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NORTHLINK
TECHNOLOGICAL COLLEGE

Learning Content 1: Introduction to Research

Welcome to the Practical Research 1 Module! This course focuses on developing your critical thinking and problem-
solving skills through the exploration of qualitative research. You will learn how to identify real-world problems, design
research frameworks, and analyze data to derive meaningful insights. By engaging in hands-on activities, you’ll gain the
knowledge and experience needed to address various issues effectively and make informed decisions. Prepare to delve into
the fascinating world of research and discovery!

SHOUT OUT

Can anyone share an example of a research project or a study you’ve heard about? (Allow students to share
their experiences.) You may have encountered research studies in news articles, social media, or in subjects
you are studying. Research affects almost every area of our lives, and it is not limited to academic settings.
Whether it's a health study, an investigation into social trends, or scientific experimentation, research is involved.

What is Research?

Research is a systematic and scientific investigation aimed at discovering new information, confirming existing knowledge,
or solving problems. It involves gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to increase understanding or make decisions.

Key points:

Systematic Process Purpose Scientific Nature

Research follows a It aims to answer specific questions or It relies on evidence, observation, and
structured method to ensure solve particular issues. analysis rather than assumptions.
reliability and validity.

Importance of Research Characteristics of Good Research

 Promotes Knowledge: Helps expand  Clear Objective: Focused on addressing a
understanding in various fields. specific question or problem.
 Aids in Decision-Making: Offers  Ethical Conduct: Adheres to ethical standards in
evidence-based insights for making informed collecting and analyzing data.
decisions.  Systematic Approach: Follows a step-by-step
 Solves Real-World Problems: Provides process.
solutions to challenges in society, science,  Validity and Reliability: Produces accurate and
business, and other areas. consistent results.
 Develops Critical Thinking: Encourages
logical reasoning and analytical skills. .
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The Research Process

1. Identify a Problem: Define what you want to study or solve.

2. Review Literature: Explore existing studies related to your
topic.
3. Formulate a Hypothesis: Create a testable statement or
research question.
4. Design a Methodology: Choose methods for collecting and
analyzing data.
5. Collect Data: Gather information through surveys, experiments,
or other tools.
6. Analyze Data: Examine results to draw conclusions.
7. Report Findings: Share your research through reports,
presentations, or publications
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Learning Content 2: Kinds of Research Across Fields

Research plays a crucial role in enhancing knowledge and providing insights to solve real-world problems. It helps us
make informed decisions, whether in education, business, health, or technology. By understanding the kinds of research
in different fields, we can see how they contribute to the advancement of knowledge in specific disciplines.

Types of Research Across Fields

Let’s break down the major kinds of research by fields of study:

1. Basic vs. Applied Research:

1.1 Basic Research (Pure Research):

Basic research aims to gain knowledge for the sake of knowledge itself. It does not aim to solve any immediate
problems but instead contributes to the fundamental understanding of the subject. For example, in science,
researchers might study how cells function without immediate applications in mind.

1.2 Applied Research:

This type of research is driven by the goal of solving specific, practical problems. It takes the findings of basic
research and uses them to create solutions or innovations. For example, engineering research might focus on
improving renewable energy sources to address energy crises.

2. Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research:

2.1 Qualitative Research:

Qualitative research focuses on exploring phenomena in-depth. It often involves interviews, observations,
and textual analysis to understand experiences, perceptions, or social behaviors. It is common in social
sciences like psychology or anthropology.

2.2 Quantitative Research:

Quantitative research involves numerical data and statistical analysis. It aims to quantify the problem by way of
measurable data. It is often used in healthcare (e.g., clinical trials), economics (e.g., market research), or
education (e.g., standardized test results).

3. Descriptive vs. Experimental Research:

3.1 Descriptive Research:

This research focuses on describing characteristics of a population or phenomenon being studied. It provides
a detailed account of a subject without manipulating variables. For example, in marketing research,
companies might conduct surveys to describe customer satisfaction levels.

