Research Writing

In common parlance, research refers to a search for knowledge. One can also define
research as a scientific and systematic search for pertinent information on a specific topic. In
fact, research is an art of scientific investigation (Nagtzaam, 2009).
It is actually a voyage of discovery. We all possess the vital instinct of inquisitiveness for,
when the unknown confronts us, we wonder and our inquisitiveness makes us probe and attain
full and fuller understanding of the unknown. This inquisitiveness is the mother of all knowledge
and the method, which man employs for obtaining the knowledge of whatever the unknown, can
be termed as research (Cononenco, et. al., 2010).
It leads an expansion of knowledge and discoveries. Its impacts have led to breakthrough.
Projections about future events like global warming have also been determined through research.
It is a systematic process of collecting and analyzing data or information in order to increase
understanding of a phenomenon.

Definitions of Research
Research can be defined in various ways, which lead to multiple interpretations of what it
truly entails. Let us now consider the following perspectives to better understand its meaning.
1. Good defines research as a “careful, critical, disciplined inquiry, varying in technique
and method according to the nature and conditions of the problem identified, directed
toward the clarification or resolution of a problem.”
2. Almeida et al. define research as “a system of acquiring knowledge based on the
scientific method of inquiry to enrich the system of objective knowledge in the fields
of natural and social sciences.”
3. The Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of Current English lays down the meaning of
research as “a careful investigation or inquiry specially through search for new facts
in any branch of knowledge.”
4. Redman and Mory define research as a “systematized effort to gain new knowledge.”
Some people consider research as a movement, a movement from the known to the
unknown.
It is may be defined as a purposive, systematic and scientific process of gathering,
analyzing, classifying, organizing, presenting and interpreting of data for the solution of a
problem, for prediction, for intervention, for the discovery of truth, verification of existing
knowledge, all for the preservation and improvement of the quality of human life.
Nature and Importance of Research
The importance of research should be measured on the extent to which they are being
actually carried out. The word “Research” can be split into two words: re, a prefix which means
“again” and search, which means “to look for something again” (Basu, 2020). Conducting
research in an educational setting is important in every educator’s professional life. Education
should look at research as a way to develop new understanding about teaching, learning, and
educational administration. This new knowledge will lead to the improvement of educational
practice.

Objectives of Research
The purpose of research is to discover answers to questions through the application of
scientific procedures. The main aim of research is to find out the truth which is hidden and which
has not been discovered as yet (Kunisch, 2022). Though each research study has its own specific
purpose, we may think of research objectives as falling into a number of following broad
groupings:
1. To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it (studies with
this object in view are termed as exploratory or formulative research studies);
2. To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, situation or a group
(studies with this object in view are known as descriptive research studies);
3. To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which it is associated
with something else (studies with this object in view are known as diagnostic research
studies);
4. To test a hypothesis of a causal relationship between variables (such studies are known as
hypothesis-testing research studies).

Characteristics of Research
Research is a systematic and organized effort to investigate phenomena, acquire new
knowledge, or validate existing theories through the application of scientific methods (Cristobal,
et. al., 2017). It is a fundamental process that underpins advancements in various fields,
including science, social science, healthcare, and technology. The credibility and reliability of
research depend on several defining characteristics that guide researchers in their inquiries. The
following are the characteristics of research:
1. Empirical - Research is based on direct experience or observation by the Researcher. It
draws conclusions based on collected data through experiments, surveys, or field studies.
This grounding in real-world situations enhances the validity of findings, as they reflect
genuine phenomena rather than hypothetical scenarios.
 2. Logical - Research is based on valid procedures and principles. Researchers must apply
principles from logic and critical thinking, ensuring that their arguments are coherent and
derived from valid premises. This includes formulating hypotheses that logically follow
from existing theories or observations.
3. Cyclical - Research is a cyclical process because it starts with a problem and ends with a
problem. The cyclical nature of research highlights its iterative process, where
investigations begin and end with problems or questions. Each study can lead to new
inquiries, creating a continuous loop of exploration and refinement.
4. Analytical - Research utilizes proven analytical procedures in gathering the data, whether
historical, descriptive, and experimental and case study. It emphasizes the systematic
evaluation and interpretation of data through recognized analytical methods across
different research methodologies, such as qualitative and quantitative approaches.
5. Critical - Research exhibits careful and precise judgment. It exercises careful judgment
and scrutiny when evaluating methods, data, and findings. It involves a reflective
approach that fosters a thorough analysis of all aspects of the research process.
6. Methodical - Research is conducted in a methodical manner without bias using
systematic method and procedures. It refers to the structured and systematic execution of
research procedures designed to minimize bias and enhance objectivity. It involves
adhering to predetermined protocols throughout the research process.
7. Replicability - The research design and procedures are replicated or repeated to enable
the researcher to arrive at valid and conclusive results. It refers to the ability to repeat
research designs and procedures under similar conditions to validate findings. It is a
cornerstone of scientific inquiry that ensures results can be independently verified.

