KYAMBOGO UNIVERSITY

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL AND PRODUCTION ENGINEERING

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING IN INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND

MANAGEMENT

TMME 3105 : RESEARCH METHODS

ASSIGNMENT 1

LECTURER: Mr. TOBBY ABURA OLIWIT

NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER

AMUTUHAIRE ETHAN 21/U/IED/263/GV

KIZITO CHRISTOPHER 21/U/IEE/4147/PE

KAWEESA RAYMOND 21/U/IED/271/GV

KALULE STEPHEN 21/U/IED/265/GV

KYAZZE CHARLES 21/U/IED/4344/PD

 Questions;
Question 1:
a) Define the following terminology;
i. Dissertation
ii. Research
iii. Research Method
iv. Research Methodology
v. Research and development(R & D)
b) Describe the different types of research methods
c) What are the roles of research in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
(STEM)?
d) What are the problems encountered when conducting research in Uganda?
Question 2:
Distinguish between;
(a) Descriptive and analytical research
(b) Applied and fundamental research
(c) Conceptual and empirical research
d) Quantitative and qualitative research
Question 3:
a) What are the major objectives of conducting a research?
b) What are the main approaches of conducting a research?
c) Describe the basic steps in conducting a research
d) Describe the qualities and characteristics of a good research project
e) Discuss the Significance of research
Question 4:
a) What is Scientific Method in conducting research related to engineering?
b) What are the essential elements of Scientific method of research?
c) Describe the steps involved in conducting Scientific Method in Research
QUESTION 1
Part a
i. Dissertation

A comprehensive and formal academic document that presents the research and findings of a
student or researcher on a particular topic. It is usually submitted in support of a doctoral
degree or a Master's degree.

ii. Research

Any sort of careful, systematic investigation in some field of knowledge undertaken to

discover facts, knowledge or establish principles.

iii. Research Method

A specific set of techniques and procedures used to collect and analyze data in research. The
choice of research method depends on the research question, the type of data needed, and the
resources available. Examples of research methods include surveys, interviews, observations,
experiments, and document analysis.

iv. Research Methodology

The study of how research is done scientifically. It is the study of various steps adopted by
the researcher in the course of studying along with the logic behind them.

v. Research and Development (R&D)

Refers to creative and systematic work undertaken in order to increase the stock of
knowledge (including knowledge of people, culture, and society) and to devise new
applications using available knowledge.
Part b
Explanation of the different research methods

Quantitative Research Methods

Involves collecting and analyzing numerical data, such as surveys and experiments. It is used
to test hypotheses and make generalizations about populations

 Surveys: Collect data from a large sample of individuals using questionnaires to

measure opinions, attitudes, and behaviors.

 Experiments: Manipulate variables and observe the effects to test hypotheses and

establish causal relationships.

 Tests: Standardized assessments used to measure specific skills or abilities.

 Statistical analysis: Uses statistical techniques to analyze quantitative data and draw

conclusions.

Qualitative Research Methods

Involves collecting and analyzing non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, and
documents. It is used to explore the meaning and interpretation of social phenomena and can
provide rich, detailed data.

 Interviews: In-depth conversations with individuals to explore their experiences

and perspectives.

 Observations: Recording and analyzing participant behavior in natural settings.

 Focus groups: Group discussions to explore shared experiences and generate

collective meaning.

 Document analysis: Examining existing documents to understand past events or

social phenomena.
Mixed Methods Research

A combination of multiple types of research methods. The researcher might combine

observations with focus groups or interviews. The selected combination depends on what the
researcher is studying and which research methods are best suited for their tasks.

Other Research Methods

 Case studies: In-depth investigation of a particular individual, group, or situation.

 Action research: Aims to solve a particular problem or improve a specific practice

through collaborative research and action.

 Ethnography: Studying the culture and practices of a particular group over an extended
period.

