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RESEARCH MODULE: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
CHAPTER 4
INTRODUCTION
Overview
Now that you have identified your research problem and come up with a
research title, this time you have to explore the first chapter of your research
paper. This section should capture the attention of your reader, providing them
a glimpse or background of your research topic.
This chapter contains a comprehensive description of the following:

 Background of the Study
 Conceptual and Theoretical Framework
 Hypothesis/Assumption
 Significance of the Study
 Scope and delimitation of the Study
 Definition of Terms
*Note: Although the statement of the problem is separately discussed, it is still
part of the Introduction.
Objectives: At the end of this chapter, the students will be able to:
1. Elaborate on the basic concepts in writing the background of the study.
2. Develop the Conceptual and Theoretical Framework of the study.
3. Identify the Hypothesis or Research Assumption.
4. Determine the benefits and scope and delimitation of the study.
5. Define the terms used in the research.
6. Write Chapter 1 of the research proposal.
Lesson 1 – Background of the Study
Pre-discussion
What is your favorite movie character? Search background information of
CUDERA RB, TABARES MNC, DALAYAP RM, MAYO RE, BANGONON M / COMPILER 58
the famous artist. What do you like most about that person? How can you
relate this activity to the topic of the lesson?
What to expect?
At the end of the lesson, the students will be able to:
1. Discuss the essential elements of the background of the study.
2. Formulate the background of the study.
Lesson Outline
The Background of the Study
This section is very important in establishing the cognitive setting of the

research and it involves (a) discussing why there is a need to study the
problem, (b) clarifying the important terminologies for the reader to easily
understand what the research is about, and (c) establishing the degree of
seriousness of the problem which has prompted the researcher to look for
solutions.
The following questions will aid the researcher in formulating the

introduction:
1. What is the rationale for the research problem?

This question is answered by sharing with the beneficiaries the reasons
why the researcher has decided to look for solutions to the problem. A
narration of the researcher’s experience that has driven him/her to conduct the
study is commonly done.
Examples: Include one's personal experience, an article read, a scene

witnessed, news heard, a theory that needs to be clarified, etc. The research
proponent should describe the existing and prevailing problem situation based
on his/her experience. The scope may be local, national, or international.
2. What is the setting of the research problem?

The setting forms part of the delimitation of the problem, as it defines the
geographic boundaries of the study and implies certain demographic
characteristics. This describes to the reader the place where the research is
conducted since the setting has a significant bearing on the variables being
studied.
In describing the setting focus on the peculiarity or uniqueness of the
setting to make the reader more interested in reading the paper.
Example: If the setting is a school, discuss its vision-mission, special

clientele, unique mode of student transport, etc.
3. What is the basic literature foundation of the study?

This is different from the review of related theories, conceptual literature,
and research literature. This part defines or clarifies the terms or variables
used in the study. The terms and variables must be clear to the researcher so
that he/she can make his/her reader understand them as well. This
backgrounder assists the researcher in determining the boundaries of the
study.
4. How serious is the chosen research problem?

Why there is a need to look for solutions to the problem? In this aspect, the
researcher must see the intensity and magnitude of the problem. When the
gravity of the problem has already been determined, the researcher may take
action and work on the problem. He/She also looks for statistical or quantitative
evidence to assess the weight of the problem.
5. What is the general objective of the research problem?

This is derived from the general statement of the problem and should be
the basis of the enumerated statements of specific problems.
6. What is the overall purpose of the research problem?

It must be stressed that the researcher should be aware of the purpose of
the research problem. He/She must know how the research findings will help
his/her classmates or fellow students.
Example 1: Cultural and Ecological Significance of Odonata (Insecta) to the

T’boli of Lake Sebu, Mindanao Philippines (Cudera et al., 2020).
At present, 300 million indigenous peoples occupy one-fourth of the

