Guide to Research and Capstone Papers
Guide to Research and Capstone Papers
GUIDEBOOK FOR
TEACHERS AND
STUDENTS ON
PRACTICAL
RESEARCH AND
CAPSTONE PAPER
DEVELOPMENT
Preface
SDO Tanjay City Research Paper Parts
a. Quantitative Research & Capstone
b. Qualitative Research
Title Page
Approval Sheet
Acknowledgement
Abstract
CHAPTER 1 THE PROBLEM AND THE SCOPE
Introduction and Background of the study
Statement of the Problem
Statement of the Hypothesis
Significance of the Study
Scope and Limitation of the Study
CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY
Research design
Setting and participants
Instrument
Research Procedures
Statistical Treatment of Data
Ethical Considerations
References
Appraisal Tool:
a. Research Rubric for Final Oral Defense (Manuscript)
b. Research Rubric for Final Oral Defense (Individual)
Throughout this guidebook, both teachers and students will find practical insights,
actionable advice, and valuable resources to guide them through the intricacies of research
and capstone paper development. It is my hope that this comprehensive resource will
empower both Senior High School teachers and students alike to embark on successful
research endeavors and contribute meaningfully to their academic pursuits.
CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY
Research design
Setting and participants
Instrument
Research Procedures
Statistical Treatment of Data
Ethical Considerations
OUTPUT/INNOVATION (OPTIONAL)
REFERENCES
APPENDICES
CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY
Research design
Setting and participants
Instrument
Research Procedures
Ethical Considerations
REFERENCES
APPENDICES
The title page contains important information such as the title of the paper, the names
of the authors, the school, the subject (practical research) for which the paper is being
submitted, the name of the teacher, and the date of the completion of the research
(American Psychological Association, 2019).
Example of a Title Page
Title
Inverted pyramid
Not more than 10-15
words
Times New Roman font
style and a font size of 12
Centered, bold and
capitalized
1.5 spacing between lines
Must be catchy and
include essential variables
of the research
The approval sheet is typically placed on the second page of the thesis. This
endorsement from authorities enhances the credibility of the thesis within the academic
community, particularly when presented across various platforms (Rajveer, 2023)
.
Approval Sheet Template
Indicate the members of the approval committee or panelists. Following the completion
of the entire research and a successful defense, ensure that the document is signed by the
panelists.
The abstract is a brief overview of the entire research paper, similar to the title. It
should be straightforward, clear, and to the point, providing a concise summary of the
study. The abstract should accurately represent the content of the paper without any bias
or misleading information (Tullu, 2019).
Points to remember when writing an abstract:
1. The abstract provides an introduction to the study, explaining its purpose.
2. It clarifies why the study is necessary.
3. The methods used in the study are described.
4. Key findings from the study are highlighted.
5. Conclusions and implications drawn from the results are discussed.
6. The abstract adheres to specific formatting guidelines: 150-250 words, single-spaced text,
1-2 paragraphs, no indentation on the first line, and single space format.
C. Results/Observations/ Findings:
This section presents the findings
of the study, including details
such as the number of
Keywords: Keywords should D. Conclusion: This participants, the results of the
encapsulate four essential aspects section interprets the analysis (both primary and
of the study, including the findings of your secondary objectives), and specific
discipline to which the study study and discusses data such as numerical values,
belongs, the main construct or the broader averages, and statistical measures
concept explored, the methods or implications of your like "P" values, confidence
processes used, and the results intervals, and effect sizes ((Tullu,
geographical scope of the study. 2019).
The introduction is crucial in any research paper as it sets your writing style, research
quality, and scholarly credibility. It's your initial opportunity to impress your reader,
providing background and context to highlight your research's significance. It starts by
introducing your topic broadly, then focuses on your research question or hypothesis
(Ammon, 2023).
Background of
the study: It
provides an
overview of the
situation or
circumstances
that led to the
development of
your research
DepEd
Orders/issuances
, the existing
policies, and/or
framework
Local context.
It presents the
situation where
the study is
conducted
along with the
available
literature if
applicable.
Additionally, it
emphasizes the
importance of
the study for its
intended
audience.
Purpose
Statement/s
The statement of the problem outlines the specific issue or challenge that the research
aims to tackle (Sirisilla, 2023). It articulates the questions formulated to explore the
problem comprehensively from various perspectives.
