ENG10 Q4 MOD1

Module Components

1. Lessons

   • Lesson 1: Technical Terms in Research

   • Lesson 2: Qualitative Method and Quantitative Method

   • Lesson 3: Elements of a Research Paper

Lesson 1: Technical Terms in Research

• Research is a systematic and scientific process involving data collection, analysis, and interpretation relevant to unsolved problems.

• Types of Research:

  • Quantitative: Focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis.

  • Qualitative: Centers on descriptive data, exploring ideas and feelings.

  • Key Concepts:

    • Concept: Abstract terms that describe objects or ideas, with examples like age and income.

    • Theory: Organized set of principles explaining phenomena such as atomic or evolutionary theory.

    • Variables: Factors that change in the study, such as demographics like age or sex.

    • Hypothesis: An educated guess about relationships between variables.

  • Research methods must be clear to avoid confusion in understanding and application.

Writing a Successful Research Paper

Writing a successful research paper is a complex process involving several steps: selecting a topic, conducting research, determining methodology, organizing thoughts, forming arguments, citing sources, drafting, and revising the paper.

Importance of Structure: A successful research paper increases readers' knowledge and provides unbiased information supported by valid evidence.

SMART Fundamentals for Research Paper Writing:

• Specific: Focus on answering a specific research question and stay on topic without diverging into unrelated subjects.

• Measurable: Include proven research and cite all sources clearly.

• Attainable: Present a thesis statement that answers the research question and adds to the knowledge of the subject.

• Realistic: Ensure objectivity and base interpretations on reliable evidence.

• Time: Understand the scope, limitations, and timeframes to keep the research focused and relevant.

Narrowing Down a Research Topic:

• By Demographic Characteristics: Focus on specific age groups, occupations, or other characteristics (e.g., challenges faced by international college graduates).

• By Relevant Issues: Identify key issues for potential thesis statements or research questions (e.g., challenges faced by college graduates finding relevant work).

• By Location: Specify a geographical focus or environment (e.g., rural vs. urban).

• By Timeframe: Decide if the research covers recent events or historical periods (e.g., workforce challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic).

• By Causes: Investigate causes of research issues (e.g., low employment rates for college graduates).

Lesson 2: Differentiating between Qualitative and Quantitative Methods

• Quantitative Methods:

  • Involves numerical data, objectivity, and replicability.

  • Pros: Validity, reliability, and generalizable results.

  • Cons: Limited by the inability to measure complex human behavior.

• Qualitative Methods:

  • Based on understanding, context, and subjective interpretation.

  • Pros: Rich, descriptive data that provides depth.

  • Cons: Time-intensive and less replicable.

Lesson 3: Elements of a Research Paper

• Components of a Research Paper Include:

  • Title

  • Abstract

  • Introduction - establishes context for the study.

  • Methods - outlines how research was conducted.

  • Results - presents data, often using tables/figures.

  • Discussion/Conclusion - interprets results, touches on significance.

  • References - cites sources used in writing the paper.

Importance of Research

• Essential for all levels of education and professional fields.

• Helps in informed decision-making and knowledge development.

  • Significance of Research includes:

    1. Building knowledge and facilitating learning.

    2. Understanding various societal issues.

    3. Supporting business decision-making.

    4. Establishing truths through evidence.

    5. Creating opportunities for advancement.

    6. Encouraging analytical thinking and the love of knowledge.

Conclusion

• Research writing empowers learners to process information critically and contributes to their overall growth as scholars.

• Engagement with research terminology and methods is crucial for producing credible and impactful research papers.