3.2 Experimental Research:

Experimental research seeks to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables. It typically involves
controlled environments and the manipulation of variables. For example, in medicine, researchers might
conduct an experiment to test the effectiveness of a new drug.
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4. Exploratory vs. Explanatory Research:

4.1 Exploratory Research:

Exploratory research is conducted when the problem is not clearly defined. It is used to explore new areas or
topics that have not been studied before, helping researchers identify key issues. For instance, in
sociology, researchers might explore new social phenomena or emerging trends.

4.2 Explanatory Research:

Explanatory research seeks to explain the reasons behind a phenomenon, often testing theories. It is aimed at
understanding the "why" and "how" of a situation. An example could be studying the reasons behind rising
unemployment rates in a region.
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Learning Content 3: The Value of Qualitative Research: Its Kinds, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Question to Ponder:

"Have you ever tried to understand why people behave or think a certain way, like why your classmates prefer certain
study habits or why customers prefer one product over another? How did you try to understand this?"

What is Qualitative Research?

Qualitative research is a method of inquiry rooted in understanding human experiences, behaviors, and social phenomena
through detailed, non-numerical data such as interviews, observations, and narratives. It seeks to answer the "why" and
"how" of various human actions and decisions, making it an invaluable tool for exploring the depth and complexity of lived
experiences. Unlike quantitative research, which focuses on numbers and statistical patterns, qualitative research
emphasizes the richness and texture of individual and collective perspectives.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths Weaknesses
 Provides in-depth and detailed data that captures  Data collection and analysis are time-consuming.
rich insights.
 Allows for flexibility in research design and methods.  Findings may lack generalizability due to small
sample sizes.
 Explores complex phenomena and social  Researcher bias may influence data interpretation.
interactions effectively.
 Facilitates understanding of participants' perspectives. Requires highly skilled researchers for effective data
handling.
 Adapts to changing contexts during the research process.  Difficult to replicate studies due to the
subjective nature.
 Encourages the use of natural settings for  Data analysis can be complex and less structured.
authentic findings.
 Generates theories or frameworks based on real-  May lack objectivity if not carefully conducted.
world observations.
 Useful for studying sensitive topics in depth.  Produces non-numerical data, making statistical
comparisons hard.

Kinds of Qualitative Research

1. Ethnography

Focuses on studying cultures, communities, or groups to understand their social behaviors, customs, and traditions.
Researchers immerse themselves in the environment of the participants, often spending extended periods
observing and interacting with them. The goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the group's daily life,
beliefs, and practices. This method emphasizes first-hand experience and requires researchers to be deeply
involved in the participants' context, making it a highly detailed and authentic approach.
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 Example: A researcher may live among indigenous communities to document their rituals, language, and way of
life.
 Use: Ethnography is especially valuable in anthropology, education, and market research, where understanding
group dynamics is critical.

2. Phenomenology

Seeks to explore and describe people's lived experiences. The aim is to uncover the essence of a phenomenon by
focusing on how individuals perceive and make sense of their experiences. This type of research emphasizes
individual perspectives and encourages participants to share their narratives without judgment or preconceptions.

 Example: Investigating how cancer survivors cope with their journey or understanding students' feelings during
remote learning.
 Use: Phenomenology is often applied in psychology, health sciences, and education to address personal or
sensitive topics.

3. Case Study

Case studies involve an in-depth examination of a single case, which could be an individual, organization, event, or
process. This method allows researchers to analyze the subject thoroughly and derive insights that might apply to
similar contexts. Through detailed analysis, case studies often reveal lessons and strategies that can inspire or
inform other cases.

 Example: A researcher studying the strategies of a successful start-up business or examining the impact of a specific
educational program on a school.
 Use: Case studies are widely used in business, law, education, and public policy to explore practical applications and real-
world scenarios.

