PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2

LESSON 1: THE NATURE OF INQUIRY

Objectives
• Familiarize, define, and discuss the key concepts of inquiry, its meaning and importance.
• Apply the concepts of inquiry in our daily living.
The Meaning of inquiry
Inquiry is defined as the “quest for truth, information, or knowledge through questioning” (“How
People Learn”, 1999)
Inquiry begins when a person is born; an infant starts to grasp his surroundings and gathers information and
data using the human sense: seeing, hearing, smelling, touching, and tasting. The progression of inquiry
continues as the grows up, develops and perceives his own environment. Inquiry denotes participation that
leads to acceptance.
ADDITIONAL:
1. Inquiry is defined as “a seeking for truth, information or knowledge”.
It is a problem solving technique.
2. The information and data pursued through questioning begins with gathering by applying the
different human senses.
3. Individuals carry on the process of inquiry from birth till death.
4. Inquiry is synonymous with the word investigation.
Importance of Inquiry
Through the process of inquiry, individuals construct much of their understanding of the world. Inquiry
implies a “need or want to know” premise. Inquiry is important in the generation and transmission of
knowledge. This is essential because the source of knowledge is constantly increasing. Inquiry also helps
develop higher order of information literacy and critical thinking skills.
Application of Inquiry
Inquiry learning can be applied to all disciplines and all facets of life. Learning is a continuous process. A
person never stops learning while he breathes. Individuals have different perspective in viewing the world.
Such views could include the artistic, scientific, historic, economic, and other viewpoints. While disciplines
should interconnect with one another, inquiry learning includes the application of certain specific “ground
rules” that safeguard the integrity of the various disciplines and their world views.

SALIENT POINTS

➢ Inquiry is defined as the search for truth, information, or knowledge through questioning.
➢ The process of inquiry is a continuous cycle; it starts with a person’s birth until his death (‘womb
to tomb”)
➢ Inquiry may be applied to all areas of discipline.
➢ Questioning and search for answers are important parts of inquiry.

PREPARED BY: JAYVEE VICQUIERRA

 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INQUIRY AND RESEARCH
INQUIRY RESEARCH
Encourages the exploration of questions Encourages adherence to a formal process
Emphasize the process of discovery Emphasize the efficiency and focus
Can become broad and expansive quickly Tends to remain focused and precise
Allows students to gain soft skills such as Allows student to gain skills such as organization,
cooperation, self-reflection, and problem-solving communication, and attention to detail.

DIFFERENTIATE INQUIRY FROM RESEARCH

Inquiry is a term that is synonymous with the word ‘investigation’. When you inquire or investigate,
you tend to ask questions to probe or examine something to request for truth, information, or knowledge.
Research is systematic and objective creation of knowledge systematic (with a system or method, the
scientific
method), objective (no bias, all angles presented), knowledge creation (a creative process)

LESSON 2: RESEARCH: An Overview

Objectives

• Define and explain the meaning of research.

• Enumerate and explain the types of research.
• Cite some examples of research topics that may be explored to aid the researcher in the choice of
the topic.
What is Research?
The word Research is a combination of the prefix “re” (do again) and the root word “search” (to
seek, explore< and investigate). Research is a continuous and repetitious pursuit of knowledge in order to
arrive at the truth. Man’s thirst for knowledge must always be quenched or satisfied.
Research is the acquisition of new knowledge through a purposive, organized, and designed
program of activities. It seeks to find the answers to the problems and generate new information for a better
understanding of the concepts under the study.
Research is a systematic process of gathering information, interpreting information, and analyzing
information to resolve a specific problem.
Research may either be basic or applied depending on the aims of the researcher. Basic Research is
conducted solely to come up with new knowledge or to have a fuller understanding of a particular subject
for its own sake. Conversely, Applied Research is done to find an application of the knowledge, whether
it be old or new.
ADDITIONAL:
1. Research is defined as the scientific investigation of phenomena which includes collection, presentation,
analysis and interpretation of facts that lines an individual‘s speculation with reality.
2. Solutions to problems must be based on knowledge not on mere beliefs, guesses or theories.
3. In research a systematic and well-planned procedure is required to meet the need in order that
information is acquired and evaluate its accuracy and effectiveness.
4. It is a process of inquiring.

