RM 613 Edited Part-1

04-03-2024
Research Methodology
(21RM613/23RM705)
Navin Kumar, PhD C.Eng
12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Fellow Institution of India, SMIEEE, Life Member
IETE, IAEng (HK)
Professor
Amrita School of Engineering, Bangalore, Amrita
Vishwa Vidyapeetham )
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Course Contents: 21RM613 (2 0 0 2)
Meaning of Research - Types of Research - Research Process - Problem Definition - Objectives of

Research - Research Questions - Research design - Approaches to Research - Quantitative vs
Qualitative Approach - Understanding Theory - Building and Validating Theoretical Models -
Exploratory vs. Confirmatory Research - Experimental vs Theoretical Research - Importance of
Reasoning in Research.
Problem Formulation - Understanding Modeling & Simulation - Conducting Literature Review -

Referencing - Information Sources - Information Retrieval - Role of libraries in Information Retrieval
- Tools for identifying Literatures - Indexing and Abstracting Services - Citation Indexes.
Experimental Research - Cause Effect Relationship - Development of Hypothesis; Measurement –

Systems Analysis - Error Propagation - Validity of Experiments – Statistical; Design of Experiments -
Field Experiments - Data/Variable Types & Classification - Data Collection - Numerical and Graphical
Data Analysis - Sampling - Observation - Surveys - Inferential Statistics - Interpretation of Results.
Preparation of Dissertation and Research Papers - Tables and Illustrations - Guidelines for Writing
Manuscript - Abstract - Introduction - Methodology - Results and Discussion Conclusion -
References - Citation - Listing System of Document. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) - Patents -
Copyrights - Trademarks - Industrial Design - Geographical Indication - Ethics of Research - Scientific
Misconduct - Forms of Scientific Misconduct - Plagiarism - Unscientific Practices in Thesis Work -
Ethics in Science.
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Research Methodology:
Introduction
What is Research?
What is Research Methodology (RM)?
Why Research/(RM)
Who do Research
How to do Research?

How to Write and publish?
Where to Publish?
What is Research?
 Discover new knowledge, or make something new
 Seek answer to a question or to answer scientific questions
 Solve problems 12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013
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What is Research? …
Making a rigorous and relevant contribution to
knowledge.
Understanding of a cause and effect relationship of a given
phenomenon or uncovering a new phenomenon
Organized inquiry to provide information for the solution
to a problem (Emery & Cooper ’91)
A careful and systematic investigation in some field of
knowledge, undertaken to establish facts or principles
(Kumar ‘96)

Scientific or scholarly inquiry or investigation and the
proper communication of the findings (McCuen ‘96)
What is Research? …
It uses blend of assorted resources, such as classical or
modern theories, state-of-art technology, statistical
technology, and engineering techniques to uncover
previously unknown facts and principles.
Process of searching for (in general) answers in any field
of study, or the solution of just one particular problem.
Systematic, controlled, empirical, rigorous, and precise
methods are used to obtain solution or to discover and
interpret new information.
Key is NEW
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Some more Explanation
Research is an activity that leads us to finding new facts,

information, assisting us in verifying the available knowledge and in
making us question things that are difficult to understand as per
existing data.
Research is a process to discover new knowledge to find answers to
a question.
The word research has two parts re (again) and search (find) which
denote that we are taking up an activity to look into an aspect once
again or we want to look for some new information about
something.

Definition and more explanation …
According to (Thyer, 2001), "the word research is composed of two syllables, re
and search. re is a prefix meaning again, anew or over again search is a verb
meaning to examine closely and carefully, to test and try, or to probe.
Together they form a noun describing a careful, systematic, patient study and
investigation in some field of knowledge, undertaken to establish facts or
principles." [1].
According to (Rocco, 2011), "Research is a careful investigation or inquiry

especially through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge." Research
is a movement, a movement from the known to the unknown (Redman and
Mory, 2010). Research is manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the
purpose of generalizing to extend, correct or verify knowledge, whether that
knowledge aids in construction of theory or in the practice of an art (Kothari,
C.R.) .According to (Creswell, 2008), "Research is systematic investigation to
establish the facts." In the broadest sense of the word, the definition of
research includes any gathering of data, information and facts for the
advancement
[1] Kumar of knowledge.
Ranjit: Research Methodology: A Step by Step Guide for Beginners, Sage Publication, 2014.
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Some More Explanation …
It may be understood in following terms also:

Research is a continuous activity in majority of disciplines and
professions.
It is helpful in critical assessment of the way we work, execute
policies, and give instructions in our professions.
It is systematic observation of processes to find better ways to
do things and to reduce the effort being put in to achieve an
objective and identifying the validity of the targets.
In fact research is a subconscious activity that we are involved

in at all times whether it is purchase of daily use articles , a car,
an electronic good or planning a holiday.
Research Methodology
Research methodology is the specific procedures or
techniques used to identify, select, process, and analyze
information about a topic.
Methodology in research is defined as the systematic
method to resolve a research problem through data
gathering using various techniques, providing an
interpretation of data gathered and drawing conclusions
about the research data.
Essentially, a research methodology is the blueprint of a
research or study (Murthy & Bhojanna, 2009, p. 32).
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Research Methodology …
In a research paper, the

methodology section allows the reader to critically
evaluate a study’s overall validity and reliability.
The methodology section answers two main
questions:
–How was the data collected or generated?
–How was it analyzed?

