RSH045 Introduction to Research MM Prep Doc

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A Definition for Research

The systematic, rigorous investigation of a situation or problem in
order to generate new knowledge or validate existing knowledge.
Hypothesis
Hypothesis is an idea that will be tested through systematic
investigation.
Null Hypothesis
Null Hypothesis states that no relationship or differences exist
between variables and is assumed to be true until support for the
hypothesis is demonstrated.
Variable
A variable is an element that is identified in the hypothesis or
research question.
Independent Variable - also called antecedent variable,
experimental variable, treatment variable, casual variable,
predictor variable is the variable that causes changes in
other variables when manipulated. Technically it is the term
reserved for experimental studies.
Dependent Variable the variable that is influenced or
changed by the independent variable. Also referred to as
criterion variable or outcome variable in non-experimental
research.
Types of Research (Q2MANE)
**Quantitative Research**
Definition: - Quantitative research is a type or research that
is explaining phenomena by collecting numerical data that
are analysed using mathematically base methods.
Key: Quantity is the unit of analysis
Uses statistics for greater precision and objectivity
RSH045 Introduction to Research Prepared by DT

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RSH045 Introduction to Research MM Prep Doc

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Based on the deductive model (a top down approach

that moves from more general to more specific)

Advantages: clear interpretations

clarifies and organize perceptions
careful scrutiny (logical, sequential, controlled)
reduces researcher bias
individuals in other disciplines can understand the
result
Dis-Advantages: study of the questions is segmented to a few at a time
rather than the whole experience
complex issues such as emotional response and
personal values cannot always be reduced to numbers
requires basic variables to be identified or clarified to
assist in the understanding of an issue.
**Qualitative Research**
Definition: - qualitative research also known as interpretive
research is aimed at gaining deep understanding of a
specific organization or event, rather than a surface
description. It generates data about human groups in social
settings.
Key: flexible concepts, tools and methods can be adjusted
as the research progress
Uses observations to generate in-depth description and
to collect data that would be otherwise inaccessible.
Based on the inductive model (a bottom up approach
that moves from specific observations to broader
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RSH045 Introduction to Research MM Prep Doc

Prepared by DT

generalizations and theories)

Advantages: Provides depth and detail
Creates openness
Simulates peoples individual experience
Dis-Advantages: time consuming
nominal level of data, difficult to quantity
masses of data to transcribe
**Mixed Methods**
Definition: - mixed methods research is a methodology for
conducting research that involves collecting, analysing and
integrating quantitative (e.g. experiments, surveys) and
qualitative (e.g. focus groups, interviews) research.
Key: used to provide a better understanding of the problem
than quantitative or qualitative as a standalone
allows for triangulation (the use of several means
[methods, data sources and researchers] to examine
the same phenomenon)
Advantages: Provides strength that offsets the weakness of
quantitative and qualitative research.
Provides a more complete and comprehensive
understanding of the research problem than either
quantitative or qualitative approaches alone.
Helps to explain the findings or how casual processes
work.
Dis-Advantages:RSH045 Introduction to Research Prepared by DT

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RSH045 Introduction to Research MM Prep Doc

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The research design can be very complex.

Requires more time and resources to plan and
implement.
Difficulty resolving discrepancies that arise in the
interpretation of the findings.

**Action Research
Definition: **Non Experimental
Definition: **Experimental Research
Definition: - experimental research is a form of quantitative
research that reveals a cause and effect relationship by
systematically manipulating the independent variable and
observing the influence on the dependent variable.
Key:

A good research question has to be clear, feasible, significant and

ethical.

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