The statement of the problem should align with the study's title. It serves as the
foundation for developing the research questionnaire.
A hypothesis is a statement where you guess what your research might uncover. It's like
a preliminary answer to your research question, but it hasn't been proven yet. There are
two types of hypothesis, the null hypothesis and the alternative hypothesis. The null
hypothesis suggests that there's no connection between the variables. It's usually
represented as H0, read as "h-oh" or "h-null." On the other hand, the alternative hypothesis
proposes that there is a relationship between the variables. It's denoted as Ha or H1
(McCombes, 2023).
The significance of the study is essential for conveying to the reader the importance of
the research. It delineates the specific contributions of the study and its findings to the
identified group of people (DiscoverPhDs, 2020).
In crafting the significance of the study, please consider the following suggestions:
1. Identify the primary beneficiaries of the research, ranging from specific groups to
broader audiences (e.g., students to DepEd). You can organize them in ascending or
descending order based on their significance.
2. Clarify how the outcomes and utilization of the project/study will positively impact the
identified groups. Explain how they will benefit from the research findings and results.
3. Feel free to consider potential implications of the study for future researchers and other
relevant groups not mentioned in the example, highlighting the broader significance of
the research.
The scope and limitations of a research paper set the topic and limits of the research
problem to be studied. The scope explains how thoroughly your study will investigate the
research question and the factors like population and time it will consider. Limitations
concern the reliability and accuracy of the study. They are aspects of the research design or
method that you can't change but affect your findings. As a result, they affect how valid your
study is both internally and externally and are seen as possible weaknesses. In simple terms,
limitations are things the researcher can't control or factors beyond their influence
(DiscoverPhDs, 2020).
Scope of the
study
Example of Scope and Limitations for Experimental Research
Limitation of
the study
According to Shona McCombes (2023), there are five essential steps that guide the
process of crafting a literature review:
1. Searching for relevant literature.
2. Evaluating sources for credibility and relevance.
3. Identifying overarching themes, ongoing debates, and research gaps within the
literature.
4. Outlining the structure to ensure coherence and organization.
5. Writing the literature review, which entails synthesizing, analyzing, and critically
evaluating the gathered information.
The review of related literature comprises two main components: the Review of
Related Literature (RRL) and the Review of Related Studies (RRS). The Review of
Related Literature (RRL) carefully examines the indicators for each variable in an
objective manner. It's a common practice to divide the RRL into two parts: foreign and
local literature. The review process involves three main steps: finding relevant material,
reading it thoroughly, and taking notes. The literature can include various types of
articles such as theoretical articles, reviews, protocol papers, opinions, and policy
statements. On the other hand, the Review of Related Studies (RRS) focuses on all
studies related to a specific research problem. The RRS helps justify why studying the
problem is necessary. These studies typically involve actual experiments, data collection,
and analysis. Therefore, the RRS includes only empirical studies, experiments, and
research findings (Editageinsights, 2021).
Include brief
introduction
discussion
Themes
A minimum of 10
RRL is suggested for
the research
Include brief
introduction
Presentation
and discussion
of multiple
studies
pertinent to the
topic in a
coherent
manner.
The research
requires a
minimum of 5
RRS
Moderating Dependent
Relationships
Variables Variables
Explanation of the
conceptual
framework
The research design is like a master plan that guides how you put together all the parts
of your study in a clear and sensible manner. It ensures that you tackle the research
problem effectively. Think of it as a blueprint for gathering, measuring, and analyzing data
(Research Guides: Organizing Academic Research Papers, 2020). A carefully crafted
research design ensures that your methods align with your research goals, enabling you to
gather reliable data and apply appropriate analysis methods to address your inquiries using
reputable sources. This enables you to draw accurate and dependable conclusions.
1. Experimental Research Design. In an experimental setup, people chosen from the larger
group are randomly divided into two groups: one gets the treatment, and the other
doesn't (known as the 'control group'). This split usually happens before the treatment
begins. The idea behind this setup is that both groups are similar in every way, except
for the fact that one gets the treatment. So, if there are any differences between them,
it's because of the intervention/treatment. This difference is called the treatment effect
(Jalil, 2023). This type of research design is commonly employed in capstone project.
