21st Century

Literature from the

Applied PRACTICAL RESEARCH II
Philippines and the
World
 A research question is 'a question that a research project sets out to answer'. To
form a research question, one must determine what type of study will be conducted
such as a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed study.

Steps in developing a research question:

1. Choose an interesting general topic. Even directed academic research should focus
on a topic in which the writer is at least somewhat personally invested.

2. Do some preliminary research on your general topic. Do a few quick searches in

current periodicals and journals on your topic to see what’s already been done and to
help you narrow your focus. What questions does this early research raise?
3. Consider your audience. For most college papers, your audience will be academic,
but always keep your audience in mind when narrowing your topic and developing your
question. Would that particular audience be interested in this question?

4. Start asking questions. Taking into consideration all of the above, start asking
yourself open-ended “how” and “why” questions about your general topic.

5. Evaluate your question. After enlisting the questions, evaluate these questions to
realize if they would be effective research questions, or if they need more revisions
(Creswell, 2012).
What is scope and delimitation of the study?

The scope of study in the thesis or research paper contains the explanation of
what information or subject is being analyzed. It is followed by an explanation of the
limitation of the research. Research usually limited in scope by sample size, time and
geographic area. While the delimitation of study is the description of the scope of
study. It will explain why definite aspects of a subject were chosen and why others were
excluded. It mentions the research method used as well as the certain theories that
applied to the data (Esposito, 2002).

Delimitations and limitations clarify the boundaries, exceptions, and reservations

inherent in every study. The two concepts are different in that:

Delimitations

It involves the scope of a study. For example, the scope may focus on specific variables,
specific participants, specific sites, or narrowed to one type of research design (e.g.,
ethnography or experimental research).

Limitations

It aims to identify potential weaknesses of the study. For example, all statistical
procedures and research strategies, such as surveys or grounded theory studies have
limitations. In introductory discussions about these strategies, authors typically
mention both their strengths and their weaknesses (Fatatado, 2016).

Sample Scope and Delimitations

The main focus of this project was the design of an efficient Energy Recovery
System of Seawater Reverse Osmosis Plant. The system will be using pressure technology
by application of pressure exchanger as an energy recovery device. Pressure exchanger
transfer pressure from a high-pressure stream to slow pressure stream in a ceramic motor.
The proposed system is limited only in reducing high power consumption of the high-
pressure pump. The project can be used in all existing Seawater Reverse Osmosis Plant
in the Philippines. Some calculations, assumptions, and selections were made as a
consideration of a proper and realistic design (Creswell, 2012).
 Activity 1

Directions: Based on the research title below, craft at least four (4) research
questions. Write these on the blanks provided.

STUDY HABITS AND LEARNING PERFORMANCE OF GRADE 11 STUDENTS

1. __________________________________________________________________________________
2. __________________________________________________________________________________
3. __________________________________________________________________________________

Activity 2

Directions: Formulate at least two quantitative research questions about each of

the

following topics:

A. Gender Equality
1. ________________________________________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________________________________________

B. Learning Styles (visual, audio, kinesthetic, etc.)

1. ______________________________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________________________

C. School Policy
1. ______________________________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________________________

Activity 3
Directions: From the given scope and delimitation below, give the following:
 This study focused only on the writing proficiency level of students in English in
terms of grammar, which included subject-verb agreement, verbs/tenses of verbs,
adjectives, adverb, and pronoun; mechanics of writing that entailed capitalization,
punctuation and spelling; and organization, which involved unity, completeness,
coherence and order. The Grade 11 students of Tanauan School of Fisheries enrolled in
the School Year 2020-2021 were the respondents of the study. The researcher’s
validated questionnaire was used to assess learners’ writing proficiency level. Only the
least learned area of writing was addressed using the researcher’s developed
contextualized module.

A. Formulate two possible research questions:

1. _______________________________________________________________________________
2. _______________________________________________________________________________
B. Determine the delimitation on:

3. topic to be covered

_______________________________________________________________________________

4. respondents
_______________________________________________________________________________

5. methodology

_______________________________________________________________________________
What is the meaning of conceptual framework?

A conceptual framework is used to understand the place of -- and inform the

direction of -- a research project. Professor Roger Vaughan of Bournemouth University
compares the conceptual framework to planning a vacation. Before you plan your own
itinerary, you look at guidebooks to learn about the most important places to see and
the best hotels. You use that information to guide your planning. A conceptual
framework uses previous research to determine a theory and methodology for a current
research project. Conceptual framework is a graphical presentation of your concepts
or ideas on the basic structure or components of your research as well as on the
relationship of these elements with one another. It is a graph or non-prose materials,
specifically, a schematic diagram that shows a well-ordered element of research. Giving
a carefully constructed arrangement of the components of your study, conceptual
framework is broad outline or plan to give shape your research (Shields & Rangarjan,
2013).