Other qualities/characteristics of Research
a) It is a prearranged / structured enquiry (a formal step by step method or
sequence to take up research activity is developed to ensure correctness of data
and validity of processes). Scientific methods consist of systematic observation,
classification and interpretation of data. The degree of formality, rigorousness,
verifiability and general validity of scientific methods establish the results obtained.
b) It utilizes acceptable scientific methodology to solve problems (the method used

should be able to give repetitive results under similar conditions)
c) It should create new knowledge that is generally applicable. (The outcomes

should be such that they are not specific to particular issue or a situation but need
to be generalized for application to comparable issues).
d) It is creative process to develop better understanding of mankind, social and

cultural and economical issues.
e) It should be useful to others who wish to apply the findings in developing new
policies or applications of findings of a research in the benefit of public.
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Other qualities/characteristics of Research …
Characteristics of research determine whether a research is free of biases,

prejudices, and subjective errors or not.
Success depends on them. They are:

– 1. Generalized: whether a small sample of study can be generalized?
– 2. Controlled: Minimizes the effect or dependency of other factors
– 3. Rigorous: the procedures followed to find answers to questions are
relevant, appropriate and justified.
– 4. Empirical: The processes adopted should be tested for the accuracy and
each step should be coherent in progression. This means that any
conclusions drawn are based upon firm data gathered from information
collected from real life experiences or observations. Empirical nature of

research means that the research has been conducted following rigorous
scientific methods and procedures.
Other qualities/characteristics of Research…

5. Systematic: The procedure or process being developed to undertake a study should be carefully drafted to
ensure that resources utilization is optimized. The steps should follow a logical sequence to get to the desired
outcome.
6. Reliability: This is a the degree to which the result of a measurement, calculation, or specification can be
depended on to be accurate
7. Validity: Validity & Verifiability: It is the extent to which a concept, conclusion or measurement is well-founded
and likely corresponds accurately to the real world. Validity is based on the strength of a collection of different
types of evidence. I
8. Employs hypothesis: Any research definitely begins with formulation of a hypothesis. A hypothesis can be
defined as an educated guess about the relationship between two or more variables.
9. Analytical & Accuracy: Accuracy is also the degree to which each research process, instrument, and tool is
related to each other. Accuracy also measures whether research tools have been selected in best possible manner
and research procedures suits the research problem or not.
10. Credibility: The extent to which an analysis of finding can be treated to be trustworthy is termed as
credibility.
11. Critical: Critical scrutiny of the procedures used and the methods employed is crucial to a research enquiry.
The process of investigation must be foolproof and free from drawbacks. The process adopted and the procedures
used must be able to withstand critical scrutiny.
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How to ensure a good quality Research?

1. Purpose should be clearly defined.
2. Common concepts should be used that can be understood by all.
3. Research procedures should be explained in detail.
4. Research design should be carefully planned.
5. Researcher should declare all the possible errors and their possible impact on findings.
6. Analysis of data should be sufficiently adequate to reveal significance.
7. The methods of analysis should be appropriate.
8. The validity and reliability of the data should be checked carefully.
9. The researcher should have good command over research methodologies and should be

intelligent and experienced.
10. Ethics in research refers to a code of conduct of behavior while conducting research. Ethical
conduct applies to the organization and the members that sponsor the research, the researchers who
undertake the research, and the respondents who provide them with the necessary data.
TYPES OF RESEARCH
Research can be classified into various categories

depending on the perspective under which the
research activity is initiated and conducted. The
categorization depends on the following perspectives in
general:
–Application of research study
–Objectives in undertaking the research
–Inquiry mode employed for research
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Classification based on Application:
a. Pure / Basic / Fundamental Research:
As the term suggests a research activity taken up to look into some

aspects of a problem or an issue for the first time is termed as basic or
pure.
It involves developing and testing theories and hypotheses that are

intellectually challenging to the researcher but may or may not have
practical application at the present time or in the future.
The knowledge produced through pure research is sought in order to

add to the existing body of research methods.
Pure research is theoretical but has a universal nature. It is more

focused on creating scientific knowledge and predictions for further
studies.
Classification based on Application …
b. Applied / Decisional Research:

Applied research is done on the basis of pure or fundamental
research to solve specific, practical questions; for policy
formulation, administration and understanding of a
phenomenon.
It can be exploratory, but is usually descriptive.
The purpose of doing such research is to find solutions to an
immediate issue, solving a particular problem, developing new
technology and look into future advancements etc.
This involves forecasting and assumes that the variables shall not
change.
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Main Differences between Basic and Applied

Research
Basic Research/Pure Applied Research
Research that tries to expand the already Applied research is used to mean the
existing scientific knowledge base scientific study that is helpful in solving real-
life problems.
Mostly and purely theoretical Practical approach
The applicability of basic research is greater Applied only to the specific problem for
which it is carried out
The primary concern of the basic research is It stresses on the development of technology
to develop scientific knowledge and and technique with the help of basic science.
predictions.
The fundamental goal of the basic research is Applied research is directed towards finding a
to add some knowledge to the already solution to the problem under consideration.