The Research Process

Define the
Research
Problem

Interpret Review the

Formulate
Analyze
the
Data
Hypothesis

Collect Design
Data Research
 In the following sections, we will discuss each step of the research process as outlined in
the diagram. This structured approach provides a clear pathway from identifying a research
problem to presenting and reflecting on findings. By exploring each stage in detail, we gain a
deeper understanding of how systematic research is conducted and how each step contributes to
producing reliable and valuable knowledge.
Step 1: Define the Research Problem. The first step in research process is to develop a research
question. This can be a problem that needs to be solved or some piece of information that is
missing about a particular topic. Answering this question will be the focus of the research study.
Step 2: Review the Literature. The researchers must now learn more about the topic they are
investigating. This not only provides important background information about the issue they are
researching, but it also tells them what other studies have already been conducted, how they were
designed, and what those studies found. In research, you often do not want to repeat old studies,
but rather add something new to the field.
Step 3: Formulate the Hypothesis. The hypothesis is a clear statement of what is intended to be
investigated. It should be specified before research is conducted and openly stated in reporting
the results.
Step 4: Design Research. The research design refers to the overall strategy that you choose to
integrate the different components of the study in a coherent and logical way, thereby, ensuring
you will effectively address the research problem; it constitutes the blueprint for the collection,
measurement, and analysis of data.
Step 5: Collect Data. The collection of data is a critical step in providing the information needed
to answer the research question. Every study includes the collection of some type of data,
whether it is from the literature or from subjects, to answer the research question (Mazhar, 2021).
Depending on the plan of the research, data can be collected in the form of words on a survey,
with a questionnaire, through observations, or from the literature.
Step 6: Analyze Data. Analysis of data plays an important role in the achievement of research
aim and objectives. Once the data have been collected, these must be analyzed in order to answer
the original research question.
Step 7: Interpret and Report. In this final part, you will have to justify why you think that
research aims and objectives have been achieved. Proofread the paper you have created and
report the results. There are different ways to share the results of your research, among them is
by publication either in print or on the internet. Another is by sending or submitting the research
report to those persons concerned or stakeholders such as policy makers, government officials,
company or business executives, etc. (İlter, 2017). Another way to share the results of your
research is through a colloquium where the researcher presents orally the research report to an
audience or to the public.
 Below is a comprehensive sample research outline that follows the seven steps of the
research process
Sample Research Title:
The Impact of Dietary Interventions on Aggressive Behavior in Adolescents
Step 1: Define the Research Problem
There is increasing concern about the link between diet and aggression among
adolescents. While existing studies have explored various aspects of this relationship, the
specific impact of dietary interventions on reducing aggressive behavior in this demographic
remains underexplored.
Step 2: Review the Literature
Previous research has established links between nutrition and behavior, indicating that
certain dietary patterns may influence aggression levels. Studies suggest the gut microbiome
mediates the relationship between diet and behavior, supporting the hypothesis that dietary
changes can lead to behavioral improvements. The research also reviews sociological theories
such as social disorganization, suggesting potential frameworks for understanding dietary
influence on behavior (Buzzeo, 2022).
Step 3: Formulate the Hypothesis
Dietary interventions, particularly increased omega-3 fatty acids and reduced sugar
intake, will significantly decrease aggressive behavior in adolescents over a six-month period.
Step 4: Design Research
A randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be employed to test the hypothesis. Two groups
of adolescents (control and experimental) will be involved:
 Participants: 100 adolescents aged 12-18.
 Intervention: The experimental group will receive dietary supplements high in omega-3s
and a structured dietary plan to reduce sugar intake, while the control group will not
receive any dietary modifications.
 Duration: Six months with periodic assessments.
Step 5: Collect Data
The researchers will utilize the following through which data will be collected:
 Surveys: Questionnaires assessing aggression levels using standardized scales (e.g.,
Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire).

 Dietary Logs: Participants will maintain food diaries to monitor adherence to dietary
interventions.
  Biometric Data: Blood samples may be taken to measure omega-3 levels pre- and post-
intervention.
Step 6: Analyze Data
Data will be analyzed using statistical software such as SPSS or R to ensure accurate
and efficient processing. A comparative analysis will be conducted to evaluate pre- and post-
intervention aggression scores between the control and experimental groups through the use of
ANOVA. Additionally, correlation analyses will be performed to investigate the relationships
between dietary adherence and changes in aggression scores, providing deeper insights into the
potential impact of dietary interventions on aggressive behavior.
Step 7: Interpret and Report
The findings from this research will help confirm or challenge the idea that dietary
changes affect aggression levels in adolescents. By analyzing the results, we can better
understand how certain dietary choices, like adding omega-3 fatty acids or reducing sugar
intake, might influence aggressive behavior.
These results could have important implications for policy and practice. If the study
shows a link between diet and behavior, schools and policymakers might consider including
dietary recommendations in behavioral health programs to support positive behavior in
educational settings.
Finally, the research will suggest future studies to confirm these findings and explore the
long-term effects of dietary changes on aggression. By studying a wider range of people and
using longer-term research methods, we can deepen our understanding of how diet impacts
behavior and help develop effective nutritional strategies for managing aggression.

References
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