SEMESTER: Autumn-2024

COURSE: “RESEARCH METHOD IN EDUCATION ”

ASSIGNMENT NO. 01
Course Code :(8604)
Name:khalid Ashraf
User Id: 0000909894
Program: B.Ed (1.5 Years) Research method in
Education

Q.1

Discuss scientific method as a tool of acquiring knowledge.

compare it with various steps in research process.

Ans:

The Scientific Method as a Tool for Acquiring Knowledge

The scientific method is a structured approach to understanding the
world around us. It has been developed over centuries and is now
one of the most trusted methods for gaining knowledge in science
and other fields. This method provides a logical way to discover
truths by collecting evidence, analyzing it, and reaching conclusions.
It ensures that knowledge is reliable and not based on opinions,
beliefs, or guesses.
Let us explore the steps of the scientific method and compare them
with the broader research process. By doing so, we can see how the
scientific method serves as a specific way of conducting research,
particularly in scientific disciplines.
Steps of the Scientific Method
1. Observation:
The first step is to notice something interesting or problematic
in the environment. For example, you might observe that
plants near a window grow better than plants placed in a dark
corner. This observation sparks curiosity and raises questions.
2. Question:
After observing something, the next step is to ask questions
about it. Why is this happening? What could be the cause? For
example, you might ask, "Does sunlight affect plant growth?"
3. Hypothesis:
A hypothesis is a testable idea or prediction. It provides a
possible explanation for the observation. For example, you
might hypothesize that "Plants grow better when exposed to
sunlight." A good hypothesis must be specific and something
you can test through experiments.
4. Experimentation:
This step involves designing an experiment to test the
hypothesis. An experiment must be fair and controlled,
meaning all factors except the one being tested (sunlight in this
case) should remain constant. For example, you could place
one plant in sunlight and another in the dark and observe their
growth.
5. Data Collection:
During the experiment, you collect measurable evidence, such
as the height of the plants, the number of leaves, or the color
of their foliage. Accurate data collection is crucial to support or
disprove the hypothesis.
6. Analysis:
After collecting the data, you analyze it to identify patterns or
results. For example, if the plant in sunlight grows taller and
 healthier than the plant in the dark, this suggests sunlight is
indeed important for plant growth.
7. Conclusion:
Based on the analysis, you decide whether your hypothesis was
correct or not. If your hypothesis is supported, you may
conclude that sunlight positively affects plant growth. If not,
you may need to revise your hypothesis and conduct further
experiments.
8. Replication:
To ensure that your findings are accurate, the experiment
should be repeated multiple times. Repetition helps verify the
reliability of results and ensures that findings are not due to
random chance.

The Research Process: A Broader Perspective

While the scientific method is specific to scientific investigations, the
research process is a broader concept. It applies to all types of
research, whether scientific, social, or humanities-based. The
research process includes some similar steps to the scientific method
but is more flexible and adaptable to different types of studies.

Steps in the Research Process

1. Identifying a Problem:
Like the observation step in the scientific method, the research
process starts by identifying an issue or topic of interest. This
could be a gap in knowledge, a social issue, or a question in any
field.
2. Reviewing Literature:
Before forming a hypothesis or research question, researchers
 review existing studies and theories to understand what is
already known. This step is more prominent in the research
process compared to the scientific method.
3. Formulating Research Questions or Objectives:
In the research process, you may ask open-ended questions
(e.g., "What are the effects of urbanization on small towns?")
or define specific objectives. This step may or may not involve
forming a testable hypothesis, depending on the type of
research.
4. Choosing a Methodology:
Researchers select the methods they will use to gather and
analyze data. This step is similar to designing an experiment in
the scientific method but includes a wider variety of
approaches, such as surveys, interviews, or case studies.
5. Collecting Data:
Like the data collection step in the scientific method, the
research process also involves gathering evidence. However,
the type of data (qualitative or quantitative) depends on the
research objectives.
6. Data Analysis:
Analysis is a critical step in both the scientific method and the
research process. In the scientific method, analysis is often
numerical or statistical, while the research process may involve
thematic or narrative analysis for qualitative data.
7. Drawing Conclusions:
Researchers interpret the results of their analysis and relate
them back to the original research questions or objectives. This
step mirrors the conclusion step in the scientific method.
8. Sharing Findings:
In research, sharing results through reports, papers, or
 presentations is emphasized. This allows others to learn from
the findings, replicate the study, or build upon the knowledge.