Part c

Description of the Roles of Research in STEM

Advancing Knowledge: It helps us to discover new phenomena, develop theories and

models, and test hypotheses.

Developing New Technologies: It helps to identify new materials, devices, and systems that
can be used to solve problems and improve the quality of life.

Improving Existing Technologies: It helps to identify ways to make technologies more

efficient, more reliable, and less expensive.

Educating the Next Generation: It provides students with the opportunity to learn about
scientific inquiry, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.

Supporting Policy and Decision Making: It helps policymakers and other stakeholders to
make informed decisions about issues related to science and technology.

Informing decision-making: Evidence-based research findings inform policy decisions and

resource allocation in technology and engineering fields.
Part d
Discussion of Problems Encountered in Research in Uganda:

Limited funding: Government funding for research in Uganda is often inadequate, making
it difficult to conduct large-scale or long-term projects.

Inadequate infrastructure: Poor internet connectivity, limited access to electricity, and

outdated research facilities hinder research activities.

Brain Drain: Skilled researchers often leave Uganda for better opportunities and higher
salaries in developed countries, leading to a shortage of expertise.

Bureaucratic hurdles: Complex and cumbersome research approval processes can delay or
hinder research activities, requiring significant

Inadequate Research Capacity: There is a shortage of trained researchers in Uganda,

particularly in fields such as science and technology. This limits the quality and quantity of
research conducted in the country.

Limited Access to Information: This makes it difficult for researchers to access relevant
literature and data for their research.

Political Instability: It limits access to research sites, disrupts data collection, and impacts
the safety of researchers.

Cultural and Language Barriers: This impacts data collection and analysis and limits the
effectiveness of research conducted in the country.
QUESTION 2
Distinguishing Between Research Types:

Part a : Descriptive vs. Analytical Research:

Descriptive research

Focuses on describing and documenting the characteristics of a phenomenon or population.

 Answers "who," "what," "where," "when," and "how" questions.

 Often uses quantitative methods like surveys and observations.

 Aims to provide a detailed picture of a particular situation or group.

Analytical research

Aims to identify relationships between variables and explain the underlying causes of
phenomena.

 Answers "why" and "how" questions.

 Often uses quantitative methods like experiments and statistical analysis.

 Aims to test hypotheses and develop causal explanations.

Example:

 Descriptive: A survey of student opinions on online learning platforms.

 Analytical: An experiment testing the effectiveness of different online learning
platforms on student learning outcomes.

Part b : Applied vs. Fundamental Research

Applied research

Aims to solve practical problems and develop solutions for specific challenges.

 Focuses on immediate and tangible outcomes.

 Often uses existing knowledge and technologies to develop new applications.
  Has close ties to industry and government agencies.

Fundamental research

Aims to expand the general body of knowledge without immediate practical application.

 Focuses on understanding the fundamental principles and laws of nature.

 Often leads to new discoveries and theoretical insights.
 May not have immediate practical applications, but contributes to long-term
advancements.

Example:

 Applied: Research on developing new drugs to treat specific diseases.

 Fundamental: Research on the basic biological processes involved in disease development.

Part c : Conceptual vs. Empirical Research:

Conceptual research

Involves the development of new ideas, theories, and models. It is often based on existing
literature and does not involve the collecting of new data.

 Deals with abstract ideas and concepts, relying on theoretical analysis and logic.

 Develops new theories, models, and frameworks.

 Often uses philosophical and logical arguments to support its claims.

 May not involve direct data collection or experimentation.

Empirical research

Involves the collection and analysis of data through observation or experimentation.

 Tests hypotheses and theories based on real-world evidence.

 Uses quantitative or qualitative methods to collect and analyze data.

 Aims to provide empirical evidence to support its claims.

 Example:

 Conceptual: Developing a new theory of human motivation based on psychological

principles.
 Empirical: Conducting an experiment to test the validity of the theory of human
motivation.

Part d: Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research:

Quantitative research:

 Uses numerical data and statistical analysis to measure and quantify phenomena.