2. Descriptive Research Design. It aims to answer questions about who, what, when,
where, and how related to a specific research problem. However, it cannot definitively
answer why certain phenomena occur. Descriptive studies are valuable for
understanding the current state of things and describing what exists regarding variables
or conditions in a given situation (Research Guides: Organizing Academic Research
Papers, 2020).
3. Exploratory Research Design. An exploratory design is used when there aren't many
studies to refer to regarding a research problem. The aim is to gain insights and become
familiar with the topic for future investigation, especially when the issues are still in the
early stages. The goals of exploratory research include understanding the basic details,
settings, and concerns related to the topic, generating new ideas and assumptions,
developing tentative theories or hypotheses, and providing direction for future research
and the development of new techniques (Research Guides: Organizing Academic
Research Papers, 2020).
4. Phenomenological Research Design. The phenomenological research design is a
qualitative research approach that aims to explore and explain the fundamental nature
of a phenomenon. It delves into the ordinary experiences of individuals while setting
aside any assumptions the researchers may have. In essence, phenomenological
research examines real-life experiences to uncover a deeper understanding of how
people perceive and interpret those experiences (LaiYee, 2023).
The research setting refers to the place or environment where the research takes place,
including its physical, social, or experimental aspects. Providing an accurate description
of the research setting is essential in a research paper because the results and how we
understand them can be greatly influenced by it (Editage Insights, 2022). Research
participants on the other hand are the individuals who are involved in a study, either
directly or indirectly through a representative, and who have provided their informed
consent (Ethical Research Involving Children, 2020).
A Research Instrument is a tool used to gather and evaluate data relevant to your
research objectives. These tools are frequently employed in health sciences, social sciences,
and education to evaluate various individuals such as patients, clients, students, teachers,
and staff members. Research instruments may encompass interviews, tests, surveys, or
checklists. The selection of a research instrument is typically based on the researcher's
methodology and study design (Teachers College-Columbia University, 2020).
1. Planning: In this initial stage, researchers define the variables of interest and create a
conceptual framework illustrating their relationships (DeVellis, 2017; Hair et al., 2014,
as cited in Pentang, 2023).
2. Construction: During this phase, researchers design the instrument and conduct a pilot
study to evaluate its psychometric properties, including reliability and validity
(Dillman et al., 2014; Fowler, 2013). Reliability assesses measurement consistency,
while validity measures whether the instrument accurately captures the intended
constructs (Heale & Twycross, 2015; Leedy & Ormrod, 2016, as cited in Pentang,
2023).
3. Evaluation: In this stage, researchers analyze collected data and use statistical methods
to assess the instrument's psychometric properties (DeVellis, 2017; Streiner et al., 2014,
as cited in Pentang, 2023). This includes evaluating internal consistency and construct
validity, ensuring items are interrelated and measure the intended constructs
accurately.
4. Expert Validation: Research instruments undergo validation by education experts,
such as academics or professionals in the field (Beaton et al., 2000; DeVellis, 2017;
Streiner et al., 2014, as cited in Pentang, 2023). This validation ensures accuracy and
reliability of results. Experts review instruments for clarity, completeness, relevance,
and may offer feedback on format and structure.
A detailed
description is
provided on how the
research instrument
was utilized, along
with an explanation
of how validity and
reliability were
attained if
applicable.
Description of the
components of the
questionnaire
A research procedure comprises clearly defined steps that guide the research from start
to finish, along with a concise description of how each step was carried out in relation to
the study. It acts as a roadmap for your research, detailing the methods used to gather
information and draw conclusions.
The research procedures encompass several key components, including:
1. Formulating the questionnaire, conducting pilot testing, and implementing measures
to ensure validity and reliability.
2. Performing experiments and data collection procedures.
3. Obtaining permissions and communicating with relevant stakeholders for the
research's execution.
4. Conducting interviews, surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), etc., to engage
identified participants and respondents.
5. Verifying or triangulating quantitative data to enhance its reliability.
6. Providing a concise overview of the statistical methods utilized to analyze the collected
data.
7. Transcribing, coding, and executing other necessary steps in data processing.
Example of Research Procedures for Experimental Research
Data analysis and presentation are fundamental practices across multiple fields,
including academia, commerce, industry, marketing, and professional settings. Analyzing
data involves simplifying raw information into clear charts or graphs, facilitating
interpretation and extracting valuable insights (Data Presentation – Types & Its
Importance, 2021).