4. Grounded Theory

Grounded theory focuses on generating theories or frameworks directly from the data collected during the study.
Unlike other methods that test existing theories, grounded theory builds new ones based on patterns and
relationships emerging from the data. Grounded theory involves iterative data collection and analysis, ensuring
that the theory developed is closely tied to the participants' realities.

 Example: Identifying factors that contribute to student dropout rates by interviewing students, teachers, and parents.
 Use: This method is popular in sociology, education, and healthcare for studying complex social processes and behaviors.

5. Narrative Research

Narrative research centers on the stories individuals tell about their lives or specific experiences. It views storytelling
as a powerful tool for understanding how people make sense of their lives. Narrative research emphasizes
chronology and personal meaning, allowing participants to express themselves authentically while researchers
analyze the themes in their stories.

 Example: Documenting the life of a war veteran or a community leader who overcame adversity.
 Use: This method is common in fields like education, psychology, and social work, where personal stories provide valuable
insights into larger societal issues.
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6. Historical Research

Historical research investigates past events, trends, and experiences to understand how they influence the
present and future. Researchers gather data from documents, artifacts, and oral histories to reconstruct events
and interpret their significance. This method relies on archival research and critical analysis, helping to establish
a connection between the past and present.

 Example: Examining the role of women in agriculture during the pre-industrial era.
 Use: Historical research is essential in fields like history, education, and sociology to explore the roots of contemporary
issues.

Each of these types of qualitative research offers a distinct lens through which researchers can explore the
complexities of human life. Choosing the appropriate method depends on the research question, the nature of the
phenomenon being studied, and the depth of understanding required. Collectively, they enrich our knowledge by
delving into the diverse aspects of human experiences and behaviors.
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Learning Content 4: Importance of Qualitative Research Across Fields of Inquiry

Why is Qualitative Research Important?

1. In Understanding Human Behavior

Qualitative research delves into the motivations behind people's actions. It gives us a window into the "why" behind
behaviors. For example, if you were studying why students struggle with certain subjects, you would find more value
in interviewing them to understand their personal challenges, rather than simply relying on test scores.

2. In Solving Complex Problems

Real-world problems often require more than just numbers. They require understanding context, emotions, and
experiences. Qualitative research helps us gather this detailed, nuanced information to address issues effectively.
For instance, understanding why employees leave a company involves more than looking at employee turnover
data; interviews with the staff can provide insight into the deeper reasons behind their decision.

3. In Creating Policies and Programs

Policymakers and organizations use qualitative research to design programs and policies that truly meet the needs
of the people they serve. For example, by conducting interviews with farmers, a government can gain a deeper
understanding of their struggles and create more effective agricultural policies that address their concerns.

4. In Capturing Unique Perspectives

Often, mainstream research overlooks the voices of marginalized groups. Qualitative research gives these groups a
platform to share their experiences and stories. This is especially valuable in fields like social sciences, where
understanding the experiences of underrepresented communities can lead to positive social change.

Qualitative Research Across Fields of Inquiry

Let’s take a closer look at how qualitative research is valuable in various fields:

1. In Education, qualitative research allows us to understand the dynamics between teachers and students, identify
factors that affect learning, and uncover the reasons behind academic struggles.

2. In Health Sciences, it helps to explore patient experiences, which is crucial for improving healthcare practices and
understanding how people perceive treatments.

3. In Business, qualitative research can uncover consumer preferences and opinions, helping companies design
better products and improve customer service.

4. In Social Sciences, qualitative research explores complex issues like poverty, gender inequality, or human rights,
offering deep insights into societal challenges.

5. In Hospitality, qualitative research can help improve guest experiences by understanding their emotional
responses and satisfaction with services provided.
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Learning Content 5: Formulating Research Title, Research Questions, Significance of the Study and Stating the Problem

1. Formulating the Research Title

The research title is your study's first point of contact with your readers. It needs to convey the essence of your research in
a concise yet comprehensive manner. But how do we formulate a strong title?

