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Inquiries,
Investigation
and Immersion
Quarter 1 – Module 2:
The Research Problem and
Its Background

Dr. Char Gil S. Tocmo

Compiler/Contextualizer

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 First Quarter
Module 2, Week 2
The Research Problem and Its Background
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Learning Outcomes : Describe adequately the research problem and its
background
in formulating the Introduction or Rationale, Conceptual
Framework, Statement of the Problem, Statement of the
Hypothesis, Significance of the Study, Scope and
Limitations of the Study and
Definition of Terms
Competencies : Formulate the Background of the Study or Rationale,
Conceptual Framework, Statement of the Problem,
Statement of the Hypothesis, Significance of the Study,
Scope and Limitations of the Study and Definition of Terms
Topic/s : The Research Problem and Its Scope

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What I Need to Know

Good day everyone! I presumed that you had decided on a Research Title
already. We will now proceed to our next step which will be writing your Chapter 1 of
your thesis entitled The Problem and Its Background. This chapter of research
includes the Introduction or Rationale, Conceptual Framework, Statement of the
Problem, Statement of the Hypothesis (for quantitative only), Significance of the Study,
Scope and Limitations of the Study and Definition of Terms. All of these parts will be
discussed one by one in this module. Basically, this module is divided into these
lessons:

Lesson 1: Introduction or Rationale

Lesson 2: Conceptual Framework
Lesson 3: Statement of the Problem
Lesson 4: Statement of the Hypothesis (quantitative research only)
Lesson 5: Significance of the Study
Lesson 6: Scope and Limitations of the Study
Lesson 7: Definition of Terms

In this lesson, the students are expected to:

1. describe the reasons and significance for choosing the research problem by
formulating the background of the study;
2. cite the appropriate theories and proponents that support the present study by
writing a formative and comprehensive conceptual background;

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 3. formulate the general statement and specific problems of the study;
4. give a tentative prediction by stating a hypothesis;
5. describe the potential beneficiaries and how will they benefit from the study;
6. specify the scope and limitations of the study; and
7. define important terms operationally.

What I Know

Directions: Read the items below and write the letter of the correct answer in a
separate
sheet of paper.

1. It is the part of a research paper or thesis that divulges the significant problem that
the researcher aims to further gain information.
A. Review of Related Literature C. Statement of the Problem
B. Scope and Limitations D. all of the above

2. A_____________ is basically the situation that is in need of a solution, improvement

or alteration of what is currently happening.
A. Literature Review C. Research Question
B. Research Problem D. none of the above

3. This research provides you with details about human behavior, emotion and
personality characteristics.
A. Behavioral Studies C. Quantitative Research
B. Qualitative Research D. all of the above

4. It means the beneficiaries of the study.

A. Those who receive funds to start a research.
B. Those who give information for a research study.
C. Those who will be affected by the study done.
D. all of the above

5. It refers to what will be included in the study.

A. Delimitation B. Scope C. Significance of the Study D. none of these

6. It is important in establishing the cognitive setting of the research and it involves

discussing why there is a need to study the problem, clarifying the important
terminologies and establishing the degree of seriousness of the problem.
A. Discussion and Results C. Methodology
B. Literature Review D. Introduction

7. It is described as a perceived difficulty, a feeling of discomfort with the way things

are
or discrepancy between ‘what us and “what should be.”
A. Introduction C. Research Problem
B. Phenomenon D. Statement of the Problem

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8. It refers to the originality of the research meaning the problem must not have been
investigated before.
A. Honesty C. Relevance
B. Novelty D. Timeliness

9. It is a formal statement predicting a single research outcome, a tentative

explanation between two or more variables.
A. Hypothesis C. Recommendation
B. Literature D. Variable

10. These are the variables with the values that describe a quality or characteristic of
a data unit like “what type” or “what category.”
A. Categorical C. Nominal
B. Dichotomous D. Numeric

11. Which of the following does not belong to the group?

A. Do not mention the respondents.
B. The title is written in a statement form.
C. Include the major variables of the study.
D. In formulating the title, the researcher should avoid using words that serve
no useful purposes and can mislead indexers.

12. It is formulated from an existing theory/ies that serves as the foundation of the
study.
A. Theoretical Framework C. Theoretical Samples
B. Theoretical Research D. Theoretical Studies

13. This section contains a narrative of how the study stands to benefit its various
stakeholders.
A. Introduction C. Significance of the Study
B. Rationale of the Study D. Statement of the Problem

14. It defines the coverage or boundaries of the study in terms of the area or locality,
the subjects covered, the duration or period of the study and the research issues or
the concerns to which the investigation is focused.
A. Statement of the Problem C. Scope and Limitation
B. Significance of the Problem D. Definition of Terms

15. It is the name of the research.

A. Hypothesis B. Literature C. Summary D. Title

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 Lesson 1 Background of the Study

Opening Activity: Suppose you are tasked to introduce a famous guest

speaker ofIn
What’s your choice in your school. Research on his/her background and
write a speech introducing him/her. Write your work in a separate sheet of
paper and answer the following guide questions.
Guide Questions:
1. What significant information did you gather about the known personality you
chose as guest speaker?
2. How did research help you write the speech to introduce the guest speaker?
3. How can you relate this activity to the topic of the lesson?

What’s New
Whenever you do qualitative research,
quantitative research or mixed method, your goal is to help people, groups or
organizations understand better phenomena, human behavior, human interactions,
and other events in daily life. With this in mind, the researcher’s adequate formulation
of the research problem and its scope is of primary importance.

What Is It

Background of the Study

The background of the study is very essential in establishing the cognitive

setting of the research and it involves: (a) discussing why there is a need to study the
problem, (b) clarifying the important terminologies for the reader to understand easily
what the research is about and (c) establishing the degree of seriousness of the
problem which has prompted the researcher to look for solutions.

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The following questions will aid the researcher in formulating the background of the
study:
1. What is the rationale of the research problem?
This question is answered by sharing with the beneficiaries the reasons why the
researcher has decided to look for solutions to the problem. A narration of the
researcher’s experience that has driven him/her to conduct the study is commonly
done. If it is one’s personal experience, an article read, a scene witnessed, news heard,
a theory that needs to be clarified, etc., the research proponent should describe the
existing and prevailing problem situation based on his/her experience. The scope may
be local, national or international.

2. What is the setting of the research problem?

The setting forms part of the delimitation of the problem, as it defines the
geographic boundaries of the study and implies certain demographic characteristics.
This describes to the reader the place where the research is conducted since the
setting has a significant bearing on the variables being studied. In describing the
setting, focus on the peculiarity or uniqueness of the setting to make the reader more
interested in reading the paper. If the setting is in school, discuss its vision-mission,
special clientele, unique mode of student transport and many more.

3. What is the basic literature foundation of the study?

This part defines or clarifies the terms or variables used in the study. The terms
and variables must be clear to the researcher so that he/she can make his/her reader
understand them as well. This backgrounder assists the researcher in determining the
boundaries of the study. It is derived from different literature sources. Thus, this part
of Chapter 1 requires the use of various references.

4. How serious is the chosen research problem?

This is to answer the question, why is there a need to look for solutions to the
problem? The researcher must intensify and expand the magnitude of the problem.
When the gravity of the problem has already been determined, the researcher may
take actions and work on the problem. He/she looks for statistical or quantitative
evidence to assess the weight of the problem.

