Republic of the Philippines
SURIGAO DEL NORTE STATE UNIVERSITY
Main Campus, Surigao City
“For Nation’s
Greater Heights” Narciso Street, Surigao City 8400, Philippines
COMPREHENSIVE EXAM INRESEARCH
Directions: Answer the ff. questions briefly and provide additional research or citations to support your
arguments and key points in your discussion.
Test I.
1. What is research? Enumerate and discuss the types of research? Describe characteristics of
researcher? Explain the scientific process of investigation?
2. Discuss the function of educational research? Describe different tools of educational research?
3. How do you design, plan and manage a research problem? Elucidate in detail the main points of Action
Research. What are the consideration in writing research?
4. Differentiate between quantitative and qualitative research. How do you design, plan and manage a
research problem?
5. What is the purpose of “Review of Literature” and why it is used while writing a research report? What
do you know about the Primary and Secondary Sources of data?
6. Why statement of the problem is considered to be the “heart” of the research?
7. Describe the types of Sampling. Differentiate between population and sample? Explain different
method of sampling?
Test II.
1. Write short note on the following parts of the research proposal:
a) Title or cover page
b) Introduction
c) Literature review
d) Theoretical and conceptual framework
e) Statement of the problem
f) Research Methodology
g) Data Analysis
2. Write a capsule proposal of your propose title or study using the format herein provided.
Good luck and God bless you.
Prepared by:
JAMES M.DUMAGUIT, RME, PhD, DHum
Associate Professor III
LEAH G. ASOTIGUE 27 JUNE 2023
MIE-IA
COMPREHENSIVE EXAM INRESEARCH
Test I.
1. What is research? Enumerate and discuss the types of research? Describe characteristics of
researcher? Explain the scientific process of investigation?
Answer:
Research is the methodical consideration of analysis utilizing scientific methods for a specific topic or
research subject. The methodical investigation needed to characterize, explain, anticipate, and manage
the event being observed is known as research, according to American sociologist Earl Robert Babbie.
Inductive and deductive approaches are used.
There are two main categories of research methods: qualitative research methods and quantitative
research methods.
Qualitative research:
Nature: Qualitative research seeks to explore, understand, and interpret social phenomena by
examining individuals' experiences, behaviors, and perceptions in their natural settings.
Methods: Common data collection methods include interviews, focus groups, observations, and
document analysis.
Analysis: Data analysis typically involves coding, categorization, and thematic analysis to identify
patterns, trends, and relationships.
Application: Qualitative research is most appropriate when the goal is to gain in-depth insights into
complex social processes, subjective experiences, or cultural phenomena that cannot be
quantified. For example, a study exploring the experiences of first-generation college students
navigating higher education could benefit from a qualitative approach.
Quantitative research:
Nature: Quantitative research seeks to test hypotheses, establish relationships, and make
generalizations by measuring variables and analyzing numerical data.
Methods: Common data collection methods include surveys, experiments, and secondary data
analysis.
Analysis: Data analysis typically involves statistical techniques to examine relationships,
differences, or trends among variables.
Application: Quantitative research is most appropriate when the goal is to quantify variables, test
hypotheses, or establish cause-and-effect relationships. For example, a study investigating the
impact of class size on student performance could utilize a quantitative approach.
meaningful insights, often by triangulating results or using one method to complement or validate
the other.
Application: Mixed-methods research is most appropriate when the research question requires a
more holistic understanding or when combining approaches can provide a richer, more nuanced
perspective. For example, a study examining the factors influencing employee engagement could
benefit from a mixed-methods approach, using surveys to quantify engagement levels and
interviews to explore employees' perceptions and experiences.
In summary, choosing an appropriate research methodology for a thesis depends on the research
question, objectives, and context. Qualitative research is well-suited for exploring complex social
phenomena and subjective experiences, while quantitative research is ideal for hypothesis testing
and establishing relationships among variables.
The characteristics of a researcher are:
1. Good researcher uses a methodical process to gather correct facts. While making observations or
drawing conclusions. He needs to uphold moral principles and a code of behavior.
