The Research Process
The research process
consists of a series of steps and actions necessary to effectively carry out
research and the desired sequencing of these steps. It refers to the things
that the researcher goes through during and within the research activities. It
is a set of defined stages through which information is collected with respect
to a certain phenomenon.
Before
a research, the researcher must have a topic. The other elements that must be
put into consideration are elaborated below:
- · The topic must be researchable
- · It must be relevant to the needs of the society
- · The topic must have two variables
- · Have a background of the problem
- · The background of the study must give you an insight
The
various activities performed by the researcher consist of:
- · Observation
- · Collection and analysis of data
- · Formulation of hypothesis
- · Experimentation
- · Evaluation
- · Taking measurements
- · Discussion of results
- · Questionnaire design and administration
- · Execution of project
- · Preparation of the report or the thesis
Observation:
This is the determination of the value of a variable or expression. This is the
process whereby the researcher intends to observe the individuals interaction
with products and services in their natural surroundings. The main advantage of
conducting observation is that the individuals are unaware they are being
monitored allowing the researcher make an objective analysis.
Collection
and Analysis of Data: Data collection refers to the
collection of data surveys, or from independent or networked locations via data
capture, data entry, or data logging. Data analysis refers to the process of
evaluating data using analytical and logical reasoning to examine each
component of the data provided. Data from various sources is gathered, reviewed
and then analyzed to form some sort of finding or conclusion.
Formulation of Hypothesis:
The researcher must formulate hypothesis. Hypothesis refers to an informed or
reasonable assumption or prediction of an eventual outcome of a research taken
to be true for the purpose of argument or investigation. It is an initial
proposed answer to a problem.
Hypothesis
must be testable, they have two variables, and they have other hypothesis.
Experimentation:
They are a set of actions and observations performed to verify or falsify a
hypothesis or to research a causal relationship between phenomena. This
research is conducted by experiencing the outcome achieved. The outcome may be
experienced by a sample group or those conducting the research.
Discussion
of Result: This is the informal and voluntary
gathering of individual researchers to exchange ideas, information, and
suggestions on needs, problems, subjects, etc. based on the research conducted
in order to arrive at a final analysis of the problem.
Questionnaire
Design and Administration: The researcher is
obliged to design a list of research or survey questions to be asked to
respondents so as to extract specific information. Questionnaires must be well
administered or managed because if it is constructed in such a way that it does
not suit the situation that you are trying to investigate, a problem may arise
in terms of collecting unwanted information.
Execution
of Project: This is the completion of formalities or
steps required to make the research project legally valid. Execution of the
project is an important step of the research process. The researcher should see
to it that the research project is executed in a systematic manner and in time.
Preparation of the Report
or the Thesis: Finally, the researcher has to prepare
the report of what has been done by him. The main text of the report should
have the following parts:
- · Introduction
- · Summary of findings
- · Main report
- · Conclusion.
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