Learning Contents:

1. Introduction/Background of the Study

2. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
3. Statement of the Problem
4. Hypothesis
5. Significance of the Study
6. Scope and the Delimitation of the Study
7. Definition of Terms

Learning Outcomes:
1. Discuss the basic concepts related to the components of the
problem and its background.
2. Write a problem based on given scenarios or situations.
3. Give a background of the problems they formulated.
4. Cite theoretical or conceptual framework as bases of their
problem.
5. Write a sample statement of the problem.
6. Formulate a hypothesis.
7. Give the significance of the study.
8. Express the scope and delimitations of their research paper
9. Clearly define terms either conceptually or operationally.
 Pre-Test

Multiple Choice: Choose the correct answer from the given choices.

1. This connects the present study with existing theories that will be used as bases for the
conduct of research.
a. Research design c. theoretical framework
b. Scope and delimitations of the study d. sampling procedures

2. The following are examples of hypotheses, EXCEPT:

a. There is no significant relationship between the emotional stability of the mothers
and their extent of help in tutoring their children during modular learning.
b. The sample of twenty students has significantly higher average than the rest of the
students in terms of their performance in Science and Technology.
c. The study uses the descriptive design of research.
d. The two samples of customers have significantly different levels of perceptions
regarding the new packaging of a certain product.

3. This refers to the proposed explanation about a phenomenon made on the basis of
limited evidence and a starting point of the investigation.
a. Scope and delimitation of the study c. definition of terms
b. Theoretical framework d. hypothesis

4. These are manipulated variables that cause a change in another variable.

a. Dependent variables c. independent variables
b. Conceptual framework d. extraneous variables

5. This should contain the importance of doing the investigation to strengthen the
beneficial purpose of conducting researches.
a. Research title c. significance of the study
b. Conceptual framework d. definition of terms

6. Which of the following could be an example of an operational definition of terms?

a. An individual sport is a sport participated by two opposing individuals.
b. An equipment is a set of articles or physical resources serving to equip a person or
thing such as the implements used in an operation of an activity.
c. Sports performance refers to the manner in which sport participation is measured.
d. As used in this study, assessment refers to the process of knowing the availability
of school facilities and equipment.

7. This introduces the reader to the importance of the topic being studied and defines the
parameters of what is to be investigated.
a. Hypothesis c. Significance of the Study
b. Research Problem d. Definition of Terms

12
8. The following are examples of significance of the study, EXCEPT:
a. The findings of this study may give insights to school administrators in the
formulation of policies regarding the instructional modalities in the flexible
learning.
b. The research output may facilitate the social workers in understanding the plight
of misplaced homeowners in proposing policies to assist the mothers in dealing
with household problems.
c. The findings may provide guidance to teachers as to continually improve their
instruction despite the challenges they encounter during this pandemic.
d. As used in this study, assessment implies the adequacy of the laboratory facilities
among the tertiary institutions in the province.

9. A theory:
a. Is an accumulated body of knowledge
b. Includes inconsequential ideas
c. Is independent of research methodology
d. Should be viewed uncritically

10. A study of teaching professionals posits that their performance-related pay increases
their motivation which in turn leads to an increase in their job satisfaction. What kind of
variable is “motivation” in this study?
a. Extraneous
b. Confounding
c. Intervening
d. Manipulated

13
Introduction

Chapter 1 is The Problem and Its Background. This lesson encompasses the
different components of the problem and its background, namely: the introduction or
background of the study, theoretical or conceptual framework, statement of the problem,
hypothesis, significance of the study, scope and delimitations of the study and the
definition of terms.

Selecting The Topic

Research topics can come from a myriad of sources: an interest in a particular field,
discussions with peers and teachers, and existing literature. Choosing a topic for research
is a difficult task not only among students but as well as researchers. Confronted with a
lot of interesting topics available based on the experiences students, it is then not easy for
them to come up with a researchable and novel topic at their level of interests. The
research topic should be at least close to their capabilities and interests and shouldn’t be
a burdened to them.

