INTRODUCTION

TO RESEARCH

Unit – 1
PB.BSc(N)
Prof.Dr.Chinna Chadayan.N
RN.RM., B.Sc (N)., M.Sc (N)., Ph.D
(N).,

Professor,

Enam Nursing College – Savar,

Bangladesh
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MEANING OF NURSING RESEARCH

 Research - Re means ‘once again’ ‘a new’, or ‘a
fresh’ and search means ‘to look for something’.
 It is an systematic inquiry of investigation to
validate and refine existing knowledge and to
generate and refine existing knowledge and
generate new knowledge.
 Research is a systematic inquiry that uses
disciplined methods to answer questions to
solve problems.
 Ultimate goal of research is to develop, refine
and explore a body of knowledge.
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DEFINITION OF RESEARCH
 Re-search-------Re- Again & Again Search- Finding out some
thing new.
 WEBSTER’S NEW INTERNATIONAL DICTIONARY
Research is a careful inquiry or examination in seeking
facts or principles, a diligent investigation to ascertain
something.
 C.C.CRAWFORD. Research is considered to be the formal
systematic intensive process of carrying on the scientific
methods of analysis; it involves a more systematic structure
of investigation, usually resulting in some sort of formal
record of procedures and a report of results or conclusions
 REDMAN & A.V.H.MORY Research is a systematized
effort to gain new knowledge.
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CONCEPT OF RESEARCH
 To re-search

 To re-examine

 To investigate

 To test

 To enquire
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CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
A written or visual presentation that: -explains either
graphically, or in narrative form, the main things to be
studied – the key factors, concepts or variables -and the
presumed relationship among them.
 Conceptual framework represents way of thinking about a
problem or a study or way of representing how complex
things are. Bordage, 2009 • Its like lighthouse
 The conceptual framework “sets the stage” for the
presentation of the particular research question that drives the
investigation being reported based on the problem statement.
McGaghie et al. (2001)
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Purposes of Conceptual frame work
Prof. Roger Vaughan, 2008
 The ability to move beyond description to
explanation of why and how
 A means of setting out an explanation set that
might be used to define and make sense of the data
flow
 Filtering tool for selecting appropriate research
question and related data collection methods
 A reference point /structure for discussion of
literature , methodology and results
 Identifying boundaries of work
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How to draw a conceptual

framework
• If a researcher drew a picture of a
statistical model, this would be a
conceptual framework because it visualizes
the variables and how they are related.
 • Generally Framework may include one
outcome and multiple hypothesized
associated factors
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Steps in developing conceptual

framework
 1. Identifying the relevant concepts.
 2. Defining those concepts.
 3. Operationalising the concepts.
 4. Identifying any moderating or intervening
variables.
 5. Identifying the relationship between variables.
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TERMINOLOGIES IN NURSING RESEARCH

 ABSTRACT A clear, concise summary of the study that
communicates the essential information about the study. In
research journals, it is usually located at the beginning of an article.
 DATA Units of information or any statistics, facts, figures, general
material, evidence, or knowledge collected during the course of the
study.
 VARIABLES Attributes or characteristics that can have more than
one value, such as height or weight. In other words, variables are
qualities, quantities, properties, or characteristics of people, things,
or situations that change or vary.
 Independent variables: Independent variables: Variables that are
purposely manipulated or changed by the researcher; also called
manipulated variables.
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 Research / Dependent variables: These are the qualities, properties,

or characteristics which are observed or measured in a natural setting
without manipulating & establishing cause- &-effect relationship
 Demographic variables: The characteristics & attributes of the
study subjects are considered demographic variables, for example,
age, gender, educational status, religion, social class, marital status,
habitat, occupation, income, medical diagnosis, &so on. Extraneous
variables: Extraneous variables are the factors that are not the part of
the study but may affect the measurement of the study variables.
 Operational definition: The way by which a researcher clarifies &
defines the variables under investigation. In addition, the researcher
must also specify how the variables will be observed & measured in
the actual research situation.
 Concept: A word picture or mental idea of phenomenon. Concepts
are words or terms that symbolize some aspects of reality. For
example, stress, pain, or love. Concepts are the building blocks of
theory.
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 Construct: A highly abstract, complex

phenomenon(concept) is denoted by a made-up or
construed term. A construct term is used to indicate
a phenomenon that cannot be directly observed but
must be inferred by certain concrete or less-
abstract indicators of the phenomenon. For
example, wellness, mental health, & self-esteem
are constructed, & they can only be measured
through indefinable & measurable concept; for
example, wellness can only be assessed through
laboratory data.
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 Proposition: A proposition is a statement or

assertion of the relationship between concepts. For
example, there is relationship between level of
anxiety & performance; or virus causes acute
illness. Proposition are drawn from theories or
empirical data.
 Conceptual framework: Interrelated concepts or
abstractions that are assembled together in some
rational scheme by virtue of their relevance to a
common theme; sometimes referred to as a
conceptual theoretical framework if based on the
concepts of an existing theory or theories.
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 Assumption: Basic principle that is accepted as

being true on the basis of logic or reason, without
proof or verification.
 Hypothesis: A statement of the predicted
relationship between two or more variable in a
research study; an educated or calculated guess by
researcher.