Aims of Research
Research aims to unfold the answers to questions and:

• Produce new knowledge or information- the mass of data and information we have today is a product
of man’s constant search of significant facts and continuous investigation through the years. These
pieces of information may not necessarily be updated; hence, it is the task of the researcher to acquire
the most up-to-date and relevant information.
• Utilize new knowledge- knowledge should be applied and must not remain stagnant. The application
of knowledge could yield other facts. Learning can only find meaning and becomes more relevant
when it is used or applied.
• Validate existing knowledge- with the passing of time, an established fact or truth may be challenged
or deconstructed. Validation of an existing knowledge is necessary in order to render it credible and
reliable.
• Improve the investigator/researcher- doing research challenges the investigator to exercise his own
creativity and skills. Through independent study, the researcher may contribute to the growing body
of knowledge. His initial failure and frustrations in doing research could provide opportunities for
growth and help improve himself in the process.

PURPOSE OF RESEARCH
1. To inform action.
2. To prove or generate a theory.
3. To augment knowledge in a field or study.

IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH IN DAILY LIFE

1. Research directs us to inquire about the right information by conducting further investigation of the
actual condition. It leads us to be cautious in giving results and findings by proving lies and supporting the
truth.
2. Research empowers us with knowledge and discovers new things and issues in life. It helps us solve
problems in health, crimes, business, technology and environment.
3. Research facilitates learning as an opportunity to share valuable information to others as a way of
recognizing various concerns for public awareness.

CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH
1. Empirical - Research is based on direct experience or observation by the researcher.
2. Logical - Research is based on valid procedures and principles.
3. Cyclical - Research is a cyclical process because it starts with a problem and ends with a problem.
4. Analytical - Research utilizes proven analytical procedures in gathering the data, whether historical,
descriptive, and experimental and case study.
5. Critical - Research exhibits careful and precise judgment.
6. Methodical - Research is conducted in a methodical manner without bias using systematic method and
procedures.
7. Replicability - The research design and procedures are replicated or repeated to enable the researcher to
arrive at valid and conclusive results

SOURCES OF RESEARCH TOPICS

The are various sources of topics for research. The people, paces, objects, and events around us: the
community we live in are rich sources of research topic. A research topic may arise if there exist a gap
between needs and resources (ex. Nurses-Hospital, Civil Service Passer-Government offices). Exposure
with the different literatures, the internet, and linkages with various professional groups could intensify the
research activities.

PEOPLE PLACES OBJECTS EVENTS

Scientist Laboratory Specimen Experimentation
Educators School Books Graduation
Students Classrooms Notes Exam days
Businessman FOREX Contract Product launch
Politicians Session hall Bills In session
Doctors Clinic Medicine Check-up
Lawyers Court of justice Documents Case hearing
Farmers Rice field Plants Harvest season
Housewives House Clothes Wash day
Priests Church Bible Eucharistic celebration
Soldiers Barracks Ammunition Pass and review
Administrators Office Desk Labor day
OTHER POSSIBLE RESEARCH AREAS
Computer Science Information technology
Energy conservation Languages
Folk Literatures Music
Food Processing Pollution control
Food Preservation Product Development
Health and wellness Solar Energy
Herbal Medicine Sports
History and Culture Theater arts
Humanities Transportation/Communication s

LESSON 3: INTRODUCTION TO TYPES OF RESEARCH

Objectives:

• Recall the kinds of research designs and characteristics of qualitative research.

• Describe the characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses of quantitative research.
• Illustrate the importance of quantitative research across fields.
TYPES OF RESEARCH
As Johnson and VanderStoep argued, research has many forms, and each form presents a different way of
doing the task. In this context, it is proper to introduce to the readers to the different types of research.
Qualitative Research
is a method of inquiry used in various academic disciplines, usually in social sciences, but also in market
research and varied perspectives. Qualitative Research aim to gain a deeper awareness of human behavior
and the reasons that control such behavior. The qualitative method investigate the why and how of decision
making, not just, what, where, and when. Hence, smaller but focused samples are more often used than
large samples.
Qualitative research relies not in numerical analysis but on narrative and stories coming from its
research participants. It aims to construct a story and a “think” description of the object of the study. In
this case, this form of research uses documents, anecdotes, interviews, and observations as sources of data.
Quantitative Research
Also knows as empirical research, is a type of inquiry where relations are established through the collection
of numerical data which are analyzed to derive generalization. It specifically refers to tests or experiments
that yield quantifiable values that can be analyzed using statistics, figures, and mathematical models to
provide information that may be used in decision making.
It is usually more objectives as the accumulated data is submitted to statistical analysis. Quantitative
design often depicts a study answering the “what” and “how many/much” questions. This type of research
involves measuring or counting attributes. A quantitative approach is often concerned with finding
evidence to either support or contradict an idea or hypothesis. A hypothesis proposes a predicted answer
to research question. In quantitative research the findings are communicated and presented as tables,
graphical displays, or summary statistics in order to extract the necessary information that will guide the
decision makers or authorities in planning their final course of action and giving recommendations.

