01 Introduction To Research Methodology

Introduction to
Research
Methodology
What is research?
→ Research is a systematic and organized process of inquiry that seeks to
discover new knowledge, answer questions, solve problems, or explore phenomena.
→ It is a fundamental activity in the academic, scientific, and professional worlds, and it plays a
crucial role in advancing human understanding and driving innovation.
→ Research can take many forms, including basic research, applied research, clinical research,
social research, and more, depending on the goals and focus of the investigation.
→ It is a vital tool for expanding human knowledge, driving innovation, and addressing complex
problems in various fields, from science and medicine to social sciences, humanities, and
engineering.
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MINERAL RESOURCES ENGINEERING
Characteristics and aspects of research (1)
1. Systematic Inquiry: Research involves a structured and organized approach to investigating a particular
topic or question. It follows a predefined methodology or set of methods to gather and analyze data.
2. Objective: Research is typically conducted with the goal of producing objective and unbiased results.
Researchers aim to minimize personal bias and subjectivity in their findings.
3. Purposeful: Research is purpose-driven. It aims to address specific research questions or hypotheses,

solve problems, or achieve particular goals.
4. Empirical: Research relies on empirical evidence, which is information gathered through observation,
experimentation, or data collection. Empirical evidence is crucial for supporting or refuting hypotheses.
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5. Systematic Review of Literature: Before conducting research, researchers typically review existing literature
and research on the topic to understand the current state of knowledge and identify gaps or areas that
require further investigation.
6. Hypothesis Testing: In many forms of research, hypotheses are formulated based on existing knowledge or
theories. These hypotheses are then tested through data collection and analysis.
7. Data Collection: Research involves gathering data using various methods, such as surveys, experiments,
observations, interviews, or document analysis.
8. Data Analysis: After collecting data, researchers analyze it using appropriate techniques and tools to draw
meaningful conclusions and insights.
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9. Ethical Considerations: Ethical principles are an integral part of research. Researchers must ensure the ethical
treatment of research subjects, maintain confidentiality, and adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations.
10. Communication of Results: The results of research are typically communicated through research papers,
reports, presentations, or other forms of dissemination. This allows others in the field to review, replicate,
and build upon the research.
11. Peer Review: Many research findings undergo a peer-review process, in which experts in the field evaluate
the quality, validity, and significance of the research before it is published or accepted.
12. Continuous Process: Research is an ongoing and iterative process. New discoveries often lead to new
research questions, forming a cycle of inquiry.
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Research Methodology - introduction
→ Research methodology refers to the systematic and structured approach or strategy

used by researchers to plan, conduct, and evaluate their research studies.
→ It encompasses a set of principles, procedures, techniques, and tools that guide the
entire research process, from the formulation of research questions to the collection
and analysis of data and the presentation of research findings.
→ Research methodology is crucial in ensuring the validity, reliability, and credibility of
research outcomes.
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Key aspects of research methodology (1)
1. Research Design: This involves selecting the overall framework and structure of the research study. Common
research designs include experimental, observational, correlational, case study, and survey designs. The choice of
design depends on the research objectives and the nature of the research questions.
2. Data Collection Methods: Researchers must determine how they will gather data. This can involve methods such as
surveys, interviews, experiments, observations, content analysis, or archival research. The selection of data
collection methods should align with the research design and objectives.
3. Sampling Techniques: Researchers must decide how they will select a subset of the population or sample for their
study. Various sampling methods, including random sampling, stratified sampling, and convenience sampling, are
used depending on the research goals and available resources.
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4. Data Analysis: Researchers choose appropriate data analysis techniques to process and interpret the data
collected. This may involve quantitative methods (e.g., statistical analysis) or qualitative methods (e.g.,
thematic analysis, content analysis).
5. Research Ethics: Ethical considerations are a fundamental part of research methodology. Researchers must
ensure the ethical treatment of research participants, including obtaining informed consent, protecting
confidentiality, and avoiding harm.
6. Data Interpretation and Reporting: Researchers interpret the results of their analysis in the context of the
research questions and existing literature. The findings are typically reported in research papers, reports, or
presentations.
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7. Literature Review: A thorough review of existing literature is conducted to understand the current state
of knowledge on the research topic, identify gaps, and establish a theoretical framework for the study.
8. Research Instruments: Researchers create or select the tools and instruments needed for data
collection, such as surveys, questionnaires, interview guides, or experimental protocols.
9. Validity and Reliability: Researchers take steps to ensure the validity (accuracy of measurements) and
reliability (consistency of measurements) of their research instruments and procedures.
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10. Time and Resource Management: Researchers plan and manage their time and resources effectively to
conduct the research within the allocated timeframe and budget.
11. Peer Review and Validation: The research methodology is subject to scrutiny and validation through
peer review, where experts in the field evaluate the research design and methodology for soundness
and rigor.
12. Iterative Process: Research methodology is often an iterative process, where researchers may need to
revise and refine their approach based on preliminary findings or unexpected challenges.
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Research Methods – definition
→ Research methods are the specific techniques, procedures, and strategies that
researchers use to collect, analyze, and interpret data during the research process.
→ These methods are employed to systematically investigate research questions, test