Let’s break it down:

Clarity and Brevity: A good research title should give an immediate idea of what your study is about. For example, if you
are exploring the effect of a new educational program on students’ academic performance, a suitable title might be “The
Impact of an Innovative Educational Program on Academic Performance Among Senior High School Students”.

Keywords: Use specific terms that reflect your research focus. In qualitative research, these might be terms like
"experience", "perspectives", "beliefs", "challenges", or "understanding", which align with the nature of qualitative inquiry.

2. Developing Research Questions

Once we have a clear title, the next step is to develop research questions. These are the central questions that guide your
study and help in discovering answers through your research.

In qualitative research, we’re often looking to explore experiences, meanings, or perceptions, so your research questions
should reflect that. Here’s how to develop them:

Open-ended: Qualitative research is exploratory, so your questions should invite detailed responses. For example,
instead of asking “Did you enjoy the new program?” you might ask, “How did you experience the new educational
program?”

Focus on ‘how’ and ‘why’: Questions starting with how or why help to uncover deeper insights. Examples include:

"How do students perceive the effectiveness of the educational program?"

"Why do teachers believe this program enhances learning outcomes?"

Relate to the problem: Your research questions should directly stem from the problem or gap your study seeks to
address.

3. Stating the Problem

This is essentially the issue your study intends to address. It’s critical that your research problem is clearly defined so that
readers understand the significance of your study and the specific issue it explores.

The problem statement should:

Address a gap or issue: Identify what’s lacking or unexplored in existing research or practice. This could be a lack of
understanding, unresolved challenges, or a need for more in-depth exploration.
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Be clear and concise: You need to clearly state what the problem is in a way that makes sense within the context of your
research.

For example, if you are researching how the new educational program affects students’ academic performance, the
research problem might be: "Despite the implementation of various educational programs in schools, there is limited
research on how these programs impact the academic engagement and success of senior high school students."

4. Significance of the Study

The significance of the study explains why your research is important. It details how your findings can contribute to the
existing body of knowledge, influence policy or practice, or benefit specific groups of people. In qualitative research, this
section is often focused on the potential for deeper understanding and practical application.

Consider the following when writing your significance:

Target audience: Who will benefit from your research? It could be educators, policymakers, students, or the wider
community.

Practical impact: How could your study help improve practices or solutions in the field you’re researching?

Theoretical contribution: Your research might help fill gaps in existing theories or contribute new insights that challenge
or expand current thinking.

For example, in a study about educational programs, the significance could be: “This study will provide insights into how
educational programs influence student engagement, which can help schools develop more effective programs that better
meet the needs of students.”
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Learning Content 6: Sources of Related Literature and Studies

In research, related literature and studies serve as foundational elements for building the framework of a study. They
provide context, support, and insights that guide the researcher in exploring the chosen topic, and ultimately help in
formulating hypotheses or research questions. The sources of related literature and studies are critical in ensuring that the
research is grounded in existing knowledge and contributes to the academic discourse. Below is a detailed discussion of
the various sources that contribute to related literature and studies:

1. Books

Books are considered one of the most comprehensive sources of information. They offer in-depth discussions on specific
topics, theories, and concepts. Researchers often rely on academic books because they present established knowledge
and theories written by experts in a particular field. These sources are ideal for theoretical frameworks and background
information, as they tend to have well-researched and verified content. When utilizing books, it is crucial to check the
edition and publication date, ensuring that the information is current and relevant to the study.

2. Journals and Periodicals

Academic journals and periodicals contain peer-reviewed articles that offer the latest research findings and analyses on a
wide array of subjects. These sources are highly regarded in scholarly work because they undergo rigorous review
processes. Researchers rely on journals for up-to-date studies, particularly in rapidly evolving fields. Peer-reviewed articles
are seen as trustworthy because experts in the field critically evaluate the research before publication. Databases such as
JSTOR, Google Scholar, and Scopus provide easy access to these types of articles.

