Name:Obiageli Onwudiegwu-Obiozor

Matric #: eL/21/0014
Course: Research Methodology

1. Research is a systematic investigation or study that aims to discover new

knowledge, validate existing knowledge, solve problems, or improve
understanding of a particular topic or phenomenon. It involves gathering,
analyzing, interpreting, and presenting information in a structured manner to
answer specific questions or test hypotheses.

Importance of Carrying Out Research

a. Advancing Knowledge
b. Problem Solving
c. Innovation and Development
d. Decision Making
e. Quality Improvement
f. Validation of Knowledge
g. Academic Progress
h. Policy Formulation

2. Objectives of Carrying Out Research

a. Advancing Knowledge.
b. Solving Problems
c. Testing Hypotheses
d. Generating New Ideas
e. Informing Decision-Making
f. Enhancing Skills
g. Contributing to Society

3. Research Question or Problem

a. The first critical element in any research work is a well-defined
research question or problem. It serves as the foundation upon which
the entire study is built. A clear research question or problem
 statement should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and
time-bound (SMART).
b. Research Design and Methodology: The research design and
methodology are the blueprint of the study. They outline the
procedures and techniques to be used in collecting, analyzing, and
interpreting data.
c. Sample Selection and Data Collection: The quality of the research
findings largely depends on the sample selection and data collection
processes.
d. Data Analysis and Interpretation: Data analysis and interpretation
involve transforming raw data into meaningful information
e. Validity and Reliability: Validity and reliability are crucial elements
in research work. Validity refers to the extent to which the research
measures what it intends to measure, while reliability refers to the
consistency and accuracy of the measurements.
f. Ethical Considerations: Ethical considerations are essential in research
work. Researchers should adhere to the principles of respect for
persons, beneficence, and justice. This includes obtaining informed
consent from participants, maintaining confidentiality and anonymity,
and ensuring that the potential benefits of the research outweigh the
risks.

4.
a. Experimental Research: Experimental research is a type of
research design where the researcher manipulates one or more
independent variables to observe the effect on a dependent variable.
This type of research is characterized by the random assignment of
participants to different groups, such as an experimental group that
receives the treatment and a control group that does not.
b. Ex-Post Facto Research: Ex-post facto research, also known as
causal-comparative research, is a type of non-experimental research
design where the researcher examines the relationship between
variables that cannot be manipulated. In ex-post facto research, the
independent variable has already occurred or cannot be manipulated
by the researcher.
c. Survey Research: Survey research involves collecting data from a
sample of individuals through the use of questionnaires or interviews.
 Surveys are used to gather information about people’s opinions,
attitudes, behaviors, or characteristics. This type of research is often
used in social sciences, marketing, and public opinion polling.

5. Weaknesses of Ex-post facto research

a. Lack of Control: One of the primary weaknesses of ex-post facto
research is the lack of control over variables.
b. Bias and Confounding Variables: Ex-post facto studies are susceptible
to bias and confounding variables that can influence the results.
c. Difficulty Establishing Temporal Sequence: difficulty in establishing a
clear temporal sequence between the independent and dependent
variables.
d. Limited Generalizability: Ex-post facto studies often focus on specific
populations or situations, which can limit the generalizability of the
findings.
Weaknesses of Survey Research
a. Response Bias: Participants may provide inaccurate or misleading
responses.
b. Sampling Issues: Surveys are reliant on sampling techniques to select
participants, and if the sample is not representative of the target
population, it can lead to biased results. Sampling errors can
undermine the external validity of the study
c. Validity Concerns
d. Limited Depth of Information

6. Research processes are:

a. Defining the Research Problem: The first step in the research
process is defining the research problem. This involves identifying the
specific issue or question that the research aims to address. A clear
and well-defined research problem sets the direction for the entire
study and helps researchers focus their efforts on relevant information.
b. Reviewing Existing Literature: Once the research problem is
defined, researchers conduct a thorough review of existing literature
related to the topic. This step helps researchers understand the current
state of knowledge in the field, identify gaps in existing research, and
build on previous studies. Literature review also helps in formulating
research hypotheses and developing a theoretical framework for the
study.
c. Formulating Hypotheses: Based on the review of existing
literature, researchers formulate hypotheses or research questions that
will guide their investigation. Hypotheses are tentative statements that
suggest relationships between variables and provide a framework for
data collection and analysis.
d. Designing the Research Methodology: The next step involves
designing the research methodology, which includes selecting
appropriate research methods, data collection techniques, and
sampling procedures. Researchers must choose methods that are
suitable for addressing the research problem and testing the
formulated hypotheses.
e. Collecting Data: Once the research methodology is established,
researchers collect relevant data to test their hypotheses or answer
their research questions. Data collection methods may vary depending
on the nature of the study and can include surveys, experiments,
interviews, observations, or secondary data analysis.
f. Analyzing Data: After collecting data, researchers analyze it using
statistical tools and techniques to draw meaningful conclusions. Data
analysis helps researchers test their hypotheses, identify patterns or
trends in the data, and make inferences about the research problem.
g. Interpreting Results: The final step in the research process is
interpreting the results of data analysis. Researchers evaluate their
findings in relation to the research objectives and discuss implications
of their results. Clear interpretation of results is essential for drawing
valid conclusions and making recommendations based on the study
findings