hypotheses, or address specific objectives within a research study.
→ Research methods can vary widely based on the nature of the research, the discipline,
and the research questions being addressed.
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Choice of Research Methods
→ The choice of research methods depends on the research questions, the nature of the data needed, and
the resources available.
→ Researchers select methods that align with their research objectives and the characteristics of their
study population.
→ Additionally, ethical considerations, available time, and budget constraints also influence the choice of
research methods.
→ Effective research often involves a thoughtful combination of methods to address the complexity of
research questions and provide comprehensive insights into the topic of study.
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Quantitative Research Methods
• Surveys and Questionnaires: Researchers use structured surveys or questionnaires to gather numerical
data from a sample of participants.
• Experiments: Controlled experiments involve manipulating one or more variables to examine cause-
and-effect relationships.
• Observational Studies: Researchers systematically observe and record behavior or phenomena without
intervening.
• Secondary Data Analysis: This method involves analyzing existing datasets, such as census data or
records, to answer research questions.
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Qualitative Research Methods
• In-depth Interviews: Researchers conduct open-ended interviews to gather detailed, rich narrative data
from participants.
• Focus Groups: A group of participants engage in discussions on a specific topic, allowing researchers to
explore attitudes and perceptions.
• Content Analysis: Researchers analyze textual or visual data, such as documents, transcripts, or media
content, to identify patterns and themes.
• Case Studies: In-depth analysis of a single case or a small number of cases to gain insights into complex
phenomena.
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Other Research Forms (1)
1. Mixed-Methods Research:
1. Researchers combine both quantitative and qualitative methods within a single study to gain a more
comprehensive understanding of a research problem.
2. Action Research: This approach involves research conducted by practitioners within a specific context to
address practical problems and improve practices.
3. Experimental Design:
1. Within-Subjects Design: Participants experience all levels of the independent variable.
2. Between-Subjects Design: Different groups of participants experience different levels of the
independent variable.
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4. Longitudinal Research: Researchers collect data from the same participants over an extended period to
study changes or development over time.
5. Cross-Sectional Research: Researchers collect data from a diverse group of participants at a single point
in time to compare differences between groups.
6. Case-Control Studies: A type of observational study that compares individuals with a specific condition
(cases) to those without it (controls) to identify potential causes or risk factors.
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7. Ethnographic Research: Researchers immerse themselves in a particular cultural or social setting to gain a deep
understanding of the context and people involved.
8. Survey Research: Researchers use structured surveys to collect data from a large number of participants, often with
the goal of generalizing findings to a broader population.
9. Historical Research: Researchers examine historical documents, records, and archives to investigate past events,
trends, and developments.
10. Grounded Theory: A qualitative research method focused on developing theories or explanations based on
observed data rather than testing pre-existing hypotheses.
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Qualitative vs Quantitative Research:
Data Type
• Quantitative Research: In quantitative research, data is typically numerical and can be
measured objectively. It involves collecting data in the form of counts, measurements,
or statistics. For example, surveys often use closed-ended questions with
predetermined response options that are assigned numerical values.
• Qualitative Research: In qualitative research, data is non-numerical and often consists