5. What is the general objective of the research problem?

This is derived from the general statement of the problem and should be the basis
of the enumerated statements of specific problems.

6. What is the overall purpose of the research problem?

It must be stressed that the researcher should be totally aware of the purpose
of the research problem. He/she must know how the researcher findings will help
his/her classmates or fellow students.

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The Background of the Study includes:
1. Discussion of the problem in general and specific situations as observed and
experienced by the macro to micro approach.
2. Concepts and ideas related to the problem including clarification of important
terminologies; and
3. Discussion of the existing or present conditions and what is aimed to be the
future or the gap to be filled-in by the research.

What’s More
In the Background of the Study or Rationale, it is important to give the reader a
clear notion of the general scope of the problem investigated. The reader should be
given enough idea about similar problems from other countries (mega level), in our
country (macro level) and the particular place where the research is conducted (micro
level).The writer should underscore the difficulties caused by the problem and the
importance of investigating it. Hence, this part of the study, the introduction, is
primarily designed to meet this felt need to the reader. The presentation of the
investigation should very naturally lead to the objectives of the study.

For example:
Title: Problems of State Universities and Colleges’ Middle Level Managers: A Basis for
the Development of a Management Intervention Program ( Muello, 2002)

Background of the Study

Since time immemorial, conflict has been a natural part of human existence. It
exists in many levels and takes many different forms. It is an inevitable part of
organizational life. Although conflict is natural and avoidable, it is important that
administrators learn to manage conflict effectively and turn it constructively. When
properly handled, it does not disrupt the normal operation of the organization. At its
level, however, conflict may lead to radical measures of reform like strikes, mass leave
of absence and even unwanted unionism. Therefore, managers need to understand the
nature and cause of the conflict. They need to analyze what the conflict is, where it
comes from, and how it develops and dissipates.
Managers must understand that conflict is an almost constant and continuous
process (Himoc, 1989). By sound and planned action, management leaders can
constantly direct the energies of conflict into productive and creative channels of related
endeavors. These perspectives on conflict give the manager additional roles - that of
being referee and counselor who helps the protagonist reach an acceptable solution.
They act as motivators who direct human energies towards organizational goals.
Ultimately, this educational experience “of resolving conflict could provide the managers
deeper insights, and greater understanding of the goals of the organization, vis-à-vis the
interests and needs of their subordinates. The feedback on conflicts may serve as clues
in potential problem analysis and enhance the development of measures to minimize
conflict and maximize smooth interpersonal relationship.
Today’s educational leaders are faced with more changes, more conflicts, and
more pressures than in any other decades in the 20 th century (Gmelch, 1981). This is
largely due to substantial increases in their responsibilities. Many factors have also

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contributed to the broader scope and expanded amount of work that leaders need to
fulfill. Among such factors are the tremendous increases on the school population and
additional job requirements necessitated by many educational innovations. Not only are
they expected to continue their traditional duties such as planning and over-all school
organization, but they are also asked to give personal leadership and inspiration.
Leaders are expected to actively engage in establishing educational programs and
developing good teacher’s morale. Thus, it has become exceedingly important that
school administrators and teachers understand and are prepared to meet the many
responsibilities inherent in their positions. Thus, time management becomes exceedingly
important for managers to efficiently attend to their duties and avoid conflicts (Muello,
2002).
The researcher, being a manager, will surely be personally benefited from the
results of this study which generally aims to analyze the common problems encountered
by middle-level managers in state universities and colleges in region IV which, in turn
will be utilized as the basis for reposing a management intervention program.

Points to remember:
What I Have Learned
The Background of the Study is very important in establishing the cognitive
setting of the research and involves (a) discussing why there is a need to study the
problem, (b) clarifying the important terminologies for the reader to easily
understand what research is about, and (c) establishing the degree of seriousness
of the problem which has prompted the researcher to look for solutions. The
elements in writing the Background of the Study are the rationale of the problem,
setting of the research problem, related literature, seriousness of the research
problem and the overall purpose of the study. The Background of the Problem
emphasized the need for research not only to solve problems and difficulties but
also to expand the frontier of knowledge and improve the quality of social life. It
deals with the guidelines in writing the problem of the study.

What I Can Do
Directions: Read and understand the sample background of the study below.
Answer the questions that follow. Write your answer in a separate
sheet of paper.

Background of the Study

The Internet has enabled new forms of social interaction. This is due to its widespread usability and
accessibility. Most people use the internet to access news, weather conditions and reports. It is also used
to book accommodations during vacation and to find out more about their interests. Today people are
using the internet mostly to interact using social media. They chat, share photos and keep in touch with
friends and relatives worldwide. Social Networking Sites enable people to continuously make social
interactions regardless of the distance. Social Media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
allow individuals to present themselves, articulate their social networks and establish or maintain

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connections with others. Participants may use the said networking sites to interact with people they
already know online and to meet new people.
An interpersonal relationship is a relatively long-term association between two or more people. This
association may be based on emotions like love and liking, regular business interactions or some other
type of social commitments. Interpersonal relationships take place in great variety of contexts, such as
family, friends, marriage, acquaintances, work, clubs, neighborhoods and churches. They may be
regulated by law, custom, or mutual agreement, and are the bases of social groups and society as a
whole. Social networking sites influence the interpersonal relationship of students in many ways.
Through social networking sites, users come to meet other people worldwide. These people can affect the
users’ interpersonal relationship with other people close to him/her. This influence can either be good or
bad for the user.
Ellison (2007) said Social Media typically offers many features and those features are positively the
reason why many students are interested in checking out these sites. One of the general features of social
media are profiles. A profile contains all the information about the person plus their photos, videos,
applications that they used and comments/ messages posted by other person.
Del Mundo (2013) explained that the studies have shown that people actually are becoming more
social and more interactive with others, but the style of that communication has changed so that we’re
not meeting face-to-face as often we used to. That our interactions on social media tend to be weak ties-
that is, we don’t feel as personally connected to the people at the other end of our communication as we
do when we’re face-to-face.
It is evident that many students greatly rely on these sites to interact with their friends and other
people whether they know them or not. Being dependent to these sites promotes online friendships which
are not good since they might encounter people that are suspicious in behavior.
Through the abovementioned situations, the main objective of the researchers is to determine the
effects of social media in relation to the interpersonal relationship of Grade11 and 12 HUMMS students
of Don Gregorio Osmeña Memorial High School Moreover, the researchers would like to know the
different reasons why students often use social media as a medium to interact with their friends and loved
ones.

Questions:
1. What are the reasons of the research problem?
2. Where is the setting of the research problem?
3. What is the basic literature/studies/theory of the study?
4. How important is the chosen research problem?
5. What is general objective of the research problems?

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 Lesson 2 Conceptual Framework

What’s In
In making Conceptual Framework, a researcher needs to specify the variables
involved and discuss their interrelationships. To begin, let us find out if you can still
do the following.
Test I. Classify the following variables whether numerical or categorical and write the
correct answer in a separate sheet of paper.