The students may choose from any of the following sources as the starting point to
identify and come up with their research topic:

• General (articles, monographs, books and other documents)

• Primary (journals)
• Secondary (textbooks)

With the prevalence of social media, the students could come up with the topic based on
what they have read from social media posts. However, they should be selected and
examined properly if the topic is relevant and objective. The students could then further
delve with the research topic in mind by examining related subject matter from the
sources mentioned earlier such as the general references, primary and secondary sources.

Solano et al (2019) summarized the following which could help students in

choosing their research topic to work on:

1. Think about past discussions in class and list which of these you found to be
interesting. The same goes true with issues you have observed or watched in the
news.
2. Do a library search about your topic by visiting academic journals your school has
a subscription of. You may also check books, theses, government documents,
statistics and newspapers. These are just preliminary selection of the research title.
You may need to narrow down your research topic which means that you have to
read further related articles until you arrive at the specific and relevant topic. The
emphasis is on search and research.
3. Give all topics that are considered preliminary title and provide a brief description
of the content and the plane of how the topic could be developed. Identify possible
problems that your research topics will try to answer. Keep a record of how your
research topic has evolved from the general to specific. Coming up with the
14
 specific topic is imperative as this would help you search and identify the
literature and studies related to your specific topic at hand.
4. Consider the implications of your choice in selecting and finalizing a topic. What
problems does it intends to explain? Does it contribute to the bulk of knowledge
on the field? Are the resources available locally or internationally? Consider also
the technology requirements of your topic and if these technologies are available.
These considerations will help you decide on the specific topic to proceed for
research.

The Problem
A research problem is a statement about an area of concern, a condition to be
improved, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly
literature, in theory, or in practice that points to the need for meaningful understanding
and deliberate investigation.
A research problem introduces the reader to the importance of the topic being
studied, places the problem into a particular context that defines the parameters of what
is to be investigated; and provides the framework for reporting the results. It indicates
what is probably necessary to conduct the study and explain how the findings will
present this information.

Problem Characteristics

Prieto (2017) described the characteristics of the problem as follows:

Novelty and originality. The problem must not have been investigated before. If
a new problem is conceptualized from a previously studied problem, it would be better
if there are modifications, like additions of the variables or making the research broader
in scope in terms of the variables. In some cases, studies are also replicated. Replication
of study intends to verify some conclusions, or the new study uses a different methods
and different situations.
Practical Value. Research outputs should have significant contributions in various
or specific fields of endeavors.
Availability of data. There should be sufficient data available in relation to the
research study.

The Research Problem

The following tips could also be helpful in formulating the research problem.

1. What topic, problem, or issue are you interested in?

Do some background research to find out more about it. You may need to do
some background research to find out more about it first.

2. What specific part of the topic are you interested in?

Break down topic and group ideas in clusters. Pick one cluster or one part of the
different sub-problems. Brainstorm or do a library search to identify the possible
sub-topics and choose one.

15
 3. List few possible questions about your specific topic area.
As the 5W and 1H

4. Choose one to be your main research question.

Why and How questions are the best for research questions.

5. Make your question as clear and specific as possible.

Specify what you mean for all general words.

6. State your working thesis.

The working thesis should summarize the answer to your main research
question, and will likely change after you do some research.
Answer your question in a one sentence.

Research Title

The research title provides the brief description of what your study is all about.

The title summarizes the main idea or ideas of your study. A good title contains
the fewest possible words that adequately describe the contents and/or purpose of your
research paper.

The title is the part of a paper that is read the most, and it is usually read first. If
the title is too long it usually contains too many unnecessary words. On the other hand,
a title which is too short often uses words which are too general.

Example of Title with many unnecessary words:

A Study to Investigate the Parents’ Extent of Assistance to Children During the

Modular Approach to Learning”

Example of Title which is too short:

Parents’ Extent of Assistance

The following parameters can be used to help you formulate a suitable research paper
title.

1. The purpose of the research

2. The narrative tone of the paper (typically defined by the type of the research)
3. The methods used

The initial aim of a title is to capture the reader’s attention and to draw his or her
attention to the research problem being investigated.

16
 You may start with creating a working title. The working title should be developed
early in the research process because it can help anchor the focus of the study in much
the same way the research problem does.