Earth’s surface, wherein 80% of their territories belong to the global priority
area (Sobrevila 2017). Indigenous people’s lives are profoundly intertwined
with nature as it serves as their primary source of life support. The market
value of indigenous traditional knowledge is estimated to cost $43 billion in
1985 (Principe 1989). Drug companies and food industries have utilized and
marketed products traditionally used by the indigenous peoples such as the
rosy periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) to cure diabetes and Stevia rebaudiana
to sweeten drinks, coffee, and tea (Posey and Dutfeld 1996).
However, the documentation of indigenous knowledge and the uses of
insects are still under-studied despite being promoted by the Food and
Agricultural Organization (van Huis et al. 2013). Although the information on
edible insects is available in some Asia Pacific countries, the data remain
fragmented (Yen 2015). Published data in Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, and
Taiwan are limited (Johnson 2010), and knowledge gaps still exist in Australia,
Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, and Vietnam.
In many cultures, the importance of insects is portrayed in the different
aspects of people’s lives. Indigenous peoples in Australia use insects as baits,
medicines, poisons, adornments, toys, indicators of meteorological and other
ecological phenomena, and in technology (Turpin et al. 2013). In some regions
of Australia, insects are featured in their mythology, songs, ceremonies, and
names of places and persons. As such, Hercus (1989, 1992) remarks that the
collection and preparation of insect species were shrouded by mystery and
prohibitions.
Evidently, insects are an important source of food in many cultures.
Entomophagy or the practice of eating insects as food is the most familiar use
of insects in Latin America, Africa, and Asia (Raheem et al. 2018). Globally,
the most commonly eaten insects belong to the orders of Coleoptera (beetles,
often the larvae) (31%), followed by the Lepidoptera (caterpillars) (18%),
Hymenoptera (larval and pupal stages of wasps, bees, and ants) (14%),
Orthoptera (adult crickets, grasshoppers, and locusts) (13%), Hemiptera (true
bugs) (10%), Isoptera (termites) (3%), Odonata (dragonflies) (3%), Diptera
(flies) (2%), and others (5%) (van Huis et al. 2013). As shown in the data,
Odonata, the focus of this research, is the least consumed. The shift to a
Westernized diet and urbanization resulted in the decline in insect
consumption among countries, such as the Philippines, with a long-standing
history of entomophagy (van Huis 2013).
The Order Odonata of Class Insecta is divided into two suborders namely
Zygoptera (damselflies) and Anisoptera (true dragonflies). This group spends
its time both in water and on land during its life cycle making it an important link
between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (Kalkman et al. 2008). Its
sensitivity to environmental conditions makes Odonata an excellent indicator

of wetland health and diversity (Klym and Quinn 2003). Furthermore, Odonata
provides diverse and wide-ranging ecosystem services and benefits. It plays a
role in decomposition and nutrient cycling (Macadam and Stockan 2015). It
also serves as both prey and predator, thus maintaining the balance of trophic
levels in the food chain (Das et al. 2012). This is elaborated in the study of
Jacob et al. (2017) suggesting that the Odonata larvae might control the
population of other insects such as mosquitoes. Aside from its ecological
importance, the value of Odonata is expressed through its cultural functions. It
is said to have inspired artistic expression through paintings and poetry and
depicted good omens or protection against death in some societies (Simaika
and Samways 2008; May 2019).
In the Philippines, the Odonata studies started almost two (2) centuries
ago with the description of Trithemis aurora. The expeditions of Dr. Carl
Gottfried Semper (1859-1865) and Dr. Med. G. Boettcher (1913-1918)
including the local collection in the University of the Philippines (1920-the
1930s) led to the rich taxonomical knowledge on the Philippine dragonfly fauna
(Hämäläinen and Müller 1997). Filipino entomologists including Gapud and
Recuenco (1993), Plateros (Unpublished data 1972), and Barrion (1979) have
made significant contributions to Odonatology. Recently, in Mindanao, works
on Odonata focus on the dragonfly's morphological variation (Demayo et al.
2011; Tabugo et al. 2011), while biodiversity studies on Odonata was provided
by Villanueva (Villanueva and Mohagan 2010; Villanueva and Cahilog 2012a,
b; Jomoc et al. 2013; Mapi-ot et al. 2013; Quisil et al. 2013; Villanueva et al.
2013; Caparoso et al. 2016). Despite the aforementioned scientific
explorations, however, available data on the utilization of Odonata by the
indigenous people in Mindanao are still limited; thereby prompting the
researchers to conduct this study.
This study aims to document the indigenous knowledge, systems, and
practices of Odonata of the T'boli, one of the ethnolinguistic groups in Lake
Sebu, South Cotabato. The study examines the people's utilization of Odonata
as food and medicine and the insects' symbolic significance to T'boli culture
and literature. In doing so, this study seeks to contribute to the existing
literature on Odonata in general and fill the gaps in the documentation of the
rich culture of T'boli in particular.
In the published article of Cudera et al. (2020), the first and second
paragraphs focused on the rationale of the research problem. The setting of
the research problem is mentioned in the sixth paragraph. The basic literature
foundation of the study and the seriousness of the chosen research are found
in the first to sixth paragraphs. While the general objectives of the research
problem and the overall purpose of the research problem are found in the
seventh paragraph.
Summary
The introduction establishes the cognitive setting of the research and

involves discussing the need to study the problem, clarifying important
terminologies, and establishing the degree of seriousness of the problem. The
following should be determined to come up with an effective introduction: the
rationale of the problem, the setting of the problem, the basic literature
foundation of the study, the seriousness of the chosen problem, the general
objective of the problem, and the overall purpose of the problem.
Assessment
Read the examples of the background of the study of some of the
researchers of Sultan Kudarat State University. Identify the essential elements
of the background of the study.
Research article 1.
Enhancing Lake Resources in Mindanao, the Philippines to Support Green

