Reserach report writing

Methods of Data Collection

10.0 Objectives

• Understand the concept of research proposals and reports.

• Describe the significance and goals of preparing a research proposal.

• Elucidate the steps for writing a psychological research report.

10.1 Introduction

• Focus on the concept of research proposals and the importance of report writing.

• Overview of steps necessary for preparing a research proposal.

10.2 Meaning and Concept of Research

• Definition: Research is a scientific study addressing specific problems or issues.

  • It transforms problems into questions to find answers.

  • Applicable across various fields: medical, social, psychological, economical, etc.

  • Example: A vague question like "How can I cure cancer?" must become specific like "Does exposure to chemotherapy kill cancer cells?"

10.2.1 Purpose of Psychological Research

• Understand human behavior, thoughts, and feelings.

• Objective: Gain insights that impact society, such as rehabilitation of criminals.

• Classification of behaviors and diagnoses of conditions like depression are vital outcomes.

  • Example: Research shows that exercise and therapy can mitigate emotions associated with depression.

10.3 Preparing a Research Proposal

• Purpose: Justify the importance of the research and outline methodological choices.

• Must include:

  • In-depth literature reviews with a proper layout.

  • Methodology description aligned with academic standards and expected results.

  • Answer the what, why, and how of the research.

• 6 P’s of Research Proposal Preparing:

  • Project: Why should someone invest in your proposal?

  • Person: Justification of the researcher’s capabilities.

  • Preparation: Readiness for conducting the research.

  • Place: Choice of the specific institution for research.

  • Passion: Genuine enthusiasm for the research topic.

  • Precision: Clear, time-bound plans must be presented.

10.4 Research Report: Introduction, Definition and Report Format

• A research report is a formal written document that shares research outcomes.

• It preserves findings for future research and communicates results effectively.

10.4.1 Format or Structure for Research Report

• Report should consist of:

  • Part 1 (Formality):

    • Cover page, Title page, Statement, Index, Acknowledgements, List of tables and figures, Preface, Summary report.

  • Part 2 (Central part):

    • Introduction, Objective, Problem statement, Literature review, Methodology, Data interpretation, Conclusions, Delimitations, Citations, Appendices.

1) Introduction

• Sets the context and importance of the research, outlining the specific problem.

  • Must address:

    • What is being studied?

    • Why study this topic?

    • Summary of existing research and how the current study will contribute or fill gaps.

2) Purpose of Study

• The research must be directed by a clear hypothesis and focus on solving the outlined research problem.

3) Significance of Study

• Distinct contributions to previous studies should be highlighted, explaining how the current study advances knowledge.

4) Review of Literature

• Important to note and differentiate previous works in the literature.

  • Guidelines include:

    • Author, Title, Publisher, Year, Objectives, Conclusions.

  • Utilize the “five C’s” for structuring literature review (Cite, Compare, Contrast, Critique, Connect).

5) Methodology

• Describes how data will be collected (primary vs secondary sources), sampling method, research procedures, and justifications for methods.

6) Interpretation and Analyzing of Data

• The process must be systematic and aligned with research objectives.

7) Conclusions/Suggestions

• Summarizes key findings and supports conclusions with logical reasoning and statistics.

8) Preliminary Suppositions and Implications

• Discuss potential outcomes of the research and their implications for future studies, practices, and policies.

9) Delimitations of the Study

• Clearly outlines what the research will and won’t cover, ensuring understanding of its limits.

10) Citations

• Essential to acknowledge all relevant sources using references and bibliography format (e.g., APA).

11) Appendices

• Additional information that supports but is not central to data analysis.

10.5 Significance of Report Writing

• Communication of research findings is crucial to validate research efforts.

10.6 Precautions for Writing Research Reports

• Key elements include:

  • Length, clarity, engaging content, logical structure, and proper error checking.

10.6.1 Tips to Remember While Report Writing

• Maintain objectivity, use past tense, avoid slang, use active voice, and ensure transition sentences in literature review.

10.7 Let Us Sum Up

• Highlights the importance of standard procedures in preparing research proposals and writing research reports in psychology.

10.8 Unit End Questions

1. Purpose of Psychological Research?

2. Concept and relevance of a research proposal?

3. Format of a research report?

4. Significance of report writing?

10.9 Answers to Self Assessment Questions

1. False

2. True

3. False

4. True

10.10 Glossary

• Research: Scientific study of issues or problems.

• Research Report: Document detailing outcomes for future use.

• References: Literature list used in a research study.

• Bibliography: Comprehensive list of all referred literature.

10.11 Suggested Readings and References

• Key literature on research methods and proposal writing in psychology and social sciences.