VARIABLES NUMERICAL CATEGORICAL

1. Gender /
2. Difficulty /
3. Honor Rolls /
4. Length /
5. Spiritual Practices /

What’s New

In each component of your research, you should show the variables that
influence it. For example, if you are studying childhood development outcomes, you
might study home life, school and community which would each be influenced by
different variables. For school, your variables might be peers, teachers and learning
disabilities. These variables are written in your diagram. The more detailed you are
with your diagram, the more thorough your conceptual framework will be.

What Is It

Conceptual Framework
The explanation of the scope and the range of a concept or construct can be
done even without a theory, in some cases, with a combination of two or more theories
which lead to a researcher’s formulated framework. This is called a conceptual
framework. It is largely based on theories or parts of theory combined with other
parts of another theory, or on the intellectual synthesis of the various readings of the
researcher. It guides the researcher by giving clear directions to the research.

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 Introduction
Example of Theoretical Framework:
This study is anchored from the Business Ethics Theory by Bigg (2004) and
Shareholder Value Theory by Freeman (1984).

Business Ethics Theory Shareholder Value Theory

by Bigg (2004) by Freeman (1984)

Ethical Responsibility
 Social responsiveness and Social Responsibility
expectations
 Eternal and intrinsic values Body
 Corporate citizenship
Body

Fig. 1 Theoretical Framework of Corporate Competitive Benefits

The Business Ethics Theory by Bigg is based on the wider social obligation and
the moral duty that business has towards society. According to this theory, there are
three (3) varied but interrelated ethical grounds. These are changing and emerging
social responsiveness and social expectations to particular social problems; eternal and
intrinsic values that are inspired by ethics and denoted by some normative and
universal principals of social justice, fairness and human rights; and corporate citizenship
in which a corporation or a business establishment contributes to social well being.
In this theory, CSR is viewed as philanthropic and ethical responsibilities rather than
legal and economic responsibilities.
While the Shareholder Value Theory by Freeman (1984) argues that only the
social responsibility of business is to develop its profits, it is believed by economists
that the corporation owners as its managers and stakeholders as agents have a fiduciary
duty to serve the shareholders’ interest rather than any others. Thus, corporate social
obligations are regarded often as an strategic instrument for corporate competitive benefit
and more profit or gain. Conclusion
It is, therefore, noted that although the business enterprise’s mission is
to have profits, they should not forget giving back to the shareholders or clients the
appropriate returns not only on the quality of their products but also in some other ways
like attending to some obligations through the different programs that will benefit
the community they are serving ( Cristobal & Montella, 2016).

Paradigm of the Study

What’s More
The result of a clear understanding of the conceptual or theoretical framework is a
diagrammatic presentation of the study called the paradigm.
Merriam-Webster (2006) defines paradigm as a pattern, model or set of forms
which contains particular elements. It is the researcher’s scientific imagination
expressed graphically by drawings or sketches. In a scientific work, the symbols must
be specific in meaning. The usual figures used are regular shapes (rectangles, circles

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and squares), lines and arrows. Irregular shapes are sometimes utilized and there
must be an acceptable rationale for them. The paradigm is something like a visual
representation of the entire thesis. It is considered as the heart of the research paper.
A title is needed to encapsulate the whole paradigm.
The common paradigm or models of the study used are as follows:
1. IPO model (input-process-output). This model is largely used when the
research attempts to isolate the factor or major variable that causes the
problems, subject or phenomenon under investigation. The model is used when
the statements of the problem are all factor-isolating questions.

Sample paradigm of a thesis entitled “ Entrepreneurs’ Roles toward Improved Work

Performance

 Profile of entrepreneurs
a. Age
b. Sex Analysis of data through
c. Seminars Attended the questionnaire, informal
Profile and roles of
 Roles of Entrepreneurs interviews and statistical
a. Assessment entrepreneurs are
treatment
b. Planning determined
2. c. Implementation
3. d. Evaluation

2. IV-DV model (Independent variable-dependent variable model). This model is

used in experiment-based studies. The questions raised are higher order and classified
as situation-relating.

Sample IV-DV Model of a thesis entitled “Effects of Computer-assisted Instruction and

Demonstration Method on the Level of Performance of Grade 12 Students
Teaching methodology used by
Level of Performance of Grade 12 Students
instructors
 Academic Grades
 Computer-assisted
 Practicum Grades
Instruction
 Parents’ Satisfaction
 Demonstration Method

3.-P model. This model is used in research studies that propose a program or any
intervention measure. It fits the situation producing level of questioning.

 Profile of Entrepreneurs
a. Age
b. Sex Analysis of data Profile and roles of
c. Seminar Attended through the entrepreneurs,
 Roles of Entrepreneurs questionnaire, specimen collection
a. Assessment informal interviews, and performance are
b. Planning and statistical assessed
c. Implementation treatment
d. Evaluation
 Specimen Collection
 Performance
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Proposed Intervention Program
4. PC model (predictor-criterion model). This model is used when relating and
assessing the influence between two or more variables. Studies that focus on
relationships, associations, differences, and impacts will benefit from this model.

Sample PC model for the thesis entitled “ Relationship of the Teaching Competence of
Senior High School teachers to the Level of Performance of ABM Students”

Teaching Competencies of Senior High Level of Performance of ABM Students

School Teachers
 Academic Grades
 Knowledge Level  Behavioral Attributes
 Pedagogical Skills  Peer Evaluation Result
 Classroom Management

4. POM ( proposed original model).This model is used when the researcher

presents an original paradigm. The requirement is that it must be scientific.

 Infection control
practices
Student Respondent  Extent of participation
 Preparation of IV fluids
Profile in the infection control
 Preparation of IV
program
medication
 Age  CI’s assessment of the
 Assistance in the
 Gender students’ extent of
administration of IV
 Civil Status participation in
medications
 Hospital infection control
 Skin care
Assignment practices
 Umbilical cord care
 Eye Care

Enhanced Related Learning Experience Supervisory Program

What I Have Learned

The theoretical framework may be formulated from an existing theory/ies that

serve as the foundation of the study. A theory is a conceptual intervention that is used
to describe, explain, predict or understand a certain phenomenon. The word is derived
from the Greek word “theoria” which means “vision”. The conceptual frameworks
provide an explanation of the scope and range of concept or construct and discusses
cases that combine two or more theories. The result of a clear understanding of the
conceptual or theoretical framework is a diagrammatic presentation of the study called
paradigm. This is inserted within the conceptual/theoretical framework. In some
cases, it is not included. There are 5 common paradigm models used in a research.
These are the IPO model, IV-DV model, PC model, -P model and POM.

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 What I Can Do
Activity
Directions: Read and understand the conceptual framework given and answer the
questions that follow. Write your answer in a separate sheet of paper.

Research Title: Parental Intervention in the Career Choice of the Junior High School
Students

Conceptual Framework
The study is anchored on Holland’s Theory of Career Choice (1997) which states that in
order to make an informed career decision, many factors have to be taken into account, such
as the individual’s unique characteristics, values, interests, skills and personality. Career
satisfaction contributes significantly to the general happiness, stability and well-being of
adults. In order to experience career satisfaction, an individual has to first make a fitting or
appropriate career choice. Individuals will select and be more content in a work environment
that corresponds to their type, attributes, decision-making style and career maturity.
Watson and Stead (1999) supported the theory of Holland who pronounced that a clear
understanding of the characteristics of the individual who is making the career choice involving
the investigation of the characteristics of the chosen work environment that requires careful
consideration of the characteristics in order to ensure the best possible “goodness of fit” or
match. In short, the better, the more likely the individual is to adjust to and thrive in, the
chosen field of work.
Figure 1 shows the conceptual framework of the study. The students have to choose
what career they want to pursue after taking their Junior High School with respect to academic
track, technical/vocational, sports track, arts and design tracks. However, parental
intervention in students’ career choices is considered as a factor that may affect the future
career of children.