AgroIndustry (Ortuoste, 2017).
Green technology evokes images of pristine waters, clean air, productive

soils, and lush vegetation. Green technology is a dynamic process that aims to
achieve all these, by generating technologies that are least impactful and most
regenerative to natural resources, organisms, and the environment in general.
It encompasses sustainability, source reduction, innovation, and viability
(Burgos, 2013).
Lake Buluan is the third largest lake in Mindanao, with a surface area of
6,500 ha. It lies southeast of Buluan town and east of Municipality of Tacurong,
Sultan Kudarat within the territorial jurisdiction of Buluan, Maguindanao, and
Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat. A large portion of the lake (nearly 90%) lies in Buluan
while the rest lies in Lutayan and is bordered by thirteen lakeshore barangays.
Lake Buluan is a shallow, eutrophic lake (depth of 3-6meters) characterized
by high primary productivity which favors the growth of abundant littoral
vegetation and a dense plankton population. Although Baluyot (1982) reported
an estimated first yield of 1,600 kg/ha, the fish catch has been declining due to
heavy siltation and sedimentation caused by the denudation of the watershed
area.
The shallowing of the lake is aggravated by the overgrowth and dominance
of littoral vegetation such as Eichornia crassipes (water hyacinth), Ipomea
reptans, Ipomea acquatica (swamp cabbage) Nymphaea nouchalii (water lily)
and Pistia striates.
Among its aquatic vegetation, water hyacinth is the most abundantly

thriving and seriously affecting the lake's productivity. When not controlled,
water hyacinth will cover large areas for fishing, block navigations, smother
aquatic life by deoxygenating the water, and reduces nutrients and sunlight
penetration for algal production. They also serve as habitats for vectors of
diseases.
The removal of water hyacinth by chemical and biological control poses
risks to the environment and has met limited success. Currently, the most
effective control method remains the control of excessive nutrients and the
prevention of the spread of this species. A water hyacinth infestation is seldom
totally eradicated but it can be continually managed by finding ways to benefit
from this resource. In some areas, uses have been found for this invasive
species for cattle's food and biogas production, wastewater treatment, and
recently, for handicraft production. Restoring the productivity of Lake Buluan
must begin by dealing with the control and judicious utilization of its aquatic
vegetation.
Enrichment
To help you formulate an effective Introduction to your proposed study,
exhaustively answer the following items with proper referencing.
1. State the rationale of your research problem. Start from the international
context down to the local or personal circumstance.
2. Describe the setting where your study is to be conducted.
3. Indicate the terms or concepts that need to be defined, clarified, or

described to your reader.
4. Search for related literature that you can use to define the main concepts of
your study. Collect at least three (3) references per variable. Write down the
definitions.
5. Determine the seriousness of your research problem. Show the statistical

evidence of its gravity. Give the complete details of the references.
6. State the general objectives of the research study.
7. After the research has been conducted or the problem has been solved,
identify the people or entities that will benefit from the research and the direct
benefits they will get from it
Lesson 2 – The Conceptual / Theoretical Framework
Pre-discussion
Sir Isaac Newton is a son of a farming family and is hailed as one of

