WEEK-5-IMRAD-FORMAT-DISCUSSION (1)

UNIT VIII: REPORTING AND SHARING THE FINDINGS

Introduction

• Let us offer a minute of silence for our personal prayers...

Attendance

• Roll call

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of this chapter, students should:

  • Identify the contents of a research paper.

  • Learn how to write references and citations in APA 6th style format.

  • Present a well-written research report.

Importance of Research Reporting

• A research report must follow an academically accepted manner:

  • It is not just a narrative of ideas but conforms to standards and formats.

  • Ensures relevant information and intellectual honesty, making the study credible and scientifically sound.

Structure of a Research Report

Manuscript Content

A. Preliminaries

• Title Page

• Endorsement

• Certificate of originality

• Table of Contents

• List of Tables

• List of Figures

B. Abstract

• A summary of the research paper's content.

• Should be clear, concise, and complete. No outline or note form.

• Must be self-contained.

C. Body

1.0 Introduction

• Transitions from a general topic to specific research.

• Establishes the context and significance of the research.

  • Summarizes current understanding and background information.

  • States the purpose of the research.

1.1 Writing the Introduction: T-I-O-C Format

• Trends - Discuss the latest trends.

• Issues - Identify relevant issues.

• Blank Spot - Identify areas lacking literature.

• Blind Spot - Address areas with conflicting literature.

• Objectives - Define SMART objectives of the study.

• Contributions - Highlight benefits to theories and future research.

2.0 Background

• Provides the foundation of the study through literature review.

• Discusses:

  • Theoretical framework.

  • Variable discussion.

2.1 Theoretical Framework

• Highlights theories contextualizing the research.

• Discusses framework using S-E-C format:

  • State - Mention the theory used.

  • Explain - Discuss with proper citations.

  • Contextualize - Apply the theory to the study context.

2.2 Variable Discussion

• Discusses variables using S-E-A format:

  • Synopsis - Overview of the topic.

  • Evidence - Present relevant evidence.

  • Argument - Describe emerging problems.

Example Variables:

• Migration, Return Migration, Social Connectedness, Returnee Experiences

2.2.1 Migration

• Defined as temporary or permanent displacement.

• Factors influencing migration:

  • Economic disparities (wage differentials, employment opportunities).

  • Security concerns (personal and environmental).

  • Cultural characteristics and educational opportunities.

• Negative experiences:

  • Confusion, social disconnection, abuse.

  • Emotional challenges like homesickness.

• Positive effects:

  • Improved living standards and access to education.

  • Intellectual gains from working abroad.

2.2.2 Return Migration

• Return to homeland is not the final step; involves further stages.

• Family is a primary determinant for returning:

  • Desire to be with family, influenced by health issues or deaths.

3.0 Research Methodology

• Details must allow replication of the study and ensure scientific credibility.

3.1 Research Design

• Describe participant demographics, sampling techniques, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and study location.

3.2 Research Instruments

• Detail materials used, sources, and any validation processes.

4.0 Data Analysis

• Qualitative Data Analysis - Involves structuring and interpreting data.

  • Techniques include:

    • Thematic Analysis - Identifies repeating themes.

    • Grounded Theory - Formulates theory based on data.

    • Discourse Analysis - Understanding cultural and power dynamics.

    • Content Analysis - Grouping content into themes for quantification.

    • Narrative Analysis - Focuses on customers' perspectives.

5.0 Research Ethics

• Ethical principles maintained:

  • Consent forms, ethical review processes, permission for animal/human studies.

6.0 Results

• Presents data clearly and concisely with trends.

7.0 Discussion

• Discusses generalizations, comparison with other findings, and theoretical/practical implications.

8.0 Conclusion and Recommendation

• Key points emphasized; relevance of findings identified.

• Address gaps in literature and propose new research strategies.

References

• Should appear on a new page, bold title, left aligned.

• Follow APA 6th edition format; alphabetically arranged.

Example References

• Agho, K.E., Hall, J., & Ewald, B. (2014). Determinants of the knowledge of the attitude towards tuberculosis in Nigeria. Journal of Health Population and Nutrition, 32(3), 520-538.

• Baker-Eveleth, L., & Stone, R. (2008). Expectancy Theory and Behavioral Intentions to Use Computer Applications. Interdisciplinary Journal of Information, Knowledge, and Management, 3.

Conclusion Writing Guidelines

• Key points should be emphasized, relevance communicated, and gaps in literature addressed.

Closing Discussion

• Time for further discussion, questions, clarifications, and comments.