• is a scientific method of observation to gather non-numerical data. This type of
research "refers to the meanings, concepts, definitions, characteristics, metaphors, symbols, and description of things" and not to their "counts or measures". This research answers why and how a certain phenomenon may occur rather than how often. Qualitative research approaches are employed across many academic disciplines, focusing particularly on the human elements of the social and natural sciences; In less academic contexts, areas of application include qualitative market research, business, service demonstrations by non-profits, and journalism. LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR THE UNIT
• Demonstrate understanding of the importance of research in daily life
• Use appropriate kinds of research in making decisions. • Demonstrate understanding of the kinds, characteristics, uses, strength, and weaknesses of qualitative research. • Demonstrate the importance of qualitative research across fields of inquiry. • Decide on suitable qualitative research in different areas of interest. • Formulate the statement of research problem clearly. • Demonstrate understanding of the criteria in selecting, citing, and synthesizing related literature • Demonstrate understanding of the ethnical standards in writing related literature and conducting research. • Select, cite, and synthesize related literature properly. • Demonstrate understanding of qualitative research designs pertaining to a description of a sample, data collection and analysis procedures(such as surveys, interviews, and observations), and the application of creative design principles for execution • Describe qualitative research designs, samples, and data collection and analysis procedures. T H E N AT U R E A N D I M P O R TA N C E O F RESEARCH THE FUNDAMENTAL AND SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH According to Donna M. Mertens, research is a “systematic inquiry that is designed to collect, analyze, and interpret data to understand, describe, or predict phenomenon”. Simply put, research is very different from other ways of knowing or understanding the world (that is, through common sense, interpretation, or evaluation) because it involves a scientific, methodolical, and well-structured process. Among the factors that determine the success of a research is its ability to find anwers and solutions to real-world problems. The findings of many research studies have benefited countless people. Many research studies have been responsible for discovering and creating medical breakthroughs, advances in technology, and misunderstanding and solving problems in education, business, economy, and society. THE FUNDAMENTAL AND SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH 1. Research gathers relevant information and produces novel knowledge. 2. Research improves the quality of life. 3. Research promotes understanding of history 4. Research contributes to one’s personal and professional development CHARACTERISTICS OF GOOD RESEARCH • Research is realistic as it requires you to gather data and obtain as much information about the area of study. • Research is analytical as the process is conducted in a scientific, systematic, and structured manner using standard methods. • Research provides possible solutions to real-world problems and offers potential technological advancements and developments. • Research offers practical, innovative, and novel solutions and contributions to different bodies of knowledge. • Research is a scholarly work as it follows the highest ethical standards. RESEARCH PROCESS
1. Define your topic
2. Formulate your problem statement 3. Conduct a review of related literature 4. Determine the theoretical framework for your study 5. Develop a research strategy or design 6. Collect your data 7. Validate your research design and analyze your data 8. Write and revise your research paper 9. Defending and Disseminating the results of your study ETHICS IN RESEARCH
Is a set of moral principles that distinguish between acceptable and
unacceptable behavior. Ethics must always be observed when doing research. Ethics in research is partly about establishing a good relationship with your subjects and intervieews, among others. Subjects should be treated with respect and should be informed about their rights as interviewees. Further, the response of interviewees should be kept confidential. In addition, you can also demonstrate ethics by being responsible for data handling and management.