of text or visuals, such as interviews, transcripts, observations, images, or text
documents. This data is usually in the form of words, phrases, narratives, or images.
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Research Objectives
• Quantitative Research: Quantitative research aims to answer specific research questions by
measuring variables and analyzing patterns or relationships through statistical analysis. It is
often used to test hypotheses, establish causality, or make generalizations about populations.
• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research seeks to explore and understand complex

phenomena, experiences, or contexts. It is used to generate rich, in-depth insights, identify
themes, and develop theories or hypotheses. Qualitative research is exploratory and
descriptive in nature.
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Data Collection Methods
• Quantitative Research: Quantitative research primarily uses structured data collection
methods, such as surveys, experiments, or structured observations. Researchers often
collect data from large samples to obtain statistically significant results.
• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research employs unstructured or semi-structured

data collection methods, such as interviews, focus groups, participant observation, or
content analysis. These methods allow for open-ended exploration and in-depth
understanding.
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Analysis Techniques
• Quantitative Research: Quantitative research involves statistical analysis to summarize,
analyze, and interpret numerical data. Common statistical techniques include descriptive
statistics, inferential statistics (e.g., t-tests, ANOVA, regression analysis), and data visualization.
• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research uses thematic analysis, content analysis, narrative
analysis, or other qualitative data analysis methods to identify patterns, themes, and meanings
in textual or visual data. It focuses on interpreting the context and capturing the richness of
the data.
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Sampling
• Quantitative Research: Quantitative research often uses random or probability
sampling techniques to select a representative sample from a larger population. The
goal is to make statistical inferences about the entire population based on the sample.
• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research typically uses purposive or non-probability

sampling methods to select participants or cases based on specific criteria, such as
relevance to the research question or diversity of perspectives.
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Generalizability
• Quantitative Research: Quantitative research aims for generalizability, where findings
from a sample are applied to a broader population. Statistical techniques help assess
the extent to which findings can be generalized.
• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research focuses on depth and context, and its
findings are not typically intended for broad generalization. Instead, they aim to
provide insights and understanding within a specific context or setting.
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Hypothesis Testing
• Quantitative Research: Quantitative research often involves hypothesis testing, where
researchers formulate specific hypotheses and use statistical tests to determine
whether the data supports or refutes those hypotheses.
• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research is more exploratory and does not

necessarily involve formal hypothesis testing. Instead, it seeks to generate hypotheses
or theories based on the data.
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→ Researchers may choose between quantitative and qualitative approaches based on
their research goals, the nature of the research questions, and the type of data needed
to address those questions effectively.
→ In some cases, researchers may use mixed-methods approaches, combining both

qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of
complex phenomena.
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Important Steps of a Research Process (1)
1. Identifying the Research Problem or Question:
→ The research process typically begins with identifying a clear and well-defined research problem or question.
This step sets the direction for the entire research project.
2. Reviewing the Literature:
→ Conduct a comprehensive review of existing literature and research related to the research problem. This helps establish the context
for your study, identify gaps in knowledge, and build a theoretical framework.
3. Formulating Research Objectives or Hypotheses:
→ Clearly state the research objectives, hypotheses, or research questions that you intend to investigate. These should be specific,
measurable, and aligned with your research problem.
4. Selecting Research Methods:
→ Choose appropriate research methods (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods) that best suit your research objectives and the
nature of your research question. Consider factors such as data collection techniques, sampling methods, and data analysis tools.
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5. Data Collection:
→ Collect data according to your chosen research methods. Ensure that data collection is systematic and adheres to ethical
guidelines. This may involve surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, or data mining, depending on your research
design.
6. Data Analysis:
→ Analyze the collected data using appropriate statistical, qualitative, or mixed-methods techniques. The analysis should align
with your research objectives and help answer your research question.
7. Interpreting Results:
→ Interpret the findings of your analysis in the context of your research question and theoretical framework. Discuss the
implications of your results and their significance.
8. Drawing Conclusions:
→ Formulate clear and well-supported conclusions based on your analysis and interpretation of the data. Address whether your
research objectives or hypotheses were met.
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9. Discussion and Implications:
→ Discuss your findings in relation to the existing literature. Consider the broader implications of your research and how it
contributes to the field.
10. Ethical Considerations:

→ Ensure that your research adheres to ethical standards. This includes obtaining informed consent from participants,
protecting their privacy, and handling data responsibly.
11. Citing Sources:

→ Properly cite all sources of information, data, and literature used in your research. Follow a recognized citation style
(e.g., APA, MLA) consistently.
12. Research Design and Methodology:

→ Clearly document the research design and methodology you used. This should include details about data collection
instruments, sampling methods, and data analysis procedures.
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13. Research Timeline and Project Management:
→ Create a timeline and project plan to manage the various stages of your research effectively. Set milestones and
deadlines to stay on track.
14. Peer Review and Feedback:

→ Seek feedback from peers, advisors, or colleagues throughout the research process. Peer review can help
improve the quality of your research.
15. Writing and Presentation:

→ Write research reports, papers, or theses following the conventions of academic or professional writing. Develop
effective visual aids and presentations to communicate your findings to others.
16. Revision and Proofreading:

→ Revise and proofread your research documents thoroughly to ensure clarity, coherence, and accuracy.
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1. Dissemination and Publishing:
→ Share your research findings through publication in academic journals, conference presentations, or other
relevant forums to contribute to the broader knowledge base.
2. Reflection and Future Directions:

→ Reflect on the strengths and limitations of your research and consider areas for future research or further
investigation.
These aspects collectively form a structured and systematic research process that ensures rigor, validity, and the
generation of valuable knowledge.
Successful research involves careful planning, attention to detail, and a commitment to ethical and methodological
standards.
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Research Methodology: a historical review
→ The history of research methodology is a long and evolving one, closely intertwined with the
development of human knowledge and the scientific method.
→ Throughout history, the philosophy and practice of research methodology have evolved in
response to changing intellectual, cultural, and technological landscapes.
→ Researchers have continually refined their methods, techniques, and approaches to meet the
demands of advancing knowledge and addressing complex questions in various fields.
→ Today, research methodology encompasses a wide range of approaches, from traditional

