STEP 1:Identify and develop your topic-Selecting a topic can be the most challenging part of a research assignment. Since this is the very first step in writing a paper,it is a vital that it be done correctly. Once you have identified your topic,it may help to state it as a question. STEP 2:Do a preliminary search for information-Before beginning your research in earnest,do a preliminary search to determine whether there is enough information out there for your needs and to set the context of your research. STEP 3:Locate materials-With the direction of your research now clear to you,you can begin locating material on your topic. STEP 4:Evaluate your resources-This step is especially important when using internet resources,many of which are regarded as less than reliable. STEP 5: Make notes-Consult the resources you have chosen and note the information that will be useful in your paper. Be sure to document all the sources you consult,even if you there is a chance you may not use that particular source. STEP 6:Write your paper-Begin by organizing the information you have collected. This step will help you organize your ideasand determine the form your final paper will take. STEP 7:Cite your sources properly-Citing or documenting the sources used in your research serves two purpose: it gives proper credit to the authors of the materials used,and it allows those who are reading your work to duplicate your research and locate the sources that you have listed as references. STEP 8:Proofread-The final step in the process is to proofread the paper you have created. Make sure the sources you use are cited properly. Make sure the message that you want to get across to the reader has been thoroughly stated. 2. THE DIFFERENT CHARACTEISTICS OF RESEARCH a) Empirical-Research is based on direct experience or observation by the researcher. b) Cyclical-Research is a cyclical process because it starts with a problem and ends with a problem. c) Logical-Research is based on valid procedures and principles. d) Analytical-Research utilizes proven analytical procedures in gathering the data,wheter historical,descriptive,experimental and case study. e) Critical-Research exhibits careful and precise judgement. f) Methodical-Research is conducted in a methodical manner without bias using systematic method and procedures. g) Replicability-The research design and procedures are replicated or repeated to enable the researcher to arrive at valid and conclusive results. h) Research Design-refers to the overall strategy that you choose to integrate the different components of the study in a coherent and logical way,thereby,ensuring you will effectively address the research problem;it constitutes the blueprint for the collection,measurement,and analysis of data. A.Research Tools and Techniques-any instrument used by the researcher to collect the information or data is called Research Tools. Schedule and Questionnare are used to collect the information. Hence, these are tools, we can also use interview,recall,focus,group study and others as a research tools for data collection. List of Research Techniques: Observation Site Visit/Field Research Contextual Inquiry Surveys/Questionnaire Focus Groups Interviews Brainstorming Web Analytical B. Data Collection Tool- is the process of gathering and measuring information on targerted variables in an established systematic fashion,which enables one to answer relevant questions and evaluate outcomes. The data collection component of research is common to all fields of study including physical and social sciences,humanities and business. It helps us collect the main points as gathered information. The goal for all data collection is to capture quality evidence that then translates to rich data analysis and allows the building of a convincing and credible answer to questions that have been posed. 4 types of data collection: 1) Conducting Questionnaire Surveys-Standardized paper-and-pencil or phone questionnaires that ask predetermined questions. 2) Interviews-Structured or unstructured one-on-one directed conversations with key individuals or leaders in a community. 3) Focus Groups-Structured interviews with small groups of like individuals using standardized questions, follow-up questions and exploration of other topics that arise to better understanding participants. 4) Action Researcher-An intervention that is practicable(researcher does something to implant a modification or intervention in a situation that is researchable).