Name: ________________________
Section: _______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #3 QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH
QUALITATIVE
Definition A systematic subjective approach used to describe life
experiences and give them meaning. A formal,
objective, systematic process for obtaining
information about the world. A method used to
describe, test relationships and examine cause and
effect relationships
Goals  To gain insight; explore the depth, richness and
complexity inherent in the phenomenon. To test
relationships, describe, examine cause and effect
relations.
 Seeks to explore, explain and understand some
phenomena – What? And Why? Seeks to confirm
a hypothesis about some phenomena – What?
And How many?
Characteristics Soft science Hard science
Focus: complex and broad Focus: concise and narrow
Holistic Reductionist
Subjective Objective
Dialectic, inductive reasoning Logistic, deductive
reasoning
Basis of knowing: meaning and discovery Basis of
knowing: cause and effect, relationships
Develops theory (Theory Emergent) Tests theory
(Theory Testing)
Shared interpretation Control
Methods: less structured; Data gathered through
interviews, observations, content analysis, etc. Highly
structured methods: Data gathered through the use
of tools, equipment, questionnaires, etc.
Communication and observation Instruments
Asks open-ended questions in an effort to explore
Asks closed-ended questions that give quantifiable
answers
Data provided as a narrative, pictures, or objects Data
is in the form of numbers and statistical results
Basic element of analysis: words Basic element of
analysis: numbers
Individual interpretation Statistical analysis
Results may be presented subjectively – may reveal
biases, values or experiences that impact how the
results are interpreted Results are documented using
objective language
Uniqueness Generalization
Researchers must be able to choose and use the appropriate approach in his/her study in order to arrive at valid results.
Quantitative and Qualitative research methods possess specific characteristics suited to study a certain phenomenon, therefore,
making the data collection, interpretation and analysis more manageable and factual.
Date: _______________
Subject Teacher: ______________________
QUANTITATIVE
A systematic subjective approach used to describe life
experiences and give them meaning. A formal,
objective, systematic process for obtaining information
about the world. A method used to describe, test
relationships and examine cause and effect
relationships
 To gain insight; explore the depth, richness and
complexity inherent in the phenomenon. To test
relationships, describe, examine cause and effect
relations.
 Seeks to explore, explain and understand some
phenomena – What? And Why? Seeks to confirm a
hypothesis about some phenomena – What? And
How many?
Soft science Hard science
Focus: complex and broad Focus: concise and narrow
Holistic Reductionist
Subjective Objective
Dialectic, inductive reasoning Logistic, deductive
reasoning
Basis of knowing: meaning and discovery Basis of
knowing: cause and effect, relationships
Develops theory (Theory Emergent) Tests theory
(Theory Testing)
Shared interpretation Control
Methods: less structured; Data gathered through
interviews, observations, content analysis, etc. Highly
structured methods: Data gathered through the use of
tools, equipment, questionnaires, etc.
Communication and observation Instruments
Asks open-ended questions in an effort to explore Asks
closed-ended questions that give quantifiable answers
Data provided as a narrative, pictures, or objects Data is
in the form of numbers and statistical results
Basic element of analysis: words Basic element of
analysis: numbers
Individual interpretation Statistical analysis
Results may be presented subjectively – may reveal
biases, values or experiences that impact how the
results are interpreted Results are documented using
objective language
Uniqueness Generalization
Name: ________________________ Date: _______________
Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #3 QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH (Cont.)
EXAMPLES OF RESEARCH IN DIFFERENT AREAS OF INTEREST

1. ARTS - The best art research is sculptures, photographs, paintings and architecture.

2. HUMANITIES - It studies human culture using speculative, analytical and critical approach. Examples are ancient and modern
languages, philosophy, literature, religion, etc.

3. SPORTS - Sports research interest like lifestyle, health habits, sports performance and other related topics.

4. BUSINESS - It involves acquiring information and knowledge for professional or commercial purposes such as determining business
opportunities such as gathering sales information, advertisement, marketing strategy, etc.

5. AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES - It usually monitors and evaluates the latest trends and events in relation to agriculture and
fisheries research and development. Interest: food processing, plant diseases and pest, genetically modified crops, chicken and pig
farming, sustainable fish, jellyfish cultivation, and seaweeds farming.

6. ICT - It is an umbrella term that includes any communication device, radio, television, cellphones, computer and network hardware
satellite systems, as well as the various appliances with them such as video conferencing and distance learning. Internet is the
backbone of information and digital age. It provides faster communication, abundant information, education, entertainment, social
networking and all online services and e-commerce.