The final title you may submit is created after the research is complete so that the title
accurately captures what was done. Referring back to the working title can help you
reorient yourself back to the main purpose of the study if you feel yourself drifting off on
a tangent while writing.

Writing the Final Title

Effective titles in academic research papers have several characteristics.

1. Indicate accurately the subject and scope of the study

2. Avoid using abbreviations
3. Use words that create a positive impression and stimulate reader interest.
4. Use current nomenclature from the field of study.
5. Identify the key variables, both dependent and independent variables.
6. May reveal how the paper will be organized.
7. Suggest a relationship between variables which supports the major hypothesis.
8. Is limited to 10 to 15 substantive words
9. Do not include “study of” or “analysis of” or similar constructions.
10. Titles are usually in the form of a phrase, but can also be in the form of a
question.
11. Use correct grammar and capitalization with all first words and last words
capitalized, including the first word of a subtitle. All nouns, pronouns, verbs,
adjectives and adverbs that appear between the first and last words of the title
are also capitalized.
12. In academic papers, rarely is a title followed by an exclamation mark.

You may examine the following examples of a research title:

Sample Titles:
• Assessment of Sports Facilities and Equipment in J.H. Cerilles State College Dumingag
Campus
• Benefits Derived From Playing Musical Instruments
• Students’ Perception of Physical Education Courses and Its Relationship with their
Participation in Sports Activities

17
Background of the Study

The background of the study will provide context to the information discussed
throughout the research paper. Background information may include both important
and relevant studies. This is particularly important if a study either supports or refutes
your thesis.

The background of the study will discuss your problem statement, rationale, and
research questions. It links introduction to your research topic and ensures a logical
flow of ideas. Thus, it helps readers understand your reasons for conducting the study.

The reader should be able to understand your topic and its importance. The
length and detail of your background also depend on the degree to which you need to
demonstrate your understanding of the topic. Paying close attention to the following
questions will help you in writing the background information in your research paper:

1. Are there any theories, concepts, terms, and ideas that may be unfamiliar to the
target audience and will require you to provide any additional explanation?

2. Any historical data that need to be shard in order to provide context on why the
current issue emerged?

3. Are there any concepts that may have been borrowed from other disciplines that
may be unfamiliar to the reader and need an explanation?

Going online:

https://youtu.be/rh_2LqDo_Bs

Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

A theoretical framework is a collection of interrelated concepts, like a theory but

not necessarily so well worked-out. A theoretical framework guides your research,
determining what things you will measure, and what statistical relationships you will
look for.

Abend (2013) noted that theories are formulated to explain, predict, and
understand phenomena and, in many cases, to challenge and extend existing
knowledge within the limits of critical bounding assumptions. The theoretical
framework is the structure that can hold or support a theory of a research study. The
theoretical framework introduces and describes the theory that explains why the
research problem under study exists.

A theoretical framework consists of concepts and, together with their

definitions and reference to relevant scholarly literature, existing theory that is used
for your particular study. The theoretical framework must demonstrate an

18
understanding of theories and concepts that are relevant to the topic of your research
paper and that relate to the broader areas of knowledge being considered.

The theoretical framework is most often not something readily found

within the literature. You must review course readings and pertinent research
studies for theories and analytic models that are relevant to the research problem
you are investigating. The selection of a theory should depend on its
appropriateness, ease of application, and explanatory power.

The theoretical framework strengthens the study in the following ways:

1. An explicit statement of theoretical assumptions permits the reader to evaluate

them critically.
2. The theoretical framework connects the researcher to existing knowledge. Guided
by a relevant theory, you are given a basis for your hypotheses and choice of
research methods.
3. Articulating the theoretical assumptions of a research study forces you to address
questions of why and how. It permits you to intellectually transition from simply
describing a phenomenon you have observed to generalizing about various
aspects of that phenomenon.
4. Having a theory helps you identify the limits to those generalizations. A
theoretical framework specifies which key variables influence a phenomenon of
interest and highlights the need to examine how those key variables might differ
and under what circumstances.

By virtue of its applicative nature, good theory in the social sciences is of value
precisely because it fulfills one primary purpose: to explain the meaning, nature, and
challenges associated with a phenomenon, often experienced but unexplained in the
world in which we live, so that we may use that knowledge and understanding to
act in more informed and effective ways.