the most influential scientists in history. He is associated with the quotation "If I
have seen further, it is by standing upon the shoulder of giants." This quote is
from a letter written to a fellow scientist, Robert Hooke in February 1675. The
phrase is understood to mean that if Newton had been able to discover more
about the universe than others, then it was because he was working in the light
of discoveries made by fellow scientists, either in his own time or earlier. How
is the quotation related to the Theoretical Framework of the study?
Figure 9. A famous quote from Isaac Newton.
What to expect?
1. Identify the research variables.
2. Formulate the conceptual/theoretical framework of the study.
3. Construct a diagram representing the conceptual/theoretical framework
of the study.
Lesson Outline
Research Variables
After crafting the statement of the problem, you can also start identifying
your research variables. A variable is any factor or property that a researcher
measures, controls, and/or manipulates. It is also the changing quantity or
measure of any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or
types. It is also a logical set of attributes, characteristics, numbers, or
quantities that can be measured or counted.
Groups of Variables
1. Categorical variables – are variables with values that describe a quality
or characteristic of a data unit like “what type” or “which category”.
a. Ordinal variables – variables are logically ordered or ranked.
Example: academic grades such as A, B, C; clothing size such as X,
L, M, S; and measures of attitudes like strongly agree, agree,
disagree, or strongly disagree.
b. Nominal variables – variables cannot be organized in a logical
sequence.
Example: Business types, eye colors, kind of religion, and types of
learners.
c. Dichotomous variables – variables representing only two categories.
Example: Gender (male and female), Answer (yes or no),
employment status (employed, unemployed)
d. Polychotomous variables - variables with many categories.
Example: Educational attainment (elementary, high school, college,
graduate, and postgraduate), level of performance (excellent, very
good, good, satisfactory, or poor).
2. Numeric variables – variables with values that describe a measurable

numerical quantity and answer “how many” or “how much”.
a. Continuous variables – or also known as internal variables. It

assumes any value between a certain set of real numbers
Example: time, age, temperature, height, and weight
b. Discrete variables – variables that assume any whole value within
the limits of the given variables.
Example: number of registered cars, number of children in the
family.
3. Experimental variables
a. Independent variables – variables that are manipulated in the
experiment
b. Dependent variables – variables that are affected by the
manipulation of the independent variables.
c. Extraneous variables – mediating or intervening variables. These
variables are already existing during the conduct of an experiment
and could influence the result of the study
Example: Title of Research: An Experiment on the Methods of
Teaching and Language Achievement among Elementary Pupils
Independent variable: Method of teaching
Dependent variable: Language achievement
Extraneous variable: Ventilation facilities, physical ambiance
4. Non-experimental variables
a. Predictor variables – these variables change the other variable/s in a
non-experimental study.
b. Criterion variables – these variables are usually influenced by the
predictor variables.
Examples:
Title of Research: Competencies of Teachers and Students’
Behavior in Selected Private Schools
Predictor variable: Competencies of teachers
Criterion variable: Student’s behavior
Theoretical and Conceptual Framework
What is a Framework?
A framework is similar to a skeleton. It is a basic structure or frame of
reference which is designed to support or enclosed something. As a skeleton
gives shape, form, and strength to the body so it can stand erect, so do the
different concepts and theories. These concepts and theories serve as the
building blocks (or the “skeleton”) for the foundation of the study.
Theoretical Framework
The theoretical framework which may be formulated from an existing
theory/ies serves as the foundation of the study. In such a case, the paradigm
that is originally used by the theorist can be fully adopted in the present study. It
can also be adapted since the researcher can add or subtract variables from
the original framework, provided the whole theory is utilized.
The word “theory” is derived from the Greek word, theoria which means
"vision." a theory is a conceptual idea that is used to describe, explain, predict,
or understand a certain phenomenon. It defines non-observable constructs that
are inferred from observable facts and events that are among variables for
purposes of explaining a current state or predicting future events. A theory,
therefore, is primarily concerned with determining the cause-effect relationship.
Thus, a good theory expands vision and guides thinking, professional practice,
and research.
In the formulation of a theoretical framework, relevant theories must be
provided. The researcher cites and discusses related theories that serve as the
foundation of the variables and their relationship to make the study more
scientific and understandable, especially to the readers. The researcher
mention theories, including the name of the authors, titles of their theories,
theoretical principle, and their explanations. When this requirement has been
satisfied the concluding portion is the relationship of the used, established
theory to the present study.
Conceptual Framework
The explanation of the scope and range of a concept or construct can be

done even without a theory or, in some cases, with a combination of two or
more theories which lead to a researcher’s formulated framework. This is called
a conceptual framework. It is largely based on theories or parts of theory
combined with other parts of another theory, or an intellectual synthesis of the
various readings of the researcher. It guides the researcher by giving them
clear direction to the research.
The paradigm of the Study

The result of the conceptual or theoretical framework is a diagrammatic
presentation of the study called a paradigm.
Merriam-Webster (2006) defines a paradigm as a pattern, model, or set of
forms that contain particular elements. It is the researcher's scientific
imagination expressed graphically by drawings or sketches. In scientific work,
the symbols must be specific in meaning. The usual figures used are regular
shapes (rectangles, circles, and squares), lines, and arrows. Irregular shapes
are sometimes utilized and there must be an acceptable rationale for them. The
paradigm is something like a visual representation of the entire thesis. It is
considered the heart of the research paper. A title is needed to encapsulate the
whole paradigm.
The common paradigms or models of the study used are as follows:
1. IPO Model (input-process-output).

