research

• Research Design


  A critical element of any study, serving as the blueprint for the collection, measurement, and analysis of data. It ensures that the research question is answered systematically and scientifically.
• Purpose of a Research Design

  • Structuring the Research: It provides a clear structure and framework that guides the entire research process
  • Ensuring Validity: It helps in minimizing bias and errors, ensuring the validity and reliability of the results
  • Facilitating Analysis: A well-designed study facilitates accurate data analysis and interpretation
• Types of Research Design

  • Experimental Research Design
  • Observational Research Design
  • Quasi-experimental Research Design
  • Descriptive Research Design
• Experimental Research Design


  Involves manipulation of one or more independent variables to observe the effect on a dependent variable under controlled conditions
• Components of Experimental Research Design

  • Control Group: A group that does not receive the experimental treatment, serving as a baseline
  • Experimental Group: A group that receives the treatment or intervention
  • Randomization: Random assignment of subjects to control and experimental groups to reduce bias
  • Blinding: Single-blind or double-blind methods to prevent bias in treatment administration and outcome assessment
• Experimental Research Design


  • Testing the effect of a new drug on cancer cell growth in vitro, where one group of cells is treated with the drug and another group is left untreated
• Observational Research Design


  Involves observing subjects in their natural environment without manipulation
• Types of Observational Research Design

  • Cohort Studies
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Longitudinal Studies
• Observational Research Design


  • Observing the dietary habits of a population and their correlation with the incidence of heart disease over 10 years
• Quasi-experimental Research Design


  Similar to experimental design but lacks random assignment to control and experimental groups
• Quasi-experimental Research Design


  • Evaluating the impact of a health intervention program in different communities where random assignment is not feasible
• Descriptive Research Design


  Involves describing the characteristics of a population or phenomenon without aiming to establish causal relationships
• Descriptive Research Design


  • Conducting a survey to document the biodiversity of a rainforest ecosystem
• Key Components of Research Design and Methods

  • Variables
  • Sampling
  • Validity and Reliability
  • Ethical Considerations
• Variables


  • Independent Variables: Factors that are manipulated or categorized to observe their effect on dependent variables
  • Dependent Variables: Outcomes that are measured to see the impact of the independent variables
  • Control Variables: Factors that are kept constant to prevent them from influencing the dependent variable
• Sampling Techniques


  • Probability Sampling
  • Non-Probability Sampling
• Probability Sampling Techniques


  • Simple Random Sampling
  • Stratified Sampling
  • Cluster Sampling
  • Systematic Sampling
• Non-Probability Sampling Techniques


  • Convenience Sampling
  • Judgmental (Purposive) Sampling
  • Quota Sampling
• Data Collection Tools and Techniques

  • Laboratory Techniques
  • Field Techniques
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Observational Methods
  • Experimental Methods
  • Technological Tools
• Laboratory Techniques


  • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
  • Western Blotting
  • Chromatography
  • Microscopy
• Field Techniques


  • Quadrats
  • Transects
  • Mark-Recapture
• Surveys and Questionnaires


  Often used in studies involving human subjects to gather data on behaviors, attitudes, or characteristics. Surveys can be conducted in person, by phone, online, or by mail.
• Questionnaire Design


  Questions should be clear, concise, and unbiased. They can be open-ended or closed-ended depending on the data required.
• Observational Methods


  • Direct Observation
  • Indirect Observation
• Experimental Methods


  • Controlled Experiments
  • Field Experiments
• Technological Tools


  • Remote Sensing
  • Bioinformatics Tools
• Data Collection Process


  • Planning the Data Collection
  • Implementation
  • Data Recording
• Planning the Data Collection

  • Define Objectives: Clearly define what you aim to achieve with the data collection
  • Choose Appropriate Methods: Select methods that align with the research objectives and questions
  • Develop Protocols: Standardize procedures to ensure consistency and reliability
• Implementation


  • Training: Ensure all researchers and assistants are trained in data collection methods
  • Pilot Testing: Conduct a pilot study to test methods and refine protocols
• Data Recording


  • Accuracy: Record data accurately and promptly
  • Data Management: Use appropriate tools and software for data entry, storage, and management
  • Backup: Regularly back up data to prevent loss
• References are a crucial component of a thesis, serving as the foundation upon which the research is built. They acknowledge the work of other researchers, provide evidence to support claims, and guide readers to additional sources of information.
• APA 7th Edition for Thesis: Guidelines and Examples


  • General Format: Start on a new page titled "References," centered and bold. Double-space all entries and use a hanging indent (0.5 inches for subsequent lines of each reference).
  • Books: Format: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of the book. Publisher.
  • Journal Articles: Format: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of the article. Title of the Journal, volume number(issue number), page range. DOI (if available)
  • Websites: Format: Author, A. A. (Year, Month Date). Title of the webpage. Website Name. URL
  • Chapters in Edited Books: Format: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of the chapter. In B. B. Editor (Ed.), Title of the book (pp. xx-xx). Publisher.