Developing the Framework

Here are some strategies to develop of an effective theoretical framework:

1. Examine your thesis title and research problem. The research problem anchors
your entire study and forms the basis from which you construct your theoretical
framework.
2. Brainstorm about what you consider to be the key variables in your research.
Answer the question, "What factors contribute to the presumed effect?"
3. Review related literature to find how scholars have addressed your research
problem. Identify the assumptions from which the author(s) addressed the
problem.
4. List the constructs and variables that might be relevant to your study. Group
these variables into independent and dependent categories.
5. Review key social science theories that are introduced to you in your course
readings and choose the theory that can best explain the relationships between
the key variables in your study [note the Writing Tip on this page].
19
6. Discuss the assumptions or propositions of this theory and point out their
relevance to your research.

A theoretical framework is used to limit the scope of the relevant data by

focusing on specific variables and defining the specific viewpoint [framework] that
the researcher will take in analyzing and interpreting the data to be gathered. It also
facilitates the understanding of concepts and variables according to given definitions
and builds new knowledge by validating or challenging theoretical assumptions.

The theoretical framework defines the key concepts in your research, proposes relations
between them, and discusses relevant theories based on a literature review.

A strong theoretical framework gives your research direction, allowing you to

convincingly interpret, explain and generalize from your findings.

Sample theoretical framework

Below is a (simplified) example of how you can describe and compare definitions
and theories. In this example, we focus on the concept of ‘customer satisfaction.’

Thomassen (2003, p. 69) defines customer satisfaction as “the perception of the customer
as a result of consciously or unconsciously comparing their experiences with their
expectations.” Kotler & Keller (2008, p. 80) build on this definition, stating that customer
satisfaction is determined by “the degree to which someone is happy or disappointed
with the observed performance of a product in relation to his or her expectations.”
Performance that is below expectations leads to a dissatisfied customer, while
performance that satisfies expectations produces satisfied customers. Expectations being
exceeded leads to a “very satisfied or even pleasantly surprised customer” (Kotler &
Keller, 2003, p. 80).

The definition of Zeithaml and Bitner (2003, p. 86) is slightly different from that of
Thomassen: “Satisfaction is the consumer fulfillment response. It is a judgement that a
product or service feature, or the product of service itself, provides a pleasurable level of
consumption-related fulfillment.” Zeithaml and Bitner’s emphasis is thus on obtaining a
certain satisfaction in relation to purchasing.

Thomassen’s definition is the most relevant to the aims of this study, given the emphasis
it places on unconscious perception. Although Zeithaml and Bitner, like Thomassen, say
that customer satisfaction is a reaction to the experience gained, there is no distinction
between conscious and unconscious comparisons in their definition. Company X claims
in its mission statement that it wants to sell not only a product, but also a feeling; as a
result, unconscious comparison will play an important role in the satisfaction of its
customers. Thomassen’s definition is therefore more relevant to the current study.

20
Conceptual framework
A conceptual framework illustrates what you expect to find through your
research. It defines the relevant variables for your study and maps out how they might
relate to each other.

You should construct a conceptual framework before you begin collecting data. It
is often represented in a visual format.

Go online:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnfRdTCUIsc&feature=youtu.be

EXAMPLE OF A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

This study zeroes in on the professional development activities for teachers by espousing
the idea that the classroom performance of teachers is a critical factor for student
academic performance. The researcher based her assumption from Weiner’s Attribution
Theory that external and internal factors can improve performance.

For example, students may attribute their academic performance to their teachers
(external factor) while the teachers may attribute their teaching performance to in-service
trainings (external factor) and perhaps, to their teaching efficacy, job satisfaction, and
attitude towards the teaching profession (internal factors). These relationships are
illustrated in Figure 1.

21
Statement of the Problem

A statement of the problem is used in research work as a claim that outlines the
problem addressed by a study. The statement of the problem briefly addresses the
question: What is the problem that the research will address?

What are the goals of a statement of the problem?

The ultimate goal of a statement of the problem is to transform a generalized

problem (something that bothers you; a perceived lack) into a targeted, well-defined
problem; one that can be resolved through focused research and careful decision-making.

