DT840 index

U500 notes

2.2

10 research portrayed as a linear process; in practice feedback loops everywhere. 13 questions usually refined to represent a conceptual framework and means of putting it into operation. Wording determines focus and scope of study.

Core question must:

• be convertible into tasks
• have comparative elements
• let you know when you have done enough
• specify field of study, limits of population, unit of study, measures used

16 Verma and Beard definition of hypothesis a tentative proposition which is subject to verification through subsequent investigation. Often a hunch; depicts and describes methods.

From Pugh - 46 - answers to "what" questions - intelligence; answers to "why" questions - research. 48 characteristics of good research:

• based on open approach to thought
• examines data critically
• generalises and specifies limits on generalisation

50 basic types of research, both qualitative and quantitative

• exploratory
• testing-out
• problem solving

Criteria for good hypothesis:

• variables should have empirical counterparts
• should provide answer to question raised by problem statement
• should be as simple as possible

Stages of the research process:

1. deciding what to do
1. decide topic
2. define objectives
3. choose methodology
4. choose information sources
2. doing it
1. collect data
2. analyse data
3. communicating what has been done
1. develop conclusions
2. develop recommendations
3. notify organisation, or source of information, of findings

23 Purposes of planning:

• to clarify researcher's aims and objectives
• define activities required to attain these aims and the order in which they take place
• identify various critical points or milestones in the research at which progress can be reviewed
• produce estimates of times at which milestones will be reached
• ensure effective use is made of key resources, particularly the researcher
• define priorities once research is under way
• serve as a guide for increasing likelihood of successful completion

• list aims, objectives, research questions or hypotheses
• list what needs to be done to achieve aims etc
• put tasks in order needed
• put tasks in sequence and estimate overall time required
• time it all and see if it makes sense

30 For a presentation about your research:

• the research idea
• the research questions/hypotheses/aims
• why the research is important
• what are the key research tasks (in the first year)
• how you might set about these tasks
• making a research plan for the first year, and sketching a plan for the whole project, with timescales
• what might be the key issues on which you want advice from your supervisor

Ethics

5 issues:

• responsibilities involved in doing academic research
• impact of Data Protection Act
• basic copyright issues
• aware of ethical issues in research

29 ethics codes amalgamted cover following areas:

• personal integrity/claims of competence
• personal accountability for work
• responsibility to employer/client
• responsibility to profession
• confidentiality of information/privacy
• dignity/worth of people
• public safety, health and welfare
• participation in professional societies
• increase public knowledge about technology