 Aims to generalize findings to a larger population.

 Often uses surveys, experiments, and tests.

 Emphasizes objectivity and replicability.

Qualitative research:

 Uses non-numerical data, such as words, images, and symbols, to understand

experiences and meanings.

 Aims to provide an in-depth understanding of a particular phenomenon or group.

 Often uses interviews, observations, and document analysis.

 Emphasizes subjectivity and interpretation.

Example:

 Quantitative: A survey of students' satisfaction with their online learning experience.

 Qualitative: Interviews with students to explore their experiences and perspectives on online
learning.
QUESTION 3

Part a : Major Objectives of Conducting Research:

Generating new knowledge and understanding: This is the primary goal of most research
endeavors. Researchers aim to contribute to existing knowledge in their field by uncovering
new discoveries, developing new theories, and expanding our understanding of the world.

Solving problems: Research can play a crucial role in solving complex challenges across
various fields. This could involve developing new technologies, finding solutions to
environmental issues, or improving healthcare practices.

Informing policy and decision-making: Evidence-based research findings can inform policy
decisions and resource allocation in various sectors, such as education, healthcare, and the
environment.

Testing and validating existing theories and hypotheses: Research helps to verify the
accuracy and generalizability of existing knowledge by testing and evaluating theories and
hypotheses.

Improving practices and interventions: Research can inform the development of new
interventions and improve existing practices in various fields, leading to positive outcomes.

Stimulating critical thinking and creativity: The research process itself encourages critical
thinking and creativity, as researchers analyze information, formulate questions, and develop
new approaches to understanding complex phenomena.

Contributing to the advancement of a particular discipline: Research can lead to

significant advancements in specific disciplines by generating new knowledge, developing
new methodologies, and shaping future research directions.

Fulfilling academic requirements: In academic settings, research plays a central role in

fulfilling degree requirements and demonstrating mastery of a particular field.
Part b: Main Approaches to Conducting Research:

1. Deductive approach

This approach starts with a general theory or hypothesis and then tests it through specific
observations or experiments.

It involves formulating a clear hypothesis, identifying key variables, designing a study to test
the hypothesis, collecting data, analyzing the data, and interpreting the findings in light of the
initial theory.

Examples of the deductive approach include experiments, surveys, and tests.

2. Inductive approach:

This approach begins with specific observations and then develops a general theory based on
them.

It involves gathering data through observations, interviews, or document analysis, identifying

patterns and relationships, formulating a general theory based on the findings, and testing the
theory through further research.

Examples of the inductive approach include case studies, ethnographies, and grounded theory
research.

Part c: Basic Steps in Conducting Research:

Identify a research topic and problem: This involves defining the area of focus and
formulating a specific research question or problem to address.

Review the existing literature: Researchers review existing research on the topic to identify
relevant knowledge gaps and inform their research design.
Develop a research question and hypotheses: A clear research question guides the research
process, and hypotheses provide specific predictions to be tested.

Choose a research method and design: Researchers choose the most appropriate method
(e.g., survey, experiment, interview) and design (e.g., randomized controlled trial, case study)
based on their research question and objectives.

Collect data: Data collection involves gathering the necessary information for analysis,
following ethical guidelines and ensuring data quality.

Analyze data: Researchers analyze the collected data using appropriate techniques to
identify patterns, relationships, and insights.

Interpret results and draw conclusions: Researchers interpret their findings in light of the
research question and existing knowledge, drawing conclusions and implications.

Disseminate findings: Researchers share their findings through research publications,

presentations, conferences, and other means to contribute to the broader body of knowledge.

Part d : Qualities and Characteristics of a Good Research Project:

Clear and focused research question: The research question should be clearly defined,
specific, and answerable within the scope of the project.

Strong theoretical framework: The research should be grounded in relevant theories and
existing knowledge, providing a solid foundation for the study.