Researchers must be able to choose and use the appropriate approach in his/her study in order to arrive at valid results.
Quantitative and Qualitative research methods possess specific characteristics suited to study a certain phenomenon, therefore,
making the data collection, interpretation and analysis more manageable and factual.
Name: ________________________ Date: _______________
Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #4 CHARACTERISTICS, STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, AND KINDS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
CHARACTERISTICS OF A QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

Human Understanding and Interpretation

Data analysis results show an individual's mental, social, and spiritual understanding of the world. Qualitative research makes us
understand different thoughts and opinions.

Multiple Research Methods and Approaches

Qualitative research lets you choose varied methods and approaches for your research. It is a multi-method research in which you
can use different research types.

Active, Powerful, And Forceful

The world continues to change. So, with research results. With this, researches should be constantly conducted and amended to
cope up with the demands of the world. Since it is a systematic study, it can influence people and create an impact

Specificity To Generalization
Specific ideas in qualitative research are directed to a general understanding. These ideas can then be concluded to a generalized
idea that can be understood by the majority of the population.

Contextualization
Specific ideas in qualitative research are directed to a general understanding. These ideas can then be concluded to a generalized
idea that can be understood by the majority of the population.

Abounds With Words and Visuals

Qualitative researches are focused on the use of words. Moreover, respondents' answers may also be represented in a visual
presentation. These researches feed the eyes!

Diverse Data in Real-Life Situations

Qualitative researchers usually prefer collecting data in natural settings. This keeps them in touch with reality and also allows them to
appreciate visuals.

Internal Analysis
Data collected are analyzed by taking into account internal factors from the respondents. This includes their emotions, beliefs, stand
points, etc. This research focuses on the perception of people rather than their physical existence.

STRENGTHS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

It adopts a naturalistic approach to its subject matter.

It promotes an understanding of human behavior.
It revives the value of respecting people’s individuality.
It is a way to interpret social interactions.

WEAKNESSES OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

It involves the researcher’s subjectivity.

It is hard to know the validity or reliability of the data.
Its open-ended questions yield “data overload” that requires long term analysis.
It is time-consuming.
It involves several processes, which results greatly depend on the researcher’s interpretation.
Name: ________________________ Date: _______________
Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #4 CHARACTERISTICS, STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, AND KINDS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
(PART 2)
KINDS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

Below are the kinds of qualitative research that you may venture on. Your choice of conducting a qualitative research study
depends on your interest, on the issues and concerns need to be addressed in the community, and on your curiosity as an individual.

Phenomenology- It is the study of how people give meaning to their experiences, like the death of loved ones, care for the people,
and friendliness of the people.

Ethnography- It understands how a particular cultural group goes about their daily lives which includes their organizational set-up,
internal operations, and lifestyle.

Grounded theory-This occurs when a researcher discovers a new theory based on the data collected. It is a research methodology for
discovering theory in a substantive area.

Case study - This study involves an investigation of a person, group, organization, or situation for a long period of time to explain why
such things occur to the subject under study. Some examples of this type of study are the fields of social care, nursing, psychology,
rehabilitation centers, education, etc.

Content and Discourse Analysis -This method requires the examination or analysis of the substance or content of the communication
that takes place through letters, books, journals, photos, video recordings, short message services, online messages, emails, audio-
visual materials, etc.

Historical Analysis - This is the study of primary documents to explain the connection of past events to the present time. An example
of this is explaining the happenings during the Marcos regime.
Name: ________________________ Date: _______________
Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #5 THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH ACROSS FIELDS OF INQUIRY
Qualitative research has been found useful and productive by experts in most disciplines, particularly in education, technical
communication, business, social behavioral services, advertising, and social work.

REASONS WHY QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IS VERY USEFUL:

Qualitative Research in Education
Qualitative Research in Technical Communication
Qualitative Research in Psychology
Qualitative Research in Advertising
Qualitative Research in Marketing
Qualitative Research in International Business

Qualitative Research in Education –gathers the outcomes from the educational research carried out in different fields, disciplines,
and methodological approaches. The purpose of the research is to improve the educational process or context.

Qualitative Research in Technical Communication – Determines the effectiveness of the technology in the workplace and, to ensure
smooth flow of communication. ex: Email, messaging, video, and voice conferencing.