Writing a statement of the problem should help you clearly identify the purpose
of the research project you will propose. Often, the statement of the problem will also
serve as the basis for the introductory section of your final proposal, directing your
reader’s attention quickly to the issues that your proposed project will address and
providing the reader with a concise statement of the proposed project itself.

A statement of problem need not be long and elaborate: one page is more than
enough for a good statement of problem.

What are the key characteristics of a statement of the problem?

A good research problem should have the following characteristics:

1. It should address a gap in knowledge.

2. It should be significant enough to contribute to the existing body of research
3. It should lead to further research
4. The problem should render itself to investigation through collection of data
5. It should be of interest to the researcher and suit his/her skills, time, and resources
6. The approach towards solving the problem should be ethical

What is the format for writing a statement of the problem?

A persuasive statement of problem is usually written in three parts:

Part A (The ideal): Describes a desired goal or ideal situation; explains how things
should be.

Part B (The reality): Describes a condition that prevents the goal, state, or value in
Part A from being achieved or realized at this time; explains how the current situation
falls short of the goal or ideal.

Part C (The consequences): Identifies the way you propose to improve the current
situation and move it closer to the goal or ideal.

22
 A good statement of the problem is the appropriate start of the research
preparation.

The general problem should be brief and with few but precise and clear sentences.

The subordinate or subproblems or specific problems should also be clearly and

briefly stated and their order should show their relative importance in support of the
major problem. They should also be formulated such that they are not readily answerable
by “yes” or “no” but clearly indicative of researchability.

Examples of a Statement of the Problem:

1. In this experiment, we will investigate the electrolyte content found in standard sports
drink compared to what is found in plain coconut water.

2. The study explores the emotional level of the mothers and their extent of assistance
given to their children in the modular approach to learning.

Specifically, the study deals with the following sub-problems:

A. What is the profile of the mothers in terms of their educational background, gross
family income and sources of income?
B. What is the emotional level of the mothers?
C. What is the extent of the assistance given to their children in the modular approach
to learning?
D. Is there a significant relationship between then mothers’ emotional level and their
extent of assistance given to their children in the modular approach to learning?
E. Is there a significant difference in the emotional level of the mothers when they are
grouped according to their educational background, gross family income and
sources of income?

What have a I learned so far?

Individual Task

1. Enumerate the basic types of sources of research topics.

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

23
 2. How do you select a good research topic?

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Group Tasks and Differentiation

Activity 1.

1. In what research area your group is most interested?

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

2. What would be your research topic and why?

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

24
 Group Tasks and Differentiation

Activity 2. Formulate Statement of the Problem given the following research topics;

1. How a local government unit improve its efficiency or effectiveness of services

through the innovative use of information technology

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

2. Problems encountered by the parents in the implementation of modular

instruction

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

3. The medical services problems in the Philippines

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

25
Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a proposed explanation about a phenomenon made on the basis

of limited evidence and a starting point of your research inquiry. It is a temporary answer
to your problem, argument or issue, which you intend to test and explore throughout
your study. Hypotheses should be test empirically either statistically or quantitatively.

A research hypothesis is a specific, clear, and testable proposition or predictive

statement about the possible outcome of a scientific research study based on a particular
property of a population, such as presumed differences between groups on a particular
variable or relationships between variables.

Specifying the research hypotheses is one of the most important steps in planning
a scientific quantitative research study. A researcher usually states an a priori expectation
about the results of the study in one or more research hypotheses before conducting the
study, because the design of the research study and the planned research design often is
determined by the stated hypotheses.

Hypothesis must be clearly written. It must address one problem or issue at a

time. This applies to whether your study is a test of relationship or difference. Similarly,
use the same pattern of word order of your variables in your hypothesis. You may start
with the independent first, and then conclude with the dependent variable.

For a test of relationship in a correlational study, the type of relationship either

positive or negative must be provided in the hypothesis. They must show the
relationship between the concepts or variables in the study. You must provide the
indicators, those which give or indicate the presence or absence of the variables so that
the levels of measurement are defined. All variables must be measured separately.

