SCHOOL : INFORMATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
DEPARTMENT : SOFTWARE ENGINEENING
NAME : MHURU TIMUKUDZEISHE
REG NUMBER : H230469G
COURSE NAME : RESEARCH METHODS
ASSIGNMENT : 2
PART : 2.1
QUESTION A
Validity and reliability are crucial aspects of research design and administration. Human error can
infiltrate any stage of the measurement process, compromising the quality of the research.
Systematic Error
This type of error consistently affects measurements in the same direction, either overestimating or
underestimating the true value. Systematic errors can arise from various sources, including:
• Instrument Bias
Instrument Bias is when the instrument or measurement tool itself is flawed or inaccurate, it
can lead to systematic errors. For example, a faulty scale might consistently overestimate
weight.
• Observer Bias
The researcher's subjective judgments or expectations influence the observations or
interpretations of data. It can introduce observer bias. This can happen, for instance, when a
researcher expects a particular outcome and interprets data accordingly
• Sampling Bias
The sample selected for the study is not representative of the population, it can lead to
sampling bias. For example, a survey conducted only among college students may not
accurately represent the views of the entire population
Random Errors
These errors occur due to chance and are unpredictable. They can lead to variability in the data,
reducing reliability.
● Measurement Error
it is variations in the accuracy of measurements can introduce random errors. For example,
slight variations in the way a person uses a measuring tape can affect the accuracy of length
measurements.
● Data entry error
these are mistakes made during data entry, such as incorrect data input can introduce random
errors.
QUESTION B
1. Identify Your Interests and Strengths
• Advice: Encourage Tafadzwa to reflect on the topics and subjects that genuinely
interest him or align with his strengths within his field of study at HIT (Harare
Institute of Technology). Passion and familiarity with a subject can make the
research process more enjoyable and manageable.
2. Explore Current Trends and Challenges in the Field
• Advice: Tafadzwa should examine recent trends, technologies and challenges
related to his discipline. Reading academic journals, conference proceedings, or
industry reports can expose him to ongoing discussions and unresolved problems.
3. Consult with Lecturers, Industry Experts and Peers
• Advice: Encouraging him to talk to his professors, mentors and industry
professionals. They can provide insights into research gaps, relevant topics or
problems that need solving. Collaborative brainstorming with peers can also yield
ideas.
4. Look for Problems in Your Community or Daily Life
• Advice: Tafadzwa can find research opportunities by observing challenges in his
environment or society at large. HIT promotes innovation, and solving practical
issues can add value to the community or industry.
5. Review Existing Literature for Gaps
• Advice: Encourage him to conduct a literature review on topics of interest to
identify what has been studied and what gaps remain. A good research problem
often arises from a limitation or unresolved question in previous studies.
QUESTION C
Simple Hypothesis
A simple hypothesis proposes a relationship between one independent variable and one dependent
variable. It's a straightforward statement that directly connects two variables.
Example:
• If students study more, then their grades will improve.
Complex Hypothesis
A complex hypothesis proposes a relationship between two or more independent variables and two
or more dependent variables. It's a more intricate statement involving multiple variables and their
interactions.
Example:
• If students study more and attend class regularly, then their grades will improve and their
overall academic performance will increase
QUESTION D
Correlation does not imply causation. This means that even if two variables are correlated (i.e., they
change together), it does not necessarily mean that one variable causes the other. There could be
other factors involved, or the relationship could be coincidental. For example, people who wear
glasses often have higher incomes.
However, wearing glasses does not cause higher income. It's more likely that both factors are
influenced by education level or other socioeconomic factors. To establish causation, researchers
typically use experimental designs or longitudinal studies that can control for other variables and
isolate the causal relationship between the variables of interest.
QUESTION E
Aspect Plagiarism Academic Integrity
The act of using someone else's work, ideas, Adhering to ethical principles, honesty, and
Definition or words without proper credit. fairness in academic work.
A form of academic misconduct or A guiding principle that promotes honesty
Nature dishonesty. and accountability.
Copy-pasting without citation, submitting Proper citation, acknowledging sources,
Examples another’s work, self-plagiarism. conducting original research.
Results in penalties like failing grades, Builds trust, fosters respect, and ensures
Impact suspension, or damaged reputation. credibility in academia.
Ensures avoidance of plagiarism and other
Relationship Violates principles of academic integrity. forms of dishonesty.
Values of fairness, responsibility, and respect
Focus Misuse or theft of intellectual property. in academic settings.