Comparison of the Scientific Method and Research Process

Although the scientific method and the research process share many
similarities, they differ in scope, flexibility, and application. The table
below highlights their key differences:

Aspect Scientific Method Research Process

To test hypotheses and To explore, understand, or
Purpose explain natural solve problems in various
phenomena. fields.

Approach Structured and specific. Flexible and adaptable.

Empirical evidence and Broader, may include

Focus
measurable data. subjective insights.

Used in all disciplines,

Primarily used in natural
Applicability including social sciences
sciences.
and arts.

Always involves a testable May or may not include a

Hypothesis
hypothesis. hypothesis.

Includes diverse methods,

Focused on controlled
Methodology such as interviews or
experiments.
surveys.
Results lead to universal Findings may be context-
Conclusion
laws or theories. specific or exploratory.
Conclusion
The scientific method is a powerful tool for acquiring reliable and
objective knowledge. Its structured steps ensure that findings are
based on evidence rather than assumptions. The broader research
process, on the other hand, offers flexibility to address a wide range
of questions and problems across disciplines. While the two
approaches overlap, their differences make them suitable for
different types of investigations. Together, they contribute to the
advancement of human knowledge in complementary ways.

Q.2

Compare and contrast the type of research by method. why

and where we use the types (descriptive historical and
correlation research) to discuss the educational
phenomena?

Ans;

Comparing and Contrasting Types of Research by Method

Research can be categorized by method to explore different
phenomena in education or other fields. Here, we will compare and
contrast three key types: descriptive research, historical research,
and correlational research. Each has unique goals, methods, and
uses.
1. Descriptive Research
Definition:
Descriptive research aims to describe and document characteristics
of a population, event, or condition. It provides a detailed snapshot
of the current state without manipulating variables.
Features:
• Focuses on "what is" rather than "why it is."
• Data is collected through surveys, observations, or tests.
• It does not establish causal relationships.
Use in Education:
• To identify trends, such as how many students use technology
in learning.
• To describe behaviors or attitudes, such as teachers’ opinions
on curriculum reforms.
Example:
A survey on how students use online resources to prepare for exams.

2. Historical Research
Definition:
Historical research investigates past events, policies, or practices to
understand their causes, effects, and implications.
Features:
• Relies on primary and secondary sources, such as documents,
archives, and interviews.
• Helps identify patterns or lessons from the past.
• Requires critical analysis of sources for authenticity and bias.
Use in Education:
• To study the evolution of educational policies, like the
introduction of free education.
• To examine the historical role of women in education or the
effects of segregation.
Example:
Analyzing changes in teaching methodologies over the last century.

3. Correlational Research
Definition:
Correlational research examines relationships between two or more
variables to determine if they are associated. It does not imply
causation.
Features:
• Measures the strength and direction of relationships using
statistical tools.
• Identifies patterns but cannot determine why they exist.
• Uses numerical data collected through tests or records.
Use in Education:
• To explore the relationship between teacher qualifications and
student performance.
• To assess how study habits relate to academic achievement.
Example:
A study on whether students who spend more time studying have
higher grades.

Comparison of the Three Types

 Descriptive Historical Correlational
Aspect
Research Research Research

Identify
Describe current
Understand past relationships
Purpose states or
events or trends. between
conditions.
variables.

"What is "What happened "Are variables

Focus
happening?" and why?" related?"

Observational and Retrospective and Quantitative and

Nature
non-experimental. analytical. statistical.
Statistical
Surveys, Document
analysis,
Methods interviews, or analysis, archival
correlation
observations. research.
coefficients.

Shows
Easy to collect Provides context
relationships for
Strength current, real-time and lessons from
further
data. history.
exploration.
Cannot determine Dependent on
Does not establish
Limitation causes or availability of
cause-and-effect.
relationships. accurate records.