Common methods of presenting data include charts/graphs and tables, which enhance
comprehension and engage readers effectively. Furthermore, the American Psychological
Association (APA) has established guidelines for formatting tables and figures, specifically
outlined in the APA 7th edition.
In the process of data analysis, it's essential to prioritize the most significant results that
address the research problem. Sufficient data should be utilized to support conclusions or
generalizations. Additionally, thorough explanation and discussion of the implications
suggested by the data are crucial (Anza, 2012).
When interpreting tables, it is advisable to provide context and analysis before presenting
the table itself. This may involve presenting the main findings, comparing them with existing
literature, explaining the results, discussing methodological limitations, and considering the
broader applicability of the findings.
Example Introductory Parts for the Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data
A summary of findings highlights the key factors and outcomes of a study, including
theoretical boundaries and the significance of each result. It provides an overview of what
was done, how it was done, and the study's results. A concise summary enables readers to
understand minor findings and relevant data for each result, examine effect estimates in
different formats, and gain clarity on the evidence provided (Chibueze, 2023).
According to Cabana (2014), the summary of findings should include the following
elements:
1. It must address each specific question outlined in the statement of the problem. It
should be presented first, followed by the findings that address each question.
2. Findings should consist of textual generalizations, providing a summary of the
important data using both text and numbers.
3. No deductions, inferences, or interpretations should be included, as these will be
addressed in the conclusion.
4. Only the most significant findings, highlighting key data, should be included in the
summary. These findings should form the basis for drawing conclusions.
5. The summary should be concise, presenting information as succinctly as possible.
6. Past tense should be used to present the results of the study
On the other hand, according to Chibueze (2023), a conclusion goes beyond merely
describing points or restating the problem statement. It involves synthesizing critical
elements, including:
1. Restating the research topic.
2. Reiterating the thesis (objective of the study).
3. Summarizing the main points.
4. Mentioning the relevance or outcomes.
5. Wrapping up your thoughts.
Conclusion Example
Example of Recommendations
Admin. “Data Presentation – Types & Its Importance.” Best Institute for Data Analytics
& Data Science Courses, December 28, 2021. https://analyticstraininghub.com/data-
presentation-types-importance/.
Azanza, Lovely Ann. “Presentation and Analysis and Interpretation of Data.” Slide show.
SlideShare, October 28, 2012.
https://www.slideshare.net/mamlovelyann/presentation-and-analysis-and-
interpretation-of-data.
Caroline Ammon, Caroline. “Introduction Section for Research Papers.” SAN JOSÉ
STATE UNIVERSITY, 2023.
https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Introduction%20of%20Research
%20Papers.pdf.
Enago. “Writing a Strong Hypothesis Statement.” Thesis Editing - Enago, December 23,
2022. https://www.enago.com/thesis-editing/blog/writing-strong-hypothesis
-statement.
Editage Insights. “How Can I Re-write the RRL to RRS? | Editage Insights,” April 30,
2023. https://www.editage.com/insights/how-can-i-re-write-the-rrl-to-
rrs#:~:text=An%20RRL%20reviews%20as%20much,around%20a%20particular
%20research%20problem.
McCombes, Shona. “How to Write a Literature Review | Guide, Examples, & Templates.”
“How to Write a Strong Hypothesis | Steps & Examples.” Scribbr, November 20, 2023.
https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/hypothesis/.
Sirisilla, Shrutika, and Shrutika Sirisilla. “Research Problem Statement — Find Out How
to Write an Impactful One!” Enago Academy (blog), July 13, 2023.
https://www.enago.com/academy/research-problem-
statement/#:~:text=A%20research%20problem%20statement%20is,non%2
Dexperts%20in%20the%20field.
Tullu, Milind. “Writing the Title and Abstract for a Research Paper: Being Concise,
Precise, and Meticulous Is the Key.” Saudi Journal of Anesthesia, April 2019.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6398294/.
Editage Insights. “What Is Meant by the Setting of the Study? | Editage Insights,”
October 24, 2022. https://www.editage.com/insights/what-is-meant-by-the-setting-
of-the-study.
The appraisal tool offers a structured and fair way to assess manuscripts
and presentations, ensuring fairness and consistency across various
components. This helps to eliminate biases and ensures that everyone is
evaluated based on the same standards. It also helps to guide both the
presenter and the panel by highlighting key elements, expectations, and
important aspects of the research.