RESEARCH

METHODS OF
RESEARCH
MODULE I
RESEACH PROCESS
The research process commences with a problem which the investigator is experiencing or has identified as
needing solution. On the other basis of this problem, he formulates the hypothesis. He adopts a theoretical or
conceptual framework to show the relationship of variables he has identified to guide his analysis and interpretation.
Based on the problem and theoretical framework, he chooses the appropriate research design. The steps that follow
include the collection of data using the right technique/s in data collection, coding and processing the data, and
analyzing and interpreting results
Five stages of research
Stage 1. Choosing the problem and stating the hypothesis
Stage 2. Deciding the research design
Stage 3. Gathering data
Stage 4. Coding, analyzing and interpreting data
Stage 5. Formulating conclusions and recommendations
PART 1 – THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

Sources of Problems for Investigation
1. Casual Observations- are rich source of questions and hunches. Decisions are frequently based on the
probable effects of practices on pupils, staff or the community, without empirical data.
2. Deductions from theory- can suggest research problem. Theory are generally principles with applicability to
specific educational problems and are unknown until tested empirically.
3. Related Literature- may suggest the need to replicate a study with or without variation. Repeating a study
may increase the generalizability and validity of the previous finding.
4. Current social and political issues- often results to educational research. Current political issues such as
charter amendment, exemption of big establishments from taxes, poverty alleviation, environmental
concerns and peace effort.
5. Practical situations- are good sources of research because information is needed by decision makers at a
given site.
6. Personal experience and insights- may suggest research problems that should be examined more in depth
through qualitative methodologies. The ability to empathize and to recognize the subtle meaning in a
situation is important in research, more especially qualitative research (i.e. coping mechanisms of Spouses
of OCW’s)
The researcher may gather his/her data from the following publications: (1)books, (2)magazines, (3)
newspapers, (4) annals, (5) diaries, (6) biographies, (7) inscriptions, (8) public documents, (9) official journal, (10)
speeches, (11) reports, (12)theses and dissertations, (13) letters,(14) legal instruments, and (15) recorded lectures.
Books and other publications – belongs to the primary materials which are best source of information
because these can be referred to for the purpose or reviewing and checking.
Characteristics of a Good Research Problem

1. It should be of interest to you.
2. It should have a practical value in life.
3. It should carry a novel idea, not be over researched.
4. Availability of data on the problem
5. Special qualification of the researcher to attack the problem.
6. It can be finished within the allotted time, depending on requirement.
7. The cost of investigating the problem is another consideration.
8. It should carry a legal or moral impediment.
Title of the Research Problem

The title of the research problem names the topic or particular area investigated or being studied. It gives a good
indication of what the study is all about. The title should be clearly and specifically stated. It is much better if the
variables included in the study are written in the title for it will make the title more specific. The phrase “the study
show…” should be avoided for in research we do not seek to prove something but rather to seek an impartial answer.
One may frame his problem in the form of a question or a declarative statement. Whichever way maybe
right but one has to bear in mind that what is more important is that the problem should be definitely clear, well
defined and delimited.
Some common errors should be avoided in phrasing the research title:
1. Listing broad areas instead of specific ones
2. Narrowing or localizing the topic to the point to prove too small or unimportant
3. Employing wording that are unscientific, emotional or biased in character or to imply emphasis on the “voice
of experience”
Statement of the Problem
Statement of the problem is usually made in the introductory chapter, preferably in the first or early paragraphs.
It maybe in the form of a question or in the form of declarative statement.
Statement of Hypothesis
Statement of hypothesis states the expectations concerning the differences or relationships of variables
identified in the research study (Gay, 1976). It is a prediction of the outcomes made by the investigator.
The hypothesis functions to (a) introduce the thinking of the investigator at the start of the study, (b)
structures the next stage of the investigation, (c) helps provide the format for the presentation, analysis and
interpretation of the data of the study.
Types of hypothesis
1. Null hypothesis (Ho)- predicts no difference, relationships, effect or interaction between or among variables.
2. Alternative hypothesis (Ha)- is the opposite of null hypothesis. It predicts that there will be a difference,
relationship, effect or interaction between or among variables studied.
PART 2 - THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKS AND PARADIGM

To Show (1973),a theory is a symbolic construction designed to bring generalizable facts or laws into systematics
connection consisting of a set units (facts, concepts, variables) and a system of relationships among the units.
Paradigm refer to major scientific events that serve for a time to define the legitimate problems and methods
or research field for succeeding generations of practitioners.
PART 3 - SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The scope of the study in terms of the boundary of the area of the locality, the subjects and population
covered, the duration or period of the study and the research issues or concern of the investigation.
The limitation of the study is a phrase or aspect of the investigation which may affect the result adversely
but over which the investigators has no control.
PART 4 – DEFINITIION OF TERMS

Two ways in defining words in research:
1. Conceptual definition is the common definition of the word that is universal in that it is the meaning
understood by people. It is abstract and more general in nature with the dictionary as its main source
2. Operational definition is the working definition based on the observable characteristics of the word. It is
concrete in that it is subject to measurement. It may be unique to a particular purpose such as in a
study.
MODULE II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Literature is any written material valued for excellence in form and expression.
Part 1. Functions of the Review of Literature
Part 2. Guidelines in Doing the review
Part 3. Presenting the Review of Literature
a. Chronological
b. Findings
c. Variable
d. Source
e. Combination of two or more approaches

RESEARCH

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METHODS OF

PART 1 – THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

Characteristics of a Good Research Problem

Title of the Research Problem

PART 2 - THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKS AND PARADIGM

PART 3 - SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

PART 4 – DEFINITIION OF TERMS

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