fCOLLEGE OF INTERNATIONAL HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT

Research in Hospitality and Tourism

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CHAPTER I- INTRODUCTION

I. Background of The Study

Background of the study meaning: The background of the study is a part of a

research provided in the introduction section of the paper. It is a compilation of

adequate information that is based on the analysis of the problem or proposed

argument, the steps and methods needed to arrive at the design, the

implementation of the results achieved, and feasible solutions.

It is different from the introduction. The introduction only contains the

preliminary information about your research question or thesis topic. It is simply an

overview of the research question or thesis topic. But the background of your study

is more in-depth - it explains why your research topic or thesis is worth the time of

your readers.

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 The background of study will provide your readers with context to the

information talked about throughout your research paper. It can include both

relevant and essential studies. The background of the study is used to prove that a

thesis question is relevant and also to develop the thesis. In summary, a good

background of the study is the work done to determine that your research question

or thesis topic is a problem and that the method used is the one required to solve

the issue or answer the question.

What is the importance of background of the study?

The background of the study helps your reader determine if you have a basic

understanding of the research problem being investigated and promotes

confidence in the overall quality of your analysis and findings.

How to write background of the study in a research paper

Stage 1. At the beginning stages of formulating your thesis, many of the

issues are still very unclear, and you need to solidify your thoughts, so you should

conduct preliminary research. This will help you to put forward a research question

or thesis statement that will finally lead to more relevant and specific research. You

can visit a library, check the internet and other electronic databases to find

preliminary sources such as scholarly journals and books about your background

of the study.

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 Stage 2. Read and gather the info you need to develop - a thesis statement

or research question that will guide your thesis. You should take notes and also

keep an accurate track of the sources of information you have used up to this

point. A lot of people use note cards, but it’s easier and better to use electronic

note-taking programs in this electronic age. Just make sure to use a form that is

comfortable and easier for you. Also, make sure you cite the source of every

information you are using on each note so that you won’t forget where you got the

information from, just in case you want to use it in your thesis.

Stage 3. Develop and pen down the research question or thesis statement.

Think about the things you’ve read and searched, and the issues or solutions that

have been found by other people, and then formulate your stance or opinion on

the issue. Write out your position or opinion as an authoritative statement. You

may conduct more detailed research at this point and look for more sources that

are more relevant to your research question or thesis.

Stage 4. Complete your research using the thesis statement as your guide.

Find sources that are relevant to your specific thesis and provide more insight into

your research question using these sources. Your sources should provide

information on the history and past researches related to your thesis.

Stage 5. As you create your background study, create relevant sections.

When you start writing, create five different sections that have the key issues,

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 major findings, and the controversies that are surrounding your thesis, and also a

section that provides evaluation and a conclusion.

Stage 6. Identify the further studies that need to be done in the conclusion

section. Also mention possible solutions to the issues that have not been put into

consideration in the past.

Stage 7. Revise and edit your background of the study carefully. You can

write out several drafts of your work, revising, editing, and adding more information

before coming up with the final one. Make sure each draft is better than the

previous. You can also ask someone else to help you go through it.

The writing format You can follow this format when writing your background

of the study: Start by giving a general overview of your thesis topic and introduce

the key ideas you will be making use of throughout your thesis. Then, give precise

information about all the methodologies used in the research. This can take up to

several paragraphs depending on the individual and research question or thesis

topic. Cite your sources where necessary to avoid plagiarism. Then you can

introduce the experiment by describing your choice of methodology briefly, why

you have decided to use this methodology instead of others, and the objective of

the methodology.

What does a good background of the study example contain? A good

example of background of the study is one that:

 Contains reviews of the area being researched

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  Has currently available information about the problem of the study

 Captures the previous studies on the issue

 Indicates the history of the issue of the study from previous researches

done on the subject.

How is the background of the study different from the literature review? The

section of the literature review follows the background of the study section. It is the

second section of your thesis. The literature review basically supports the

background of the study section by providing evidence for the proposed

hypothesis. (Wright, 2019)

FORMAT:

1. History/Current Situation

2. Explain

3. Connect to the current status/history

4. Connect to a study

5. Explain and relate

6. Relate your title to the study

7. Explain why your study is important.

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 II. Theoretical Framework

Theories are formulated to explain, predict, and understand phenomena

and, in many cases, to challenge and extend existing knowledge, within the limits

of the critical bounding assumptions. The theoretical framework is the structure

that can hold or support a theory of a research study. The theoretical framework

introduces and describes the theory which explains why the research problem

under study exists.