Questions:
1. What is the theory used as support of the study?
2. Who is the theorist?
3. What is the theoretical statement of the theory that explains the present study?
4. How does the theory relate to the present study?

Lesson 3 Statement of the Problem

What’s In/ What’s New

For beginning researchers, identifying a research topic or a problem is a very

difficult task. What should be my research problem is always the first question in
mind. Selecting a research topic is not easy for the students because they find
difficulty in identifying and writing the statement of the problem.

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 What Is It
The Statement of the Problem has two basic parts: The main problem and sub-
problems. The main problem contains the general problem while the sub-problems
contain the specific problem areas.
Here are more examples of general problems:
1. The main problem of this research is to look into the influence of video games
and the utilization of social media on the language proficiency of the freshman
students of Leyte National High School for the first semester of academic year
2014- 2015. The result of this investigation will be the basis of the formulation
of the guidelines in the development, organization and implementation of
effective study habits.
2. This study aims to assess the behavioral traits of senior high school students
and to relate them to the productivity level in reviewing lessons and passing the
long examinations. This study is to be conducted during the first semester of SY
2016-2017 in the Division of Palo, Leyte.

The general problem is followed by an enumeration of the specific problems. The

specific problems are usually stated as questions that the researcher seeks to answer.
The specific problems must meet the following criteria:
1. They must be in question form.
2. They must define the population and the sample (that is, the
respondents or subjects) of the study.
3. They must identify the variables (major and minor) being studied.
4. They must be empirically tested.

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 Sample Statement of the Problem in a quantitative research

Statement of the Problem

General Problem The study aims to determine the level of job satisfaction among the employees of
Gothong Shipping Lines. Specifically, this study intends to answer the following questions:

1. What is the profile of the employees of Gothong Shipping Lines in terms of the
following aspects:
1.1 Age;
1.2 Gender;
1.3 Civil Status; and
1.4 Highest Educational Attainment?
2. What is the level of job satisfaction of the employees of Gothong Shipping
Lines in terms of:
2.1 Job Satisfaction;
2.2 Salaries and Benefits;
2.3 Adequacy of Communication and
2.4 Psychological Working Conditions?
Sub-problems
3. Is there a significant correlation between the employees’ level of satisfaction
and their profile?
4. Is there a significant difference on the level of job satisfaction by gender?
5. Based on the findings, what proposals may be forwarded in order to enhance the
employees’ level of job satisfaction?

What’s More
Sample of a Statement of the Problem in a Qualitative Research:

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to describe the discrimination experienced and behavioral adjustment by selected ex-
convicts from Negros Occidental a year after their incarceration. Specifically, it intends to answer the following
research questions:

1. What are the personal characteristics of the selected ex-convicts from Negros Occidental in terms of their
socio-demographic and family characteristics and crime history?

2. What are the types and forms of discriminations experienced by the ex-convicts from their family members
and their immediate community members?

3 .What are the behavioral adjustments done by the ex-convicts given the discrimination that they
More examples are presented below:
experienced?

Sample of the
4. How do Statement of the
discriminations Problembyinex-convicts
experienced a Quantitative
and theirResearch (Descriptive
behavioral adjustments varyDesign)
based on
their personal characteristics?
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 What I Have Learned

Directions: Arrange the following sets of information by rewriting them in a correct

Statement of the Problem. Make sure all the parts are properly included.

4. What are the effects of CCT 4P’s human capital investment on child
beneficiaries in terms of their education, health and nutrition?

5. The main objective of this study is to assess the outcome of the conditional
cash transfer program “Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino” being administered by
the government through the DSWD towards the greater aim of poverty
alleviation.
Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following questions

1. What is the demographic profile and awareness level of the respondents’ family
beneficiaries?

2. What are the effects of the Conditional Cash Transfer socio-economic program
on employment, cash support, entrepreneurial activities, livelihood training and
development of skills to the family beneficiaries’ standard of living?

3. What are the respondents’ perception on CCT 4P’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino
Program human capital investment on community mothers in terms of human
capital accumulation, women empowerment, livelihood and leadership skills?

What I Can Do
Directions: Read the situation below. Follow correctly what are being asked.
1. A researcher is interested to determine the quality of work life among the teachers
of Cebu Integrated School. The quality of work is categorized as follows: a.) growth
and security, b.) adequate and fair compensation and c.) safe working
environment. He is also interested to describe the profile of the teachers in the
following terms: age and civil status.

Furthermore, the researcher wants to find out if there is a significant difference

on the quality of work life by civil status. As an output of study, the research
intends to propose a Teaching Improvement Program in order to enhance the
quality of work life of the teachers.

From the given information above, formulate the Statement of the Problem with
complete parts.

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 Lesson 4 Research Hypothesis

What’s In
If you can do this, you are ready to formulate the hypothesis of your study. You
figure out the independent and dependent variables present in the following titles.
Please remember that independent variables stand alone and they are not changed by
the other variables you are trying to measure, on the other side, dependent variables
depend on other factors. For example, a test score could be dependent variable
because it could change depending on several factors such as how much you studied,
how much you sleep before you took the test or even how hungry you were when you
took it. We need to remember these things because identifying the variables in your
quantitative research helps you establish a well-grounded hypothesis.

Example:
Title: Methods of Teaching and Language Achievement among Elementary
Pupils
Independent variable: Method teaching
Dependent variable: Language achievement

TITLES INDEPENDENT DEPENDENT

VARIABLE/S VARIABLE/S
The Effects of Types of Audio- Types of audio-visual Problem Skills in
visual Materials to the Problem- materials Mathematics
solving Skills in Mathematics
Various Study Habits and their Study Habits Performance level in
Effects on the Level of Management
Performance in Management
Subject
Effects of Types of Soil and Types of soil Growth of Papaya tree
Fertilizer on the Growth of
Papaya Tree
Types of Feeds and Salinity Types of feeds, Salinity Growth of Tilapia in
Level: Their Effects on the Level fishponds
Growth of Tilapia in Fishponds

Research Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a tentative prediction about the relationship between two or
more variables in a population under study (Polit, 2007). It translates a research

18
question into a prediction of expected outcomes. It is commonly used in an
experiment-type research, formulated particularly before the conduct of an
experimental-quantitative research. It is also considered an intelligent guess that
occurs with at least 2 variables: one is independent and the other is dependent. It is
only after the experiment that the researcher can finally assess if his/her guess is
correct or not. When the result of the experiment is the same as the hypothesis, then
the hypothesis is accepted. When the result of the study is the exact opposite of the
hypothesis, then the hypothesis is rejected.

Purpose and Importance of Hypotheses in Research

Hypothesis has a role to play in research as discussed in the previous
paragraphs. This is substantiated by pointing out its purpose and importance.
1. It provides a tentative explanation of phenomenon and facilities the
extension of knowledge in the area.
2. It provides the investigator with a relational statement that is directly
testable in a research study.
3. It provides a direction to the research. It provides a framework for reporting
conclusions of the study.
4. It could be considered as the working instrument of theory. It can be
deduced from theory and from other hypothesis.
5. It could be tested and shown to be probably supported, apart from one’s
own values and opinions.

