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Research Methodology 2020.pptx
Research Methodology
Research Methodology
This unit focuses on the processes of inquiry and research, allowing students to pursue an area of interest in an Independent Research Project.
Research Methodology
Research Methodology
Research Fundamentals
Research Fundamentals
The purpose of research:
Advance knowledge
Increase understanding
Educate others
Inform practice
Research Fundamentals
Research Fundamentals
The focus of research:
Research questions
Hypothesis
Research questions
Research questions
A research question asks whether a relationship exists between variables in a particular population.
Hypothesis
Hypothesis
A Hypothesis predicts that a relationship exists between two or more variables.
Research fundamentals
Research fundamentals
Sampling:
The process of choosing the people, place and time to collect primary data.
Sample:
A subset of the population selected for measurement, observing or questioning so as to provide statistical information about the population.
Sample size:
Refers to the number of participants that are actually selected for the research study. A suitable sample size for an IRP questionnaire would be about 20-30 people. This may be complemented by two interviews, a case study or two to three observations.
Research fundamentals
Research fundamentals
Sampling methods:
Random sample - Involves selecting people so that everyone has equal chance of being selected. For example, weekly Oz Lotto Draw.
Systematic Random sample - Choosing one number at random and then every nth unit after this. For example, starting with the 2nd person on the roll, then every 3rd person after that.
Stratified Random sample - Where the population is divided into strata (layers) groups and then random selection occurs within each strata. For example, looking at the population of different types of families, where groups are divided then a random number is used to select.
Cluster sample - Dividing the population into clusters and random selection is made within the clusters. For example, seeing which sports a high school is involved in: Dividing the school into year groups, then performing a random selection.
Convenience sampling - Occurs when a researcher selects people because they are easily located. For example, using friends in Year 12 or family members in the sample.
Research Fundamentals
Research Fundamentals
Types of Data:
Primary and Secondary
Quantitative and Qualitative
Primary Data
Primary Data
Primary data are collected firsthand by the researcher; the information is obtained directly by observing behaviour or asking people questions through interviews and questionnaires.
Secondary Data
Secondary Data
Data which has been gathered and recorded by someone else, such as the internet, journals, databases, textbooks, pamphlets and statistical reports of other peoples research.
Quantitative Data
Quantitative Data
Objective data that comes from research that collects facts in the form of numerical data, which can then be analysed using counting, measuring and graphing.
Qualitative Data
Qualitative Data
Subjective data that comes from research that collects facts and information regarding peoples beliefs, feelings, attitudes and opinions to gain insight into the area.
Research fundamentals
Research fundamentals
Sources of Data:
Individuals and Groups
Print and Digital
Individuals and groups
Individuals and groups
Individuals and groups can provide data that is current and in real time. Examples may include your teacher, family members, friends, experts or specialists in a particular area.
Print and digital
Print and digital
Both print and digital sources can add depth to the research process that would not be possible if their data had to be personally sourced by the researcher. Print includes books, journals and magazines. Digital sources include the internet, computer programs, podcasts and television.
Research fundamentals
Research fundamentals
Reliability and Validity:
Reliability - Refers to the consistency of measurement
Validity - Refers to measurement that accurately reflects what it was intended to measure
Research fundamentals
Research fundamentals
Ethical behaviour (BIRP):
Respect: Awareness of the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of participants so that no risks are involved.
Integrity: Data should be presented without bias or distortion, making certain the research process is thorough, reliable and valid.
Privacy: This ensures confidentiality and anonymity throughout the research process.
Bias: The unfair preference or distortion of information throughout the research process.
Exam Style Question
Exam Style Question
Assess the importance of ethical behaviour when conducting research by considering the following:
- sensitive research topics
-confidentiality
-research bias
-crediting sources of data
Examples of bias in research:
Examples of bias in research:
Asking leading questions: "why do you prefer family day care over other types of child care?"
Choosing a sampling method that does not reflect the age, gender or culture of the population: Distributing questionnaires to three males and 15 females.
Recording data that supports your hypothesis rather than being objective: Subjectively choosing some data results to interpret and analyse.
Can you think of three more examples of where bias could be seen in research?
Research fundamentals
Research fundamentals
Research Methodology:
Questionnaires
Interviews
Case Studies
Observations
Literature Review
Questionnaires
Questionnaires
Interviews
Interviews
Case Studies
Case Studies
Observations
Observations
Literature Reviews
Literature Reviews
Google Sites
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