Rigorous methodology: The chosen research method and design should be appropriate for
the research question and ensure reliable and valid data collection and analysis.

Ethical conduct: Researchers should adhere to ethical principles throughout the research
process, including informed consent, data privacy, and responsible conduct of research.
Critical analysis and interpretation: Findings should be critically analyzed and interpreted
in relation to the research question, existing literature, and potential limitations.

Clear and concise communication: Researchers should effectively communicate their

findings and their implications through writing, presentations, and other forms of
communication.

Originality and contribution: The research should contribute new knowledge and insights
to the field and go beyond simply replicating existing findings.

Relevance and impact: The research should address a significant problem or question and
have the potential to contribute to positive change or advancement in the field.

Transparency: The research should clearly describe its methods, data, and findings to allow
for replication and verification.
Feasibility: The research should be feasible within the available resources, time, and
constraints.
QUESTION 4
Part a : Scientific Method in Engineering Research

Engineering research, the scientific method is used to develop and test solutions to complex
problems, optimize existing technologies, and gain insights into engineering principles. Here
are some of the methods used in scientific method of research as related to engineering.

1. Observation. The process begins with observing a phenomenon or identifying a

problem in the field of engineering.
2. Research. Engineers gather relevant information, literature and data related to the
observed problem. They review existing solutions and research findings to build a
foundation for the work.
3. Hypothesis. Engineers formulate a hypothesis which is a proposed solution of an
educated guess to the problem based on their research and observations. The
hypothesis should be testable and specific.
4. Experimentation. This involves designing and building prototypes, conducting tests
and collecting data. Engineers use various tools, equipment and methods to carry out
experiments.
5. Data collection. Data is collected during experimentation. This may include
measurements, observations, and other relevant information.
6. Analysis. The collected data is analysed using mathematical and statistical techniques
and assess whether the data supports or refutes the hypothesis.
7. Conclusion. This is made about the hypothesis. It may lead to a solution or a design
improvement, otherwise the hypothesis is revised and further experiments are done.
8. Communication of the findings is done through reports, presentations. It is essential to
share results for the engineering community to learn from the research and build upon
it.
9. Scientific research involves the replication of experiments by other researchers to
validate the findings and peer review by experts to ensure quality and credibility of
the research.
Part b : Essential Elements

Observation: Identifying a problem or phenomenon requiring investigation and analysis.

Question formulation: Framing a clear and concise research question that guides the
investigation.

Hypothesis development: Proposing potential explanations or solutions to the research

question.

Experimentation: Designing and conducting experiments to test the validity of the

hypotheses.

Data collection: Recording and organizing data obtained through experimentation or other
research methods.

Data analysis: Processing and interpreting the collected data to identify patterns and
relationships.

Conclusion drawing: Based on the analysis, drawing conclusions that support or refute the
initial hypotheses.

Communication and dissemination: Sharing the research findings and conclusions through
reports, publications, presentations, and other means.
Part c : Steps involved:

Define the problem: Clearly identify the engineering challenge or problem to be addressed.

Review the literature: Conduct a thorough review of existing literature and research relevant
to the problem.

Develop research questions: Formulate clear and specific research questions that guide the
investigation.

Formulate hypotheses: Propose potential solutions or explanations to the research questions.

Design experiments and simulations: Develop experiments, simulations, or other research

methods to test the hypotheses.

Conduct experiments and collect data: Implement the designed experiments and collect
data accurately and systematically.

Analyze data: Process and interpret the collected data using appropriate statistical and
analytical methods.

Evaluate hypotheses: Compare the data analysis with the initial hypotheses, accepting,
rejecting, or refining them based on the findings.

Draw conclusions: Summarize the main findings and conclusions derived from the research.

Discuss limitations and future research: Identify potential limitations of the research and
suggest directions for future investigations.

Communicate results: Share the research findings and conclusions through reports,
publications, presentations, and other means to contribute to the broader engineering
community.
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