Characteristics of a Hypothesis
1. Testable
2. Logical
3. Directly related to the research problem
4. Represents a simple unit or subject of the problem
5. Factually or theoretically based
6. States relationships between variables
7. Sets the limits of the study
8. Stated in such a form that it can be accepted or rejected.
Kinds of Hypothesis
1. Simple Hypothesis. It is a hypothesis formulated when predicting a
relationship between an independent variable and a dependent variable.
Example:
a. The nature of teachers is related to the nature of the students.
b. There is a relationship between the level of exercise and weight retention
among elementary school children.

2. Complex Hypothesis. It is a hypothesis formulated when predicting the

relationships of two or more independent variables to two or more dependent
variables.
Examples:

19
 a. There is no significant relationship between the profile, classroom leadership
and management skills and the school’s performance secondary school
teachers.
b. The intrapersonal and interpersonal competencies of principals do not relate
significantly to the performance of secondary schools.
3. Directional Hypothesis. It is a hypothesis that specifies not only the existence
but also the expected direction of the relationship between the independent and
the dependent variables.
Examples:
a. Lower levels of exercise are associated with greater weight retention than
higher levels of exercise.
b. The types of promotional campaigns positively affect the level of patronage of
customers.
4. Non-directional Hypothesis. It is a hypothesis that does not stipulate the
direction of the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
Examples:
a. Women with different levels of postpartum depression differ with regard to
weight retention.
b. The sources of stress are related to the different coping mechanisms among
teachers.
5. Null Hypothesis. It is a hypothesis formulated for the purpose of statistical
analysis. This kind is always expressed as a negative statement. It is subjected
to testing in which the decision is either to accept or reject it. This is the
hypothesis of “no effect,” “no relationship,” or “no difference” in which the
researcher doubts to be true.
Examples:
a. There is no significant relationship between the reasons for using alternative
medicine and the level of comfort of the patients.
b. The kind of teaching methods used has no effect on the level of performance
of students as shown in their academic grades and behavior in class.

The question now is how do you formulate you own statement of the hypothesis
in your quantitative research. Remember that statement of hypothesis applies only to
quantitative research.
If a researcher aims to study about the relationship between the employees’
quality-of-work life and their profile, the statement of hypothesis can be:
This study presented this hypothesis:
1. There is no significant correlation between the respondents’ quality-of-work
life and their profile

Or a researcher wishes to study about the effect of gender on students’ IQ

score. Thus, the statement of hypothesis may be:

This study established this hypothesis.

1. There is no significant difference between the IQ scores of male and
female students.

20
 A very important note to remember that your hypothesis is anchored from the
statement of the problem, theories and prior readings.
How will Hypothesis Help in Scientific Method?
Researchers use hypothesis to put down their thoughts directing how the
experiment would take place. Following are the steps that are involved in scientific
method:
1. Formation of question
2. Doing a background research
3. Creation of hypothesis
4. Designing an experiment
5. Collection of data
6. Result analysis
7. Summarizing the experiment
8. Communicating the results

What’s More

Activity
Directions: Identify the kind of Hypothesis each statement is. Choose from the given
choices below.

Simple Hypothesis Complex Hypothesis Directional Hypothesis

Non-directional Hypothesis Null Hypothesis
1. Temperature and sunlight have no effect on the growth of papaya tree.
2. Consumption of sugary drinks leads to obesity
3. Eating more vegetables and fruits leads to weight loss, glowing skin, reduces
the risk of many diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and some
cancers.
4. Food intake positive effect the IQ level of children.
5. Poverty has no effect to the crime rate in the society.

What I Have Learned

A hypothesis is a tentative prediction about the relationship between two or

more variables in a population under study. There are different kinds of hypothesis,
namely: simple, complex, directional, non-directional and research. Formulating
hypothesis is possible among quantitative studies. Hypothesis is anchored from the
statement of the problem, theories and prior readings. And it will help any scientific
study in the formation of a question, doing a background research, creation of

21
hypothesis, designing an experiment, collection of data, result analysis, summarizing
the experiment and communicating the results.

What I Can Do
Directions: Write a hypothesis for each of the following research problems.
Identify the dependent and independent variable. Choose
any kind of applicable hypothesis.

Example: Increased sleep may cause higher grades.

Hypothesis: The amount of sleep has a significant effect to get higher grades.
1. What effect does studying with music have on student test scores?
Hypothesis:

2. What effect does light have on plant growth?

Hypothesis:

3. Temperature may cause leaves to change color?

Hypothesis:

4. Salt soil may affect plant growth

Hypothesis:

5. Can reading small print cause a headache?

Hypothesis:

Lesson 5 Significance of the Study

What’s In
Directions: Read the situation given and answer the questions that follow in a separate
sheet of paper.
The Philippines is now facing this Pandemic Covid-19 outbreak particularly in
Cebu City. The Department of Social Welfare and Services managed in listing the
unemployed and jobless individuals as recipient for (SAF) Social Amelioration Fund and
your parents were among the millions of beneficiaries to grab the opportunity.

Guide Questions:
1. What is the main role of DSWS in this trying moment in Cebu City?
2. Who are their target beneficiaries during Pandemic crisis?
3. How are you going to relate this situation in conducting a research?

22
 What’s New
Essentially, Significance of the Study informs the reader on how the study will
contribute to the well-being of a person or progress of a group or society in general.
For example, in addressing social problems like epidemics, e.g. COVID-19, in a
research study, the findings can benefit, first and foremost, the victims themselves
and their respective families, policy makers like the Department of Health, Department
of Social Welfare and Development, practitioners, leaders, both local and national
government, as well as NGO’s.

What Is It
Significance of the Study

When we speak of significance of the study, we are identifying the beneficiaries

and the benefits it will give when the problem is solved. The beneficiaries include
individuals like students, teachers, doctors, principals. Parents and others: the
government; non-governmental organizations; and even private institutions. It is also
important to note that the benefits these entities will receive from the research vary
from personal benefits to multi-faceted benefits.

The significance of the study discusses the benefits of the study to the society in
general, and to individual beneficiaries. The researcher defines who will benefit out of
the findings of the study. He/she describes how the problem will be solved and
specifically pinpoints who will benefit from such findings or results. Usually the
beneficiaries of the study are those experts concerned about the problem, the
administrators or policy-makers who make the decisions or implement programs,
subjects themselves, future researchers and those who directly or indirectly affected
by the problem.