Where and Why to Use These Types in Education

1. Descriptive Research in Education
• Where: When understanding the current state of education
systems, resources, or practices is required.
• Why:
 o To identify needs for policy changes.
o To gain insights into behaviors and preferences of
students and teachers.
2. Historical Research in Education
• Where: When exploring the evolution of educational practices
or policies over time.
• Why:
o To avoid repeating past mistakes.
o To appreciate progress and identify factors that
contributed to successful reforms.
3. Correlational Research in Education
• Where: When seeking relationships between variables in
educational settings.
• Why:
o To inform intervention strategies.
o To predict outcomes based on existing patterns, such as
linking student attendance to grades.

Conclusion
Each type of research method serves unique purposes and is suitable
for specific educational phenomena. Descriptive research provides a
current snapshot, historical research offers insights from the past,
and correlational research identifies patterns and relationships for
prediction or further investigation. Using these methods wisely
enhances our understanding and helps address challenges in
education effectively.
Q.3

Define the concept of history and historical research. what

is the importance of internal and external criticism in
historical research also describing which primary source of
data from secondary source of data with examples.

Ans;

The Concept of History and Historical Research

History is the study of past events, individuals, institutions, and
societies to understand how they have shaped the present. It
explores the causes, effects, and contexts of events to provide
insights into human behavior and social development.
Historical Research is a systematic method of investigating past
events or phenomena to gain a deeper understanding of their
significance and implications. It involves collecting, analyzing, and
interpreting historical evidence to answer research questions or
solve problems related to the past.

Key Elements of Historical Research

1. Sources: Historical research relies on primary and secondary
sources to gather information.
2. Critical Analysis: Researchers evaluate the credibility and
reliability of sources.
3. Interpretation: Findings are interpreted to draw conclusions
about historical events or trends.
Internal and External Criticism in Historical Research
To ensure the reliability of historical research, it is essential to
critically evaluate the sources. This evaluation is done through
internal criticism and external criticism.
1. Internal Criticism
• Definition: Internal criticism evaluates the content of the
document or source to check its accuracy and consistency.
• Purpose: Determines whether the information in the source is
truthful and logical.
• Focus:
o Language, tone, and style of the document.
o Consistency with other known facts.
• Example: If a diary claims an event occurred on a specific date,
the researcher checks whether the details match other records
of the time.
2. External Criticism
• Definition: External criticism examines the authenticity and
origin of the source itself.
• Purpose: Verifies whether the source is genuine and not forged
or altered.
• Focus:
o Physical properties of the source (paper, ink,
handwriting).
o The source's author, time, and place of creation.
• Example: Analyzing the material of a medieval manuscript to
confirm it was written in the claimed period.
Primary and Secondary Sources in Historical Research
1. Primary Sources
• Definition: Primary sources are original, firsthand records
created during the time of the event or by someone directly
involved.
• Examples:
o Official documents (e.g., laws, treaties).
o Letters, diaries, and journals.
o Photographs, artifacts, and oral histories.
o Speeches, newspapers, or eyewitness accounts.
• Use in Historical Research: These sources provide direct
evidence and are essential for understanding events from the
perspective of people who experienced them.
2. Secondary Sources
• Definition: Secondary sources are interpretations, analyses, or
summaries of primary sources created by someone not directly
involved in the events.
• Examples:
o History books, articles, and biographies.
o Documentaries and encyclopedias.
o Reviews of original works or critical essays.
• Use in Historical Research: Secondary sources provide context,
explanations, and interpretations that help researchers analyze
primary sources.
Comparison of Primary and Secondary Sources

Aspect Primary Sources Secondary Sources

Nature Original, firsthand accounts. Interpretations or analyses.

Created by participants or Created by researchers or

Creator
witnesses. historians.

Purpose Provide direct evidence. Offer context or analysis.

A letter from a soldier A book analyzing the causes of
Example
during a war. the war.

Importance of Internal and External Criticism

• Ensures Credibility: Criticism helps verify the authenticity of
the source and the accuracy of its content.
• Avoids Bias: By examining sources critically, researchers can
identify and account for potential biases.
• Strengthens Conclusions: Reliable sources lead to more
trustworthy historical interpretations and findings.