Qualitative Research in Psychology – Psychology has been strongly shaped by the behavioral and cognitive traditions. It seeks to
understand, determine and to observable, objective psychological reality. ex: Psychologists seek to understand why some students
lack motivation to go to school and why some students resort to bullying and the like.

Qualitative Research in Advertising –As per Morisson, great advertising comes along from an understanding of consumer’s wants
and needs. To understand those wants and needs, the consumer needs to be consulted and integrated at virtually every step of the
research process. qualitative research approaches and methods are useful in advertising have been used lengthily by Advertising
researchers.

Qualitative Research in Marketing – it involves a natural or observation. Conducted using observation or unstructured questioning. It
answers the what, where, when and who of decision making and also answers the how and why.

Qualitative Research in International Business – Businesses all over the world use other methods like participant observation,
content analysis, focus groups, narrative interviews, and “hidden” methods such as archival research. (Marscham, Pekkari & Wech,
2004)
Name: ________________________ Date: _______________
Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #6 DESIGNING A RESEARCH PROJECT RELATED TO DAILY LIFE
The following are important terminologies for you to take note:
Research Topic A subject or issue that a researcher is interested in when conducting research
Narrowed Topic A slice of the general topic needed to explore and focus on the issue in detail
Research Design The strategy for a study and the plan or method by which the strategy is to be carried out

When finding the right research paper topic, let’s consider this:

1. To write your title, you must start with a topic. There is actually no such thing as a single best topic. It is easier to jot down three topics of your
choice, or even five, instead of selecting one single topic. Soon you will realize there is wisdom to this practice.
2. Identify problem situations. At home, there are problems that you dwell on. Examples are relationships, money matters, unemployment,
infidelity and more. In school, you would hear students complain about failing grades, teachers’ teaching strategies, limited allowances, school
facilities and equipment and a lot more. You can move to the larger community and look into problems on politics, prices of commodities, and other
concerns.
3. Consider your passion or interest. Your interest in a topic may be caused by your rich background knowledge about it and by its unfamiliarity to
you. Your real interest in a subject pushes you to research, investigate, or inquire about it with full enthusiasm, motivation, and energy.
4. Make sure you have enough resources for your topic. This means finding a topic that is discussed not just on website or blogs, but more so on
books, articles or even encyclopedia references. Find a topic that is both interesting and has plenty of published materials. Check magazine articles
as well.
5. Pick a topic that is timely and relevant. The topic is relevant if it yields results that are instrumental in societal improvement. It is timely if it is
related to the present.
6. Check references from the library. Visit your library to check the availability of reading materials on your chosen topic. Do not hesitate to ask
your librarian for assistance.
7. Be ready with your personal resources. Assess your research abilities in terms of your financial standing, health condition, mental capacity,
needed facilities, and time allotment to enable you to complete your research.
8. Master the skill of finding the right research topic. Unfortunately, not all topics you are interested in may be that easy to write about. It becomes
even more difficult if there is not enough research material about the topic you’ve chosen. When confronted on what research paper topics to do,
find a broad subject first, then narrow it down.

The following are research topics to be avoided:

1. Controversial Topics
These are topics that depend greatly on the writer’s opinion. Facts cannot support topics like these.
Example: The Extent of Filipinos’ Faith in God
2. Highly Technical Topics
For a beginner, researching on topics that require an advanced study, technical knowledge, and vast experience is a difficult task.
Example: Spaceship Building
3. Hard-to-Investigate Topics
A subject is hard to investigate if there are no available reading materials about it and if such materials are not up-to-date.
Example: Labor Unions before the Coming of Christ
4. Broad Topics
Topics that are too broad will prevent you from giving an in-depth analysis of the subject matter of the paper. The solution to this is to narrow or
limit the topic to a smaller one.
Example: Lack of Self-Confidence (Broad) Better Topic: Lack of Self-Confidence in Adolescents: Root Causes, Manifestations and Intervention
(Narrowed)
5. Too Narrow Topics
These subjects are too limited or specific that an extensive or thorough searching or reading for information about these is necessary.
Example: The Definition of Research
6. Vague Topics
Choosing topics like these will prevent you from having a clear focus on your paper. Titles beginning with indefinite adjectives such as several, many,
some, etc., are vague enough to decrease the readers’ interests and curiosity.
Example: Some Excessively Priced Imported Vehicles

Name: ________________________ Date: _______________

Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #7 HOW TO DESIGN A RESEARCH THAT IS USEFUL IN DAILY LIFE
The design stage constitutes the step where the methodological procedure is planned and prepared. Following are the steps in
research design:

Step 1: The very first step is to choose a topic. The following are topics from which you can design a research that should be useful in
daily life.

