Bacito, Scifro James D.

ME12 | Research for ME | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Engr. James Andrew Imperial
CEA-09-602A

Assignment 1: Methods of Research

1. Definition of Research and its Importance
Research is a systematic process of investigation and study undertaken to discover
new knowledge, validate existing theories, or solve specific problems. It involves
collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting data in a structured manner.
Research is vital across various fields as it contributes to the advancement of
knowledge, innovation, decision-making, problem-solving, and societal development.
Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed
methods approaches (4th ed.). Sage Publications. Retrieved from https://www.igi-
global.com/dictionary/research-methodology/25161

2. Characteristics of Research
Purposive - Research is purposive in that it is conducted with a specific aim or
objective in mind. Researchers design their studies to address particular questions,
problems, or hypotheses, with the goal of advancing knowledge in their field or
solving practical issues.
Controlled - Research is controlled in that researchers take measures to minimize the
influence of extraneous variables or factors that could confound the results. This often
involves designing experiments or studies with appropriate control groups,
randomization, or other methods to ensure that any observed effects can be attributed
to the variables being studied.
Rigorous - Research is rigorous in its approach, adhering to high standards of
methodology, analysis, and interpretation. Rigorous research involves careful
planning, precise measurement, thorough data analysis, and critical evaluation of
findings to ensure the reliability and validity of the results.
Systematic - Research is systematic in that it follows a structured and organized
process from the initial formulation of research questions or hypotheses to the
collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, and finally to the reporting of findings.
This systematic approach ensures that research is conducted in a logical and orderly
manner, facilitating replication and building upon existing knowledge.
Valid and Reliable - Research aims to produce valid and reliable findings. Validity
refers to the extent to which research accurately measures what it claims to measure,
while reliability refers to the consistency and stability of research findings over time
 and across different conditions. Valid and reliable research findings are essential for
drawing meaningful conclusions and making valid inferences.
Critical - Research is critical in that it involves a thoughtful and analytical approach to
examining evidence, evaluating assumptions, and challenging existing theories or
beliefs. Critical thinking is essential throughout the research process, from
formulating research questions to interpreting findings, to ensure that conclusions are
based on sound evidence and logical reasoning.
Empirical - Research is empirical in nature, meaning it relies on direct observation or
experience and the use of empirical evidence derived from sensory experience or
experimentation. Empirical research involves the systematic collection and analysis of
data to test hypotheses or answer research questions, emphasizing the importance of
evidence-based inquiry.
IEDUNote. (n.d.). Characteristics of Research. Retrieved from
https://www.iedunote.com/research-definition-characteristics-goals-
approaches#characteristics-of-research

3. Types of Research
a. Application
- Basic Research: Conducted to expand knowledge and understanding without any
immediate or specific application in mind.
- Applied Research: Aimed at solving specific problems or addressing practical
issues. It seeks to generate solutions or interventions that can be directly applied in
real-world contexts.
b. Objectives
- Exploratory Research: Conducted to explore and gain insights into a topic, often
used in situations where little is known or understood about the phenomenon.
- Descriptive Research: Aims to describe the characteristics of a population or
phenomenon, providing a snapshot of the current state of affairs.
- Explanatory Research: Seeks to identify the reasons or causal relationships behind
observed phenomena, aiming to explain why certain events occur.
c. Inquiry
- Quantitative Research: Involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to
quantify relationships, patterns, and phenomena. It relies on statistical analysis to
draw conclusions.
- Qualitative Research: Focuses on understanding behaviors, attitudes, and
experiences through in-depth observation and analysis of non-numerical data. It often
involves interviews, focus groups, or textual analysis to explore underlying meanings
and contexts.
Research Prospect. (n.d.). Types of Research. Retrieved from
https://www.researchprospect.com/types-of-research/
4. Steps of Research
These steps constitute a systematic and structured approach to conducting research,
ensuring that the study is well-planned, executed, and reported.
- Identifying the Research Problem: This step involves selecting a topic of interest
and narrowing it down to a specific research question or problem that can be
investigated.
- Reviewing the Literature: Conducting a thorough review of existing literature
related to the research problem to understand the current state of knowledge, identify
gaps or areas for further exploration, and inform the research design.
- Formulating Hypotheses or Research Questions: Based on the research problem and
literature review, hypotheses or research questions are developed to guide the study
and provide a framework for data collection and analysis.
- Designing the Study: Planning and designing the research methodology, including
selecting appropriate research methods, sampling techniques, data collection
instruments, and data analysis procedures.
- Collecting Data: Implementing the research design by collecting data according to
the chosen methodology. This may involve various data collection methods such as
surveys, interviews, observations, or experimental procedures.
- Analyzing Data: Processing and analyzing the collected data using appropriate
statistical or qualitative analysis techniques to identify patterns, relationships, and
significant findings.
- Interpreting Results: Interpreting the analyzed data to draw conclusions, make
inferences, and discuss the implications of the findings in relation to the research
problem and objectives.
- Reporting Findings: Communicating the research findings through a research report
or paper, which typically includes an introduction, literature review, methodology,
results, discussion, and conclusion sections.
Human Kinetics. (n.d.). Steps of the Research Process. Retrieved from
https://us.humankinetics.com/blogs/excerpt/steps-of-the-research-process