• Helps the researcher in designing the study: what methods, research

instruments, sampling design, and statistical treatments to use what data to
gather.

• Serve as basis for determining assumptions.

• Serve as basis for determining the relevance of data.

• Serve as basis for the explanation or discussion about the data gathered.

• Helps or guides the researcher in consolidation of findings and in formulating

conclusions. Generally, findings and conclusions are answers to the hypothesis
or specific questions raised at the start of the investigation.

26
There are two types of hypothesis.

1. Null hypothesis – states the non-significance of the relationship between the

independent variable and the dependent variable. This hypothesis is also called
as the non-directional hypothesis.

For example: There is no significant relationship between the respondents’

utilization of sports facilities and equipment and their sports performance.

The null hypothesis also states the non-significance of the difference between two
groups of samples compare.

For example: There is no significant difference between the control group and the
experimental group in terms of the runners’ performance in the number of seconds
to finish the 100 m dash.

2. Alternative hypothesis – states the significance of the relationship between the

independent and the dependent variables. This is also called the directional
hypothesis.

For example: There is a significant relationship between the respondents’

utilization of sports facilities and equipment and their sports performance.

The null hypothesis also states the significance of the difference between the
samples compared.

For example: There is a significant difference between the control group and the
experimental group in terms of the runners’ performance in the number of seconds
to finish the 100 m dash.

However, in the research report, only the null hypothesis is stated. If the null
hypothesis is rejected then the alternative hypothesis will be the basis of your
conclusions.

Alternative Hypothesis

There are forms of alternative hypotheses:

1. Non-directional alternative hypothesis

- Indicates that the researcher is not interested on whether one variable is greater
than or less than the other, but there is a difference.

For example: The two sample means are equal. 𝑋" = 𝑋%

The population mean equals the sample mean. 𝜇 = 𝑋

27
 2. Directional alternative hypothesis

- Implies that one group of sample is greater than the the group of sample.

For example: 𝑋" > 𝑋%

- Implies that one group of sample is lesser than the other group of sample.

For example: 𝑋" < 𝑋%

Variation and Variables

Quantitative researchers redefine the concepts of interests into the language of

variables.

Variables are factors that can take on more than one value in a given study.

Types of Variables:

1. Independent variable
2. Dependent variable
3. Intervening or moderating variable

Independent variable is a variable presumed to effect or influence other variables.

Dependent (or outcome) variable is a variable presumed to be effected by one or more

independent variable.

Mediating variable is the intervening variable that controls or affects the dependent
variable.

Example: An evaluation of Sports Facilities in Relation to the Performance of Athletes

Sports facilities – independent variable

Performance of Athletes – dependent variable

Going online:

https://youtu.be/PCgLjDDD4ek

28
 What have a I learned so far?

Individual Task

Read the following and determine what type of hypotheses each statement refers to.

1. There is a significant relationship between the respondents’ number of days in the

quarantine facility and their level of emotional stress.

_______________________________________________

2. There is no significant relationship between the frontliners’ number of hours in the

hospital duty and their level of anxiety.

_______________________________________________

3. There is a significant difference between the students with more real time in online
learning and with less time in online learning in terms of their scores in the
summative assessment.

_______________________________________________

4. Scores of the students exposed to differentiated instruction does not significantly

relate to their scores in Physics.

_______________________________________________

5. Scores of the students exposed to differentiated instruction significantly relates to

their scores in Physics.

_______________________________________________

29
 Activity

Formulating Hypotheses

Write a hypothesis for each of the following research problems.

1. What effect does studying with music have on student test scores?

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

2. What effect does increasing the amount of water intake have on the performance
of the players in basketball among the varsity players in a certain school?

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

3. What effect does increasing the time to practice marathon have on the performance
of the runners in the marathon competition?

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

30
Significance of the Study

The significance of the study portion of Chapter 1 is written to inform the readers
of the importance of the study. It is the proof that the study is really beneficial and worth
it for the effort and time. It can be based on the statement of the problem wherein you
can get ideas on how to write a significance of the study section on your thesis or research.
It illustrates the contribution of the study to the society. It provides information on how
the project or research contributed to the present generation and how to expand its
related literature.