This model is largely used when the research attempts to isolate the factor
or major variable that causes the problem, subject, or phenomenon under
investigation. This model is used when the statements are all factor-isolating
questions.
Example: Sample of IPO Model Entrepreneurs’ Roles Toward Improved Work

Performance
2. IV-DV model (independent variable-dependent variable model). This

model is used in experiment-based studies. The questions raised are
higher-order and classified as situation relating.
Example: Sample IV-DV Model for the Effects of Computer-assisted Instruction

and Demonstration Method on the Level of Performance of Grade 12 Students
3. PC model (predictor-criterion model). This model is used when relating

and assessing the influence of two or more variables. Studies that focus on the
relationship, associated differences, and impacts will benefit from this model.
Example: Sample PC Model for the Relationship of the Teaching Competence

of Senior High School Teachers to The Level of Performance of ABM Students
4. -P model. This model is used in research studies that propose a program or

any intervention measure. It fits the situation producing the level of questioning.
Example 1. Sample -P Model of the Proposed Program for Improved Quality

Service of Entrepreneurs
Example 2. Sample -P Model for Teaching Competence of Instructor and the

Level of Performance of Students Towards the Formulation of The Faculty
Development Program
Summary
Once the researcher has established the statement of the problem,

research variables should be identified. A variable is any factor or property that
a researcher measures, controls, and/or manipulates in a research study. The
different classifications of research variables are as follows: nominal can be
continuous or discrete), categorical (can be ordinal or discrete and
dichotomous or polychotomous), experimental (can be independent,
dependent, or extraneous), non-experimental (can be predictor or criterion)
and variables according to the number being studied (can be univariate,
bivariate or polyvariate). These variables are important in crafting the
conceptual and theoretical framework of the study. There are varied paradigms
that can be used such as the IPO Model (input-process-output), IV-DV model
(independent variable – dependent variable model), PC model
(predictor-criterion model), and the -P model.
Assessment
A. Identify what type of variable the following examples below

1. Emotional Intelligence
2. Honor rolls
3. Width
4. Spiritual practices
5. Sex
6. Level of addiction
7. Absences
8. Values
9. Death rate
10. Degree of agreement
B. Read the title and identify what type of experimental variable is being
referred to.
Research Title Independent Dependent

Variable Variable
Reciprocal Peer Tutoring its Effect
on Mathematics Achievement and
Attitude of Engineering Science
Education Program Students
Effect of Types of Soil and Fertilizer
on the Growth of Papaya Tree
C. Read the title and identify what type of non-experimental variable is being
referred to.
Research Title Independent Dependent
Variable Variable
Profile of Parents and Family
Bonding: Their Influence on Study
Habits and Achievement Level
Types of Business and Managerial
Skill Towards Profitability Level of
Canteens
Enrichment
1. Work with your proposed study and identify different theories related to your
study. List down the three theories including the theorists, theory statements,
and explanations. Make sure to include the references.
2. Write the proposed paradigm of the study with its explanation.
Lesson 3 – The Significance and the Scope and Delimitation of the Study
Pre-discussion
Why do we do research? Most of us are always informed that research

could provide us with new knowledge and discovery. Two (2) of our faculty
researchers in SKSU Kalamansig Campus namely Dr. Julie E. Albano and Dr.
Rande Dechavez together with other researchers in the country and abroad
have made a significant contribution by discovering a giant shipworm in the
Philippines. The shipworm is not a worm at all, but a bivalve - like mussels and
clams - and has its own brittle, tusk-like shell. The discovery of the giant
shipworm, a species never before studied, marked the first time scientists had
live specimens in hand, according to an article published this week in the
American journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
What to expect?
1. Write the hypothesis or assumption of the study.
2. Cite the potential benefits of the study.
3. Write the scope and delimitation of the study.
4. Define the important terms used in the study.
Lesson Outline
Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a tentative prediction about the relationship between two or
more variables in a population under study as mentioned by Polit (2007). It
translates the research question into a prediction of expected outcomes. It is
commonly used in experiment-type research, formulated particularly before
the conduct of experiment-quantitative research. It is regarded as an intelligent
guess that occurs with at least two (2) variables: one is independent and the
other is dependent. It is only after the experimentation that the researcher can
finally assess if his/her guess is correct or not. When the result of the
experiment is the same as the hypothesis, then the hypothesis is accepted.
When the result of the study is the exact opposite of the hypothesis, then the
hypothesis is rejected.
The most common type of hypothesis is the Null hypothesis. It is a

hypothesis formulated for statistical analysis and is always expressed as a
negative statement. It is subjected to testing in which the decision is either to
accept or reject it.
Example: A hypothesis formulated in the study entitled Probabilistic Measure of