2. His analysis uses both inductive and deductive reasoning and is grounded on logic.
3. His current information and expertise come from actual observations made in the wild.
4. All data that he gathered has undergone a thorough analysis to ensure that there are no irregularities.
5. He paves the way for the development of further inquiries. He is able to expand his study
opportunities thanks to existing data.
6. He is analytical and makes use of all the information available to ensure that the inference is clear.
7. One of his top priorities when conducting research is accuracy. The details must be true and correct.
A scientific investigation is a procedure for using a variety of research techniques to determine the
answer to a topic. An investigation typically starts when a person analyzes their surroundings and
formulates unanswered queries. After that, they gather more data or design an experiment to verify a
theory. Researcher findings that aim to address their questions can be presented after data collection
and analysis. The experiment may be changed by the researcher to test for factors that were not initially
taken into account.
2. Discuss the function of educational research? Describe different tools of educational research?
Answer:
Educational research is an organized investigation with the goal of generating knowledge-based
outcomes. In essence, research expands on knowledge found in the literature and thereby contributes
to the corpus of knowledge. application of structured procedures and research techniques.
The major tools of research can be classified into broad categories of inquiry form, observation,
interview, social measures and Psychological tests. Among the inquiry forms, Rating scale, attitude scale,
opinionnaire, questionnaire checklist and semantic differential scale. Observation and Interview are
explained as the techniques of data collection. In psychological tests, Aptitude tests and inventories are
discussed. Rating scale is a technique which is designed or constructed to asses the personality of an
individual. It is very popular in testing applied psychology, vocational guidance and counseling as well as
in basic research. They measure the degree or amount of the indicated judgments. Attitude scale is the
device by which the feelings or beliefs of persons are described and measured indirectly through
securing their responses to a set of favorable statements. Opinionnaire is a special form of inquiry. It is
used by the researcher to collect the opinions of a sample of population. It is usually used in descriptive
type research. Questionnaire is a tool which used frequently. The purpose is to gathered information
from widely scattered sources. Data collected in written form through this tool. Checklist is a selected
list of words, Phrases, Sentences and paragraphs following which an observer records a check mark to
denote a presence or absence of whatever is being observed. It calls for a simple yes / no judgments.
The main purpose is to call attention to various aspects of an object or situation, to see that nothing of
importance is overlooked. Semantic Differential Scale is a seven-point scale and the end points of the
scale are associated with bipolar labels. This scale helps o determine overall similarities and differences
among objects. Aptitude tests are psychological tests attempt to product the capacities or the degree of
achievement expected from individuals in a particular activity. The purpose is to test a candidate’s
profile. Inventory is a list, or record containing traits, preferences, attitudes interests or abilities used to
evaluate personal characteristics or skills. Strong’s vocational interest inventory is an example of interest
inventory. Observation method is a technical in which the behavior research subjects is watched and
recorded without any direct contact. It deals with the overt behavior of persons in controlled or
uncontrolled situations. Interview is an oral type of questionnaire where the subject supplies the
needed information in a face-to-face situation. It is especially appropriate for dealing with young
children, illiterates, dull and the abnormal.
3. How do you design, plan and manage a research problem? Elucidate in detail the main points of
Action Research. What are the consideration in writing research?
Answer:
First, should have a clear idea of the research question that I want to investigate. Then follow the
following steps
Step 1: Identify the problem
Step 2: Choose a type of research design
Step 3: Identify your population and sampling method
Step 4: Choose your data collection methods
Step 5: Plan your data collection procedures
Step 6: Decide on your data analysis strategies
Step 7: Evaluate and reflect
Step 8 : Share the results.
The process of action research involves several key steps that researchers must follow to ensure an
effective and successful study. While there are different aspects of action research, the action research
cycle is a fundamental aspect of this methodology. The cycle typically includes four main stages:
planning, acting, observing, and reflecting.
Stage 1: In the planning stage, researchers identify a problem or issue they wish to address through their
study. They then develop a plan for how they will gather data on this issue and what actions they will
take based on their findings. This might involve conducting surveys or interviews with stakeholders in
the community or group affected by the problem.