QUALITATIVE
Objective • It aims to create new theory based on the
gathered data.
• A fact-finding research used to gain
understanding of individual differences in
terms of feelings and experiences
QUANTITATIVE
• The purpose is to test a hypothesis or
theory.
• Measures problem using rating scale
and other research parameters of group
similarities.

Data Description • natural setting • measurement setting

• making stories out of a certain
phenomenon.
• Uses pictures, words, sentences,
paragraphs, compositions, narrations and
short stories
• performs measures out of a certain
phenomenon.
• Uses numbers, scales, hypotheses,
calculations, computations and statistics
tools.

Sample (size) • Small judgment (by decision) sampling
Data Gathering • Unstructured or semi structured (flexible
processes)
• Uses interviews, participant observation,
group discussions.
Ex: Case Study, field research
• Uses open ended questions.
• It is a freeform survey questions allow
a participant to answer in open-text format,
responses are unlimited to a set of options.
Example:
Guide questions for the interviews
1. What was your experiences during
quarantine period on the COVID-19
pandemic?
How did you handle the situation caused by
the pandemic?
2. Was the support of the National and
Local Government enough for your basic
• Large sample representatives of
population
• Standardized /Structured
• Uses census, survey questionnaire,
checklist, paper pencil test and
experimentation.
• Uses closed ended questions.
• This questions can only be answered by
selecting from a limited number of
options,
• usually “multiple-choice”, “yes” or
no”, or a rating scale
Example:
Strongly agree to strongly disagree
In quantitative research closed ended
questions are the basis of all statistical
analysis techniques applied on
questionnaires and surveys.
Sample Question:
 needs? Did they conduct evaluation for Do you agree on online modality class
those who were affected? in transitioning the new normal of
education?
a. Strongly agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly disagree

Activities Inductive Deductive

The researcher starts with the observations, Starts from a hypothesis or already
an open mind without biases, gathering all created theory emphasizing the
exact details of the topic and previously researched phenomenon
generalization or new theory is given from different views (tested against
towards the end of the research process. observations).

Data Discussion and Uses both inductive and deductive

Presentation
• They are not mutually exclusive with each other in research. Inductive method or
“bottom-up” is used if the researcher starts discussions from the lowest and highest
means then explains the overall mean.
• Deductive or “top-down “if discussion is from the overall mean going to the lowest
and highest means deductive.

• Opinions are based on experience or • Opinions are based on laws, rules, or

observation. other recognized principles.
• There are no criteria used in data
discussions

Data Analysis • Synthesize data, interpret, thematic. • Statistical

• Subjective • Objective
• Data analysis is influenced by the personal • The researcher employs standard
experiences and views. criteria in analyzing
data.

Outcome • Cultivates understanding with high • Endorse a development.

validity. • Has high output replicability.
• There are no conclusions formulated. • Conclusion is formulated towards the
end of the research
process.

Similarities: Qualitative Research and Quantitative Research

1. Both have the process of inquiry and investigation.
2. Both improve life and help us in understanding various issues of life and in giving solutions to our
problems
3. Both start with a problem and end with a new problem.
4. Both use textual forms in analyzing and interpretation of data.
5. Both use inductive and deductive methods of presenting data.

LESSON 4: CHARACTERISTICS, STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES AND KINDS

OF A QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

Qualitative Research is a scientific method of observation to gather non-numerical data. It

refers to the meanings, concepts, characteristics, metaphors, symbols and description of phenomena, and
not to their counts or measures. The purpose of Qualitative Research is to promotes a deep, holistic
understanding of a particular phenomenon.