The importance of the study simply indicates how the study could be help or value
to group of individuals. This means informing the readers on how the study will
contribute to the well-being of a person or progress of a group or society in general.

Here are some important tips on the Significance of the Study:

• Show the benefits as well as the advantages of the expanding study

• Contains the contribution of the study to the society.

• Answer why the study is important to the future researchers

• Explain how to expand the existing literature

• Includes the impact to the others of the study.

For example, in addressing the domestic violence among children during the pandemic in a specific
barangay or locality, in a research study, the findings can benefit, first and foremost, the victims of domestic
violence themselves, policy makers like the Department of Social Welfare and Development, leaders, both
local and national government, as well as NGO’s.

Likewise, in this part of research, you may state how the research outputs and
implications of your study could help the school administrators, the teachers, the parents
or the community, the students, and the future researchers.

The following is an excerpt from an undergraduate thesis.

School Administrators. This would be their basis in formulating plans and policies in order
to improve the performance of the students and increase their level of engagement in schools’ sports
activities.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

The scope of a study explains the extent to which the research area will be explored
in the work and specifies the parameters within the study will be operating.

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 This means that you will have to define what the study is going to cover and what
it is focusing on. Similarly, you also have to define what the study is not going to cover.
This will come under the limitations. Generally, the scope of a research paper is followed
by its limitations.

The following information might be needed to include in the scope:

1. General purpose of the study

2. The population or sample that you are studying

3. The duration of the study

4. The topics or theories that you will discuss

5. The geographical location covered in the study.

Delimitation refers to boundaries of the research study, arising from the

researcher’s decisions of what to exclude; for example, this study included only Third
and Fourth Year Bachelor of Physical Education students who have gadgets for online
education.

Examples of Delimitation of Research

1. This study covers only those families in Gango, Ozamiz City, benefited by the
government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of 4 P’s.

2. This study includes only those English and Mathematics freshmen classes that uses
Blended Learning and standard ways of teaching English and Mathematics teaching.

3. This research investigation covers only Tertiary Education Subsidy scholars enrolled
during the school year 2020-2021 in La Salle University, Ozamiz City.

Examples of Scope and Delimitation from Actual Qualitative Studies

1. Title of Study: Workplace Ergonomics: Perceptions on Employees’ Stress Levels and Safety (Lao,
2014).

The focus of this study is on the workplace ergonomics in the corporate office setting. The
study would focus on the relationship of workplace ergonomics and its effects on employees’ stress
levels and safety. Moreover, the study would look into the current behavior and approach on
workplace ergonomics that Philippine corporations employ in their work environment. This study
on workplace ergonomics does not encompass benefits received by employees outside of the said
subject matter. In addition, this study does not aim to measure productivity levels of its
respondents.

The participants of this study would be limited to large corporations whose employees
engage in repetitive tasks.

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 In this part of the research, the researcher states the location where the study is
conducted, the respondents under investigation, and the time frame or duration when
the study is conducted.

This part also deals with both the independent and the dependent variables,
including the sub-variables. This also include the research design, data gathering
instrument and procedures and how the data are statistically analyzed and interpreted.

Definition of Terms

Defining important terms is essential to ensure a common understanding of key

concepts and terminology is shared between the researcher and his or her audience or
readers, particularly if the term is unusual or not widely known.

Important terms only need to be defined in two cases: 1) when the term is not
widely known or understood, and 2) when the term has specific or unique meaning in
the context of the study, and it is essential that the reader of the research understand this
specific meaning.

Definition of specific concepts and terminology should be grounded (whenever

possible) by peer-reviewed sources that support the definition. This helps a great deal to
rationalize terminology and understanding, and connects your language to common
usage of terminology within the field. It is also a good idea to alphabetize definitions to
make it easier for readers to navigate quickly to the term they need to understand.

The terms are both conceptually and operationally defined.

The operational definition includes as to how the terms are used or applied in the
research undertaking.

For example:

Conceptual definition of assessment. Assessment refers to the evaluation ….

Operational definition of assessment. Assessment as used in this study, refers to the

process of knowing the availability of school facilities and equipment.

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 What have a I learned so far?