existing one.
Classification based on Objectives
A) Descriptive Research: This attempts to explain a situation, problem, phenomenon, service or

programme, or provides information viz. living condition of a community, or describes attitudes
towards an issue but this is done systematically.
– It is used to answer questions of who, what, when, where, and how associated with a particular research question or problem.
– This type of research makes an attempt to collect any information that can be expressed in quantifiable terms that can be used to
statistically analyze a target audience or a particular subject.
– Descriptive research is used to observe and describe a research subject or problem without influencing or manipulating the
variables in any way. Thus, such studies are usually correlation or observational.
– This type of research is conclusive in nature, rather than inquisitive. E.g. explaining details of budget allocation changes to
departmental heads in a meeting to assure clarity and understanding for reasons to bring in a change.
B) Co relational Research: This is a type of non-experimental research method, in which a

researcher measures two variables, understands and assesses the statistical relationship between
them with no influence from any extraneous variable.
– This is undertaken to discover or establish the existence of a relationship/ interdependence between two or more aspects of a
situation. For example, the mind can memorize the bell of an ice cream seller or sugar candy vendor. Louder the bell sound, closer
is the vendor to us.
– We draw this inference based on our memory and the taste of these delicious food items. This is specifically what co relational
research is, establishing a relationship between two variables, ―bell sound‖ and ―distance of the vendor‖ in this particular
example.
– Co relational research is looking for variables that seem to interact with each other so that when you see one variable changing,
you have a fair idea how the other variable will change.
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Classification based on Objectives …

C) Explanatory: is the research whose primary purpose is to explain why events occur, to build, elaborate, extend
or test a theory.
It is more concerned with showcasing, explaining and presenting what we already have. It is the process of
turning over 100 rocks to find perhaps 1 or 2 precious gemstones.
Explanatory survey research may look into the factors that contribute to customer satisfaction and determine
the relative weight of each factor, or seek to model the variables that lead to people shifting to departmental
stores from small shops from where they have been making purchases till now.
D) Exploratory Research: Looking out for new things, new destinations, new food, and new cultures has been the
basis of most tourist and travel journeys.
In the subjective terms exploratory research is conducted to find a solution for a problem that has not been
studied more clearly, intended to establish priorities, develop operational definitions and improve the final
research design.
Exploratory research helps determine the best research design, data-collection method and selection of
subjects. For such a research, a researcher starts with a general idea and uses this research as a medium to

identify issues that can be the hub for future research.
An important aspect here is that the researcher should be willing to change his/her direction subject to the
revelation of new data or insight.
Research Design
The 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.
Note that the research problem determines the type of design you should use, not
the other way around!
• Research design is the framework of research methods and techniques

chosen by a researcher.
• The design allows researchers to hone in on research methods that are
suitable for the subject matter and set up their studies up for success.
• The design of a research topic explains the type of research
(experimental, survey research, correlational, semi-experimental, review) and
also its sub-type (experimental design, research problem, descriptive case-
study).
• There are three main types of designs for research: Data collection,
measurement, and analysis.
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Classification based on Inquiry Mode
A) Structured approach: The structured approach to inquiry is usually classified

as quantitative research.
– Here everything that forms the research process- objectives, design, sample, and the questions
that you plan to ask of respondents- is predetermined.
– It is more appropriate to determine the extent of a problem, issue or phenomenon by
quantifying the variation e.g. how many people have a particular problem? How many people
hold a particular attitude? E.g. asking a guest to give feedback about the dishes served in a
restaurant.
B) Unstructured approach: The unstructured approach to inquiry is usually

classified as qualitative research.
– It is more appropriate to explore the nature of a problem, issue or phenomenon without
quantifying it.
– Main objective is to describe the variation in a phenomenon, situation or attitude e.g.,

description of an observed situation, the historical enumeration of events, an account of
different opinions different people have about an issue, description of working condition in a
particular industry. E.g. when guest is complaining about the room not being comfortable and is
demanding a discount the staff has to verify the claims empathically.
Other Types of Research
Descriptive v/s Analytical: Descriptive research includes surveys

and fact-finding enquiries of different kinds.
– The major purpose of descriptive research is description of the state of affairs
as it exists at any given time.
– In analytical research: the researcher has to use facts or information already
available, and analyze these to make a critical evaluation of the material.
Applied v/s Fundamental: Research can either be applied (or

action) research or fundamental (to basic or pure) research.
– Applied research aims at finding a solution for an immediate problem facing
a society or an industrial/business organization,
– fundamental research is mainly concerned with generalizations and with the
formulation of a theory.
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Other Types of Research …
Quantitative v/s Qualitative: Quantitative research is based on

the measurement of quantity or amount.
– It is applicable to phenomena that can be expressed in terms of quantity. E.g.
Studying the number of enquiries received for room bookings through
different modes like internet, emails, calls, letters, or different sources like
travel and tours operators, companies and government organizations etc.
Qualitative research: is concerned with qualitative phenomenon,

i.e., phenomena relating to or involving quality or kind.
– E.g. studying the stress levels and reasons for variable performances of staff
in different shifts in the same department of a hotel.
– The same individuals may perform differently with the change of shift