experimental methods to cutting-edge data science and interdisciplinary collaboration.
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Research Methodology through the ages (1)
1. Ancient Civilizations (Before 500 BCE): The roots of research methodology can be
traced back to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China. Early
scholars in these civilizations conducted observations, documented natural
phenomena, and explored topics in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine.
2. Classical Greece (5th to 4th Century BCE): The Greek philosopher Aristotle made
significant contributions to research methodology. He emphasized systematic
observation and empirical investigation as essential elements of scientific inquiry.
Aristotle's writings on logic and classification laid the groundwork for structured
reasoning in research.
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3. Medieval and Islamic Golden Age (8th to 13th Century): During the Islamic Golden Age,
scholars in the Islamic world made substantial contributions to research methodology. Al-Kindi,
Al-Farabi, Avicenna (Ibn Sina), and others played key roles in preserving and advancing the
knowledge of classical Greek and Roman thinkers. They also emphasized experimentation and
empirical observation.
4. Renaissance and Enlightenment (14th to 18th Century): The Renaissance marked a revival of
interest in classical learning and empirical investigation. Scientists like Galileo Galilei and
Johannes Kepler made groundbreaking contributions to astronomy using systematic
observation and mathematical analysis. The Enlightenment further promoted empirical
inquiry, skepticism, and the use of reason in research.
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5. Scientific Revolution (16th to 18th Century): The Scientific Revolution of the 16th and
17th centuries was a pivotal period in the development of research methodology.
Scientists such as Isaac Newton, René Descartes, and Francis Bacon advocated for the
empirical method, systematic experimentation, and the formulation of testable
hypotheses.
6. 19th Century: The 19th century witnessed the growth of specialized fields of science
and the development of research institutions and universities. Charles Darwin's theory
of evolution and the rise of experimental psychology exemplify the diversity of
research methods and disciplines that emerged during this period.
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7. 20th Century: The 20th century brought advances in research methodology, including
the development of advanced statistical techniques, survey research methods, and the
rise of qualitative research. The advent of computers and technology revolutionized
data analysis and data collection.
8. Contemporary Research (21st Century): In the 21st century, research methodology
continues to evolve with innovations in data analytics, the growth of interdisciplinary
research, and the emergence of mixed-methods approaches. Ethical considerations in
research have become a significant focus, and open science practices are gaining
prominence.
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Choosing a research topic
→ Choosing a research topic is a critical decision in the research process, and it can
significantly impact the success and satisfaction of your research project.
→ Several important factors should be considered when selecting a research topic.
→ Remember that choosing a research topic is an iterative process, and it's normal to
refine or adjust your topic as you delve deeper into the research.
→ Take your time to explore different options, seek input from mentors and peers, and
ensure that your chosen topic aligns with your goals and resources.
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Research Topic Choice Factors (1)
1. Interest and Passion: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you and aligns with your
passion. Research is a long and often challenging process, and your enthusiasm for the
topic will help sustain your motivation and commitment.
2. Relevance: Ensure that your chosen topic is relevant to your field of study, discipline,
or career goals. It should contribute to the existing knowledge base and address a
meaningful research question or problem.
3. Feasibility: Assess the feasibility of your research topic. Consider factors such as access
to resources, data availability, time constraints, and your level of expertise. A topic that
is too ambitious or impractical may lead to frustration.
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4. Originality: Aim for a research topic that offers the potential for originality and
contributes something new to the field. Consider whether your topic fills a gap in the
existing literature or challenges conventional wisdom.
5. Scope: Define the scope of your research topic clearly. A topic that is too broad may be
overwhelming, while one that is too narrow may lack depth. Strike a balance that
allows for in-depth exploration within the available resources and time frame.
6. Research Questions: Formulate specific research questions or hypotheses that your
topic will address. Clear and focused questions help guide your research and provide a
sense of direction.
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7. Practical Significance: Consider the practical significance and potential real-world
applications of your research. Will your findings have implications for policy, practice,
or everyday life?
8. Access to Data and Resources: Assess whether you can access the necessary data,
literature, or resources to support your research. Ensure that you have the means to
collect or obtain the data required for your study.
9. Ethical Considerations: Reflect on the ethical implications of your research topic.

Ensure that your research adheres to ethical guidelines and respects the rights and
well-being of participants and stakeholders.
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10. Research Community: Consider the research community and audience for your work.
Will your research be of interest and relevance to your peers and potential
collaborators?
11. Support and Guidance: Seek input and guidance from mentors, advisors, or
colleagues. They can offer valuable insights and help you refine your research topic.
12. Flexibility: Be open to adjusting or refining your research topic as you progress.
Research often involves unexpected findings and changes in direction, so flexibility is
important.
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13. Alignment with Goals: Reflect on how your research topic aligns with your academic
or career goals. Will it contribute to your professional development or help you
achieve specific objectives?
14. Passing the "So What?" Test: Ask yourself whether your research topic passes the "So
What?" test. In other words, can you articulate why your research matters and what
impact it may have on your field or beyond?
15. Pilot Study: Consider conducting a pilot study or literature review related to your topic
to gain preliminary insights and assess the potential for further research.
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Summary
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Introduction to

3. Purposeful: Research is purpose-driven. It aims to address specific research questions or hypotheses,

→ Research methodology refers to the systematic and structured approach or strategy

→ These methods are employed to systematically investigate research questions, test

• Qualitative Research: In qualitative research, data is non-numerical and often consists

• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research seeks to explore and understand complex

• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research employs unstructured or semi-structured

• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research typically uses purposive or non-probability

• Qualitative Research: Qualitative research is more exploratory and does not

→ In some cases, researchers may use mixed-methods approaches, combining both

2. Reviewing the Literature:

3. Formulating Research Objectives or Hypotheses:

4. Selecting Research Methods:

10. Ethical Considerations:

11. Citing Sources:

12. Research Design and Methodology:

14. Peer Review and Feedback:

15. Writing and Presentation:

16. Revision and Proofreading:

2. Reflection and Future Directions:

→ Today, research methodology encompasses a wide range of approaches, from traditional

→ Several important factors should be considered when selecting a research topic.

9. Ethical Considerations: Reflect on the ethical implications of your research topic.

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