CHARACTERISTICS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

1. Human understanding and interpretation in data analysis
2. Active, powerful and forceful in data gathering and rephrasing interview questions
3. Multiple research approaches and methods that allows you to plan your study and being multi-method
research
4. Specificity to generalization on specific ideas will lead to generalizations or conclusions.
5. Contextualization - context or situation of individual’s life
6. Diversified data in real-life situations on collecting data in a natural setting
7. Abounds with words and visuals that presents people’s view in a picture, video, drawing or graphs.
8. Internal analysis on examining the data yielded by the internal traits of the subject persons.

STRENGTHS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

1. It adopts a naturalistic approach to its subject matter.
2. Promotes a full understanding of human behavior/personality traits in their natural setting.
3. It is instrumental for positive societal changes.
4. It engenders respect for people’s individuality.
5. It’s a way of understanding & interpreting social interactions.
6. Increases researcher’s interests in the study.
7. Offers multiple ways of acquiring and examining knowledge about something
WEAKNESSES OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
1. It involves a lot of researcher’s subjectivity in data analysis.
2. It is hard to know the validity/reliability of the data.
3. It is open-ended questions yield “data overload” that requires long-time analysis.
4. It is time-consuming.
5. It involves several processes, whose results greatly depend on the researcher’s views or interpretations.

KINDS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

1. Case Study - Long time study of a person, group, organization or situation and an empirical inquiry

that investigates current phenomenon.

Example: “Teenage Pregnancy in the Public High Schools”

2. Ethnography- a study of a particular cultural group.

Example: “Cultural Awareness and Integration of Peace Education in the Indigenous Peoples (IP)
Communities”.

3. Phenomenology- “live-experienced” of a phenomenon.

Example: “Life without Gadget”

4. Content and Discourse Analysis-

• Content Analysis- is a research technique that analyzes the modes of communication such as letters, e-
mails etc.

• Discourse Analysis- is the study of social life, understood through analysis of language it includes face-
to-face talk, non-verbal interaction, images and symbols. Materials for Discourse Analysis include books,
newspapers, periodicals, brochures and advertisements. Example: “A Discourse Analysis on the Impact of
Modern Technologies on Communication”

5. Historical Analysis- is a qualitative method where there is an examining of past events to draw
conclusions and make predictions about the future.

Example: “The Impact of Ferdinand Marcos’ Speech”

6. Grounded Theory- takes place when there is a discovery of new theory which underlies your study at
the time of data collection and analysis.

Example: “The Story Behind the Migration of Christians from Visayas and Luzon to Mindanao”

7. Narrative Report - designed to present things or events that have happened in the past through a logical
progression of the relevant information. The main purpose of a narrative report is to present a factual
depiction of what has occurred.

Example: “Vocabulary Building of Students through Proper Solid Waste Management”

8. Biography- is the study of an individual’s life and struggles and how they reflect cultural themes of the
society. It deals with an interesting story found in documents and archival materials. It is concerned with
the reconstruction of life histories and the constitution of meaning based on biographical narratives and
documents.

Five common types of biography are

a. Scholarly Chronicles -focus on the historical portrayal of an individual life. e.g. “Biography of Gloria
M. Arroyo, the First Woman President of the Philippines”

b. Intellectual Biography- narrative of a life through the conceptual analysis of the subject’s motives and
beliefs within the world of ideas. e.g. “Life and Works of Dr. Jose Rizal”

c. Life History Writing- recording of life memories, experiences, whether one’s or another’s. e.g. “The
Hardships of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW’s)”.

d. Memoir Biography- stylistic presentation of the biographer’s reflections and insights in relation to the
factual account of life. e.g. “The Experiences of Stranded Students in the COVID-19 Pandemic”

e. Narrative Biography-a nonfiction account of life experiences of a person.

9. Action Research- is a classroom-based or school-based research seeks transformative change through

the process of taking action and doing research, which are linked together by critical reflection. This type
of research is commonly conducted by the teachers to give solutions to the existing problems to improve
students’ academic performance and positive attitudes.

REFERENCE: Practical Research 1 - Practical Research 1 Lesson 1 to 6 3 rd Quarter Name: - Studocu.

(n.d.). Studocu. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/university-of-southeastern-philippines/practical-
research-1/practical-research-1/1171155