Individual Task

Write the independent and dependent variables in the following statements.

1. The more time people spend using social media, the less they read books.

Independent Variable: ________________________________________

Dependent Variable: ________________________________________

2. Drinking energy drinks makes people more aggressive.

Independent Variable: ________________________________________

Dependent Variable: ________________________________________

3. Students watched a cartoon either alone or with others and then rated how funny
they found the cartoon to be.

Independent Variable: ________________________________________

Dependent Variable: ________________________________________

4. A comprehension test was given to students after they had studied textbook
material either in silence or with the television turn on.

Independent Variable: ________________________________________

Dependent Variable: ________________________________________

5. Students at a University were split into two groups and each received a different
text for a Living in IT Era course. One group received a traditional textbook, while
the other received an interactive textbook on a tablet computer. After the course,
the final exam grades between the two groups of students were compared.

Independent Variable: ________________________________________

Dependent Variable: ________________________________________

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 Checkpoint

Multiple Choice. Choose the correct answer from the given choices.

1. When you start writing the introduction section, what question must you ask
yourself?

a. Why you chose the topic for research

b. How did you conduct research
c. What were your findings
d. Why the editor should publish the paper

2. Which section of the manuscript should you begin with?

a. Introduction c. methods
b. Discussions d. results

3. When should a definition be used in technical writing?

a. To give all possible meanings for various technical terms

b. To explain the meaning of a word as it relates to the subject being discussed
c. To provide examples of how a term is used in the workplace
d. To answer any questions the reader might have about a subject.

4. The problems formulated for research identifies areas of concern that require the
following, EXCEPT:

a. Investigation to gain new insights

b. Expand understanding
c. Improve comprehension of the whole problem
d. Stating how to do something

5. When determining the significance of a study problem and purpose, the following
points may help in evaluating, EXCEPT:

a. Builds on previous research

b. Tests a method or procedure
c. Promotes theory testing or development
d. Address a current concern or priorities

6. It is a clear, concise, declarative statement expressed in the present tense on the

objective or aim of the study.

a. Hypothesis c. Significance of the Study

b. Definition of Terms d. Statement of the Problem

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7. The following describes the hypothesis of a study, EXCEPT:

a. Hypothesis influences the study design, sampling method, data collection and
analysis process, and interpretation of the findings.
b. This section deals with the presentation of the data, analysis of the findings and
the interpretation of the data.
c. Translates the research problem and purpose into a clear explanation or
prediction of the unexpected results or outcomes of selected quantitative and
outcome studies.
d. A formal statement of the expected relationship(s) between two or more
variables in a specified population.

8. This provides the theoretical meaning of a variable and is often derived from a
theorist’s definition of a related concept.

a. Significance of the Study c. Conceptual Definition of Terms

b. Operational Definition of Terms d. Statement of the Problem

9. This is developed so that a variable can be measured or manipulated in a concrete

situation, the knowledge gained from studying the variables will increase the
understanding of the concept that the variable represents.

a. Significance of the Study c. Conceptual Definition of Terms

b. Operational Definition of Terms d. Statement of the Problem

10. This describes the coverage of research and some parameters such as time allotment,
instruments and sample size.

a. Significance of the Study c. Conceptual Definition of Terms

b. Operational Definition of Terms d. Scope and Delimitation of the Study

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References:

https://library.wlu.ca/sites/default/files/pdfs/tutorials/researchquestionworksheet.
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https://library.wlu.ca/sites/default/files/pdfs/tutorials/research-question-
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Amante, et al, 2008. Purposes, Function and Importance of Hypothesis.

Amante, Diosdado, et al. Essentials of Research Methodology. Mindshapers Co., Inc.

2008.

Amante, 2008. Quantitative Design

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https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/theoretical-framework-example/

Torraco, R. J. “Theory-Building Research Methods.” In Swanson R. A. and E. F.

Holton III , editors. Human Resource Development Handbook: Linking Research and
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Jacard, James and Jacob Jacoby. Theory Construction and Model-Building Skills: A
Practical Guide for Social Scientists. New York: Guilford, 2010;
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(http://www.analytictech.com/mb313/elements.htm#:~:text=A%20theoretical%20fra
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