Research Methods

Course Description 

The course introduces the students to the world of research by providing them with working knowledge of the concepts and methods in the conceptualization and conduct of research. It covers topics on the nature of research, the research problem, related literature, research methodology, sampling, instrumentation, data collection, data presentation, data analysis and interpretation, writing the summary, conclusions and recommendations, the research report and evaluating the research report.

General Objectives

By the end of the course, the students, inter alia, will be able to:

  1. Understand the meaning, nature, and dynamics of research;
  2. Master the basic concepts in research;
  3. Master the techniques in writing the sections of a research paper; and
  4. Apprehend and appreciate the culture of research.
LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Define research;
2. Differentiate between quantitative research and qualitative research;
3. Name the characteristics of research;
4. Identify the qualities of a good researcher;
5. Name the values of research;
6. Identify hindrances encountered in research;
7. Interpret the schema of the research process;
8. Make use of the different sources of problems;
9. Identify a research problem;
10. Evaluate a research problem;
11. State the problem of a research topic;
12. Write the research hypothesis and null hypothesis of a research problem;
13. Discuss the guidelines in writing the theoretical/conceptual framework of the study, scope and delimitation, significance of the study, and definition of terms;
14. Identify the function, characteristics, and sources of related literature;
15. Differentiate historical, descriptive, and experimental research;
16. Describe the research instruments: educational tests, questionnaire, interview and observation; 17. Apply the guidelines in constructing research instruments;
18. Apply the guidelines in writing the summary, conclusions and recommendations; 19. Apply the guidelines in writing the research report; and
20. To evaluate a research report.

Final Course Output

As evidence of the attainment of the above learning outcomes, the students are required to do and submit the following items during the indicated dates of the term.

Required output

Full-blown research or thesis/dissertation proposal