 Literature review: A critical summary or research

on a topic of interest, generally prepared to put a
research problem in context or to identify gaps &
weaknesses in prior studies so as to justify a new
investigation.
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 Limitations: Restrictions in a study that may

decrease the credibility & generalization of the
research findings.
 Manipulation: An intervention or treatment
introduced by the researcher in an experimental or
quasi-experimental study; the researcher
manipulates the independent variable to assess its
impact on the dependent variable.

 Population: The entire set of individuals or

objects having some common characteristics
selected for a research study (eg; patients admitted
in particular ward);sometimes referred to as the
universe of the research study.
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 Target population: The entire population in which the

researchers are interested & to which they would like to
generalize the research finding. (fever patients)
 Accessible population: The aggregate of cases that
conform to designated inclusion or exclusion criteria &
that are accessible as subject of the study.(fever patients
who are willing to participate)
 Research study setting: The study setting is the
location in which the research is conducted – it could be
natural, partially controlled, or highly controlled. Natural
or field setting is an uncontrolled real-life situation. In a
partially controlled situation, environment is partially
modified to control extraneous variables, while in highly
controlled situations, study environment is fully
controlled to combat the effect of extraneous variables.
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 Sample: A part or subset of population selected to

participate in research study. Representative sample: A
sample whose characteristics are highly similar to that of
the population from which it is drawn. Sampling: The
process of selecting sample from the target population to
represent the entire population.
 Probability sampling: The selection of subjects or
sampling units from a population using random
procedure; example include simple random sampling,
stratified random sampling, & systematic sampling. Non-
probability sampling: The selection of subjects or
sampling units from a population using non-random
procedures; examples include convenient, purposive, &
quota sampling.
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 Reliability:The degree of consistency or accuracy

with which an instrument measures the attribute it
is designed to measure. Validity: The degree to
which an instrument measures what it is intended
to measure.
 Pilot study: Study carried out at the end of the
planning phase of research in order to explore &
test the research elements to make relevant to
make modification in research tools &
methodology.
 Analysis: Method of organizing, sorting, &
scrutinizing data in such a way that research
question can be answered or meaningful inferences
can be drawn.
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HYPOTHESIS
A research hypothesis is a statement of expectation or
prediction that will be tested by research.

HYPOTHESIS AND ITS IMPORTANCE

A hypothesis is used in an experiment to define the

relationship between two variables.
The purpose of a hypothesis is to find the answer to a
question.
A formalized hypothesis will force the researcher to think
about what results should the researcher look for in an
experiment.
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Types of hypotheses
 Null and alternative hypotheses
 Null and alternative hypotheses are used in statistical
hypothesis testing.

 The null hypothesis of a test always predicts no effect

or no relationship between variables
 The alternative hypothesis states your research
prediction of an effect or relationship.
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RESEARCH QUESTION
A research question is a specific inquiry which the research
seeks to provide a response to. It resides at the core of
systematic investigation and it helps you to clearly define a path
for the research process.
A research question is usually the first step in any research
project. Basically, it is the primary interrogation point of your
research and it sets the pace for your work.
 Typically, a research question focuses on the research,
determines the methodology and hypothesis, and guides all
stages of inquiry, analysis, and reporting. With the right
research questions, you will be able to gather useful
information for your investigation.
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Qualitative Research
Questions
A qualitative research question is a type of
systematic inquiry that aims at collecting qualitative
data from research subjects.
 The aim of qualitative research questions is to
gather non-statistical information pertaining to the
experiences, observations, and perceptions of the
research subjects in line with the objectives of the
investigation.
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Questions

Quantitative research questions are questions

that are used to gather quantifiable data from
research subjects.
These types of research questions are usually
more specific and direct because they aim at
collecting information that can be measured;
that is, statistical information.
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Good research question

 A good research question is one that requires impartial responses and can be
answered via existing sources of information. Also, a good research question
seeks answers that actively contribute to a body of knowledge; hence, it is a
question that is yet to be answered in the specific research context.

 Examples

 Open-ended Questions
 An open-ended question is a type of research question that does not restrict
respondents to a set of premeditated answer options. In other words, it is a question
that allows the respondent to freely express his or her perceptions and feelings
towards the research subject.
 Examples of Open-ended Questions
 How do you deal with stress in the workplace?
 What is a typical day at work like for you?
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 Close-ended Questions
A close-ended question is a type of survey question that restricts
respondents to a set of predetermined answers such as multiple-choice
questions. Close-ended questions typically require yes or no answers and
are commonly used in quantitative research to gather numerical data from
research participants.
 Examples of Close-ended Questions
Did you enjoy this event?
 Yes
 No
How likely are you to recommend our services?
 Very Likely
 Somewhat Likely
 Unlikely
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Likert Scale Questions