A theoretical framework consists of concepts, together with their

definitions, and existing theory/theories that are used for your particular study. The

theoretical framework must demonstrate an understanding of theories and

concepts that are relevant to the topic of your  research paper and that will relate it

to the broader fields of knowledge in the class you are taking.

The theoretical framework is not something that is found readily available

in the literature. You must review course readings and pertinent research literature

for theories and analytic models that are relevant to the research problem you are

investigating. The selection of a theory should depend on its appropriateness,

ease of application, and explanatory power.

The theoretical framework strengthens the study in the following ways.

1. An explicit statement of  theoretical assumptions permits the reader to

evaluate them critically.

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 2. The theoretical framework connects the researcher to existing knowledge.

Guided by a relevant theory, you are given a basis for your hypotheses and

choice of research methods.

3. Articulating the theoretical assumptions of a research study forces you to

address questions of why and how. It permits you to move from simply

describing a phenomenon observed to generalizing about various aspects of

that phenomenon.

4. Having a theory helps you to identify the limits to those generalizations. A

theoretical framework specifies which key variables influence a phenomenon

of interest. It alerts you to examine how those key variables might differ and

under what circumstances.

By virtue of its application nature, good theory in the social sciences is of

value precisely because it fulfills one primary purpose: to explain the meaning,

nature, and challenges of a phenomenon, often experienced but unexplained in

the world in which we live, so that we may use that knowledge and understanding

to act in more informed and effective ways.

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 Strategies for Developing the Theoretical Framework

Here are some strategies to develop of an effective theoretical framework:

1. Examine your thesis title and research problem. The research problem

anchors your entire study and forms the basis from which you construct your

theoretical framework.

2. Brainstorm on what you consider to be the key variables in your research.

Answer the question, what factors contribute to the presumed effect?

3. Review related literature to find answers to your research question.

4. List  the constructs and variables that might be relevant to your study. Group

these variables into independent and dependent categories.

5. Review the key social science theories that are introduced to you in your

course readings and choose the theory or theories that can best explain the

relationships between the key variables in your study [note the Writing Tip on

this page].

6. Discuss the assumptions or propositions of this theory and point out their

relevance to your research.

A theoretical framework is used to limit the scope of the relevant data by

focusing on specific variables and defining the specific viewpoint (framework) that

the researcher will take in analyzing and interpreting the data to be gathered,

understanding concepts and variables according to the given definitions, and

building knowledge by validating or challenging theoretical assumptions.

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 II.  Purpose

Think of theories as the conceptual basis for understanding, analyzing,

and designing ways to investigate relationships within social systems. To the end,

the following roles served by a theory can help guide the development of your

framework.*

• Means by which new research data can be interpreted and coded for future use,

• Response to new problems that have no previously identified solutions strategy,

• Means for identifying and defining research problems,

• Means for prescribing or evaluating solutions to research problems,

• Way of telling us that certain facts among the accumulated knowledge are

important and which facts are not,

• Means of giving old data new interpretations and new meaning,

• Means by which to identify important new issues and prescribe the most critical

research questions that need to be answered to maximize understanding of the

issue,

• Means of providing members of a professional discipline with a common

language and a frame of reference for defining boundaries of their profession,

and

• Means to guide and inform research so that it can, in turn, guide research efforts

and improve professional practice.

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 Structure and Writing Style

The theoretical framework may be rooted in a specific theory, in which

case, you are expected to test the validity of an existing theory in relation to

specific events, issues, or phenomena. Many social science research papers fit

into this rubric. For example, Peripheral Realism theory, which categorizes

perceived differences between nation-states as those that give orders, those that

obey, and those that rebel, could be used as a means for understanding conflicted

relationships among countries in Africa. A test of this theory could be the following:

Does Peripheral Realism theory help explain intra-state actions, such as, the

growing split between southern and northern Sudan that may likely lead to the

creation of two nations?