Conclusion
Historical research is a vital tool for understanding the past and its
influence on the present. By distinguishing between primary and
secondary sources and applying internal and external criticism,
researchers ensure the validity and reliability of their findings. This
rigorous approach helps historians construct accurate narratives and
draw meaningful conclusions about human history.
Q.4

Distinguish experimental research from non experimental

research what are different experimental designed that can
be used to address educational issues?

Ans:

Distinguishing Experimental Research from Non-Experimental

Research
Research in education can broadly be divided into experimental and
non-experimental research. Both approaches help address different
types of questions and problems, but they differ in purpose,
methodology, and application.

1. Experimental Research
Definition:
Experimental research involves manipulating one or more variables
(independent variables) to observe their effects on other variables
(dependent variables). This approach uses a controlled environment
to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
Characteristics:
• Control: Researchers control variables to ensure that only the
manipulated variable affects the outcome.
• Manipulation: An independent variable is deliberately changed
to measure its impact.
 • Randomization: Participants are randomly assigned to groups
to minimize bias.
• Causality: Focused on determining cause-and-effect
relationships.
Example in Education:
Testing the effect of a new teaching method on student performance
by randomly assigning students to either the new method or the
traditional method.

2. Non-Experimental Research
Definition:
Non-experimental research observes phenomena as they naturally
occur without manipulation of variables. It aims to describe,
compare, or find relationships between variables.
Characteristics:
• No Manipulation: Researchers do not alter or control variables.
• Observation-Based: Relies on data collection through surveys,
observations, or archival records.
• Correlation, Not Causation: Identifies patterns or associations
but cannot prove cause-and-effect.
Example in Education:
Surveying teachers about their attitudes toward technology in
classrooms and analyzing the relationship between technology use
and job satisfaction.

Comparison of Experimental and Non-Experimental Research

 Non-Experimental
Aspect Experimental Research
Research

Establish cause-and- Describe phenomena or

Purpose
effect relationships. identify relationships.

Variables are
Variable Variables are observed as
manipulated and
Control they occur naturally.
controlled.

Random assignment is Randomization is not

Randomization
used to eliminate bias. required.

Can determine Shows correlation but not

Causality
causation. causation.
Testing a new teaching Surveying students about
Example
strategy. study habits.

Experimental Designs to Address Educational Issues

In education, experimental research designs are used to explore the
effectiveness of instructional methods, policies, or interventions. The
most commonly used designs include:

1. Pre-Experimental Design
• Definition: A basic form of experimental research with limited
control over variables.
• Characteristics:
o No random assignment of participants.
o Weak internal validity due to lack of controls.
 • Example in Education: A teacher tests a new reading program
in one class without comparing it to another class.

2. True Experimental Design

• Definition: A rigorous design with random assignment of
participants to groups and strict control of variables.
• Types:
o Posttest-Only Control Group Design: Groups are
randomly assigned, and the impact of the intervention is
measured after implementation.
o Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design: Measures are
taken both before and after the intervention.
• Example in Education: A school randomly assigns students to
use either a new math app or traditional worksheets, and their
performance is compared.

3. Quasi-Experimental Design
• Definition: Similar to true experimental design but without
random assignment.
• Characteristics:
o Suitable for real-world settings where randomization is
not feasible.
o Offers moderate control over variables.
• Types:
o Nonequivalent Control Group Design: Compares two
groups that were not randomly assigned.
 o Interrupted Time Series Design: Observes changes before
and after an intervention over time.
• Example in Education: Comparing the performance of students
in two schools, one of which implements a new curriculum.

4. Factorial Design
• Definition: Examines the effects of two or more independent
variables simultaneously.
• Characteristics:
o Analyzes interactions between variables.
o Requires complex experimental setups.
• Example in Education: Studying the combined effects of class
size and teacher experience on student outcomes.

5. Single-Subject Design
• Definition: Focuses on the detailed observation of a single
participant or a small group over time.
• Characteristics:
o Often used in special education or behavioral studies.
o Involves repeated measurements before, during, and
after an intervention.
• Example in Education: Observing how a behavior management
program impacts a single student with ADHD.

Applications of Experimental Designs in Education

Experimental designs help address educational issues by:
 • Evaluating the effectiveness of teaching methods or tools (e.g.,
online platforms).
• Testing new curricula or instructional strategies.
• Studying the impact of teacher training programs.
• Assessing interventions for improving student behavior or
motivation.