timings. It can involve performing research about changing preferences of
customers as per the change of season.
Other Types of Research …
Conceptual vs. Empirical: Conceptual research is associated to

some theoretical idea(s) or presupposition and is generally used
by philosophers and thinkers to develop new concepts or to get
a better understanding of an existing concept in practice.
Empirical research draws together the data based on experience
or observation alone, often without due regard for system and
theory.
– It is data-based research, coming up with conclusions which are capable of
being verified by observation or experiment.
– It is also known as experimental research as it is essential to get facts
firsthand, at their source, and actively to go about doing certain things to

stimulate the production of desired information.
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Process of Research
The process of research addresses two major questions i.e.
– what is to be found and
– how it is to be found?
It is like planning a journey where we first decide where we are going and then
we decide how we shall be travelling.
We have to identify important stopovers and routes, check points, modes

available to reach the destination.
The steps involved in finding responses to the research questions comprise

research methodology.
At each operational step in the research process, one is required to choose

from a variety of methods, procedures and models of research methodology
which help you to best achieve the objectives.
Process of Research …
The following aspects need to be considered to determine the

appropriate research process:
Whether the research is being conducted to address a function
within or an external one?
What sorts of method/s are to be used to collect data?
What method of analysis should be used?
What are the objectives?
Whether the methods used are appropriate to the research?
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Research Design
Research design is a set of advance decisions that make up the master plan
specifying the methods and procedures for collecting and analyzing the
needed information.
Research design is the framework of research methods and
techniques chosen by a researcher.
The design allows researchers to hone in on research methods that
are suitable for the subject matter and set up their studies up for
success.
Why Is Research Design Important?

 Good research design is the “first rule of good research.”
 Knowledge of the needed research design allows advance

planning so that the project may be conducted in less time
and typically at a cost savings due to efficiencies gained in
preplanning.
Objectives of Research Design

To gain background information and to develop hypotheses
To measure the state of a variable of interest
To test hypotheses that specify the relationships between two or
more variables
To be noted:
 In many cases, research is an iterative process.
 By conducting one research project, we learn that we may

need additional research, which may result in using
multiple research designs.
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Three Types of Research Designs

Exploratory
Descriptive
Causal
Exploratory research is usually conducted at the outset of
research projects.
It is usually conducted when the researcher does not know much

about the problems.
Gain background information

Uses of Exploratory Research Define terms
Clarify problems and hypothesis

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Establish research priorities
Exploratory Research Methods

 Secondary data analysis: the process of searching for and interpreting
existing information relevant to the research topic
 Experience surveys: refer to gathering information from those to be
knowledgeable on the issues relevant to the research problem
 Key-informant technique: gathering information from those thought to be
knowledgeable on the issues relevant to the problem
 Lead-user survey: used to acquire information from lead users of a new
technology
Case analysis: a review of available information about a former

situation(s) that has some similarities to the current research problem
Focus groups: small groups brought together and guided by a
moderator through an unstructured, spontaneous discussion for the

purpose of gaining information relevant to the research problem
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Descriptive Research
Descriptive research is undertaken to describe answers to
questions of who, what, where, when, and how.
It is desirable when we wish to project a study’s findings to a
larger population, if the study’s sample is representative.
Descriptive Research Classifications
 Cross-sectional studies
 Longitudinal studies

Descriptive Research Studies
Cross-sectional studies measure units from a sample of the
population at only one point in time (or “snapshot”).
– Sample surveys are cross-sectional studies whose samples are drawn in
such a way as to be representative of a specific population.
– These studies are usually presented with a margin of error.
Longitudinal studies repeatedly measure the same sample

units of a population over time.
Since they involve multiple measurements over time, they are
often described as “movies” of the population.
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Causal Research
 Causality may be thought of as understanding a phenomenon in

terms of conditional statements of the form “If x, then y.”
 Causal relationships are often determined by the use of
experiments.
An experiment is defined as manipulating an independent
variable to see how it affects a dependent variable while also
controlling the effects of additional extraneous variables.
Independent variables are those variables that the researcher

has control over and wishes to manipulate.

Examples are level of ad expenditure, type of ad appeal, display
location, method of compensating salespersons, price, and type
of product.
Causal Research: Dependent, Extraneous

Variables
Dependent variables are those variables that we have little or
no direct control over but a strong interest in changing.
 Extraneous variables are those variables that may have some

effect on a dependent variable yet are not independent
variables.
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Causal Research: Experimental Design
Experimental design is a procedure for devising an experimental

setting such that a change in a dependent variable may be
attributed solely to the change in an independent variable.
Pretest refers to the measurement of the dependent variable

taken prior to changing the independent variable.
Posttest refers to measuring the dependent variable after
changing the independent variable.

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Causal Research: Experimental Design …
A “true” experimental design: isolates the effects of the

independent variable on the dependent variable while controlling
for the effects of any extraneous variables.
Quasi-experimental design: ones that do not properly control for
the effects of extraneous variables on our dependent variable.
How Valid Are Experiments?

An experiment is valid if the following are true:
– The observed change in the dependent variable is due to the
independent variable.
– The results of the experiment apply to the “real world” outside the
experimental setting.
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Causal Research: How Valid are

Experiments?
 Two forms of validity are used to assess the validity of an
experiment:
 Internal validity is concerned with the extent to which the change in the
dependent variable is actually due to the change in the independent
variable.
 External validity refers to the extent that the relationship observed
between the independent and dependent variables during the experiment
is generalizable to the “real world.”

