Steps in Conducting a Research

Step 1: Conceptualization and Planning

A. Select a topic to research on.

The main criterion to select a topic is interest. It is important that the topic of the research is fascinating in the
researcher himself.

B. Determine the population of the study.

A population is a group of persons, animals, or things that will be studied. A sample is a part of your population.
A parameter describes a population, while a statistic describes a sample.

C. Select the best sampling technique that you will use to select the sample.

Sampling is the method of selecting a sample that is enough to approximate the value of the parameter.

There are two types of sampling technique: the probability sampling and the non-probability sampling.

Probability sampling is a type of sampling where the members of a sample are chosen through random selection.

Random selection means that each member of a sample is chosen based on probability or on how often they occur
or appear in the population.

Types of Probability Sampling

1. Simple Random Sampling

It is a type of sampling where each member of the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample.

2. Systematic Random Sampling

It is a type of sampling where a number is used to systematically choose members of the sample. It is the same as
simple random sampling, but a number is used to select members of the sample in the systematic random sampling.
With a larger population, a systematic random sampling is preferred.

3. Stratified Random Sampling

It is a type of sampling where the population is divided into subgroups or strata where each stratum has a common
and unique trait. A sample is selected from each stratum through random sampling. Note that unlike simple and
systematic random sampling, stratified random sampling ensures that proportionate numbers of members from
different groups of people are chosen.

4. Cluster Sampling
It is a type of sampling where the population is divided into subgroups and the members of each subgroup or cluster
in this sampling do not have common traits. But a cluster has almost the same characteristics as another cluster. So
instead of randomly choosing individuals, you choose among clusters.

D. Determine the sample size, and select the sample.

Studying the whole population could be time-consuming and could cost a lot. That is why the sample is to be used
that would enable to gather enough data to conclude for the whole population in a less amount of time and money.

Non-Probability Sampling is usually used for convenience or economic reasons. The sample selected is not based
on probability or on how often their traits occur.

Types of Non-Probability Sampling

1. Accidental Sampling (Incidental Sampling)

It is a type of sampling where the members of the sample are chosen directly from the population based on
convenience and accessibility.

2. Quota Sampling
It is a type of sampling where the population is divided into subgroups or strata, but the selection of the members
coming from each stratum is based on convenience and accessibility. This is a combination of stratified sampling
and accidental sampling.
3. Purposive Sampling
It is a type of sampling where the members of the sample are chosen based on their traits and characteristics
needed in your study.

Step 2: Data Gathering

A. Write down your questions and queries.

B. Determine the method of data gathering that you will use: interview, questionnaire, observation, or
experimentation.

C. Gather data.

Step 3: Data Analysis

Select first the statistical tools that you will use to answer your research questions. Using the result you obtained,
analyze the data objectively.

Step 4: Conclusion

After analysis of data, create a generalization that corresponds to your questions. The conclusion must be sound
and based on facts.

Topic 1: Common problems that teachers face

Population: teacher

Sampling technique: quota sampling (strata are assigned based on public and private schools)

Sample size: 30 or more

One Possible Question: Have any of your students bullied you?

Method of Data Gathering: Interview (Questionnaire is not possible since it was assumed that you are economically
limited.)

Topic 2: Most popular kagawad in your barangay

Population: people in your barangay

Sampling technique: incidental and accidental sampling

Sample size: 30 or more

One Possible Question: Among the 7 kagawad in the barangay, who would you vote again in the next election?

Method of Data Gathering: Interview (Questionnaire is not possible since it was assumed that you are economically
limited.)

The steps in conducting a research are as follows:

Step 1: Conceptualization and Planning

 A. Select a topic to research on.

 B. Determine the population that you will study.
 C. Select the best sampling technique that you will use to select the sample.
 D. Determine the sample size, and select the sample.

Step 2: Data Gathering

 A. Write down your questions and queries.

 B. Determine the method of data gathering that you will use: interview, questionnaire, observation, or
experimentation.
 C. Gather data.

Step 3: Data analysis

Step 4: Conclusion