Session-1

 Objectives: This session will shed light on the following:

1. Definition of Research
2. Types of Research: Quantitative Research and Qualitative Research

Definition of Research

The word research is derived from the Middle French "recherche", which means "to go about
seeking’’.

 Research comprises "creative work undertaken on a systematic basis in order to increase the
stock of knowledge, and the use of this stock of knowledge to devise new applications.” It is
used to establish or confirm facts, reaffirm the results of previous work, solve new or existing
problems, support theorems, or developnew theories.
Definition cont.
 A broad definition of research is given by Godwin Colibao: "In the broadest
sense of the word, the definition of research includes any gathering of data,
information, and facts for the advancement of knowledge."

 Another definition of research is given by John W. Creswell, who states that

"research is a process of steps used to collect and analyze information to
increase our understanding of a topic or issue". It consists of three steps: pose a
question, collect data to answer the question, and present an answer to the
question.

 A research project may also be an expansion on past work in the field.

Research projects can be used to develop further knowledge on a topic,
or in the example of a school research project, they can be used to
further a student's research prowess to prepare them for future jobs or
reports.
Types of Research
 Basically, there are two types of research: 1. Qualitative Research
and 2. Quantitative Research.

 1. Qualitative Research
 Qualitative Research is primarily exploratory research. It is used to gain
an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. It
provides insights into the problem or helps to develop ideas or
hypotheses for potential quantitative research. Qualitative Research is
also used to uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper
into the problem.
 Qualitative data collection methods vary using unstructured or semi-
structured techniques. Some common methods include focus groups
(group discussions), individual interviews, and
participation/observations. The sample size is typically small, and
respondents are selected to fulfil a given quota.
Types of Research
 2. Quantitative Research
 Quantitative Research is used to quantify the problem by way of
generating numerical data or data that can be transformed into usable
statistics. It is used to quantify attitudes, opinions, behaviors, and other
defined variables – and generalize results from a larger sample
population.

 Quantitative Research uses measurable data to formulate facts and

uncover patterns in research. Quantitative data collection methods are
much more structured than Qualitative data collection methods.

 Quantitative data collection methods include various forms of surveys

– online surveys, paper surveys, mobile surveys and kiosk surveys, face-
to-face interviews, telephone interviews, longitudinal studies, website
interceptors, online polls, and systematic observations.
Homework
 The students will be requested to write on the
quantitative research and qualitative research as their
homework.
 The faculty will check students’ homework in the next
class.