 A Likert scale question is a type of close-ended question that is
structured as a 3-point, 5-point, or 7-point psychometric scale. This
type of question is used to measure the survey respondent’s
disposition towards multiple variables and it can be unipolar or
bipolar in nature.
 Example of Likert Scale Questions
How satisfied are you with our service delivery?
 Very dissatisfied
 Not satisfied
 Neutral
 Satisfied
 Very satisfied
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 Rating Scale Questions

A rating scale question is a type of close-ended
question that seeks to associate a specific qualitative
measure (rating) with the different variables in research.
It is commonly used in customer experience surveys,
market research surveys, employee reviews, and product
evaluations.
 Example of Rating Questions
 How would you rate our service delivery?
 Excellent
 Good
 Neutral
 Bad
 Very bad
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RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
1. A research objective is a clear, concise, declarative statement,
which provides direction to investigate the variables.
2. CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
 Research objectives is a concrete statement describing what the research is
trying to achieve. A well-worded objective will be SMART, i.e Specific,
Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, & Time-bound.
 Research objective should be Relevant, Feasible, Logical, Observable,
Unequivocal & Measurable
 Objective is a purpose that can be reasonably achieved within the expected
timeframe &with the available resources.
 The objective or research project summarizes what is to be achieved by the
study.
 The research objectives are the specific accomplishment the researchers hopes
to achieve by the study
 The objective include obtaining answers to research questions or testing the
research hypothesis.
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1. Types of Research Objectives

 General Objective
 General objectives are broad goals to be achieved.
 The general objectives of the study state what the researcher expects to
achieve by the study in general terms.
 General objectives are usually less in number.

2. Specific Objective
 Specific objectives are short term & narrow in focus.
 General objectives can broken into small logically connected parts to
form specific objectives.
 General objective is met through accomplishing all the specific
objective.
 The specific objectives are more in number & they systematically
address various aspects of problem as defined under ‘the statement of
problem .
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1. Examples of General & Specific Objective

Research Statement:
“Effectiveness of planned teaching on the knowledge of staff nurses working in
psychiatric unit regarding Physical Restraints for psychiatric patient in selected
hospital at Dhaka”

 General objective:
 To asses the knowledge of staff nurses working in psychiatric unit regarding physical
restraint .

 Specific objective:
1. To assess the knowledge regarding Physical Restraints among nurses working in
psychiatric unit.
2. To evaluate the effect of planned teaching on Physical Restraints among nurses.
3. To associate the knowledge with selected demographic.
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CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH
 CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH-BEST.JOHN.W.
 1.Research is directed towards the solution of a problem.
 2. Research attempts to answer a question or to determine the
relationship between two or more variables.
 3.Research emphasizes the development of generalization
that will be helpful in predicting future occurrences.
 4.Research is based on observable, experience or empirical
evidence.
 5.Research demands accurate observation and description.
(The researcher uses quantitative numerical measuring
devices).
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 6.Research involves gathering new data from primary (or)

first hand sources for a new purpose
 7.Research is characterized by carefully designed procedures
and applying rigorous analysis
 8.Research requires expertise. .
 9.Research strives to be objective and logical applying every
possible test to validate the procedure employed.
 10.Research is characterized by patient & unhurried activity.
 11.Research is carefully recorded & reported.
 12. Research requires courage.
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ETHICAL PRINCIPLES OF RESEARCH

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 Honesty Being honest with the beneficiaries and respondents. Being honest about
the findings and methodology of the research. Being honest with other direct and
indirect stakeholders.
 Integrity Ensuring honesty and sincerity. Fulfilling agreements and promises. Do
not create false expectations or make false promises.
 Objectivity Avoiding bias in experimental design, data analysis, data
interpretation, peer review, and other aspects of research.
 Beneficence Maximize the benefits of the participants. Ethical obligation to
maximize possible benefits and to minimize possible harms to the respondents.
 Non-maleficence/ Protecting the subjects (human) Do no harm. Minimize
harm/s or risks to the human. Ensure privacy, autonomy and dignity.
 Responsible publication Responsibly publishing to promote and uptake research
or knowledge. No duplicate publication.
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 Protecting anonymity It means keeping the participant anonymous. It

involves not revealing the name, caste or any other information about
the participants that may reveal his/her identity.

 Non-discrimination Avoid discrimination on the basis of age, sex, race,

ethnicity or other factors that are violation of human rights and are not
related to the study.

 Openness Be open to sharing results, data and other resources. Also

accept encouraging comments and constructive feedback.

 Justice The obligation to distribute benefits and burdens fairly, to treat

equals equally, and to give reasons for differential treatment based on
widely accepted criteria for just ways to distribute benefits and burdens.
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 Informed consent
 Informed consent means that a person knowingly, voluntarily and
intelligently gives consent to participate in a research.
 Informing the participant about the research objective, their role,
benefits/harms (if any).

 Respect for respondent

 which requires that those who are capable of deliberation about their
personal goals should be treated with respect for their capacity for self-
determination; and protection of persons with impaired.

 Confidentiality
 Protecting confidential information, personnel records.

 Carefulness and respect for intellectual property

 Be careful about the possible error and biases.
 Give credit to the intellectual property of others.
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“Science is not belief,

but the will to find out.”

Thank you