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Causal Research: Types of

Experiments
Laboratory experiments are those in which the independent
variable is manipulated and measures of the dependent variable
are taken in a contrived, artificial setting for the purpose of
controlling the many possible extraneous variables that may
affect the dependent variable.
Field experiments are those in which the independent

variables are manipulated and the measurements of the
dependent variable are made on test units in their natural
setting.
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HOW-What is necessary for Research

Background
– Mathematics and System and theories
– Engineering tools (software, matlab….), hardware (CPU, arm….)
Methods (Skills)
– How to think logically
– How to start to do research
– How to find quantitative references
– How to make research plan
– How to manage the research progress
– How to present the result: presentation and writing

– How to deal with research results (e.g. legal aspect)
What It Takes to Do Research

Curiosity: allow you to ask questions
Critical thinking: allow you to challenge
assumptions
Learning: take you to the frontier of knowledge
Persistence: so that you don’t give up
Respect data and truth: ensure your research is
solid
Communication: allow you to publish your work

C3 LPR
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Critical Thinking
Develop a habit of asking questions, especially why questions
Always try to make sense of what you have read/heard; don’t
let any question pass by
Get used to challenging everything
Practical advice
–Question every claim made in a paper or a talk (can you
argue the other way?)
–Try to write two opposite reviews of a paper (one mainly to
argue for accepting the paper and the other for rejecting it)

–Force yourself to challenge one point in every talk that you
attend and raise a question
Respect Data and Truth

Be honest with the experiment results
– Don’t throw away negative results!
– Try to learn from negative results
Don’t twist data to fit your hypothesis; instead, let the

hypothesis choose data
Be objective in data analysis and interpretation; don’t mislead
readers
Aim at understanding/explanation instead of just good results
Be careful not to over-generalize (for both good and bad
results); you may be far from the truth
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Communications
General communication skills:
–Oral and written
–Formal and informal
–Talk to people with different level of backgrounds
Be clear, concise, accurate, and adaptive (elaborate
with examples, summarize by abstraction)
English proficiency

Get used to talking to people from different fields
Persistence
Work only on topics that you are passionate about
Work only on hypotheses that you believe in
Don’t draw negative conclusions prematurely and give up easily

– positive results may be hidden in negative results
– In many cases, negative results don’t completely reject a hypothesis
Be comfortable with criticisms about your work (learn from negative

reviews of a rejected paper)
Think of possibilities of repositioning a work (what you learn from an

unsuccessful exploration can often inspire a new interesting research
direction)
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Optimize Your Training

Know your strengths and weaknesses (SWOT)
–strong in math vs. strong in system development
–creative vs. thorough
–…
Train yourself to fix weaknesses
Find strategic partners
Position yourself to take advantage of your strengths

HOW to do Research…
Research Process
Types of Research Questions and
Results
Solid work
High Impact Research
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HOW - Research Process

Identification of a topic & raise a research question
– research question = question with no answer, or no good answer
described in any literature
Hypothesis formulation
– offer a (possible) answer to the research question
– formulate a hypothesis based on your answer (e.g., “your new method
better than an existing method”)
Design experiments to test hypothesis (e.g., compare X and Y

on the data)

Draw conclusions and repeat the cycle if needed
Research Process …
Review the Available
Literature
Publish Formulate a
Findings Question
Research Process
Interpret Select an Appropriate
Findings Research Design
Collect Relevant
Data
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HOW – Type of Research

Questions
Exploratory research: Identify and frame a new problem (e.g.,
“a survey/outlook of personalized search”)
Constructive research: Construct a (new) solution to a
problem (e.g., “a new method for expert finding”)
Empirical research: evaluate and compare existing solutions
(e.g., “a comparative evaluation of link analysis methods for
web search”)
The “E-C-E cycle”:

– Exploratory -> constructive -> empirical -> exploratory…
HOW - Types of Research Questions

and Results …
Exploratory (Framework): What’s out there?
Descriptive (Principles): What does it look like? How does it
work?
Evaluative (Empirical results): How well does a method solve a
problem?
Explanatory (Causes): Why does something happen the way it
happens?
Predictive (Models): What would happen if xxx ?
Applied : Where can it be used ?
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HOW – Solid and High Impact Research

Solid work:
– A clear hypothesis (research question) with conclusive result (either positive or
negative)
– Clearly adds to our knowledge base (can we really learn something new from
this work?)
– Implications: a solid, focused contribution is often better than a non- conclusive
broad exploration
High impact = high-importance-of-problem * high-quality-of-

solution
– high impact = open up an important problem
– high impact = close a problem with the best solution

– high impact = major milestones in between
– Implications: question the importance of the problem and don’t just be satisfied
with a good solution, make it the best
Problem Formulation
Formulating Research Problem
Problem Formulation - Understanding Modeling & Simulation - Conducting Literature Review - Referencing -
Information Sources - Information Retrieval - Role of libraries in Information Retrieval - Tools for identifying
Literatures - Indexing and Abstracting Services - Citation Indexes.
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https://www.xilinx.com/video/soc/4g-5g-wireless-radio-
examples-using-zynq-ultrascale-plus-rfsoc.html
https://www.xilinx.com/video/soc/zynq-rfsoc-dfe-zcu670-
evaluation-kit-for-5g-new-radio-development.html