Business Research Paper Topics: Education Research Paper Topics: Health Research Paper Topics:
1. Business Ethics 2. Distance Education 2. Birth Control
2. Convenience Stores 3. K-12 Curriculum 3. Depression
3. Cybersecurity 4. Learning Styles 4. Exercise and Fitness
4. Electronic Business 5. Plagiarism 5. Plastic Surgery
5. Franchising
Crime and Law Research Paper Topics: Environmental Research Paper Topics: Political issues Research Paper Topics:
1. Animal Rights 1. Deforestation 1. Budget Deficit
2. Bullying 2. Endangered Species 2. Election
3. Drinking Age, Legal 3. Population Control 3. Impeachment
4. Drug Legalization 4. Recycling 4. International Relations
5. Police Brutality 5. Wildlife Conservation 5. Taxes
Drugs and Drug Abuse Research Paper Family Issues Research Topics: Psychology Research Paper Topics:
Topics: 1. Child Abuse 1. Dreams
1. Alcohol 2. Domestic Abuse 2. Learning Disabilities
2. Cigarette Smoking 3. Family Values 3. Lying
3. Drug Rehabilitation 4. OFW Parents 4. Memory
4. Drug Testing 5. Teen marriage 5. Physical Attraction
5. Drunk Driving
Business Related Research Paper Topics: Women and Gender Research Paper
1. Discrimination in the Workplace Topics:
2. Equal Opportunity 1. Cultural Expectations and Practices 2.
3. Gambling, Online Gaming Discrimination
4. Hiring Issues 3. Education
5. Retirement Age 4. Equality in the Workplace
5. Pregnancy

Step 2: Include the goals/objectives of the study. The objective should be very clear in the mind of the researcher as this will lead to
the clarity of the design and proper response from the respondents.

Step 3: Describe a specific setting/location. It describes in brief the place where the study is conducted.

Step 4: Consider the data sources. The various sources of data or the information should be very clearly stated by the researcher.
Primary data sources include information collected and processes directly by the researcher such as interviews, surveys, and
observations. Secondary data sources include information retrieved through preexisting sources such as research articles and
internet or library searches.

Step 5: Use techniques of data collection. For the collection of required information, it is necessary to use some special techniques
such as interviews, questionnaires and surveys, observations, documents and records, etc.
Name: ________________________ Date: _______________
Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #8 WRITING THE RESEARCH TITLE
CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD RESEARCH TITLE

The Research Title:

- Summarizes the main idea/s of your study
- It is the part of the paper that is read the most and is usually read first
- Captures reader's attention and draws his attention at the research problem being investigated
- Differentiates the paper from other papers of the same subject area
- Predicts content
- Contains keywords that will make it easy to access by a computer search

FORMULATING A RESEARCH TITLE

✓ Specific (goal, variables and locale)
✓ Measurable (quantifiable data and results)
✓ Attainable (reasonable and realistic)
✓ Relevant (appropriate to the current time, period, or circumstances)
✓ Time Bound (within a specified period of time)

Here are basic reminders to keep in mind while writing a research title:
1. Keep it simple, brief, and attractive. The primary function of a title is to provide a precise summary of the paper’s content. So, keep the title brief
and clear. Moreover, a good tile for a research is typically around 10-15 substantive words long. A lengthy title may seem unfocused and take the
reader’s attention away from an important point.
Avoid: Drug X has an effect of muscular contraction for an hour in snails
Better: Drug X induces muscular contraction in snails

2. Use appropriate descriptive words. A good research title should contain key words used in the manuscript and should define the nature of the
study. Think about terms people would use to search for the study and include them in the title.
Avoid: Effects of Drug A on schizophrenia patients
Better: Psychosocial effects of Drug A on schizophrenia patients

3. Avoid abbreviations and jargon. Known abbreviations such as AIDS, HIV, and so on can be used in the title. However, lesser-known or specific
abbreviations and jargon that would not be immediately familiar to the readers should be left out.
Avoid: MMP expression profiles cannot distinguish between normal and early osteoarthritic synovial fluid
Better: Matrix metalloproteinase protein expression profiles cannot distinguish between normal and early osteoarthritic synovial fluid

4. It is a good idea to create a ‘working’ research title first. This title helps focus the research and writing but can be changed if needed. The final
title should be a phrase or a question that indicates the subject and scope of the research while generating the reader’s interest and enthusiasm for
the topic.
Avoid: MMP expression profiles cannot distinguish between normal and early osteoarthritic synovial fluid
Better: Matrix metalloproteinase protein expression profiles cannot distinguish between normal and early osteoarthritic synovial fluid

Variables: what are they?