Microbial Quality of Vending Machine.
H01: There is no significant difference in the level of microbial growth in
vending machines when grouped by:
1.1 Location
1.2 Session of the day
H02: The predicting variables cannot significantly influence the level of
microbial growth in vending machines.
Propositions or Assumptions
Propositions or assumptions are used in qualitative research instead of
hypothesis. In other institutions, propositions are part of the introduction and
others consider these in the review of related literature since these are
generated after reviewing other related literature.
The assumption is also similar to the hypothesis, it means the tentative
answer, wise guess, or predictions of previously unknown data similar to
hypotheses but assumptions do not need a statistical test to prove the
relationship of the cause and effect but is aimed to explain and strengthen the
description. It does not prove causality or association and may necessarily be
the basis for the generalization or making a conclusion.
Example:
Thematic assumption – Self-acceptance brings about openness to poverty and

optimism to surpass trials together with the family.
Significance of the Study

Since research is a time-consuming but worthwhile undertaking, its
significance must be clarified- i.e., how important is the problem being
investigated? It is a vital question that needs an answer or a solution? The
researcher should also consider these questions: Why should my study be
published? What significant scientific contribution is my study making to my
field of research? Importantly, the significance of the study should also be

written with a non-expert in mind.
When we speak of the significance of the study, we are identifying the
beneficiaries and the benefits it will give when the problem is solved. The
beneficiaries include the individuals like students, pupils, teachers, doctors,
principals, parents, and others; the government; non-governmental
organizations; and even a private institution. It is also important to note that the
benefits these entities will receive from the research vary from personal
benefits to multi-faceted benefits.
The sequence of the beneficiaries of the research starts from the most
benefited to the least benefited. The benefits must be specific and arranged
according to the degree of significance.
Tips in Writing the Significance of the Study

Here are the tips that may be helpful when writing the significance of the study.
These tips will tell you the basic components expected to be seen in the
significance of the study content.
1. Refer to the Problem Statement
In writing the significance of the study, always refer to the statement of the
problem. This way, you can clearly define the contribution of your study. To
simplify, your research should answer this question, “What are the benefits or
advantages of the study based on the statement of the problem?”
If you ask the question "How has the new packaging affected the sales of the
product?" then the contribution of your research would probably be a
packaging style or technology that can help the store increase its sales. Your
study should demonstrate that the product's packaging influences the buyer's
perception and affects their purchase decision.
2. Write it from General to Particular
Determine the specific contribution of your thesis study to society as well

as to the individual. Write it deductively, starting from general to specific. Start
your significance of the study broadly then narrow it out to a specific group or
person. This is done by looking into the general contribution of your study,
such as its importance to society as a whole, then moving towards its
contribution to individuals like yourself as a researcher.
Example:
Title: Number of Clinical Internship Hours: A Determinant of Student’s
Effectiveness and Skill Acquisition in the Hospital Area for Velez
College Students

The results of the study will be of great benefit to the following:
College of Nursing Dean. Data given will provide the dean with information
on how the number of duty hours in a week affects the student's academic and
RLE performance. The results will enable the dean to improve the scheduling
of RLE and different academic subjects. Data gathered will help the dean
initiate collaboration among faculty and chairpersons to help plan the
advancement of nursing education about the new curriculum.
Clinical Instructors. The results of the study will help the clinical instructors
evaluate the quality of care rendered by the nursing students, academic
performance, attitude, and skills acquired in the number of hours given in a
week. Results would also develop the clinical instructor's teaching-learning
and evaluating strategies in enhancing knowledge, skills, and attitude to the
students in the time frame given.
Students. This study will provide information regarding which time

arrangement is effective: 8-hr of clinical internship from the 5-hr clinical
internship with additional academic classes. This study will evaluate the
academic performance, the student nurse's attitude and approach, the skills
learned in the clinical area, and the quality of care rendered in the given time
frame. Data gathered will also help the students improve both academic and
clinical performance.
The Scope and Delimitation of the Study