Academic Research Process
Problem Formulation Doing the Research (addressing the
problem)
Area Problem Initiation and Method of
Identification Identification Definition Solution
Solution
Presentation
Peer Review Process Intellectual Property
Right/Patent
Publication/report/thesis writing
Technical article, etc
Research process, whether industrial research or

academic research, most of them followed.
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FORMULATING THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

According to Bryman, Alan. ― A research problem is a definite or clear
expression [statement] about an area of concern, a condition to be improved
upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in
scholarly literature, in theory, or within existing practice that points to a need
for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation.
A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or

broad proposition, or present a value question.
It is not always easy to formulate the research problem simply and clearly. It
may take years to decide for some and just a few minutes for others to decide
the research problem to be studied.
The social issues may provide a broader prospect but it may not suggest a

specific one. E.g. understanding economic background of society may not
address the issues of unemployment in the same society therefore
unemployment needs to studied differently and individually to assess the
underlying problems.
Sources of Research Problems
Some sources of Research Problems may be identified as follows:

Personal Experiences.
Media: Documentation done on various issues, live coverage, panel discussions etc.
Resources: Literature such as books, journals, news articles, periodicals etc. may
facilitate the researcher to identify a relevant problem based on the area of interest.
Discussions: A researcher may be able to come to a conclusion to identify a research

problem by discussing the perspectives with peers, colleagues, seniors in the field,
guides etc.
Government / Official Records: The orders passed by government. The decisions given
in various cases by courts, the petitions and surveys conducted become important
sources to shortlist finer prints in abrader problem.
People: A group of individuals may be studied to understand how they behave, how tiny
respond to a particular situation do or what responses are generated when they are
influenced from within or outside the group.
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Sources of Research Problems…

Problems: It may be decided to examine the existence of certain issues
or problems relating to society, sciences or any subjects in reference.
Programs: These may be used to evaluate the effectiveness of an

interference, involvement or intrusions.
Phenomena: To establish the existence of regularity and to understand

if a procedure would yield similar results overtime when used
repetitively. This includes causes and effects and relationships between
variables.
Ideas from external sources.
Interdisciplinary Perspectives.

Important Considerations in Selecting a
Research Problem
A good research problem should incorporate the following features:
Persuasive Topic: The problem that is taken up for research should not only be
of ample interest to the researcher but also the one that is continuously
motivating to ensure consistent efforts to find a solution.
– The significance is greatly reduced if the idea is to just get some superficial knowledge about
the problem and not to lead the researcher to resolve.
Viability: A problem that has been identified to be studied should be decided

on the basis of whether it is actually possible to be resolved , or has some
previous know how to guide the researcher to move ahead.
– A problem which has not been foreseen earlier may be selected but then the resources
availability should be considered.
The So What Test: A research problem should be able to pass the ―So What?
test as in social researches, to ascertain the meaningfulness and relevance of
studying a particular problem.
– If the problem does not a result which may lead to further study or analysis it has be avoided.
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Important Considerations in Selecting a

Research Problem …
Few more considerations that assist a researcher to ensure that the study will
remain manageable and that you will remain motivated are:
Interest: a research endeavor is usually time consuming, and involves hard

work and possibly unforeseen problems. One should select topic of great
interest to sustain the required motivation.
Magnitude: It is extremely important to select a topic that you can manage

within the time and resources at your disposal. Narrow the topic down to
something manageable, specific and clear.
Measurement of concepts: Make sure that you are clear about the indicators
and measurement of concepts (if used) in your study.

Level of expertise: Make sure that you have adequate level of expertise for
the task you are proposing since you need to do the work yourself.
Important Considerations in Selecting a Research

Problem …
Relevance: Ensure that your study adds to the existing body of
knowledge, bridges current gaps and is useful in policy
formulation. This will help you to sustain interest in the study.
Availability of data: Before finalizing the topic, make sure that
data are available.
Ethical issues: How ethical issues can affect the study
population and how ethical problems can be overcome should
be thoroughly examined at the problem formulating stage.
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Statement of Research Problem

A research problem statement has to be adequate as different
people may interpret it in many ways and draw inferences that
the researcher has not even thought of.
It has to be established that this statement leads only in a single
direction and leads only to where one wants to reach.
This would also avoid new generalized issues arising out of the
work.

Statement of Research Problem …
For a problem statement to be effective, it should have the
following characteristics: (Andrew & Hildebrand 1982):
The problem reflects felt needs
The problem is non-hypothetical (real), i.e. it must be based on
factual (existing in reality, true) evidence
It should suggest meaningful and testable hypotheses - to avoid
answers that are of little or no use to the alleviation of the
problem
The problems should be relevant and manageable
The problem statement is therefore a very important device for

keeping you on track with your research.
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PROCESS OF FORMULATION OF A RESEARCH PROBLEM
An appropriate statement of research problem would need the

researcher to follow certain steps to be able to arrive at the expected
outcome with an addition of reasonable new knowledge.
Developing a Conceptual Framework: The researcher has to
conceptualize, identify and select a broad discipline before short
listing the final aspects to be studied.
– Then it is to find out which of these aspects generate the maximum interest
and lead one to work with enthusiasm and perseverance.
– Assimilate the set of questions that would address the problem adequately
and formulate objectives that correspond to these questions.