However, you may not always be asked by your professor to test a specific

theory in your paper, but to develop your own framework from which your analysis

of the research problem is derived. Given this, it is perhaps easiest to understand

the nature and function of a theoretical framework if it is viewed as the answer to

two basic questions:

1. What is the research problem/question? [e.g., "How should the

individual and the state relate during periods of conflict?"]

2. Why is your approach a feasible solution? [I could choose to test

Instrumentalist or Circumstantialists models developed among Ethnic Conflict

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 Theorists that rely upon socio-economic-political factors to explain individual-state

relations and to apply this theoretical model to periods of war between nations].

The answers to these questions come from a thorough review of the

literature and your course readings [summarized and analyzed in the next section

of your paper] and the gaps in the research that emerge from the review process.

With this in mind, a complete theoretical framework will likely not emerge until after

you have completed a thorough review of the literature.

In writing this part of your research paper, keep in mind the following:

• Clearly describe the framework, concepts, models, or specific

theories that underpin your study. This includes noting who the key theorists are in
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 the field who have conducted research on the problem you are investigating and,

when necessary, the historical context that supports the formulation of that theory.

This latter element is particularly important if the theory is relatively unknown or it

is borrowed from another discipline.

• Position your theoretical framework within a broader context of

related frameworks, concepts, models, or theories. There will likely be several

concepts, theories, or models that can be used to help develop a framework for

understanding the research problem. Therefore, note why the framework you've

chosen is the appropriate one.

• The present tense is used when writing about theory.

• You should make your theoretical assumptions as explicit as

possible. Later, your discussion of methodology should be linked back to this

theoretical framework.

III. Conceptual Framework

A conceptual framework is a visual representation in research that helps to

illustrate the expected relationship between cause and effect. It is also called a

conceptual model or research model. Different variables and the assumed

relationships between those variables are included in the model and reflect the

expectations.

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 This framework is a tool that is used prior to a study. This makes a

conceptual framework an analytical tool. It is used to make conceptual distinctions

and bring together different ideas. Strong conceptual frameworks lead to an actual

realisation of the intended objective.

Origin of the conceptual framework

A conceptual framework originates in the financial reporting of accountancy.

This is a default setting for practical problems to be tested objectively.

Thus, in a conceptual framework, fundamental financial issues are dealt with,

including:

1. What useful features does the accounting need?

2. Which basic elements are we dealing with (assets, liabilities, equity, etc.)?

3. What variables are needed for the preparation of the financial statements?

A conceptual framework of a research study: purpose and importance

In a conceptual model, the relationships are clearly defined between the

different variables and their relationship to each other. Typically, the model is

prepared before actual research takes place.In addition, the type of research

determines whether it is wise and useful to work with a conceptual framework. In

testing research, the use of a conceptual framework is customary.

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 Based on hypotheses, a certain idea can be shown. The basis of testing

research is to demonstrate the cause-effect relationship, which is also reflected in

the conceptual framework. In testing research, one works with specific

expectations about cause and effect relationships, which are displayed in the

schematic model.

Nevertheless, the model is also suitable for exploratory research. This often

consists of broadly defined concepts instead of specifically defined variables. In

this type of research, the specific relationships are identified afterwards and the

variables are directly measurable and formulated fairly concretely.

A conceptual framework example and its variables

In order to demonstrate the cause and effect relationship well, it is important

to first chart the expectations within the conceptual framework and to divide the

cause-effect relationship into variables. In this context, the variables are the

characteristics that summarise the cause-and-effect relationship.

Suppose it is important for a fashion chain to run more sales through their

online shop. A number of variables come together in the conceptual model: 20%

more revenue through the online shop, weekly Facebook promotions, the

opportunity to get an additional 10% discount on the purchase within 24 hours

after a visit and an improved appearance which allows online visitors to see the

clothes from various angles.

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 In case of the cause-effect relationship, we now deal with two types of

variables: the independent variables (Facebook promotion, 10% discount and

improved appearance) and the dependent variable (20% more revenue). The

dependent variable (result) is determined by the independent variables (causes).

The characteristics can influence each other and be directly related to each

other. If the online shop has improved its appearance, visitors will spend more time

looking for clothes and they will undoubtedly also see the offer to get 10% off now.