3. Theses and Dissertations

Theses and dissertations represent in-depth research conducted by graduate students for their academic degrees. They
are valuable sources of related literature because they often explore niche topics and offer detailed reviews of existing
research. Theses and dissertations usually include extensive literature reviews that provide a solid foundation for
understanding the academic context of a topic. They can also suggest gaps in the literature that a new study may aim to
address.

4. Conference Proceedings

Conference proceedings are collections of papers presented at academic conferences. These papers represent the cutting
edge of research in various fields. Often, these papers are published before peer-reviewed journal articles and can provide
early insights into new trends or discoveries in a specific field. Researchers use conference proceedings to stay informed
about the latest advancements and to see how a topic is being explored across different academic or practical domains.

5. Government and Institutional Reports

Reports published by government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or academic institutions are
essential sources of literature, particularly when conducting research related to policy, education, social issues, or
development. These reports often contain valuable statistical data, case studies, and analyses that can be directly
incorporated into research studies. They can also provide insights into the broader implications of a research topic,
especially for applied or practical studies.
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6. Online Databases and Digital Libraries

With the rise of digital technologies, online databases and digital libraries have become indispensable sources of related
literature. These platforms, such as ProQuest, EBSCOhost, or ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), provide
access to thousands of academic articles, research papers, reports, and other scholarly materials. Digital libraries make it
easier for researchers to find both primary and secondary sources without the limitations of physical access.

7. Websites and Online Content

While not always considered formal sources, websites and online content can be useful for identifying recent
developments, trends, and discussions in a specific field. Reputable organizations, academic institutions, and well-regarded
experts often post research articles, summaries, and other valuable information online. However, researchers should be
cautious when using websites as sources, as not all online content is peer-reviewed or credible.

The sources of related literature and studies are critical for framing a research project and identifying the context for
the study. Books, journals, theses, government reports, and digital platforms provide a wealth of information that
enables researchers to explore their topics, identify gaps in the literature, and develop well-informed research
questions
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Learning Content 7: Ethical Considerations in Conducting in Research

Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations are paramount in research, especially when human participants are involved. Researchers must
adhere to ethical guidelines to protect participants and maintain the integrity of the study.

1. Informed Consent
Informed consent is the process of informing participants about the nature of the study, including its purpose, procedures,
risks, benefits, and their rights. Participants should voluntarily agree to participate without coercion. Key aspects include:

 Clarity: Provide clear and understandable information about the study.

 Voluntariness: Ensure participation is voluntary and participants can withdraw at any time without penalty.
 Documentation: Obtain written or verbal consent, depending on the study's nature and institutional requirements.

2. Confidentiality and Anonymity

Protecting participants' privacy is crucial. Researchers must ensure:

 Confidentiality: Securely store data and limit access to only those involved in the study. Personal identifiers should
be removed or coded.
 Anonymity: When possible, collect data in a way that prevents identifying individual participants, especially in
sensitive research areas.

3. Minimizing Harm
Researchers have an obligation to minimize any potential harm to participants. This includes:

 Risk Assessment: Evaluate and mitigate risks associated with participation, whether physical, psychological, or
social.
 Debriefing: Provide participants with additional information after their involvement, particularly if deception was
used during the study.

4. Ethical Approval
Researchers should obtain approval from an institutional review board or ethics committee before conducting their study.
This process ensures that the study meets ethical standards and protects participants.
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Learning Content 8: Qualitative Research Instrument

Qualitative research involves exploring phenomena in depth and understanding them from a holistic perspective. Unlike
quantitative research, which is focused on measuring and quantifying variables, qualitative research focuses on
understanding the meanings, experiences, and concepts that participants attach to the phenomena being studied. To gather
this rich, detailed information, qualitative researchers employ a variety of research instruments. These instruments help
collect data from participants in ways that are flexible, open-ended, and conducive to in-depth exploration. Below is a
detailed discussion of the primary qualitative research instruments.

