1. Writing Research Proposals
Overview of the Research Process

2. What is Research?
Each of us conducts research projects in our daily lives ( e.g. buying a car, cellphone)
General definition is “finding answers to questions in an organized and logical and systematic fashion”

3. Why research? The best research comes from a need to know.
The best research has as its purpose enhanced understanding.
The best research begins with a careful, detailed process of developing a valid, researchable question that YOU need to answer.

4. Definition of Research
A systematic process based on the scientific method in order to answer a question
The scientific method is a process that uses an organized structure to formulate questions and determine answers in a research project

5. Key Steps of Scientific Method
1. Generate a hypothesis or ask a research question
2. Observation or data collection
3. Testing the hypothesis through data analysis
4. Conclusions
5. Compare results to previous established theory

6. Research Process Statement of Problem
Hypothesis or formulating a research question
Review of literature
Measurements
Sample selection
Data analysis

7. Statement of the Problem
A. some problem needs to be solved B. State problem in the introduction and rationale for their importance C. Start thinking about the problem now

8. Hypothesis or a Research Question
Hypothesis is a prediction of what is expected to occur
The hypothesis is tested with some form of experiment
Not all studies test hypothesis

9. Review of the Literature
Collection and summary of prior studies that are relevant to the hypothesis or research question
The focus should be the determination of what this study will add to what is already known

10. Measurements
Key terms in the problem statement should be defined clearly ( e.g. height measured in inches or centimeters )
Operationalization of concepts by the researcher in order to be observed, measured and understood by others

11. Sample Either a group of people or data sets
Identify & select individuals for the study
Obtaining permission
Gather information by observing behavior or asking questions

12. Instrumentation Tools that collect and measure data
The selection of tools depends the type of research
Tools should be reliable and valuable

13. Data Analysis
Use of statistical techniques to summarize and interpret research results
The main objective is to answer the research questions or test the hypothesis
Conclusions are drawn and interpreted based on analysis results

14. Drawing Conclusions
Conclusions should relate back to the focused research question.
You can evaluate how successful you have been in achieving your research objectives, and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the research.
You may also want to make recommendations for further research.

15. Conclusion
1. Research is not just about the collection of data. Data collection is important, but it is simply part of a wider process – the research process.
2. The research process follows 7 steps: statement of the problem, formulating the research question, reviewing the literature, measurements, sample collection, analysing data, and drawing conclusions.
3. Relating your project to the research process will allow you to develop and answer your research question in a logical and systematic manner.

16. Thank you!