal of research is to find a solution to a
specific particular problem, or to point the dilemma in the appropriate path
toward a solution, or to shed light on previously unknown fields of learning for
your enlightenment. As a result, research allows us to better understand our
real situation and to enjoy a higher standard of living at some point.

To sum up, research begins when we want to know something.

Research is concerned with increasing our understanding. Research provides
us with the information and knowledge needed for problem solving and
making decisions. While scientific research is the systematic method or
methodical investigation of nature and society with the goal of validating and
refining existing knowledge as well as generating new information.
References:
Sebell Dustin (2016), The Socratic Turn, University of Pennsylvania Press.
Retrieved August 29, 2021 from
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/perspectives-on-
politics/article/the-socratic-turn-knowledge-of-good-and-evil-in-an-age-of-
science-by-dustin-sebell-philadelphia-pa-university-of-pennsylvania-press-
2016-232p-3995/DB834F356BC632FF357F977AE4494F40

Kabir, S. (2016). INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325846733_INTRODUCTION_T
O_RESEARCH

1. Why is research important to humankind? (10 points)

From a pin to an elephant, humanity encompasses everything. Every

piece of information, including the necessities of life and survival, should be
known to mankind. As if we don't know the basics, we'll remain illiterate and
clueless of what's going on in our society and throughout the world. Thus,
through research, humankind are equip with fundamental knowledge to
uncover things in the society. With this, the following explains further what
are the significance of research in the humankind.

First, it empowers developing and underdeveloped parts of the world to

find ways to provide efficient services in medical field. It is critical to conduct
research in order to determine which treatments are most effective for
patients. It is essential in the development of new medicines as well as
ensuring that existing treatments are used to their full potential. Research can
bridge knowledge gaps and change the way healthcare practitioners work by
providing solutions to previously unknown questions. Second, it enables us to
gain a better understanding of how our own planet and the universe as a
whole work, to protect the resources that we rely on for survival from
disappearing or being accidentally depleted, to prevent further damage to the
Earth that we have unwittingly caused in the past, and to assist in the
discovery of ways to protect endangered species. Third, archaeological and
humanities research provide us with a richer and more complete
understanding of how human history has molded the world, as well as
spiritual and emotional enrichment. Fourth, research in engineering field is
crucial to the productivity and competitiveness of a company. It helps address
knowledge gaps and build new products while enhancing organizational
efficiency and growth, from wireless communications to robots, biomedical
engineering, and renewable energy. Nonetheless, communication and
transportation as well owes a lot on research for its extensive development.
These are a few only of how research helps humankind.

Notably, the importance of research is very timely relevant as the whole

world is facing with this Covid-19 pandemic. During outbreaks, research
provides an opportunity to gather critical information that might help
improve outbreak control methods. Through statistical data, the health
workers and government are able to monitor the status of cases, whether it’s
increasing or decreasing. Therefore, it helps the government to improve their
policies and intensify their initiatives.

Taking everything into account, research helps humankind to survive

and develop. Humankind benefits from all types of research because it allows
us to improve our lives and livelihoods. Human progress is fueled by research.
Curiosity fuels it: we get intrigued, ask questions, and immerse ourselves in
learning everything we can. Learning is on the rise. Progress would come to a
halt without curiosity and research, and our lives would be drastically
different. We wouldn't know anything about space if early civilizations hadn't
been fascinated about the dark sky. Decades of research have brought us to
where we are now: a civilized society equipped with the knowledge and tools
necessary to develop. For all these notions, research truly serves as one of the
essential human activity .

2. What are the elements of a research problem? (15 points)

A research problem is a particular issue, challenge, dilemma, or
knowledge gap that you will attempt to resolve through your study. You could
look for problems that are either practical or theoretical in nature, with the
goal of order to promote the development. However, before a problem to be
considered a research problem, it must possess a number of elements, and the
following are as follows as being discussed by Pardede (2019).
First, the goal or objective of the problem to be investigated. This
provides an answer to the question, "Why?" Why is it necessary to conduct an
investigation, inquiry, or study?
Second, the subject matter or the topic to be investigated. This
gives an explanation to the query, "What?" or "What should be investigated or
analyzed?" Consider this scenario: What would a competitor do if we cut our
rates by 25%? What would be the sales if the price was Rs. 89 or Rs. 99? What
impact might a competitor's actions have on our sales and profits? If research
is to assist decision-makers, the proper question must be addressed. Although
the decision maker may not be able to obtain all of the information, it is
frequently possible to determine the aspects that are critical to the current
dilemma. The problem definition is then updated to accommodate these
factors.
Third, the locale or place where the study is to be conducted. This
provides an answer to the query, "Where?" Where should we conduct the
research? The geographic boundaries within which the action is to be taken
are determined by the space coordinates. The scope of your research should be
determined either conceptually or numerically.
Fourth, the period of time of research during which the are to be
gathered. This addresses the question, "When is the research going to be
done?" It is critical that both the decision maker and the researcher decide the
appropriate time frame for the decision.
Lastly, the population from which data must be acquired. This
provides an answer to the inquiry, "Who?" or "From whom?" Who are the
people who have responded? From w ho are the data to be gathered?” They
can be individuals, groups of individuals, or organizations.
To conclude, the first stage in research is to define the problem; a
complete understanding of all of its elements is required to make the best
option. In many cases, the framing of a problem is far more important than
the solution. Only by carefully defining the study problem can we devise a
research design and carry out all of the subsequent processes required in
doing research. An appropriate research problem definition puts the
investigator on the right track; on the other side, an ill-defined research
problem can provide problems. In fact, an issue that is clearly defined is half-
solved.

