PRACTICAL RESEARCH 1
Module 1: Nature of Inquiry and Research
2nd Semester, A.Y. 2020-2021
MODULE 1: NATURE OF INQUIRY AND RESEARCH
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this study, the students should be able to:
Share research experiences and knowledge;
Explain the importance of research in daily life;
Describe characteristics, processes and ethics of research; and
Provide examples of the types of research and areas of interest.
Lesson 1: Research Experience and Knowledge
The development of the society from its simple to complex state will reveal that many and
varied problems faced by human kind. Thus, solutions to problems must be based on knowledge
or facts not on mere beliefs, guesses or theories. In order to acquire knowledge and to
continuously evaluate its accuracy and usefulness requires a well-planned and systematic
procedure on which research has been devised to meet this need.
Definition of Research
Over the years, many experts have given their own definition of the word RESEARCH. Different
perspective or points of view have been adopted that resulted in the following definitions:
❖ Polit & Beck (2001) stated that research is a systematic inquiry that uses disciplined
methods to answer questions or solve problems. The goals of research are to develop,
refine, and expand a body of knowledge.
❖ Palispis (2001) cited that research is carried out for a specific purpose to answer specific
questions to solve a particular problem or issue. It seeks new knowledge and provides
useful information in the form of verifiable data. It contributes to the attainment of the
development goals of a nation. Research is not only conducted because it is prerequisite
to obtaining a degree, but more so because it can potentially mobilize society.
❖ Burns & Grove (2007) said that research is to search or examine again and again or
carefully. Research is a diligent, systematic inquiry or investigation to validate and refine
existing knowledge and generate new knowledge.
❖ Parel (1973) defined research as a systematic investigation or something in order to
answer the questions posed by the researcher.
❖ Coleman & Briggs (2002) defined research as both a critical and self-critical inquiry aimed
at contributing towards the advancement of knowledge and wisdom.
❖ Sanchez (2002) defined research as a discovery and exploration of the unknown. It
involves an investigation of facts leading to the discovery of new ideas and new methods.
It proceeds from the known to the unknown. The end result is the discovery of truth. To
arrive at such, the researcher uses a method that suits his chosen field.
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Lesson 2: Importance of Research in Daily Life
The development of the society from its simple to complex state will reveal that many and
varied problems faced by human kind. This lesson will illustrate the role of research in one’s daily
life. Research can be found in different field of study and areas of interest and concern.
Significance of Research
Research is undertaken because of some importance it has and does for individuals and the
society. Reasons for its significance are given as follows:
1. To gather necessary information
Research provides you with the necessary information related to your field of study or
work. For example, companies may do research before manufacturing a product.
2. To improve standard of living
Only through research can new inventions and discoveries come into life. How would life
be without Graham Bell and his telephone? Or what would happened if Martin Cooper did
not give us the concept of mobile phones?
3. To have a safer life
Research has done great discoveries and development in the field of health, technology,
nutrition and medicine. These things have improved life expectancy and helped in curing
a lot of diseases.
4. To know the truth
Research investigates and exposes what wrong beliefs people hold. Listening to different
opinions and studying facts and available data will lead you to unravel truth.
5. To explore our history
Research about our history enables us to learn and understand the past and prepare for
a better future.
6. To understand arts
Research helps us in understanding the works of artists in different fields of arts. Arts
contribute to the refinement of our sensibilities and cultivate values needed for our daily
existence.
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Research and Other Fields
In academic institutions, research may be done independently or as part of group. It can be a
useful learning process, challenging students and teachers to work together. And grow
intellectually as they conduct their study. Research benefits therefore, can be seen and felt in the
following fields:
❖ Economic research refers to matters concerning the environment and which may lead to
improved techniques to ensure sustainable food production.
❖ Social research leads to an increased knowledge of people and their interactions with one
another, which could be relevant to policy makers.
❖ Environmental research focuses on improved techniques to ensure sustainable food
production.
❖ Cultural research leads to increased understanding of cultural values or social
approaches.
❖ Health research contributes to a better understanding of the causes of medical conditions.
In general, research is an important aspect of any organization. in-house research can be
done in the different sectors of the organization.
Lesson 3: Characteristics, Processes and Ethics of Research
This lesson introduces the characteristics of research, particularly qualitative research.
Their breadth indicates ways of doing it and going through the entire research process. Becoming
familiar with the types of research will help you determine your choice for the locale or setting of
your study.
The characteristics of both qualitative and quantitative researches are presented; however, a
section to highlight qualitative research is discussed; ethical consideration forms a part of this
lesson as a significant element of the research process.
Further, the discussions also present the ethics of research probing into its functions and
principles that must be observed by the researchers. Important considerations should be noted
as the study is being conducted especially on matters concerning the participants of the study.
Characteristics of Research
The following are the major characteristics of research:
1. Empirical – Research is based on observations and experimentation of theories. It takes
into account the direct experiences that fuse the researcher’s speculation with reality. Most
researches are based on real-life situations.
2. Systematic – Research follows orderly and sequential procedures, based on valid
procedures and principles. Researchers are advised to refer to the research guidelines
provided or prescribed by the school.