Sample of the Significance of the Study

Significance of the Study

The study must be conducted to find out the major causes of teenage
pregnancy and the extent of the effect of teenage pregnancy on the development of
students and out-of-school youth in Maramag, Bukidnon. The result of this study is
beneficial to students and out-of-school youth, to the parents, teachers, to the
community, school administrators, researchers and other interested individuals
because this can give empirical data as bases for suggestions on minimizing teenage
pregnancy in the community.
The study will also benefit students who are still at school because it will give
them information about the causes of teenage pregnancy and its possible effects on
their studies.
The study will also benefit the out-of-school youth in the sense that they are
making aware of the causes of teenage pregnancy and are helped to avoid the same to

23
increase their chances to participate in the Alternative Learning System(ALS) or
increase their chances to go the formal school.
This study will also benefit the parents to enable them to realize their great
role in educating their teenagers, protecting, and diverting them from indulging in
premarital sex. This study, too, will make the parents aware that education about the
use of contraceptives will start also at home.
This study will also benefit the teachers on the steps to take for they could be
informed how important education is to the development of children to
manhood/womanhood. This enables them to guide and identify the major causes of
teenage pregnancy especially in Maramag, Bukidnon.
This study will benefit school administrators. It will provide them information
on the importance of knowing the major factors behind early pregnancy and the
possible effects on educational development of teenagers. It is one way that
administrators will intensify sex education in their school and improve the knowledge
of their teachers regarding this matter.
Finally, the researcher hopes that the result of this study would also be a great
help to future researchers and to all people who are interested to know more about
teenage pregnancy-their causes and the possible effects on their educational
development.

What’s More
Activity
TRUE or FALSE. Write TRUE if the statement is correct, if not, write FALSE in a
separate sheet of paper.
1. A person who receives money or other benefits is called benefactor.
2. The sequence of the beneficiaries of the research starts from the most
benefited to the least benefited.
3. The significance of the study identifies the beneficiaries and the expected
benefits that will result from the study.
4. The main concern of the significance of the study is the benefit of the
researcher.
5. The results of the study will enable the beneficiaries to gain insights in the
development of their duties and responsibilities.

What I Have Learned

The sequence of the beneficiaries of the research starts from the most benefited
to the least benefited. The benefits must be specific and arranged according to the
degree of significance.
In simple terms, the significance of the study is basically the importance of the
research and the contribution to the beneficiaries. In the wider understanding the

24
result will be useful to the beneficiaries like for livelihood for better living of the
beneficiaries in the community.

What I Can Do

Directions: Read carefully the given sample of Significance of the Study and identify
the
beneficiaries and the benefits that they will receive. Complete the table
below with correct answers in a separate sheet of paper.

Significance of the Study

The following individuals and entity will be benefitted in this study:

As the center of educational system, the students will benefit from this study if
their teachers will enhance their work performance by improving their financial
literacy. Pupils will surely acquire the expected competencies they need to learn from
financially literate teachers. This can also provide the pupils’ insights on how to
improve knowledge and skills in handling their finances as exemplified by their
financially literate teachers. This is also beneficial for teachers. This will provide the
springboard for teachers to reflect on their knowledge, attitudes, and behavior
regarding financial matters. Eventually they will become masters of their own financial
games that will make them productive and financially secured individuals. In effect,
better work performance will be by teachers for the betterment of their learners.
Similarly, this will provide the school administrators ideas on the importance of
financial literacy to the performance pf teachers. It will serve as a basis for them to
develop programs that will enhance the financial knowledge, attitude, and behavior of
teachers. In addition, this will help them decide to include financial education as part
of the basic education curriculum. Parents will also benefit from this study. This will
help them realize the importance of financial education in human life. This will lead
them to educate themselves financially for their own financial well-being. This will also
motivate them to teach their children how to budget, spend wisely, and save money as
early as possible. Finally, the findings of this study will be beneficial to future
researchers because this study will serve as a frame of reference for further studies.

BENEFICIARIES BENEFITS RECEIVED FROM THE RESULTS OF THE STUDY

students improve knowledge and skills in handling their finances as
exemplified
teachers masters of their own financial games that will make them
productive and financially secured individuals. And better
work performance will be by teachers for the betterment of
their learners.
School serve as a basis for them to develop programs that will
administrators enhance the financial knowledge, attitude, and behavior.

25
 Parents realize the importance of financial education in human life.
This will lead them to educate themselves financially for their
own financial well-being. This will also motivate them to teach
their children how to budget, spend wisely, and save money as
early as possible.
Future researchers serve as a frame of reference for further studies

Lesson 6 Scope and Limitations of the Study

What’s In
Directions: Identify what is being described in each item. Choose the correct answer
from the given choices below.

delimitation concept construct Scope indicators

1. It is pertaining to the boundaries of the study with respect to the major variables
and
is further clarified by the sub-variables.
2. Is anyWhat’s New that a researcher measures, control and or manipulates.
factor or property
3. Is a generally accepted collection of characteristics that may be defined by a
dictionary
and commonly used by an educator.
4. It describes the coverage of the study.
5. Are the concepts or ideas the researcher has gathered form reading various
literatures

In writing the Scope and Limitations of the Study, the researcher should
inform the reader what information is included in the research and explain why the
author chose that information. Although scope and delimitation explain the way a
study is limited, this information adds credibility to research.

What is It

Scope and Limitations of the Study

26
 Scope and Limitations comprise one important section of a research paper. The
Scope defines the coverage or boundaries of the study in terms of the area or locality
and subjects, population covered the duration or period of the study, the nature of
variables treated, their number and treatments they received, and instruments or
research design should be so stated. Limitations are those conditions beyond the
control of the researcher that may place restrictions on the conclusions of the study
and their application to other situations. In your research, you must know and
discuss the scope of your study (delimitations) and the challenges that you anticipate
or factors that you were not able to control (limitation).

These two guidelines help your readers understand better the context of your
study.

1. Specify the scope of your study the populations, setting and theory
(delimitations). Delimitations are all about what you will be able to do or focus
on. You simply place clear boundaries on the focus study and clearly state what
will not include and possible, why it is not necessary or possible for your study.
2. Think deep about the potential challenges/weakness of your study (limitations).
In real life, we all learn to hide our weaknesses. In research, we will have to
acknowledge those weaknesses. As you acknowledge them, they become
strengths.

Scope and limitations of the study pertains to the boundaries of the study with
respect to the major variables and is further clarified by the sub-variables.
In formulating the “scope and delimitation,” it is essential that the researcher
has already defined the major variables of the study which are contained in the title of
the research and in general statement of the problem.

Example
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focused on the three major variables: conduct of clinical supervision;
common responses to the classroom observation, and the level of performance.
The conduct of clinical supervision is concentrated in the areas of diversity of
learners; content and pedagogy; and planning, assessing and reporting learner’s
outcomes. The content and pedagogy as a sub-variable was sub-divided into teacher
behavior in actual teaching and learner’s behavior in the classroom. The common
responses of the elementary teachers with respect to the classroom observation was
assessed before using, and after the conduct of the said activity. Lastly, the level of
performance was determined through the result of the competency- based
performance appraisal system for teachers.
The fourteen elementary schools in the District of Limay were the schools where
the study was conducted. These elementary schools were the Alangan Es, Arsenal
ES , Bacong ES, Bliss ES, Carbon ES, Duale ES, Gabaldon ES, Kinaragan ES, Kitang
ES, Lamao ES, Bo. Luz ES, Peas ES, and St. Francis ES. The principals and Grade-VI
teachers of the abovementioned schools served as the respondents of the study.

27
 This study utilized important documents and the competency-based performance
appraisal system for teachers during the AY 2012-2013.
The Scope and Delimitation of the Study have a parameter and it answers the basic
WH-questions:

1. What-The topic of investigation and the variables included

2. Where -The venue or the setting of the research
3. When -The time frame by which the study was conducted
4. Why -The general objectives of the research
5. Who -The subject of the study, the population and sampling
6. How -The methodology of the research which may include the research
design, methodology and the research instrument

What’s More

Activity
Directions: Read the sample Scope and Limitations of the Study below and answer the
questions that follow in a separate sheet of paper.

