Class 1 Res Basics 2022 Sp
Page 1
Agenda for the class
Syllabus, class projects, and assignments overview
Slides on Research Databases, Keywords, Reference/Citation Manager
Next week's tasks
Email the instructor with a nutritional topic for feedback
List 10+ keywords on the chosen topic for a library assignment
Homework
Library Activity using 2 databases
Share the most confusing aspect from the class
Page 3
Research Definition
Systematic process using the scientific method
Aims to identify relationships, solve problems, and discover new information
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Scientific Method
Involves problem recognition, data collection, hypothesis formulation, and testing
Results may alter existing theories
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Attributes of Research
Based on existing work, replicable, generalizable, logical, incremental, and generates new questions
Research is cyclical in nature
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Research Process
Begins with theory and a question, then hypothesis generation and data collection
Results are interpreted and may lead to alterations in the theory
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Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research
Quantitative focuses on properties and relationships, while qualitative aims for in-depth understanding
Quantitative answers what, where, when questions, while qualitative explores why and how
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Classification by Experimental Control
Experimental research involves intervention and hypothesis testing
Nonexperimental research lacks intervention and is descriptive or observational
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Steps of Research
Idea selection, literature review, hypothesis formulation, study design selection, and variable definition
Page 21
Research Question
Defined as a specific inquiry about variable relationships
Should be feasible, clear, significant, and ethical
Page 25
Journals and Articles
Overview of JAND journal, impact factor, author guidelines, and publication process
Page 27
Primary vs. Secondary Literature
Primary: Results from original studies; Secondary: Compilation of multiple studies
Publishing Process
Scientists conduct studies, submit manuscripts to journals for review, and undergo revisions before publication
Page 31
Impact Factor
Used to rank journals based on quality and coverage
High IF indicates high-quality research and broad coverage
Page 32
Checklists for Papers
Ensure consistent information presentation in research papers
Helps in avoiding mistakes and maintaining quality standards
Page 33: Databases
PubMed and Google Scholar
Assignment on how to use PubMed next week
Configure Google Scholar preferences to attach to BU and library for full text access
Additional databases through the library: Annual Reviews, HealthSource, Liebert Online, etc.
Page 34: Keywords
Keywords for Research Topic
Topic: effect of selenium status on COPD
Possible keywords: COPD, pulmonary disease, selenium, antioxidant enzymes, COPD causes, etc.
Include populations, ages, locations, etc.
Page 35: Citation Managers
How to Use Citation Managers
Download manager, create an account, drag PDFs onto the icon
Use citation function in Word or Google Docs
Examples: Mendeley, Zotero
Keep