Additionally, via Facebook promotions, visitors will be drawn to the online shop.

The only discussion that can arise is which unit can best be chosen to

measure the variables. Also, conceptual questions arise, such as “what is meant

by Facebook promotion”. To overcome this, it is suggested to make good and

clear agreements in advance.

What does that look like?

In fact, the conceptual framework is a representation of a problem statement

or research question. It also looks pretty simple. Once the independent and

dependent variables have been determined, a conceptual framework can be

started:

1. Frameworks – The dependent and independent variables are drawn up in

the frames.

2. Arrows – the arrows between two concepts indicate that there is a causal

link; where the arrow comes from influences where the arrow points to.

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 3. Lines – where a relationship (correlation) between 2 variables is expected,

but no connection, a line is used.

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 The advantages of using a conceptual framework

Working with a conceptual model has various advantages. First, the user is

“forced” to think carefully about the variables and give them precise descriptions.

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 In addition, the guidelines help you to reach a final result. The standards that

are determined in advance will be consistent within this framework, so that

everyone who has the variables knows exactly what is expected.

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 IV. Statement of the Problem

A problem statement is an explanation in research that describes the issue

that is in need of study. What problem is the research attempting to address?

Having a Problem Statement allows the reader to quickly understand the purpose

and intent of the research. The importance of writing your research proposal

cannot be stressed enough.

It is expected to be brief and concise, and should not include the findings of

the research or detailed data. The average length of a research statement is

generally about one page. It is going to define the problem, which can be thought

of as a gap in the information base. There may be several solutions to this gap or

lack of information, but that is not the concern of the problem statement. Its

purpose is to summarize the current information and where a lack of knowledge

may be presenting a problem that needs to be investigated.

The purpose of the problem statement is to identify the issue that is a

concern and focus it in a way that allows it to be studied in a systematic way. It

defines the problem and proposes a way to research a solution, or demonstrates

why further information is needed in order for a solution to become possible.

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 What Should A Problem Statement for a Thesis Look Like?

Because your problem statement is supposed to define your research

problem, the best place to start is by asking questions that your problem statement

answers. Here’s a quick and simple problem statement template that you can use

for your thesis:

Sentence 1: What do we already know? Contextualise the problem. Lay out

the background for your research problem.

Sentence 2: What is the problem? Define exactly what your paper is going to

address. If anyone asks what your paper is about, this sentence alone should

make it clear to them.

Sentence 3: Why does the problem matter? Show why the problem is

relevant and needs to be solved. If your research is more on the theoretical

side, talk about how it can advance or alter our existing understanding of the

topic.

Sentence 4: How are you going to prove it? This is where you go into your

methodology and how you plan to attack the problem in your thesis.

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 V. Research Paradigm

A research paradigm is an approach or a model or a pattern to conduct

research. It is a framework of thoughts or beliefs or understandings within which

theories and practices operate. It acts as a function of how a researcher thinks

about the development of knowledge. In simple words, a research paradigm is a

process of creating a blueprint of research.

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 A research paradigm is of three types-

1. Ontology– Ontology is a belief about reality. Ontology believes that either

a single reality exists or it does not exist. To be more specific, ontology

answers one question- “What is a reality”. For example, consider the

question “Does God exist”. Now, there can be two realities (or ontologies)

to this question. First is “Yes, God exists” and second is “No, God does

not exist”

2. Epistemology– Epistemology is the study of knowledge. Epistemology is

concerned with all aspects of the validity, scope and methods of acquiring

knowledge, such as a) what constitutes a knowledge claim; b) how can

knowledge be acquired or produced, and c) how the extent of its

transferability can be assessed. Epistemology answers one question –

“How can we know reality”. For example, consider the question “How do

you know whether God exists or not”.

3. Research Methodology– It refers to general principles that underline how

one investigates the social world and how one demonstrates that the

knowledge generated is valid. The question addressed in methodology is

“How to go about in finding the reality/ answer”. In general, research

methodology is used to create a process of how to collect and analyze the

data for research

Research Philosophy together with research methodology create a research

paradigm

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 IPO Model: an analysis of performance and processing systems that assumes raw

materials (inputs) are transformed by internal system processes to generate

results (output).

WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yydop-6v1JE

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