PROCESS OF FORMULATION OF A RESEARCH PROBLEM …
Referring the available literature on the problem: An extensive literature
reference is necessary to find out the available information about the identified
problem.
– It assists in understanding the earlier work done in the similar area and prevents the chances of
doing a repetitive work.
– It is the study of available knowledge in the field and especially in the perspective of problem
stated by the researcher.
– It provides a description, summary, and critical evaluation of these works in relation to the
research problem being investigated.
– To carry out review of literature, you need to locate, read and evaluate research documents,
reports as well as thesis and other sources of academic materials. Review done for one particular
research process must be extensive and thorough because it is aimed to obtain a detailed
account of the problem being studied.
The reference to the available literature and the reviewing it has the following
advantages:
– Brings clarity and focus to the research problem- Reviewing literature can be time-consuming,
daunting and frustrating, but is also rewarding.
– Improves the methodology: continue this in Literature review (how to do research)
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Problem Formulation
A problem well defined is a

problem half solved

How to Identify a Good Research
Problem
What is a Good Research Problem?
Well-defined: Would be able to tell whether you’ve solved the
problem?
Highly important: Who would really care about the solution to
the problem? Does it solve a big pain?
– Identify fundamental problems
– Dream big to identify novel application opportunities
Solvable: Is there any clue about how to solve it? Do you have a
baseline approach? Do you have the needed resources?
Matching your strength: Are you good at solving this kind of

problems?
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How to Find a Problem?

Application-driven (Find a nail, then make a hammer)
– Identify a need by people/users that cannot be satisfied well currently
(“complaints” about current data/information management systems?)
– How difficult is it to solve the problem?
No big technical challenges: do a startup

Lots of big challenges: write a research proposal
– Identify one technical challenge as your topic
– Formulate/frame the problem appropriately so that you can solve it
Aim at a completely new application/function (find a high-

stake nail)
How to Find a Problem? …

Tool-driven (Hold a hammer, and look for a nail)
– Choose your favorite state-of-the-art tools
 Ideally, you have a “secret weapon”
 Otherwise, bring tools from area X to area Y
– Look around for possible applications
– Find a novel application that seems to match your tools
– How difficult is it to use your tools to solve the problem?
 No big technical challenges: do a startup
 Lots of big challenges: write a research proposal
– Identify one technical challenge as your topic
– Formulate/frame the problem appropriately so that you can solve it
Aim at important extension of the tool (find an unexpected application and

use the best hammer)
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How to Find a Problem? …

In practice, we do both in various kinds of ways
–You use your imagination, or talk to people in
application domains to identify new “nails”
–You take courses and read literature to acquire
newest or powerful “hammers”
–You check out related areas for both new “nails”
and new “hammers”
–You read visionary papers and the “future work”
sections of research papers, and then take a

problem from there
Problem Solving Loop
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Methodological Decision Tree

1. Primary 2. Problem 3. Problem Development and
Objective 4. General Analysis Selection
Identification Hypothesis Generation
Publication
Theory -A Theoretical
Literature Search
Analysis
Particular
PhD Requirement Particular
Problem Theory -B
Behavior Model Hypothesis
Model and
Empirical
Increase Definition Antiithesis
Accounting Research
Knowledge Model
Solve Problem
5. Data Collection and 6. Data 7. Conclusion and

Measurement Analysis Inference
Questionnaire
Simulation Analysis of Particular Statistical
Particular Interview variance test
Controlled Laboratory
Experiment environment
Observation Regression Specification
and Business
Analysis Analysis

game
Field Study/ Audio/Video
Experiment Selection of Significant
Factor Analysis
Level
Example: Problem Definition

Problem identification and Survey
Survey
– Literature: paper, report, article and book
 “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end”
 Interview or observation of the research target
Defining the Problem to be tackled

– Exact understanding of the problem leads to a better solution
– Writing the definition of the problem and research objective “writing
makes an exact man” (Bacon)
Making a plan for management

– Time table according to research progress or time limitations
– Allocation of research resources: time, equipment, and man power
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Example: Problem Definition …

Identify a broad area (and if you have passion for the area)
Say – 5G Wireless technology (a very broad area)
Search for “recent research in 5G Wireless technology”
Massive MIMO, mmWave Communication, NBIoT, Massive
Machine Connectivity, D2D Communication, Self organizing
Networks, Cloud RAN, (broad area)
Learn little bit of them if you don’t know. For example, which
technology is at PHY Layer, Which is at MAC layer, which is at
Network layer etc.