Stage 2: After developing their plan, researchers move into the acting phase where they begin
implementing changes based on their findings. This could involve testing out new teaching methods in a
classroom setting or introducing new policies at a healthcare facility.
Stage 3: Next comes the observation phase where researchers carefully monitor how these changes are
impacting those involved in the study. They may collect data through ongoing observations or surveys to
track progress over time.
Stage 4: Finally, in the reflection stage, researchers analyze their data and reflect on what worked well
during their study and what areas need improvement for future studies. By following this participatory
action research model throughout each step of the process, researchers can gain valuable insights into
complex problems facing communities today while also fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
The goal of a research proposal is to persuade a funding organization or academic committee that your
research is worthwhile. The proposal needs to be succinct, understandable, and persuasive. Your
proposal should also outline how your effort will advance our understanding while citing pertinent
academic publications. A written explanation of the study's significance underlines the necessity of the
research. It serves as a defense of the significance of your work, the impact it has on your research area,
its addition to knowledge, and how it will benefit others.
4. Differentiate between quantitative and qualitative research. How do you design, plan and manage a
research problem?
Answer:
As qualitative and quantitative studies collect different data, their data collection methods differ
considerably. Quantitative studies rely on numerical or measurable data. In contrast, qualitative studies
rely on personal accounts or documents that illustrate in detail how people think or respond within
society.
First, should have a clear idea of the research question that I want to investigate. Then follow the
following steps
Step 1: Identify the problem
Step 2: Choose a type of research design
Step 3: Identify your population and sampling method
Step 4: Choose your data collection methods
Step 5: Plan your data collection procedures
Step 6: Decide on your data analysis strategies
Step 7: Evaluate and reflect
Step 8 : Share the results.
5. What is the purpose of “Review of Literature” and why it is used while writing a research report?
What do you know about the Primary and Secondary Sources of data?
Answer:
The goal of a literature review is to gather up-to-date, pertinent research on your chosen subject and
combine it into a coherent overview of what is already known in the area. It is used in writing a research
report to prepares you for making your own argument on that topic, or for conducting your own
original research. Primary data refers to the first hand data gathered by the researcher himself.
Secondary data means data collected by someone else earlier. Surveys, observations, experiments,
questionnaire, personal interview, etc. Government publications, websites, books, journal articles,
internal records etc.
6. Why statement of the problem is considered to be the “heart” of the research?
Answer:
Statement of the problem is considered to be the “heart” of the research because it serves as its central
focus. A study is driven by the research problem, which requires focused, in-depth investigation to be
fully developed. Research is crucial in this situation because it can help identify and set up an issue that
arises in the study by providing information on previous studies on the subject.
7. Describe the types of Sampling. Differentiate between population and sample? Explain different
method of sampling?
Answer:
There are are two primary types of sampling methods in your research: One is Probability sampling
involves random selection, allowing you to make strong statistical inferences about the whole group.
Second is Non-probability sampling involves non-random selection based on convenience or other
criteria, allowing you to easily collect data.
The distinction between a population and a sample is that a population refers to the total group from
whom conclusions should be drawn. While a sample is the particular group from which you will gather
data. The sample size is always smaller than the population as a whole.
Simple random sampling: This technique draws samples so that each unit of the population has an equal
chance of being included in the sample. Utilizing the lottery technique or random numbers are two ways
to get random samples.
Stratified sampling: This technique divides the population into distinct strata, which are homogeneous in
terms of a particular characteristic. Randomly chosen units are chosen from each stratum in the proper
number. The term "Stratified sampling" refers to this technique.
The population is serially sorted, either in numerical or alphabetical order, through systematic sampling.
Test II.