Example of Conceptual Framework

RESEARCH TITLE: ORGANIC FERTILIZER AND HARVEST NET INCOME AMONG

FARMERS OF PROVINCE OF BATANGAS

As you can observe the framework above, the input of the study is organic
fertilizer which is applied every month to the crops which is part of the process of the
study in order to know the output which is harvest net income of the farmers. In this
case, the study would take four quarters in order to know whether the harvest net
income is increasing or decreasing. The conceptual framework presented above is
usually utilized if the study is experimental type of quantitative research.

RESEARCH TITLE: LEARNING STYLES OF SHS STUDENTS: ITS EFFECT TO

SECOND QUARTER ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Basically, the independent variable of the study is the learning styles of senior
high school students which is considered as the cause or predictor of the study. The
learning style of the students is connected to the dependent variable which is the
academic performance of the students in second quarter. The extraneous variable would
be a confounded to take a look whether the age, gender, and economic status of the
students have something to do with their learning style and academic performance.
What is the difference between a conceptual framework and theoretical
framework?

Pointers in Writing a Conceptual Framework

1. Familiarize yourself with the objective of the conceptual framework.

2. Base the contents of the conceptual framework on your own understanding of
the elements and of the relationship of the research features.
3. See to it that all aspects of the conceptual framework are related to the objective
of the research
4. Let others to read your conceptual framework for comments or feedback for
improvement purpose (Baraceros, 2016).

A complete conceptual framework will help you assess the goals for your own
research and develop appropriate research questions and methodology. One of the ways
it does that is to show you the gaps in the current research.
Activity 1
Directions: Study the research below and create your own conceptual
framework. Observe the correct connection of the schematic diagram.

RESEARCH TITLE:
“ONLINE SELLING AND DAILY INCOME AMONG ABM STUDENTS”

Conceptual Framework:

RESEARCH TITLE:
“PANDEMIC ANXIETY AND LIFE STYLE OF KORONADELENOS”
 Activity 2
Directions: Using a Venn Diagram, compare and contrast the similarities and
differences of conceptual framework and theoretical framework.

Criteria:
Content of the Answers- 5 points
Grammar/Spelling-5 points
TOTAL-10 points each item
What is Definition of Terms in research?

When we say definition of terms, it is an alphabetical list of important terms

based on the context design of a particular research paper. It is usually defined
operationally.

The research proposal will likely include terms that are not widely known outside
of the discipline. These terms include particular theoretical constructs, formulas,
operational definitions that differ from colloquial definitions, schools of thought and
discipline-specific acronyms. The definition of terms most likely a reference of the reader
of a research study.

Definition of terms is usually an annex to a work (book, research paper,

pamphlet, etc.) either at the beginning or more likely near the end with a list of
acronyms, jargon, credits, etc. This is an important part of research paper or report is
that in which the key or important terms in the study are clearly defined.

In general, important terms only need to be defined in two cases: a) when the
term is not widely known or understood, and b) when the term has specific or
unique meaning in the context of the study, and it is essential that the reader of the
dissertation understand this specific meaning (Creswell, 2012). In research, operational
and conceptual definition of terms are used. Take a look the difference of the two terms
below.
What is hypothesis?

A hypothesis (plural hypotheses) is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon.

A scientific hypothesis is testable hypothesis. Scientists generally base scientific
hypotheses on previous observations that cannot satisfactorily be explained with the
available scientific theories.

Even though the words "hypothesis" and "theory" are often used synonymously,
a scientific hypothesis is not the same as a scientific theory. A working hypothesis is a
provisionally accepted hypothesis proposed for further research, in a process beginning
with an educated guess or thought.

A hypothesis is an assumption, an idea that is proposed for the sake of argument

so that it can be tested to see if it might be true. In the scientific method, the hypothesis
is constructed before any applicable research has been done, apart from a basic
background review. In addition, a hypothesis is an explanation for an observed problem
or phenomenon based on previous knowledge or observations. Often called a research
question, a hypothesis is basically an idea that must be put to the test (Esposito, 2002).

There are two general types of hypotheses: null hypothesis and alternative
hypothesis. Take a look the difference of the two terms below:
Activity 1
Directions: Analyze the research titles below:

1. “Alcohol Addiction among Senior High School Learners”

Define the terms operationally:
o Alcohol-_____________________________________________________________
o Addiction-___________________________________________________________
o Senior High School Learners-________________________________________

2. “Pandemic Anxiety of Senior High School Teachers”

Provide conceptual definition of the terms below:

o Pandemic-__________________________________________________________
o Anxiety-____________________________________________________________
o Teachers-___________________________________________________________
 Activity 2

Directions: Answer the following questions comprehensively. Write your

answers on the space provided.

