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Introduction to Research Methods
This document provides an introduction to research methods. It defines research as the systematic investigation into a subject to improve knowledge and understanding. Research can be conducted to learn about a subject, test a theory, make discoveries, or revise understanding. There are two main types of research: primary research, which collects original data through methods like surveys, interviews and experiments, and secondary research, which analyzes existing information from sources like books, websites and films. The research process should use appropriate methodology for the subject and include a variety of reliable sources. Effective research includes defining a field of study, research focus or question to guide the collection and analysis of information.
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Introduction to Research Methods
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- 3. Introduction to ResearchMethods Investigation into a subject to improve knowledge and understanding Dictionary definition: The systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions. www.oxforddictionaries.com
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- 5. Introduction to ResearchMethods • To learn about a subject • To test a theory or hypothesis • To improve knowledge • To make discoveries • To establish facts • To revise existing understanding • To test opinions
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- 7. Introduction to ResearchMethods • Primary Research – Quantitative – Qualitative • Secondary Research
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- 9. Introduction to ResearchMethods Collecting original data and information, generated by yourself: • Surveys • Interviews • Focus group • Documentary photography • Observations • Experiments • Testing samples
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- 11. Introduction to ResearchMethods Collecting and analysing information or data produced by someone else: • Books • Magazines, newspapers and journals • Websites • Television and radio programmes • Films • Other digital sources • Exhibitions
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- 13. Introduction to ResearchMethods Collecting a high volume or large quantity of data: • Surveys and questionnaires • Large sample size • Structured - closed questions • Measurement • Numerical data • Structured observations
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- 15. Introduction to ResearchMethods Collecting descriptive data with greater depth: • Interviews • Focus groups • Discussions • Observations • Surveys with open-ended questions • Descriptive data
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- 17. Introduction to ResearchMethods • The process you use to conduct your research is called a research methodology • You should use research methodology that is appropriate to your subject • You should try to use a variety of sources and ensure that they are reliable (valid)
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- 19. Introduction to ResearchMethods • The subject area that you are studying • Broadly defined • It is the main area to look for sources of information
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- 21. Introduction to ResearchMethods • The focus is within your field of study • This is particular area you are concentrating your research on • May be set by your tutors in relation to specific modules • Can be defined by yourself • Helps to concentrate on research sources that are most relevant
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- 23. Introduction to ResearchMethods • Majority of research starts with a question • This maybe a set by your tutors as an assignment • It can be something you are interested in or want to find out about • Indicates the focus of your research
- 24. Introduction to ResearchMethods • Analysis of your research question will help identify sources • Always refer back to your research question • Make sure you understand what is being asked • Look up any words you don’t understand
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- 26. Introduction to ResearchMethods • Sometimes you may need to do background research • This maybe about your subject • This is called reading around your subject • It maybe in another area related to your subject • Helps you understand what you are writing about • Important for providing context
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- 30. Introduction to ResearchMethods ORGANISATION
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- 32. Introduction to ResearchMethods SOURCES
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- 34. Introduction to ResearchMethods BIAS
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- 36. Introduction to ResearchMethods DISCOURSE
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