The scope is the coverage of the study while delimitation pertains to the
boundaries of the study. You should set what should be the boundary or limit of
the issues or concerns, who are your target subjects or participants
(respondents), the period covered, the place to focus, and what data you are
going to use, quantitative, qualitative, or a combination of both.
In formulating the "scope and delimitation," it is essential that a researcher
has already defined the major variables of the study which are contained in the
title of the research and the general statement of the problem.
Setting clear the scope and delimitation aids the reader in the expected
output. Those which are not covered in the study shall remind the reader of
some constraints beyond the control of the researcher. Setting boundaries
cautions the reader not to expect beyond the coverage of the study.
Example:
Anti-poverty programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development
and the beneficiaries' lives and challenges
This study deals with the anti-poverty programs of the Department of Social
Welfare and Development and the beneficiaries' lives and challenges.
Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions:

1. What are the anti-poverty programs of the Department of Social Welfare
and Development?
2. What are the changes in the lives of the beneficiaries after the program
implementation?
3. What are the challenges encountered during the implementation?
So based on the given statement of the problem, your scope and delimitation
look like this….
This study covers the anti-poverty programs of the Department of Social
Welfare and Development and how the lives of the beneficiaries are changed
after the implementation including the challenges encountered.
This will be conducted in selected communities in the municipalities of Sto.

Nino and Banga in the province of South Cotabato from December 25, 2015, to
February 14, 2016. Only those beneficiaries who have completed the program
are included in the target place if they are coming from other municipalities
benefiting from the same program before their transfer.
Definition of Terms
The most significant part which can guide the researcher in undertaking
the study is the concrete definition of the term. In publishing the research, the
definition of terms is not necessary. However, this is very important to clearly
define all your variables. These variables are the terms used in the study which
can create confusion because they have two or more meanings.
The defined terms help establish rules and procedures for the conduct of
the study. There are two types of definitions, the conceptual and the
operational definition of terms. The conceptual definition of terms is the
process where the definition is taken from the dictionary. Operational definition
of terms is the use of measurable characteristics set by the research to clearly
illustrate the meaning of the terms in the study. In research, an operational
definition of terms is used.
Example
1. Conceptual definition of the term briquette
Briquette – a compacted often brick-shaped mass of usually fine material
(Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
2. Operational definition of the term briquette

Briquette - flammable and brick-like in structure and are made from agricultural
waste that is commonly found and generated within the locality of Tacurong
City, Sultan Kudarat.
Here are some tips for organizing your operational definition of terms.
1. Examine your statement of the problem. Take all the terms used in the study
except the articles, from the general statement up to the specific problem.
2. Alphabetize and define them according to their function in your study.

3. In defining the terms, use introductory terms such as: “in this study”, “it
refers to” or simply use the hyphen (-).
4. Only the terms used in the title, in the statement of the problems, and the
methodology need to be defined.
Summary
In writing the Introduction, it is important to consider the research

hypothesis or assumption, the significance of the study, scope, and
delimitation as well as the definition of terms.
The significance of the study identifies the beneficiaries and the expected
benefits that will result from the study. While the scope and delimitation of the
study pertain to the boundaries of the study. And lastly, the researcher should
define operationally the terms commonly mentioned in the title, statement of
the problem, or methodologies serving as a guide for both the researchers and
the readers.
Assessment
Task: Continue working with your proposed study and write the following:
1. Write a null hypothesis if you are proposing quantitative research or a
proposition if your study is qualitative research. (Based on your Statement of
the Problem).
2. Review and answer the checklist in preparing the significance of the study. If
"Yes" is the majority answer, then arrange them in a paragraph and the
composition becomes significant to the study. After your evaluation, state the
significance of the study (state the beneficiaries and in what way they will
benefit from the research).
No Indicators of the Significance of the Study Yes No Later

1 Is it timely or current?
2 Can it contribute to the filling up of knowledge gaps?
3 Is it broad enough to touch on the interest of varied
groups or social, economic, and health issues such as
unemployment, income misdistribution, aggression,
etc.?
4 Can it help build, validate or refine prevailing theories?
5 Does it affect particular sectors of the community like
mothers, etc.?
6 Can it help solve the pressing issues in certain areas?
7 Can it be of help in refining concepts, and improving
research instrumentation and methodologies?
8 Can it relate to other programs like poverty reduction
or climate change and other concerns?
9 Is it a concern or problem of top government officials,
medical doctors, or other professionals?
10 Does it directly or indirectly contribute in a short or long
period to the welfare of people in society as a whole?
3. Write the scope and delimitation of the study.
4. Define operationally the terms used in the study. (Only those terms used in
the title and the specific problem statements)
Enrichment
You are now expected to have an initial draft of Chapter 1 of your proposed
research. Encode your output in A4 bond paper, Font style, and size: Arial 12,
Margin: Left: 1.5 in, Top: 1 in, Right: 1 in, and Bottom: 1 in.
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Conceptual and Theoretical Framework
Statement of the Problem
Hypothesis / Assumption
Scope and Limitation of the Study
Definition of Terms
Reference
Accad, A.S. & Accad, M.F. (2016). Qualitative Methods of Research. Kampana
Publishing House, Inc.
Cristobal, A.P. & De La Cruz-Cristobal, M.C. (2017). Practical Research for

