1.
Introduction to Research Methodology
What is Research?
Research is a systematic process of investigating, analyzing, and interpreting information
to increase knowledge and find solutions to problems.
It is used in various disciplines, including science, social sciences, humanities, and
business.
Definition of Research Methodology
Research methodology is the framework of principles, methods, and techniques used to
conduct research. It explains the logic behind the methods chosen for data collection, analysis,
and interpretation.
Objectives of Research
1. To identify and define problems.
2. To review existing knowledge and find gaps.
3. To propose solutions based on evidence.
4. To develop new theories and models.
5. To predict future trends based on collected data.
2. Types of Research
A. Based on Purpose
1. Basic (Pure) Research
o Aims to expand general knowledge without immediate practical applications.
o Example: Studying the structure of a new molecule in chemistry.
2. Applied Research
o Focuses on solving practical problems using scientific methods.
o Example: Developing a new drug for a disease.
3. Action Research
o Conducted to improve practices in real-world settings, often used in education and
management.
o Example: Improving teaching methods through direct experimentation.
B. Based on Methodology
1. Quantitative Research
o Deals with numerical data, measurements, and statistical analysis.
o Example: A survey on customer satisfaction using a 5-point scale.
2. Qualitative Research
o Focuses on non-numerical data like opinions, feelings, and experiences.
o Example: Conducting interviews to understand consumer behavior.
3. Mixed-Method Research
o Combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches for a more comprehensive
study.
C. Based on Approach
1. Descriptive Research
o Describes characteristics, behaviors, and trends without manipulating variables.
o Example: Studying the demographics of university students.
2. Exploratory Research
o Investigates new areas where little prior knowledge exists.
o Example: Exploring the effects of artificial intelligence in education.
3. Experimental Research
o Involves controlled conditions to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
o Example: Testing a new fertilizer’s effect on crop yield.
4. Correlational Research
o Identifies relationships between two or more variables without establishing
causation.
o Example: Relationship between exercise and mental health.
3. Research Process
Step 1: Identifying the Research Problem
The problem must be specific, relevant, and researchable.
Example: "How does the use of nanoparticles affect dye degradation efficiency?"
Step 2: Review of Literature
Sources: Books, journals, conference papers, patents, and databases (Scopus, Web of
Science).
Purpose:
o Identifies research gaps.
o Helps refine research questions.
o Avoids duplication.
Step 3: Formulating Objectives and Hypothesis
Research Objectives: Define the purpose of research. Example: "To analyze the effect of
temperature on the dyeing process."
Hypothesis: A testable prediction.
o Null Hypothesis (H₀): No effect or no difference.
o Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): There is an effect or a difference.
Step 4: Research Design
Determines the structure of the study.
Types:
1. Exploratory Design (Used when the topic is new).
2. Descriptive Design (Used to describe facts).
3. Experimental Design (Used to test cause-effect relationships).
Step 5: Sampling Techniques
Sampling is selecting a subset of individuals from a population.
A. Probability Sampling (Random Selection)
1. Simple Random Sampling: Equal chance for all participants.
2. Stratified Sampling: Population divided into subgroups.
3. Cluster Sampling: Random selection of entire groups.
B. Non-Probability Sampling (Non-Random)
1. Convenience Sampling: Selecting available individuals.
2. Purposive Sampling: Choosing specific individuals based on criteria.
3. Snowball Sampling: Participants recruit more participants.
Step 6: Data Collection Methods
A. Primary Data (First-hand Information)
1. Surveys and Questionnaires (Close-ended and open-ended).
2. Interviews (Structured, Semi-structured, Unstructured).
3. Experiments (Controlled, Field, and Laboratory experiments).
B. Secondary Data (Pre-existing Information)
1. Published Research Papers (Scopus, Web of Science).
2. Reports and Government Databases.
3. Books, Theses, and Dissertations.
Step 7: Data Analysis Techniques
Quantitative Analysis:
o Descriptive Statistics (Mean, Median, Mode).
o Inferential Statistics (Regression, ANOVA, T-test).
Qualitative Analysis:
o Thematic Analysis (Identifying patterns in qualitative data).
o Content Analysis (Examining texts, interviews).
Step 8: Drawing Conclusions and Recommendations
Interpret results based on objectives.
Recommendations for future research.
Step 9: Report Writing & Presentation
Standard Research Report Structure
1. Title – Reflects the study's topic.
2. Abstract – A brief summary (150-250 words).
3. Introduction – Background, problem statement, objectives.
4. Methodology – Research design, data collection methods.
5. Results and Discussion – Findings, statistical analysis.
6. Conclusion – Summary of key results.
7. References – Citations in APA, MLA, or IEEE format.
4. Research Ethics
Informed Consent: Participants must agree to take part voluntarily.
Plagiarism Avoidance: Properly cite all sources.
Data Confidentiality: Protect participant identity.
Honesty in Data Reporting: No manipulation of results.
5. Common Research Tools & Software
SPSS (Statistical analysis).
MATLAB (Mathematical computing).
NVivo (Qualitative data analysis).
EndNote, Zotero (Reference management).