Conclusion
Experimental research is essential for understanding causal
relationships, while non-experimental research provides valuable
insights into trends, behaviors, and associations. The choice of
research design depends on the research question, the feasibility of
controlling variables, and the context of the study. By applying these
designs, educational researchers can develop evidence-based
solutions to improve teaching and learning processes.
Q.5

Define descriptive research. what are its major forms.

Strenghthen your answer with the example of different
type of descriptive research studies.

Ans:

Definition of Descriptive Research

Descriptive research is a type of research method that focuses on
providing an accurate and systematic description of a phenomenon,
population, or situation as it exists. It aims to answer the questions
"what is happening?" rather than "why it is happening." This
research does not manipulate variables or establish causal
relationships but instead observes, records, and analyzes data to
identify patterns and trends.

Major Forms of Descriptive Research

Descriptive research can take several forms, each suited to particular
types of inquiries. The major forms include survey research,
observational research, case studies, and developmental research.

1. Survey Research
• Definition: Survey research involves collecting data from a
large group of people through questionnaires, interviews, or
polls. It is commonly used to gather information about
opinions, behaviors, or characteristics of a population.
 • Characteristics:
o Provides quantitative or qualitative data.
o Can be cross-sectional (one point in time) or longitudinal
(over time).
o Suitable for large populations.
• Example:
A study surveying teachers’ opinions on the effectiveness of
online teaching tools during the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Observational Research
• Definition: Observational research involves studying individuals
or groups in their natural environment without intervention by
the researcher.
• Characteristics:
o Can be structured (predetermined categories of
observation) or unstructured (open-ended observation).
o Provides real-time data about behaviors or interactions.
• Example:
Observing students’ interactions in a collaborative learning
activity to understand group dynamics.

3. Case Studies
• Definition: A case study is an in-depth exploration of a single
individual, group, institution, or event to understand its unique
characteristics and contexts.
• Characteristics:
o Provides detailed qualitative insights.
 o Focuses on specific instances to understand broader
principles.
• Example:
A case study of a school that successfully implemented a new
teaching strategy to improve literacy rates among students
from low-income families.

4. Developmental Research
• Definition: Developmental research examines changes and
developments over time in individuals, groups, or systems. It
explores how and why growth occurs in specific contexts.
• Characteristics:
o Often uses longitudinal studies to track changes over
time.
o Focuses on patterns of growth, learning, or change.
• Example:
A study following students from kindergarten through high
school to assess the long-term impact of early childhood
education programs.

Examples of Descriptive Research Studies

To better understand the forms of descriptive research, let’s
consider examples:

Type Study Title Purpose

"Parental Attitudes Collects data about
Survey Research Toward Homework in parents' perceptions of
Elementary Schools" homework policies and
Type Study Title Purpose
their impact on
children.

Observes and compares

"Classroom Interaction
Observational student-teacher
Patterns in Traditional
Research interactions in physical
and Virtual Settings"
and online classrooms.

Explores how a specific

"Impact of a Mentorship
mentorship initiative
Program on the Academic
Case Study improved outcomes for
Performance of At-Risk
a small group of
High School Students"
students.

Analyzes how reading

"Tracking Reading Skill
Developmental abilities evolve over
Development from
Research time among elementary
Grades 1 to 5"
school students.

Strengths of Descriptive Research

• Provides Accurate Descriptions: It helps researchers
understand the current state of a phenomenon without bias or
manipulation.
• Flexible Data Collection: Researchers can use diverse tools
such as surveys, observations, and interviews.
• Exploratory Nature: Useful for exploring new areas of research
or identifying variables for future studies.
• Practical Applications: The findings can directly inform policies,
interventions, or improvements in educational practices.
Conclusion
Descriptive research plays a critical role in identifying trends,
behaviors, and characteristics in education and other fields. By
understanding its major forms—survey research, observational
research, case studies, and developmental research—researchers
can choose the appropriate approach to explore educational
phenomena. Each type provides unique insights, enriching our
understanding of "what is happening" and laying the groundwork for
further investigation.