Reference:
Pardede, P. (2019). Research Components.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330134699_Research_Componen
ts

3. What are the guidelines in selecting a research problem? (15

points)
The formulation of a research problem is critical since it determines the
quality and validity of a research report's contents. As a result, the most
important stage in research is to formulate a research problem. Therefore, it is
critical to devote sufficient time to the formulation of research issues, as
clearer and better-formulated research problems inevitably lead to clearer
research and more reliable output and advancement. Correspondingly, the
importance of certain aspects in the development of research issues has been
recognized. These are the internal and external factors or criteria. Shoket
(2014) discusses the internal and external guidelines in selecting a research
problem.

Internal Guidelines/Criteria- Internal elements or criteria are

those decided by the researcher, such as the researcher's interest, personal
resource, and competency (or expertise).

1. Interest. The most essential component that influences the

formulation of a research problem is interest. Because research methods are
time-consuming and frequently demand a lot of hard effort, it helps if the
researcher chooses a topic that interests and challenges him or her. Otherwise,
the researcher may find it difficult to generate and maintain the essential
levels of perseverance and motivation. The researcher's educational
background, experience, viewpoint, and sensitivity are frequently driving
factors in their interest in a problem.
2. Expertise. This refers to the researcher's ability to plan and carry
out research projects (including data acquisition, data analysis, etc.). It's not
enough to be interested in a problem. To organize and carry out a problem
study, a researcher must have expertise (or be competent). He or she must be
well-versed in the subject topic, as well as appropriate methodology and
statistical techniques.
3. Researcher’s own resource. In the case of researcher-funded
research, taking into account the researcher's own financial capacity is crucial.
If the cost of the research exceeds the researcher's financial means, the
researcher may not be able to complete the project unless he or she is
financially supported. Also, time is a more valuable resource than money.
Because research takes time, the ability to devote enough time to a particular
project should be carefully examined while defining the challenge.

External Guidelines- While the challenge researchability,

uniqueness of research problem, facilities, practicality, usefulness and social
relevance, and research people are examples of external elements (criteria)
that are not determined by the researcher.

4. Data Availability. If the study title necessitates the gathering of

information (journal, reports, proceedings) prior to finalization, it is critical to
ensure that these materials are available and in the suitable format.
5. Relevance. It is critical to select a topic that is pertinent to one's
interests and profession. It is critical to make sure that one's research
contributes to the current body of knowledge. Of course, this will aid in
maintaining interest throughout the study.
6. Ethics. When defining the research problem, it's also important to
think about ethical considerations. Some inquiries may have a detrimental
effect on the study population during the research term. Some scenarios in
ICT, particularly research-related information security, may arise, causing
alarm among specific authorities. As a result, identifying ethical difficulties
during the development of the study challenge is always a good idea.
 7. Researchability of the problem. The problem should be
researchable, which means that it should be possible to use the scientific
process to find solutions to the problems it raises.
8. Problem novelty: The problem has to be novel. It's pointless to
waste one's time and efforts on a problem that has already been thoroughly
researched by others.
9. Importance and urgency. There are an endless number of
problems that need to be investigated, yet available research resources are
severely constrained.
10. Facilities. Research necessitates a variety of resources, including a
well-equipped library, appropriate and knowledgeable assistance, data
analysis, and so on. As a result, the availability of relevant facilities must be
evaluated. Problems for research should be evaluated, as well as their relative
importance and significance.
11. Feasibility. A problem may be novel and important, but it cannot
be chosen if study on it is not practical.
12. Usefulness and social relevance. Above all, the research should
contribute significantly to the body of knowledge in question or to the solution
of a substantial practical problem. It should have a societal purpose.
13. Research personnel. Professors and research organizations both
require the services of investigators and research officers when conducting
research. However, research has yet to become a viable profession in
developing countries. As a result, talented individuals are not drawn to
research endeavors.

Conclusively, the criteria for selecting a good research problem must be

determined by the researcher. The above-mentioned main guidelines should
be followed while selecting a suitable study topic. The research problem
chosen should genuinely interest the investigator and have a prominent
position in his mind so that he can deal with all of the challenges that the
study will entail.
References:
Shoket, M. 2014. Research Problem: Identification and Formulation.
International Journal of Research (IJR) Vol-1, Issue-4, 512 – 518. Retrieved
August 30, 2021 from https://oer.unizik.edu.ng/wp-
content/uploads/sites/6/2017/11/SELECTING-AND-DEFINING-A-
RESEARCH-PROBLEM.pdf