3. Controlled – In research, all variables, except those that are tested/experimented on, are
kept constant.
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4. Employs hypothesis – The hypothesis guides the investigation process. Research refers
to a search for facts, answers to questions and solutions to problems.
5. Analytical – There is a critical analysis of all date used so that there is no error in the
researcher’s interpretations.
6. Objective – The term also refers to the research as unbiased logical. All findings are
logically based on empirical data, which as earlier mentioned, are based on real life
situations.
7. Original work – Requires effort to get at the researcher’s own investigation and produce
the data needed to complete the study. Go to the library to check on the originality of your
work.
Other Characteristics of Qualitative Research
Studies under qualitative research have certain characteristics in common that make them
different from quantitative research. Some of these are:
1. Concern for context and meaning
Qualitative research is bounded by a particular context which the research aims to study.
Since it is context bound, the human experience takes its meaning from social, historical,
political and cultural influences.
2. Naturally occurring settings
Qualitative research studies behavior as it happens naturally in a school, classroom,
community or an organization. It is based on the premise that setting affects the findings.
3. Humans as Instruments
The researcher is the primary instrument for gathering and for analyzing data. He/she
responds to the need for capturing the complexity of human experience, as well as in
adapting and responding to the environment. Only a human being can do the field work
methods such as the interview, observation and documentary analysis.
4. Descriptive Data
Data used in qualitative studies are in the form of words or pictures or other visuals rather
than numbers and statistics. The participants, experiences and perspectives culled from
varied types of documents enable the researcher to present a holistic description of the
subject/s of the study.
5. Emergent Design
In qualitative research, the design cannot be finalized at the onset because the researcher
continues to adjust his/her methods and ways of proceeding as the study progresses. It is
also difficult to predict what may happen during the actual interactions between the
researcher and the participants.
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Types of Research
1. Library Research – this type is done primarily in the library where answers to specific
questions or problems are available.
2. Field Research – the research is done in the natural setting such as barangay, school or
factory.
3. Laboratory Research – this type is conducted in an artificial or controlled condition by
doing the study in a thoroughly specified and equipped area.
Ethics and Research
✓ The most common way of defining “ethics” is to refer to it as norms for conduct that
distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable behavior. These are direct networks
among people because they recognize some common ethical norms but interpret, apply
and balance them in different ways in the light of their own values and experiences
(Resmik, 2015).
✓ Consider it as a method, procedure or perspective for deciding how to act and for
analyzing complex problems and issues.
✓ To be ethical, a research project needs to be designed to create valid outcomes if it is
believed to be pursuing truth.
✓ Research ethics involves the application of fundamental ethical principles to a variety of
topics involving research.
Functions of Ethics
Ethics as important component in research writing shows the following functions:
1. Norms promote the aims of research such as knowledge, truth and evidence of error.
2. Ethical standards promote the values that are essential to collaborative work such as trust,
accountability, mutual respect and fairness.
3. Ethical norms ensure that researchers can be held accountable to the public.
4. Ethical norms in research, is research that helps build public support quality and integrity
of research.
Some Ethical Principles
Enumerated below are words and phrases that correspond to principles on which actions
exhibited while doing research are anchored on.
Honesty Responsible publication
Objectivity Respect for colleagues
Integrity Social Responsibility
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Carefulness Non-discrimination
Openness Competence
Legality Respect for Intellectual Property
Confidentiality
Ethical Considerations in Qualitative Research
1. The kind of information obtained because of the length and personal interaction that
ensues when doing a qualitative inquiry may give rise to an issue or issues. The
researcher may uncover or get hold of practices that may not be acceptable. What then
does he/she do? One rule that must always be followed is that the person is obliged to
report practice such as child abuse, drug use, abusive teachers and the like.
2. With regard to the researcher’s relationship to the participants, the researcher is expected
to act professionally, maintaining respect towards them. The issues of anonymity and
confidentiality are to be observed. In field notes particularly, when conducting a sensitive
research, false names or code numbers are used to keep track of what information came
from whom without revealing their identities.
3. The researcher is expected to give back to the subjects or participants of the research and
to show appreciation for their commitment of time, effort and cooperation. These acts may
be to provide a written report, present findings in an assembly, give assistance or advice
on other research projects at their workplace and others.
4. The researcher writes a letter and seeks to be allowed to conduct a study. If changes
happen in the course of the investigation, he/she needs to get an approval for the
continuance of the study.
The Research Process
Research is a process that requires patience and thought. There is no easy way to make
certain that you have exhausted every resource and found the best research. Research is more
of an art rather than science. Below is a diagrammatic presentation of the steps taken when doing
research.
Define Review the Formulate Design Analyze Interpret &
Collect Data
Research Literature Hypothesis Research Data Report
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These processes are considered and selected, based on the following factors:
• Validity and appropriateness to the research topic
• Manageability including time reserved
• Safety and ethical matters
Lesson 4: Differences Between Quantitative and Qualitative Research
This lesson presents primarily the comparison between quantitative and qualitative
categories of research. Especially relevant are the similarities and contrasts between the two
broad categories of research. The differentiation reflects differing views resulting to assumptions
and dialogues to explain further the comparison.
