PRACTICAL RESEARCH

UNDERSTANDING RESEARCH

Research – can be defined as the systematic and objective analysis and recording
of observations that may lead to the development of generalizations, principles or
theories, resulting in prediction and possibly ultimate control of events.
• Research involves the quest for answers to unsolved problems.
• Research emphasizes the development of generalizations, principles or theories
that will be helpful in predicting future occurrences.
• Research is based on observable experience or empirical evidence.
 UNDERSTANDING RESEARCH
Research (Leedy and Ormrod 2001) – systematic process of collecting and analyzing information (data) in
order to increase our understanding of the phenomenon about which we are concerned or interested. It
undergoes the following activities:
• Research originates with a question or problem.
• Research requires a clear articulation of goal.
• Research follows a specific plan of procedure.
• Research usually divides the principal problem into more manageable subproblems.
• Research is guided by the specific research problem, question or hypothesis.
• Research requires the collection and interpretation of data in an attempt to answer the problem that
initiated the research.
• Research is, by its nature, cyclical or more exactly helical.
 QUALITATIVE VS QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH
Attributes Qualitative Research
Analytical objectives Focuses on to describe individual
experiences and beliefs;
analysis aimed at revealing meaning
Types of questions Open ended questions
asked
Data collection Use semi-structured methods such as
instrument in-depth interview; collection of
“narratives,” either already existing
(e.g., diaries), or new (e.g.,
interviews)
Design non-experimental
Setting field
Data Type descriptive (e.g., interview
protocols, written records, videos)
Generalization focus on testing hypotheses
Quantitative Research
Focuses on describing the
characteristics of a population;
descriptive and analytic statistics
Closed ended questions
Use highly structured methods such
as structured observation using
questionnaires and surveys;
instruments (e.g., electronic or
mechanical devices, tests,
questionnaires)
 experimental
 laboratory
numerical (ratio, interval, ordinal)
focus on generating hypotheses
 FORMULATION OF RESEARCH CONCEPT

• The class will be divided into groups with 5 members each.

• Assign a leader in each group.
• Formulate 3 research concept.
• Research at least 1 journal articles related to your chosen research
concept.