A variable is an objective, event, idea, feeling, time period, or any other type of category you are trying to measure.
There are two types of variables: Independent and Dependent.
An Independent Variable
- Stands alone
- Is not affected by other variables that you are trying to measure
- Can be manipulated by the researcher
- Is often called the "cause"
A Dependent Variable
- A variable that is dependent on other factors
- Changes, depending on what the IV did/is doing
- Often called the "effect"
- In research, we are trying to find out what makes the dependent variable change

Name: ________________________ Date: _______________

Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #9 HOW TO DESIGN A RESEARCH THAT IS USEFUL IN DAILY LIFE
PURPOSE OF CONDUCTING RESEARCH

- It is a tool to build knowledge and broaden learning.

- Research is a key tool for survival and efficient living. For professionals, it can explain more about things that we
couldn't understand.
Example: A Research on How Sleep Affects the Human Brain. This research lets us delve deep into how sleep
greatly affects our brains in different aspects. Did this broaden our knowledge? Of course it did.
- It is a means to solve problems.
- It is a tool to explore social issues.
- Our world continues to grow and because of this, we encounter more problems. With research. we are led to probable
solutions that can be crucial for all of us.
Example: A Research on the Prejudice of Same-Sex Relationships in Society This will reveal the different struggles
or problems of same- sex couples and the researchers can also employ different solutions to solve these
problems
- Since research also answers queries on present-day events, it is also a tool to explore social issues so we can delve into
them and understand their effects on society.
Example A Research on how the SARS 2 COVID-19 pandemic affected the present-day social strata (lower class,
middle class. upper class)
- It helps us understand ourselves.
- It is a tool to promote opportunities.
- People are some of the vastest beings in this world. For us to understand ourselves more. research is a vital tool to let
us know or learn more about our emotions, opinions, views, etc.
Example: A Research on Adolescent Depression. This will help people, especially adolescents, understand the
triggers and the causes of depression. It will build awareness and openness about the topic that was stigmatized.
- Researches can unleash what is needed in our lives and in society.
Example: A Research on the Preferred Occupation of Senior High School Students in relationship with their
tracks. This will open up more opportunities for employers and future employees which will be supplemental for
demand.

Research is not simply done for compliance – it has different purposes. These are some of the salient purposes of
research:
1) It is a tool to build knowledge and to broaden learning.
2) It is a means to solve problems.
3) It is a tool to explore social issues.
4) It helps us understand ourselves.
5) It is a tool to promote opportunities. The world highly needs research for efficiency and survival. Without research,
there’s no continuity in learning.
Name: ________________________ Date: _______________
Section: _______________________ Subject Teacher: ______________________
CONCEPT NOTE #10 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The background of a study is the first section of the paper and establishes the context underlying the research.

This part of the research includes information which would focus attention on the importance and validity of the
problem. It is the general orientation of the problem area. A brief rationale to justify the problem must be provided. This
is the present state of knowledge regarding the problem.
Answer these questions: what facets of the problem (phenomenon) are known and what need further investigation?
What approaches have been used previously in research of the problem?

For a good background, the researcher can state the antecedents of the reasons why this topic is proposed
relative to previous studies.
The background includes:
1. Discussion of the problem in general and specific situations as observed and experienced by the researcher (macro to
micro approach)
2. Concepts and ideas related to the problem including clarification of important terminologies; and
3. Discussion of the existing or present conditions and what is aimed to be in the future or the gap to be filled – in by the
research

How to write the research introduction and background of the study

1. The background of study is part of the introduction
2. Utilize the deductive method of paragraph development.
3. Do not place or use too much references or citations.
4. The first few paragraphs may contain and discuss the following;
The setting of your study,
introduce the issue that you will be investigating,
the effect and development of this issue,
present who are affected by the issue,
present some articles or legal basis proving that this issue exists and does affect the respondents.
5. The last paragraph of the introduction should be the RATIONALE of the study. This should present the reason for
choosing the topic and conducting the study. 6. Three to five pages should be enough for this part of the study.

Sufficient background information helps your reader determine if you have a basic understanding of the research
problem being investigated and promotes confidence in the overall quality of your analysis and findings.