Title: “Problems of Middle Level Managers in State Universities and Colleges:

Basis for the Development Intervention Program” (Muello,2002)

Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study was concerned with the development and evaluation of a management
intervention program after a thorough identification and analysis of conflicts/problems
as experienced by middle-managers in Region IV state universities and colleges. Middle
level managers, such as deans, directors, chairmen and department heads, and
principals, with at least two years of continuous service in the same institution, were the
respondents of the study. Personnel outside the main campus were not included since
the problems they met were perceived to resemble that of the mother units.
Transportation constraints in the other campuses were not included.
This study produced an intervention program composed of a training package on
leadership and motivation. The said program is deemed important in developing the
managerial skills of middle level managers in terms of their management functions such
as planning, organizing, leading and controlling. It is assumed that their competencies
will eventually be enhanced after developing the five-day seminar workshops.
Prior to the conceptualization of the management interview program, the data
gathering produce was conducted from January 1999 to June 1999. Open-ended
questionnaires, interviews, and observations were used as data gathering instruments.
Questions:

28
1. What is the scope of the study?
2. What are the limitations of the study indicated by the researcher?
3. What are the instruments used to gather the data?
4. When did the collection of data happen?

What I Have Learned

The scope defines the coverage or boundaries of the study in terms of the area
or locality and subjects, population covered the duration or period of the study. The
nature of variables treated, their number and treatments they received, and
instruments or research design should be so stated. Limitations are those conditions
beyond the control of the researcher that may place restriction on the conclusions of
the study and their application to other situations. In your research, you must know
the scope of your study (delimitations) and the challenges that you anticipate or
factors that you were not able to control (limitation). In your research study, you must
discuss the scope of your study (delimitations) and the challenges that you anticipate
or factors that you were not able to control (limitations).

What I Can Do

Directions: Read the sample Scope and Limitations of the Study below and do the
tasks
that follow.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The main purpose of the study is to provide information regarding metro-sexuality
and how being a metrosexual affects the lifestyle of the student. The study considers
the student’s personal information such as their name (optional) gender, age, and
section.
The researchers limited the study to 80 male and female secondary education
students enrolled in the second semester of school year 2015-2016 of Technological
Institute of the Philippines. Each of the respondents was given a questionnaire to
answer. The students selected came from four different sections to prevent bias and get
objectives perceptions.

Answer the WH-questions by reading the sample of scope and delimitation above.
1. What is the topic and what are the variables included?

29
 2. Where is the venue of the study?
3. When was the study conducted?
4. Why is study conducted?
5. Who are the subjects/respondents of the study?
6. How was the study conducted?

Lesson 7 Definition of Terms

What’s In/What’s New

Directions: Analyze and evaluate the role of entrepreneurship in the establishment

of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and ascertain the value of the
economic contributions of these firms in emerging markets.

Guide Questions:

1. What are the key terms that must be defined in the study?
2. How are you going to define them?
3. What are the operational definitions of these key terms?
The important terms used in the study must be defined clearly. Some of these
terms appear in the research title, statement of the problem, theoretical paradigm, and
in the scope and delimitation of the study. Certain terms may refer to the respondents,
subject and the variables and sub-variables.

What Is It
Definition of Terms
Defining the different terms may be done conceptually or operationally. When
s term is defined using books and dictionaries then it is defined CONCEPTUALLY. On
the other hand, when definition of the term is based on how it is used in the study, it
is defined OPERATIONALLY. A combination of the two methods is often helpful.
Terms that are defined must be arranged alphabetically.
Example:

30
a. Terms that are defined conceptually:
Drugs. These may refer to substance or mixture of substances used in
diagnosis, treatment, prevention of diseases or for the modification of
physiological function or prevention of pregnancy and which is incorporate in
an official list (Chaudhurri, 2003).
Ethics. A branch of philosophy that addresses questions of right or
wrong. It is a term that refers to the various ways of understanding and
examining moral life (Mappes, 2002).
Nursing process. It is a systematic process of assessment, planning and
validation in the practice of nursing through evidence based on the scientific
methods for observing, measuring and gathering data and analyzing the
findings (Doenges, 2006).
Study habits. The ways or activities an individual learns.

B. Terms that are defined operationally:

Academic institution. Operationally defined as referring to the Asia
Pacific College of Advanced Studies where the nursing students are enrolled.
Leadership approaches. This refers to the approaches employed by the
dean and which are categorized as strategies, human assets, expertise, box or
change and reflected in the respondents’ answers measured by a Likert Scale.
Leadership attributes. These pertain to the rating of deans in a
questionnaire as to what they consider to be the most important attribute or
function of their position: personal integrity, willingness to accept responsibility,
understanding people, communication, selflessness, institutions, vision,
decision-making ability or ability to simplify situations.
Leadership styles. These refer to the style of management practiced by
the deans, which may be autocratic or participative and measured by a Likert
Scale.
Study habits. These pertain to the routinary study methods utilized by
students like memorization, use of the Internet, library visit and peer review.

A. Terms that are defined conceptually and operationally:

Eating disorders. A group of behaviors fueled by unresolved emotional

conflicts, resulting in altered food consumption (Grodner, 2005). As used in this
study, it pertains to the kind of food, frequency of eating and amount of intake
or consumption.
Nosocomial infection. It is a hospital-acquired infection (Smith, 2005).
In this study, the infection acquired in the hospital are confined in the medical
and pediatric wards, and operating rooms.
Personality. It refers to the sum total of the qualities and characteristics of
a person as shown in his/her manners such as walking, talking, dressing,
acting, attitudes, interest and ways of reacting to other people, which are
manifestations of his/her behavior thoughts and emotions.
Primigravida. A woman in her first pregnancy (Pilliteri, 2004).
Operationally,
it pertains to a mother who has given birth at the Bataan General Hospital.

31
 What’s More

Activity
Directions: Write T if the statement is True, F if the statement is False in a separate
sheet of paper.
1. The definition of terms is considered as crucial as it provides context to the readers
in understanding certain words or concepts used in the research study.
2. A term can be defined using the books and dictionaries only.
3. The meaning is based on the context of the study or how the word or concept is
used in the study.
4. When a term is defined using books and dictionaries then it is defined operationally.
5. When definition of the term is based on how it is used in the study, it is defined
conceptually.

What I Have Learned

The important terms used in the study must be defined clearly. Some of these
terms appear in the research title, statement of the problem, theoretical paradigm, and
in the scope and delimitation of the study. Certain terms may refer to the respondents,
subject and the variables and sub-variables. Defining the different terms may be done
conceptually or operationally. When a term is defined using books and dictionaries,
then it is defined conceptually. On other hand, when definition of the term is based on
how it is used in the study, it is defined operationally. A combination of the two
methods is often helpful. Terms that are defined must be arranged alphabetically.
Moreover, before defining the enumerated or listed terms, there must be an opening
sentence or an introductory paragraph.