My strength and comparative knowledge is on software side –
do more research on Cloud RAN
Example: Problem Definition …

Lets say, my problem identification –”Cloud RAN for 5G Wireless”
Repeat the search for Cloud RAN – “Recent research in Cloud RAN
Search what is happening recently in Cloud RAN – Read one para of all
the links, if you find paper from good source, read abstract and
conclusion
Keep writing about probable topics (list 10-15 of them). Keep

discussing with supervisor and colleagues
Short list from the above to 4-5
Further short out to 1-2

Possible Problem Definition – “Optimizing Resource Allocation in Cloud RAN for 5G

Networks”
The problem is to find out techniques where by Resource Allocation in Cloud RAN
is optimized. and the technique is new
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Techniques Involved in Defining a Problem
Defining problem simply means that the researcher

has to lay down certain boundaries within which
he/she has to study the problem with a predefined
objective in mind.
Defining a problem is a herculean task, and this must
be done intelligently to avoid confusions that arise in
the research operation.

Step to follow (example)
State the problem in a general way:

First state the problem in general terms with respect to some
practical, scientific or intellectual interest.
For this, the researcher may himself read the concerned subject
matter thoroughly or take the help of the subject expert.
Often, the guide states the problem in general terms; it depends
on the researcher if he/she wants to narrow it down to
operational terms.
The problem stated should also be checked for ambiguity and
feasibility.
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Step to follow in defining a problem ..

Understand the nature of the problem:
The next step is to understand the nature and origin of the problem.
The researcher needs to discuss the problem with those related to the subject
matter in order to clearly understand the origin of the problem, its nature,
objectives, and the environment in which the problem is to be studied.
Survey the available literature:

 All available literature including relevant theories, reports,
records, and other relevant literature on the problem needs to
be reviewed and examined.
 This would help the researcher to identify the data available,
the techniques that might be used, types of difficulties that

may be encountered during the study, possible analytical
shortcomings, and even new methods of approach to the present
problem.
Step to follow in defining a problem …
Go for discussions for developing ideas:

The researcher may discuss the problem with his/her
colleagues and others related to the concerned subject.
This helps the researcher to generate new ideas, identify
different aspects on the problem, gain suggestions and advices
from others, and sharpen his focus on certain aspects within
the field.
However, discussions should not be limited to the problem
only, but should also be related to the general approach to the
problem, techniques that might be used, possible solutions,

etc.
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Step to follow in defining a problem …
Rephrase the research problem into a working proposition:

Finally, the researcher must rephrase the problem into a
working proposition.
Rephrasing the problem means putting the problem in specific
terms that is feasible and may help in the development of
working hypotheses.
Once the researcher has gone through the above steps
systematically, it is easy to rephrase the problem into analytical
and operational terms

Research Journey
• Researching is a process that demands planning,
forethought, commitment, and persistence.
• It needs to be managed, navigated and, negotiated

from early conception to final destination.
• It is important for a student researcher to keep in

mind that your journey to produce knowledge will
also be a learning journey about both research itself
and your ability to manage intricacies and
complexity.
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Research Journey: Staying on

Course

Question to answer
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Research Journey: Staying on

Course…

Address the question
43
Remarks & Quote

04-03-2024
44

RM 613 Edited Part-1

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04-03-2024

Navin Kumar, PhD C.Eng

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Course Contents: 21RM613 (2 0 0 2)

Meaning of Research - Types of Research - Research Process - Problem Definition - Objectives of

Problem Formulation - Understanding Modeling & Simulation - Conducting Literature Review -

Experimental Research - Cause Effect Relationship - Development of Hypothesis; Measurement –

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Some more Explanation

Research is an activity that leads us to finding new facts,

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

According to (Rocco, 2011), "Research is a careful investigation or inquiry

Some More Explanation …

It may be understood in following terms also:

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

research or study (Murthy & Bhojanna, 2009, p. 32).

In a research paper, the

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

b) It utilizes acceptable scientific methodology to solve problems (the method used

c) It should create new knowledge that is generally applicable. (The outcomes

d) It is creative process to develop better understanding of mankind, social and

Other qualities/characteristics of Research …

Characteristics of research determine whether a research is free of biases,

Success depends on them. They are:

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Other qualities/characteristics of Research…

How to ensure a good quality Research?

2. Common concepts should be used that can be understood by all.

3. Research procedures should be explained in detail.

4. Research design should be carefully planned.

6. Analysis of data should be sufficiently adequate to reveal significance.

7. The methods of analysis should be appropriate.

8. The validity and reliability of the data should be checked carefully.

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Research can be classified into various categories

Classification based on Application:

a. Pure / Basic / Fundamental Research:

As the term suggests a research activity taken up to look into some

It involves developing and testing theories and hypotheses that are

The knowledge produced through pure research is sought in order to

Pure research is theoretical but has a universal nature. It is more

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Classification based on Application …

b. Applied / Decisional Research:

Main Differences between Basic and Applied

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Classification based on Objectives

A) Descriptive Research: This attempts to explain a situation, problem, phenomenon, service or

B) Co relational Research: This is a type of non-experimental research method, in which a

Classification based on Objectives …

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

• Research design is the framework of research methods and techniques

Classification based on Inquiry Mode

A) Structured approach: The structured approach to inquiry is usually classified

B) Unstructured approach: The unstructured approach to inquiry is usually

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013

Other Types of Research

Descriptive v/s Analytical: Descriptive research includes surveys

Applied v/s Fundamental: Research can either be applied (or

Other Types of Research …

Quantitative v/s Qualitative: Quantitative research is based on

Qualitative research: is concerned with qualitative phenomenon,

12-CRS-0106 REVISED 8 FEB 2013