1. Write short note on the following parts of the research proposal:
a) Title or cover page- The title page provides the title of the thesis, the author's name, the institution's
name, and the date of submission. It serves as the first point of contact for readers, giving them an initial
understanding of the topic being explored.
b) Introduction- The introduction sets the stage for the thesis by providing background information,
contextualizing the research problem, and stating the research question or hypothesis. It also
outlines the significance of the study and its potential contributions to the field.
c) Literature review - The literature review critically examines and synthesizes previous research
relevant to the research question. It helps to identify gaps in knowledge, justify the research
question, and provide a theoretical framework for the study. The study and its potential contributions to
the field.
d) Theoretical and conceptual framework - A theoretical framework drives the question, guides the
types of methods for data collection and analysis, informs the discussion of the findings, and reveals the
subjectivities of the researcher. The conceptual framework is informed by literature reviews,
experiences, or experiments
e) Statement of the problem - A research problem statement is a clear, concise, and specific statement
that describes the issue or problem that the research project addresses. It should be written in a way
that is easily understandable to both experts and non-experts in the field.
f) Research Methodology - The methodology section describes the research design, sampling
techniques, data collection methods, and data analysis procedures used in the study. It provides readers
with a clear understanding of how the research was conducted and allows for the evaluation of its
reliability and validity.
g) Data Analysis - Data analysis summarizes collected data. It involves the interpretation of data
gathered through the use of analytical and logical reasoning to determine patterns, or relationships.
Write a capsule proposal of your propose title or study using the format herein provided.
a) Title or cover page –
Yield Response of Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) Applied with Organic Fertilizers
A Thesis Presented to
the Faculty of the Graduate School
SURIGAO STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
Surigao City
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree of
MASTER IN INDUSTRIAL EDUCATION
Major in Industrial Arts
Leah G. Asotigue
JUNE 2023
b) Introduction-
It is well-known that a healthy diet is essential for preventing chronic diseases such as cancer,
cardiovascular disease, cognitive function, and osteoporosis, as well as improving antioxidant levels and
controlling body weight [1]. Lower serum or plasma lycopene levels associated with increased cancer
risk, tomato, and its derivatives have not only a high nutritional value but also antioxidant [2,3], anti-
inflammatory, and anticancer properties [4]. Furthermore, the tomato is one of the most widely
cultivated vegetables [5]. More than 180 million tons of tomatoes are produced worldwide, making
them essential for a healthy and balanced diet due to their functional compounds, such as lycopene,
vitamins, minerals, and proteins [6].
The application of chemical fertilizers is currently one of the most commonly used methods in intensive
agriculture [7,8]. However, the long-term application of chemical fertilizers can cause many negative
effects. For example, most of the nutrients added to the soil are not absorbed by plants. Studies have
shown that more than 50% of the nitrogen and 90% of the phosphorus in chemical fertilizers are lost to
the atmosphere or water sources [9], resulting in greenhouse gas emissions, water eutrophication, and
other environmental issues [10,11,12]. Furthermore, excessive chemical fertilizer application can result
in decreased food safety and lower vegetable quality, such as nitrate accumulation in plants [13].
Nowadays, using organic fertilizers is an efficient method to achieve sustainable agricultural
development. The nutrient release rate of organic fertilizers is slow and hardly exceeds the absorption
capacity of plants compared with chemical fertilizers [14]. Organic fertilizers have a low nutrient
content, and their nutrient release rate depends on water and temperature conditions of the soil. The
application of organic fertilizers not only improves soil physical and chemical properties [15,16], soil
fertility, and soil water storage capacity [17,18], but it also can promote vegetative and reproductive
plant growth effectively [19,20], thereby improving plant quality [21,22,23]. It has been reported that
the application of chicken manure increased tomato yield and quality by 43% and 23%, respectively,
especially the soluble protein by 124% and the titratable acid by 118% [24]. Therefore, using organic
fertilizers can improve fertilizers’ utilization rates.
However, many studies have been conducted on the qualitative analysis of tomato yield and quality, and
only a few studies have investigated the quantitative effects of organic fertilizers on tomato yield and
quality under different soil organic matter and soil total nitrogen. This paper conducted a
comprehensive quantitative analysis of tomato yield and quality, with inconsistent results through meta-
analysis. It provided evidence for the application of organic fertilizers in tomato planting.
B. Materials and Methods
c) Literature review
d) Theoretical and conceptual framework
e) Statement of the problem
f) Research Methodology
g) Data Analysis
