Lecture Notes: Research Methods – Key Terms (Definition of Terms, Frameworks, Introduction, and Scope)

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on definition of terms, significance, scope, problems, hypotheses, introduction, and theoretical/conceptual frameworks.

Definition of Terms

A section listing terms with special meanings in the study, arranged alphabetically, with conceptual and operational definitions.

Conceptual Definition

Describes what a construct or word actually means; reflects the dictionary or theoretical meaning.

Operational Definition

Describes how a construct or word was used or measured in the study.

Significance of the Study

Section that identifies who benefits from the findings and how they benefit (e.g., experts, administrators, the subjects, future researchers).

Beneficiaries

Groups who benefit from the study: experts concerned about the problem, administrators, the subjects, and future researchers.

Scope and Delimitation

The boundaries and limitations of a study, including population, setting, time frame, and methodology.

What-Where-When-Who-How

Guiding questions that define the scope and delimitations: What is the topic/variables; Where is the setting; When is the time frame; Who are participants; How is the study conducted.

Statement of the Problem

A concise articulation of the research questions derived from the problem, guiding the study.

Hypothesis

A testable statement of expectation or prediction that will be examined in the research.

Null Hypothesis (H0)

There is no significant difference or effect as stated in the hypothesis.

Alternative Hypothesis (H1)

There is a significant difference or effect as stated in the hypothesis.

Objectives of the Study

Long-term objective expected to be achieved; usually introduced by 'The main objective of this study is to…'.

Rationale

The justification or reasoning for investigating the problem.

Introduction

The opening section of a study establishing the problem, rationale, and key terms; typically concise.

Setting

The location or environment where the study takes place; describes its unique characteristics.

Basic Literature Foundations

Foundational literature that supports the study and its theoretical framing.

Theoretical Framework

A theory-based structure guiding the study, used to interpret results and connect to established theories.

Conceptual Framework

A model of the relationships among key concepts; the researcher’s tentative explanation and basis for hypotheses.

Theory

A systematic set of ideas used to explain phenomena, often grounded in general principles.

Demographic Variables

Characteristics such as gender and age that describe the study population.

Psychological Factors

Mental and emotional variables influencing the study (e.g., anxiety, depression, emotional regulation).