 Longman dictionary (1995) defines it as “the studious study of a subject that is intended to

discover new facts or test new ideas

 Process of finding solutions to a problem after a thorough study and analysis (Sekran, 2006).
 Systematic inquiry that provides information to guide decision (Cooper & Schindler, 2001).
 Quantitative Research- Systematic investigation of observable phenomena where the researcher
gathers quantitative or numerical data and subjects them to statistical methods or analysis.
 Quantitative Research (objective)- The data are strictly numerical in nature which allows for
objective analysis thru statistics
 Qualitative Research (subjective)- Data are measured in terms of imagery, symbolism,
description to explain an observed phenomenon

Kinds of Quantitative Research

1. Descriptive
Goal: To observe and report on a certain phenomenon .
Variables and experimental manipulation: Variables may be measured as they occur;
experimental manipulation is not used .
Data Collection Technique: Questionnaire, Observation.
Sample Title: Assessing Nurses’ Attitude toward death and Caring for dying patients in a
comprehensive cancer center.
2. Correlational
Goal: To determine the nature of relationship between variables w/out looking into the cause
Variables and experimental manipulation: Variables may be measured as they occur;
experimental manipulation is not used
Data Collection Technique: Questionnaire, Observation, Test
Sample Title: The Relationship between Service Quality and customer satisfaction in the
telecommunication industry: evidence from Nigeria
3. Ex post facto
Goal: To infer the causes of a phenomenon which has already occurred
Variables and experimental manipulation: Experimental manipulation is not used; groups
exposed to the presumed cause are compared with those who are not exposed to it
Data Collection Technique: Questionnaire
Sample Title: Comparison of personal, social, and academic variables related to university drop-
out rate and persistence
4. Quasi- experimental
Goal To establish cause and effect relationships
Variables and experimental manipulation Experimental manipulation may have limited use;
established groups are used; individuals are assigned randomly to the treatment and control
groups
Data Collection Technique: Tests
 Sample Title: The impact of smoking bans on smoking and consumer-behavior: Quasi-
experimental evidence from Switzerland

5. Experimental
Goal: To establish cause and effect relationships
Variables and experimental manipulation: Experimental manipulation is used; established
groups are not used; individuals are assigned randomly to the treatment and control groups
Data Collection Technique: Tests
Sample Title: The effects of mobile technology use on walking

 Variables-Any element or entity which can be measured for quantity or quality

Examples: Age, weight, height, growth

A. Quantitative Variables
a.1 Discrete variable- counting numbers
a. 2 Continuous variable- ranges
a.2.1 Ratio variables
B. Qualitative Variables
b.1 Dichotomous variable- 2 choices/options
b.2 Nominal variables- more than 2 options

Types of variables based on purpose

A. Dependent Variables

B. Independent Variables

C. Extraneous Variables

c.1 confounding variables

Strengths and Weaknesses of Quantitative Research
A. Strengths

1. It can be replicated or repeated in other contexts.

2. It provides findings that are generalizable to a large population.

3. It can establish causality more conclusively.

4. It can make predictions based on numerical, quantifiable data.

5. Data analysis using statistical software is faster.

6. Data-gathering techniques are typically less demanding compared with those in qualitative research.

7. It has a low degree of subjectivity.

8. Its validity and reliability can be measured.

B. Weaknesses

1. It cannot adequately provide in depth information necessary for describing and explaining a complex

phenomenon.

2. It lacks the ability to provide a comprehensive textual description of human experiences.

3. Numerical date may be insufficient in analyzing intangible factors, such as gender roles, socio-
economic

status, and social norms of a given population.

4. It has less flexibility in terms of study design.

5. Responses of participants are strictly limited to what has been asked. These responses may not be

extensive in some cases.

6. Self-reported data may not be very accurate as respondents may have the tendency to underestimate

or overestimate their skills and behavior during self-assessment tasks.

LESSON2

Research Topic-General area of interest that a researcher wants to pursue.

Factors to consider in selecting a research topic
1. Relevance
2. Interest
3. Manageability
4. Available resources

Steps in selecting a research topic

Step 1: Brainstorm for ideas

Step 2: Read General Background Information

Step 3: Maintain focus in your topic

Step 4: Make a list of useful keywords

Step 5: Be flexible

Step 6: Define your topic as a focused research question

Step 7: Research and read more about

Step 8: Formulate a thesis statement

LESSON 3

Paradigm- is an interpretative framework which is guided by “a set of beliefs and feelings about
the world and how it should be understood and studied (Guba, 1990). It also entails viewpoints;
literally speaking “points from which to view”
Research paradigm- is a set of common beliefs and agreements shared between scientists about
how problems should be understood and addressed (Kuhn, 1970). It also serves as a “guide” in
which researchers anchor his assertions towards a problem
Denzin and Lincoln (2001) listed three main categories of those beliefs:
1. Ontology- “nature of being”
2. Epistemology- “nature of knowledge”
3. Methodology- “nature of tools and techniques”
Ontology- Literally, it means the science/ study or philosophy of being
Epistemology- Literally, it means the science/ study or philosophy of knowledge.
Methodology-Relates to the choice of analytical strategy and research design which underpins
substantive research. Concerns about efficient use of the tools, techniques available for research

LESSON 4
What makes good writing?

 1. Good writing communicates an idea clearly and effectively.- Takes having something to say and
clear thinking.

2. Good writing is elegant and stylish.- Takes time, revision, and a good editor!

What makes a good writer:

. Having something to say.

. Logical thinking.

. A few simple, learnable rules of style (the tools you’ll learn in this class).

Steps to becoming a better writer:

Read, pay attention, and imitate.

Write in a journal.
Let go of “academic” writing habits (deprogramming step!)
Talk about your research before trying to write about it.
Write to engage your readers—try not to bore them!
Stop waiting for “inspiration.”
Accept that writing is hard for everyone.
Revise. Nobody gets it perfect on the first try.
Learn how to cut ruthlessly. Never become too attached to your words.
Find a good editor!
Take risks.