5. Classification of Research
Classification by Purpose:
- Basic Research: Conducted to enhance scientific knowledge and understanding,
often with no immediate practical application.
- Applied Research: Aimed at solving specific problems or addressing practical
issues, with the goal of producing actionable outcomes or solutions.
Classification by Method:
- Quantitative Research: Involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to
quantify relationships, patterns, and phenomena. It often uses statistical analysis to
draw conclusions.
- Qualitative Research: Focuses on understanding behaviors, attitudes, and
 experiences through in-depth observation and analysis of non-numerical data. It
typically involves interviews, observations, or textual analysis to explore underlying
meanings and contexts.
This classification system helps researchers categorize studies based on their purpose
and methodological approach, providing clarity and guidance in research design and
implementation.
Zamir, S. (n.d.). Classification of Research by Purpose & Method. SlideShare.
Retrieved from https://www.slideshare.net/shaziazamir3/classification-of-research-
by-purpose-method

6. Skills needed to Design and Conduct Research

Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information
objectively, considering its validity, reliability, and relevance to the research question.
Attention to Detail: Being thorough and meticulous in collecting, recording, and
analyzing data, ensuring accuracy and precision throughout the research process.
Analytical Skills: The capacity to examine data, identify patterns, relationships, and
trends, and draw meaningful conclusions based on evidence.
Problem-Solving Skills: The capability to identify research problems, formulate
research questions or hypotheses, and develop effective strategies to address them.
Communication Skills: The proficiency to convey research findings effectively
through written reports, presentations, or other mediums, and to engage in meaningful
dialogue with peers and stakeholders.
Time Management Skills: The ability to plan and prioritize tasks, allocate resources
efficiently, and meet deadlines throughout the research project.
Information Literacy Skills: The competence to identify, access, evaluate, and utilize
relevant sources of information, including academic literature, databases, and research
tools.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in using specialized software, tools, and methodologies
relevant to the research field, such as statistical analysis software, data collection
instruments, or research methodologies.
Ethical Awareness: Understanding and adhering to ethical principles and guidelines in
research, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and
respecting the rights and welfare of participants.
Flexibility and Adaptability: The capacity to adjust research plans, methodologies, or
approaches in response to unforeseen challenges, changing circumstances, or new
insights during the research process.
Zippia. (n.d.). 10 Skills Needed to Design and Conduct Research. Retrieved from
https://www.zippia.com/advice/research-skills/
7. Ethical Issues in Conducting Research
Informed Consent: Ensuring that participants are fully informed about the nature,
purpose, risks, and benefits of the research, and that they voluntarily agree to
participate without coercion or undue influence.
Privacy and Confidentiality: Safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of
participants' personal information and research data, including data storage, handling,
and dissemination, to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure.
Protection of Participants from Harm: Taking measures to minimize the risk of
physical, psychological, or social harm to participants, and ensuring that potential
benefits outweigh potential risks.
Honesty and Integrity: Conducting research with honesty, transparency, and integrity,
including accurately reporting research methods, procedures, findings, and
limitations, and avoiding fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism.
Fairness and Equity: Ensuring fair and equitable treatment of participants, including
recruitment, selection, and inclusion criteria, and avoiding discrimination or bias
based on factors such as race, gender, age, or socio-economic status.
Respect for Participants' Rights and Dignity: Respecting participants' autonomy,
privacy, and dignity throughout the research process, including obtaining informed
consent, addressing concerns or complaints, and respecting cultural or religious
beliefs.
Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest: Transparently disclosing any potential conflicts of
interest that may influence the research, including financial, professional, or personal
relationships that could affect the objectivity or integrity of the research.
Compliance with Regulatory Requirements and Guidelines: Adhering to relevant
laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing research, including institutional
review board (IRB) approval, data protection regulations, and professional codes of
conduct.
innspub.net. (n.d.). Ethical Issue in Research. Retrieved from
https://innspub.net/ethical-issue-in-research/

8. What is a Research Problem?

A research problem is a definite or clear expression statement about an area of
concern, a condition to be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling
question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or within existing practice that
points to a need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation.
Sacred Heart University Library. (n.d.). Research Problems & Questions. Retrieved
from https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185918#:~:text=Definition,
%20meaningful%20understanding%20and%20deliberate%20investigation.