What I Can Do
Directions: Based on your own research study, identify at least three key terms and
give their meanings conceptually and operationally.
1. Term 1: ____________________________________
Conceptual Meaning: __________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Operational Meaning: __________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

2. Term 2: ____________________________________
Conceptual Meaning: __________________________________________________

32
 ________________________________________________________________________
Operational Meaning: __________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

3. Term 3: ____________________________________
Conceptual Meaning: __________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Operational Meaning: __________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

Assessment
A. Directions: Analyze the items carefully. Write the letter of the correct answer in a
separate sheet of paper.

1. These are variables with values that describes a measurable numerical quantity and
answer the questions “how many” or “how much.”
A. Categorical C. Nominal
B. Continuous D. Numeric

2. These variables are usually manipulated in an experiment research.

A. Dependent B. Independent C Ordinal D. Numeric

3. Its purpose is to introduce the research problem, clarify important variables,

discuss its delimitations and specify its significance to the field of the study.
A. Literature Review C. Recommendations
B. Methodology D. The Problem and Its Scope

4. Which of the following is not included in making the Introduction.

A. Rationale of the research problem C. Summary of findings
B. Setting of the research problem D. Overall purpose of the research

5. It is defined as a pattern. model or a set forms which contains particular elements.

It is the researcher’s scientific imagination expressed graphically by drawings or
sketches.
A. Illustrative Designs B. Paradigm C. Schematic D. Statistical Diagram

6.This model is used when relating and assessing the influence between two or more
variables. Studies that focus on relationships, associations and differences and
impacts will benefit from this model.
A. IPO model B.PC Model C. -P Model D. POM Model

33
7. It is a tentative prediction about the relationship between two or more variables in
a population under study.
A. Rationale B. Variables C. Problem D. Hypothesis

8. It is a hypothesis that is always expressed as a negative statement.

A. Complex B. Directional C. Null D. Simple

9. It is a hypothesis formulated when predicting a relationship between independent

variable and a dependent variable.
A. Complex B. Directional C. Null D. Simple

10. In this section, the researcher should be able to state the main or general problem
followed by the specific problems.
A. Definition of Terms C. Significance of the Problem
B. Scope and Limitation D. Statement of the Problem

11. Which of the following does not belong to the group?

A. Do not mention the respondents.
B. The title is written in a statement form.
C. Include the major variables of the study.
D. In formulating the title, the researcher should avoid using words that serve
no useful purposes and can mislead indexers.

12. It is a formal statement predicting a single research outcome, a tentative

explanation between two or more variables.
A. Hypothesis C. Recommendation
B. Literature D. Variable

13. It is important in establishing the cognitive setting of the research and it involves
discussing why there is a need to study the problem, clarifying the important
terminologies and establishing the degree of seriousness of the problem.
A. Discussion and Results C. Literature Review
B. . Introduction D. Methodology

14. It means the beneficiaries of the study.

A. Those who receive funds to start a research.
B. Those who give information for a research study.
C. Those who will be affected by the study done.
D. all of the above

15. These are the variables with the values that describe a quality or characteristic of
a data unit like “what type” or “what category.”
A. Categorical C. Nominal
B. Dichotomous D. Numeric

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 Answer Key
Lesson 2: Conceptual Framework

What’s in

1.Sex- Categorical 2. Difficulty- Categorical 3. Honor Rolls- Numerical

4. Length- Numerical 5. Spiritual Practices- False

Lesson 3: Statement of the Problem

What I have Learned

Statement of the Problem

The main objective of this study is to assess the outcome of the conditional cashansfer
program “ Pantawid The main objective of this study is to assess the outcome of the conditional cash
Pamilyang Pilipino” being administered by the government ender the DSWD towards the greater aim
of poverty alleviation . Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following questions:

1. What is the demographic profile and awareness level of the

respondents’ family beneficiaries?
2. What are the effects of the Conditional Cash Transfer socio-economic program on
employment, cash support, entrepreneurial activities, livelihood training and development
of skills to the family beneficiaries’ standard of living?
3. 3. What are the respondents’ perception on CCT 4P’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino
Program human capital investment on community mothers in terms of human capital
accumulation, women empowerment, livelihood and leadership skills?

Lesson 4: Research Hypothesis

What’s In

1. Independent Variables/s: Types of audio-visual materials

Dependent Variable/s: Problem Skills in Mathematics

2. Independent Variables/s: Study habits

Dependent Variable/s : Performance level in Management
subject 35

3. Independent Variables/s: Types of soil

Dependent Variable/s: Growth of Papaya tree
What’s More

1.Null hypothesis 2. Directional Hypothesis 3.Complex Hypothesis

4.DoSimple Hypothesis
What I Can 5. Null Hypothesis

1. Hypothesis: Studying with music has no effect on student test scores.

2. Hypothesis: Light has no effect on plant growth
3. Hypothesis: Temperature does not cause leaves to change color.
4. Hypothesis: Salt does not significantly affect the growth of the plant.
5. Hypothesis: Headache is not a cause of reading small print.
6. Hypothesis: Salt does not significantly affect the growth of the plant.

Lesson 5: Significance of the Study

What’s More

1.False 2. True 3. True 4. False 5. True

Lesson 6: Scope and Limitations of the Study

What’s in

1. Delimitations 2.Variable 3.Concept 4. Scope 5. indicators

What I can Do

1. Who-Metrosexual Affects the Lifestyle of the Student.

The variables included are the students’ personal
information such as their name, gender, age and section.
2. Where-Technological Institute of the Philippines
3. When-2015-2016
4. Why-The main purpose of the study is to provide information regarding metro-sexuality
and how being a metrosexual affects the lifestyle of the student.
5. Who-80 male and female secondary education students
6. How- Survey using questionnaires

Lesson 7: Definition of Terms

What’s More

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 1. T 2.F 3.T 4. F 5.F

Glossary
Background of the Study- provides context to the information that you are discussing
in your paper, thus, the background of the study generates
the reader's interest in your research question and helps
them understand why your study is important.

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.

Conceptual Framework- includes one or more formal theories (in part or whole) as well
as other concepts and empirical findings from the literature. It is
used to show relationships among these ideas and how they
relate to the research study.

Hypothesis- a tentative assumption made in order to draw out and test its logical or
empirical consequences

Beneficiary- is any person who gains an advantage and/or profits from something. In
the financial world, a beneficiary typically refers to someone eligible to
receive distributions from a trust, will, or life insurance policy.

Scope- the extent of the area or subject matter that something deals with or to which it is
relevant.

Delimitation-refer to the boundaries of the research study, based on the researcher's

decision of what to include and what to exclude.

References
Arcinas, M. (2016). Applied Research: An introduction to qualitative research methods
and report writing. Quezon City: Phoenix Publishing House

Bulacan State University Graduate Studies, Handbook in Thesis and Dissertation

37
 Writing

Cristobal, A. and Dela Cruz, M. (2017). Practical Research 2 fro Senior High School.
Quezon City: C&E Publishing, Inc.

Faltado, Ruben E.,et al.(2016). Quantitative research. Manila: Lorimar Publishing Inc.

Prieto, N., Naval, V. and Carey, T. (2017). Practical Research 2 for Senior High School.
Quezon City: Lorimar Publishing, Inc.
Tomakin, F. (2010). Fundamentals of Research Methodology. Cebu City: Statlink
Research Training and Development

Wa-Mbalaka, Safari. Thesis and writing fear no more. Philippines: Oikos Biblios
Publishing House

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