Senior High School. C&E Publishing, Inc.
Cudera, R.B., Razon, B.C. & Millondaga KJI. (2020). Cultural and ecological
significance of Odonata (Insecta) to the T'boli of Lake Sebu, Mindanao,
Philippines. Biodiversitas, 21: 2536-2554.
Cueva, D. (2020). Significance of the Study Samples Writing Tips. Retrieved.

September 22, 2020, from https://topnotcher.ph/writing-the-best-
significance-of-the-study.
Ortuoste, J.D. (2017). Enhancing Lake Resources in Mindanao, Philippines to

Support Green AgroIndustry. Proceedings: The 3rd International
Conference on Green Agro-Industry (ICGAI). ISBN: 978-602-6248-26-8
Scientists find giant shipworm in the Philippines. Retrieved: September 22,

2020, from https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/scientists-find-giant-
shipworm-in-philippines.
Sir Isaac Newton. Retrieved: September 22, 2020, from https://www.bbc.co.uk/

worldservice/learningenglish/movingwords/shortlist/newton.shtml.

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RESEARCH MODULE: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

This chapter contains a comprehensive description of the following:

Lesson 1 – Background of the Study

What is your favorite movie character? Search background information of

The Background of the Study

This section is very important in establishing the cognitive setting of the

The following questions will aid the researcher in formulating the

1. What is the rationale for the research problem?

Examples: Include one's personal experience, an article read, a scene

2. What is the setting of the research problem?

Example: If the setting is a school, discuss its vision-mission, special

3. What is the basic literature foundation of the study?

4. How serious is the chosen research problem?

5. What is the general objective of the research problem?

6. What is the overall purpose of the research problem?

Example 1: Cultural and Ecological Significance of Odonata (Insecta) to the

At present, 300 million indigenous peoples occupy one-fourth of the

sensitivity to environmental conditions makes Odonata an excellent indicator

The introduction establishes the cognitive setting of the research and

Enhancing Lake Resources in Mindanao, the Philippines to Support Green

Green technology evokes images of pristine waters, clean air, productive

Among its aquatic vegetation, water hyacinth is the most abundantly

2. Describe the setting where your study is to be conducted.

3. Indicate the terms or concepts that need to be defined, clarified, or

5. Determine the seriousness of your research problem. Show the statistical

6. State the general objectives of the research study.

Sir Isaac Newton is a son of a farming family and is hailed as one of

Figure 9. A famous quote from Isaac Newton.

2. Numeric variables – variables with values that describe a measurable

a. Continuous variables – or also known as internal variables. It

Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

The explanation of the scope and range of a concept or construct can be

The paradigm of the Study

The common paradigms or models of the study used are as follows:

1. IPO Model (input-process-output).

Example: Sample of IPO Model Entrepreneurs’ Roles Toward Improved Work

2. IV-DV model (independent variable-dependent variable model). This

Example: Sample IV-DV Model for the Effects of Computer-assisted Instruction

3. PC model (predictor-criterion model). This model is used when relating

Example: Sample PC Model for the Relationship of the Teaching Competence

4. -P model. This model is used in research studies that propose a program or

Example 1. Sample -P Model of the Proposed Program for Improved Quality

Example 2. Sample -P Model for Teaching Competence of Instructor and the

Once the researcher has established the statement of the problem,

A. Identify what type of variable the following examples below

Research Title Independent Dependent

2. Write the proposed paradigm of the study with its explanation.

Why do we do research? Most of us are always informed that research

The most common type of hypothesis is the Null hypothesis. It is a

Example: A hypothesis formulated in the study entitled Probabilistic Measure of

Thematic assumption – Self-acceptance brings about openness to poverty and

Significance of the Study

field of research? Importantly, the significance of the study should also be

Tips in Writing the Significance of the Study

1. Refer to the Problem Statement

2. Write it from General to Particular

Determine the specific contribution of your thesis study to society as well

Significance of the Study

Students. This study will provide information regarding which time

The Scope and Delimitation of the Study