Knowing not only the differences but also the similarities of peace to categories will help
familiarize you with the purposes, types and forms of data needed methods and approaches to
be employed and your role as a researcher among others.
Overall, the lesson provides a fuller understanding of research with focus on qualitative
research.
Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is primarily an exploratory research. It is used to give an
understanding of underlying reasons, opinions and motivations. The investigation provides
insights, into the problem or helps to develop ideas or hypothesis for potential qualitative research.
It is also used to uncover trends in thought and opinions and dig deeper into the problem. The
sample size is typically small. Qualitative research is more flexible allowing more naturalness and
acclimatization for the interaction and collaboration between the researcher and participant.
Qualitative research deals with designs, techniques and measures that do not produce
discrete numerical data. It involves extensive narrative data in order to gain insights into
phenomena. On the other hand, quantitative research includes designs, techniques and
measures that produce numerical or quantitative data the analysis of which, is mainly statistical.
Instead of giving a singular definition of qualitative research, you might consider five
features according to (Yin, 2011), namely:
1. Studying the meaning of people’s lives, under real-world conditions; people will not be
limited by the confines of a laboratory.
2. Representing the views and perspective of the people or participants of the study in
the results of the research mirror the values and meanings of the people who live them,
not by the researcher.
3. Covering the contextual condition within which people live the social institutions and
environmental conditions within which live. They may influence all human events.
4. Contributing insights into existing or emerging concepts may help or explain human
social behavior. Research can be instances for developing new concepts.
5. Striving to use multiple sources of evidence is better than relying on a single source
alone.
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Quantitative Research
Quantitative research is more often associated with hard data. This research is used to
quantify- that is to put numerical equivalents to findings. This type of research is not limited to
mathematics. Although math and statistics are just the means used, attitudes, opinions and
behaviors, even when they are subjective in nature, can be compared quantitively in order to
produce results.
Quantitative research is used to quantify the problem by way of generating mathematical
data or data that can be transformed into usable statistics. It quantifies altitudes, opinions,
behaviors and other defined variables and generalize results from a large sample of populations.
It discusses the quantitative relation between the participant/s and the researcher.
Lesson 5: Types and Examples of Research in Different Areas/Fields
This lesson explains the types of research and presents examples in the different areas
or fields. Examples are provided for each type of research to understand what the research is
intended to do or study.
Types of Research
1. Applied Research – designed to solve practical problems of the modern world, rather than
to acquire knowledge for knowledge’s sake; its goal to improve human condition. It is used
to find solutions to everyday problems, current illnesses and develop technologies.
2. Basic Research – also known as fundamental or pure research, is driven by a scientist’s
curiosity or interest in a scientific question. The main motivation is to extend man’s
knowledge, not to create or invent things. This kind of research designed to add to an
organized body of scientific knowledge and does not necessarily produce results of
practical value.
3. Correlational Research – refers to the systematic investigation or statistical study of
relationships among two or more variables, without necessarily determining cause and
effect. It seeks to establish a relation or association between two or more variables that
do not readily lend themselves to experimental manipulation.
4. Descriptive Research – refers to research that provides an accurate portrayal of a class
or a particular individual situation or group. It is also known as statistical research. These
studies are a means of discussing new meanings, describing what exists, determining the
frequency with which something occurs and categorizing information. It collects a large
number of notes for a detailed study.
5. Ethnographic Research – refers to the investigation of a culture through an in-depth study
of the members of the culture; it involves the systematic collection, description, and
analysis of data for development of theories of cultural behavior.
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6. Experimental Research – is an objective, systematic, controlled investigation, for the
purpose of predicting and controlling phenomena and examining probability and causality
among selected variables.
7. Exploratory Research – is a type conducted for a problem that has not been clearly
defined.
8. Historical Research – is one involving analysis of events that occurred in the remote or
recent past.
9. Phenomenological Research – is an inductive descriptive research developed from
phenomenological philosophy. Its aim to describe an experience as it is actually lived by
the person.
10. Action Research – involves the application of the steps of the scientific method in the
classroom problems.
Two Approaches of Ethnography
1. Realist – researcher provides an objective account of the situation.
2. Critical – researcher shows his advocacy for a marginalized group or attempts to empower
the group by giving it voice.
Types of Case Studies
1. Intrinsic case study – is conducted to understand a particular case that may be unusual
or unique.
2. Instrumental case study – represents some other issues under study and the researcher
believes that this particular case can provide additional insights into that issue.
3. Multiple or collective case study – uses several cases selected to further understand and
investigate a phenomenon, population or general condition.
Assessment Tasks
1. Prepare a written report on the research process. Use references for a substantial and
detailed paper. (20 points)
2. Answer the following:
a. Is the observance of ethics important in research? Why? (10 points)
b. Based on your own field of study, which type of research is most appropriate?
Support your choice. (10 points)
c. Explain the differences between qualitative and quantitative researches. (10 points)
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Reference
Carey, T., Naval, V., & Prieto, N. (2017). Practical Research 1 for Senior High School. Lorimar
Publishing, Inc.
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