Question: Suppose the concept of the study is effectiveness of online learning

towards the academic performance of Grade 11 students, what will be the
hypothesis or assumption of the said concept of the study?

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Criteria:
Content of the Answers- 5 points
Grammar/Spelling-5 points
TOTAL-10 points each item
How to select relevant literature in quantitative research?

Carrying out a comprehensive literature review is an important skill. It’s a major

part of writing a research paper. Even though your literature review could probably be
a section in your research paper, it should still include the format of a formal piece of
writing.

A literature review may consist of simply a summary of key sources, but in the
social sciences, a literature review usually has an organizational pattern and combines
both summary and synthesis, often within specific conceptual categories.

The analytical features of a literature review are:

• Give a new interpretation of old material or combine new with old

interpretations;
• Trace the intellectual progression of the field, including major debates; and
• Depending on the situation, evaluate the sources and advise the reader on
the most pertinent or relevant research (Baraceros, 2016).

When writing your review, keep in mind these issues.

Use Evidence

A literature review section is, in this sense, just like any other academic research paper.
Your interpretation of the available sources must be backed up with evidence [citations]
that demonstrates that what you are saying is valid.

Be Selective

Select only the most important points in each source to highlight in the review. The type
of information you choose to mention should relate directly to the research problem,
whether it is thematic, methodological, or chronological. Related items that provide
additional information but that are not key to understanding the research problem can
be included in a list of further readings.

Use Quotes Sparingly

Some short quotes are okay if you want to emphasize a point, or if what an author stated
cannot be easily paraphrased. Sometimes you may need to quote certain terminology
that was coined by the author, not common knowledge, or taken directly from the study.
Do not use extensive quotes as a substitute for your own summary and interpretation
of the literature.

Summarize and Synthesize

Remember to summarize and synthesize your sources within each thematic paragraph
as well as throughout the review. Recapitulate important features of a research study,
but then synthesize it by rephrasing the study's significance and relating it to your own
work.

Keep Your Own Voice

While the literature review presents others' ideas, your voice [the writer's] should remain
front and center. For example, weave references to other sources into what you are
writing but maintain your own voice by starting and ending the paragraph with your
own ideas and wording.

Use Caution When Paraphrasing

When paraphrasing a source that is not your own, be sure to represent the author's
information or opinions accurately and in your own words. Even when paraphrasing an
author’s work, you still must provide a citation to that work (Baumeister & Leary, 2013).

Ethical standards in writing related literature

Nowadays, with the advent of modern technology causing the emergence of varied
electronic communication devices and online sources of information, collecting data
happens easily and speedily.
 Through computer technology with its powerful internet, you become exposed to
extensive amount of knowledge that is easy to lure you in into practicing the copy-and-
paste technique of obtaining ideas for your research paper. Unmindful of prestigious
ways of working academically, there is a danger that you may fall into this dishonest
way of reviewing and related literature.

The ethical way of literature tells you to acknowledge the owners of borrowed
ideas and put quotation marks around copied words from books or articles. Intentionally
or negligently disregarding the use of quotation marks around words copied exactly is
not only unethical but an indication of gross plagiarism as well. You must be aware the
fact that with the surfacing of online sources of information, software to detect
plagiarism from online source has likewise become available in academic institutions.
Proper citations and referencing is your way of freeing yourself from plagiarism and of
avoiding people from casting doubts on your honesty and integrity as a researcher
(Baraceros, 2016).

What is the difference between a literature review and a review of studies?

Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Literature Review

Pautasso (2013) emphasized that reviewing the literature requires the ability to
juggle multiple tasks, from finding and evaluating relevant material to synthesizing
information from various sources, from critical thinking to paraphrasing, evaluating,
and citation skills. He proposed the following rules in writing review related literature:

Rule 1: Define a Topic and Audience

Rule 2: Search and Re-search the Literature

Rule 3: Take Notes While Reading

Rule 4: Choose the Type of Review You Wish to Write

Rule 5: Keep the Review Focused, but Make It of Broad Interest

Rule 6: Be Critical and Consistent

Rule 7: Find a Logical Structure

Rule 8: Make Use of Feedback

Rule 9: Include Your Own Relevant Research, but Be Objective

Rule 10: Be Up-to-Date, but Do Not Forget Older Studies

Activity 1

Directions: Using a Venn diagram, differentiate related literature and review

studies.

Criteria:
Content of the Answers- 5 points
Grammar/Spelling-5 points
TOTAL-10 points each item

Activity 2
Directions: Present a sample Review of Related Literature (RRL) of the underlined
words on the given research title below.

“Learning Styles and Academic Performance of Grade 12 HUMSS Students”

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Criteria:

Appropriateness of info.- 10 points

Paraphrasing- 10 points

Correctness of In-text citation- 10 points

TOTAL- 30 points