1. Interviews

Interviews are one of the most commonly used instruments in qualitative research. They can be structured, semi-structured,
or unstructured, depending on the research objectives.

 Structured Interviews involve a set of predefined questions that are asked in the same order to all participants.
This approach ensures uniformity and comparability across interviews, but it may limit the depth of exploration.

 Semi-structured Interviews offer more flexibility, allowing researchers to ask a set of predetermined questions
while also providing room for follow-up questions based on the participant’s responses.

 Unstructured Interviews are the most flexible form, where the researcher starts with a general topic and allows the
conversation to flow naturally. This method often leads to rich, spontaneous responses that provide deep insights
into the participants' perspectives.

Interviews can be conducted in person, via phone, or through online platforms. The choice of method depends on the nature
of the study and the availability of participants.

2. Focus Groups

Focus group discussions involve a small group of participants discussing a particular topic guided by a facilitator. This
instrument is particularly effective for exploring group dynamics, shared experiences, and collective attitudes toward a
subject. Focus groups enable researchers to collect diverse perspectives and observe interactions between participants,
which can uncover deeper insights than individual interviews alone.

Focus groups are typically used in exploratory research, pilot studies, or when researchers want to examine how group
members influence each other's responses. The ideal size for a focus group is between 6 and 10 participants to maintain a
manageable conversation and ensure everyone has an opportunity to contribute.

3. Observation

Observation is a qualitative research instrument where the researcher immerses themselves in the study environment and
watches how participants behave or interact with their surroundings. Observations can be either participatory (where the
researcher is actively involved in the setting) or non-participatory (where the researcher only observes without interacting).

Observation is particularly useful in naturalistic research where researchers want to study behaviors or phenomena in their
natural settings, such as classroom dynamics or workplace culture. Field notes are essential in capturing detailed accounts
of observed events and behaviors. Researchers also use video recordings to supplement live observations, ensuring that
all nuances are accurately captured.
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4. Case Studies

Case studies are in-depth investigations into a specific individual, group, or event. Researchers typically use case studies to
explore complex issues within real-life contexts. The case study instrument can involve a combination of other instruments,
such as interviews, observations, and document analysis.

This instrument allows researchers to understand a phenomenon in great detail and from multiple perspectives. It is
commonly used in applied research to examine organizational behavior, educational settings, or community practices.

5. Document and Content Analysis

In qualitative research, document and content analysis involves examining existing texts, such as policy documents, reports,
emails, or social media posts, to gain insights into the research topic. The process typically involves identifying patterns,
themes, or trends within the text and interpreting their significance in relation to the research question.

This instrument is particularly useful in historical studies, media analysis, and research that involves exploring how
information is constructed and disseminated within society. Researchers should carefully consider the context and
authorship of the documents to ensure they are using credible and relevant sources.

6. Surveys (Open-ended Questions)

While surveys are often associated with quantitative research, they can be used in qualitative research if they include open-
ended questions. These questions allow participants to express their views freely, offering researchers a rich set of data
that can be analyzed thematically. This approach is effective in gathering qualitative data from a large number of
respondents while still providing room for in-depth responses.

7. Ethnography

Ethnography is a qualitative research method that involves the researcher immersing themselves in the environment or
culture they are studying. It focuses on understanding the social practices and everyday lives of participants within their
natural setting. Ethnographers collect data through participant observation, interviews, and sometimes even their own
experiences as they interact with the group they are studying.

This method is particularly useful in anthropological and sociological studies where the researcher aims to understand the
values, norms, and practices of a specific community or social group.

Qualitative research instruments are essential tools for exploring the complex, multifaceted aspects of human
experience. Each instrument serves a unique purpose and can be used in combination with others to collect rich,
detailed data that provides a deep understanding of the research topic. Researchers should carefully choose the
instrument(s) that best align with their study objectives, the research question, and the nature of the phenomenon
under investigation.
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