BCH4111 Supplementary lecture notes by Prof. Y.Y.

Muhammad February, 2024

RESEARCH

Research is a systematic way of answering questions or solving problems. It is a systematic process of

investigation aimed at discovering, interpreting and applying knowledge. Research involves gathering
information, analysing data and drawing conclusions to answer questions or solve problems. It plays a
crucial role in advancing knowledge, addressing societal issues, improving practices and making
informed decisions. Research can be conducted in various fields such as science, medicine, agriculture,
social science, humanities, business, etc.

Below are summarised some key elements of research:

Purpose: Research begins with a clear purpose or objective. This could be to explore a new phenomenon,
test a hypothesis, solve a problem or gain a deeper understanding of a topic.

Question or Hypothesis: Research typically starts with a research question or hypothesis. A research
question is a clear, concise and focused query about a specific topic. A hypothesis is a testable
prediction about the relationship between variables.

Data Collection: Researchers collect data through various methods depending on the research design.
This can include surveys, experiments, observations, interviews, focus groups or analyzing existing data.

Data Analysis: Once data is collected, it is analysed using statistical or qualitative methods. The goal is
to identify patterns, relationships, trends or insights within the data.

Interpretation: Researchers interpret the results of the data analysis in the context of the research
question or hypothesis. This involves making sense of the findings and drawing conclusions.

Communication: The final step is to communicate the findings through research reports, dissertation,
thesis, journal articles, presentations or other formats. This allows others in the field to understand and
potentially build upon the research.

Types of Research

There are several types of research, each with its own purpose and methods. Here are some common
types:

Basic Research: This type of research aims to expand the understanding of fundamental concepts and
theories. It is often conducted without a specific application in mind.

Applied Research: Applied research focuses on solving specific problems or answering practical
questions. It is often used to address real-world issues and develop solutions.

Experimental Research: Experimental research is a systematic and scientific approach to research in

which the researcher manipulates one or more variables and controls and measures any change in other
variables.It is used to establish cause-and-effect relationships. Experimental research is commonly used
in sciences such as biology, physics, chemistry, medicine, etc.
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Quantitative Research: This involves collecting and analysing numerical data to understand patterns,
relationships and trends. It often involves surveys, experiments and statistical analysis.

Qualitative Research: Qualitative research aims to gain a deep understanding of people's experiences,
beliefs and motivations. It uses methods such as interviews, focus groups and observations.

Survey Research: is one of the most important areas of measurement in applied social research. The
broad area of survey research encompasses any measurement procedures that involve asking questions
of respondents. A "survey" can be anything form a short paper-and-pencil feedback form to an intensive
one-on-one in-depth interview.

Historical Research: Involves systematic collection and investigation of data related to past events,
people, ideas, etc. It aims to understand and interpret the past based on available evidence, in order to
help explain present events and anticipate future events.

SAMPLING

A sample refers to a smaller, manageable version of a larger group. It is a subset containing the
characteristics of the larger population. Sampling is a crucial aspect of research, allowing researchers to
collect data from a subset of a larger population. There are various types of sampling methods, each
with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The choice of sampling method depends on various factors including the research goals, the
characteristics of the population, resources available and the type of data needed. Each method has its
strengths and limitations in terms of representativeness, efficiency, and potential bias.

Here are some common types of sampling:

Simple Random Sampling: Every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. This
method is straightforward but requires a complete list of the population.

Stratified Sampling: The population is divided into subgroups (or strata) based on certain characteristics
(like age, gender, income), and then random samples are taken from each stratum. This ensures
representation from all strata.

Systematic Sampling: Researchers select every nth member from a list of the population. For example, if
the population size is 1,000 and the sample size is 100, every 10th person would be chosen.

Cluster Sampling: The population is divided into clusters, often based on geographic proximity. Then,
clusters are randomly selected and all members of the chosen clusters are included in the sample.

Convenience Sampling: This method involves choosing the most convenient individuals for the study. It is
quick and easy but can lead to bias because it may not represent the entire population.

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 BCH4111 Supplementary lecture notes by Prof. Y.Y. Muhammad February, 2024

Purposive Sampling: Researchers deliberately select participants based on specific criteria. This is
common in qualitative research when researchers seek participants with certain characteristics or
experiences.

WRITING THE REPORT OF A SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

A scientific research report typically follows a structured format to communicate the research process,
findings and conclusions in a clear and organized manner. Below is a general outline for a scientific
research report:

Title: The title should be concise, informative and descriptive of the study.

Abstract: The abstract is a brief summary of the entire study, including the research question, methods,
results and conclusions. The abstract should provide enough information for readers to understand the
purpose of the study and key findings.

Introduction: The introduction provides the background information on the topic, including relevant
literature and the research gap.

Statement of Research Problem: Is a clear description of the issue or challenge the research aims to
address. The specific gap in knowledge or problem that the research intends to address/solve should be
clearly stated.

Justification: Justification of the study outlines the reasons why the study is important, necessary and
relevant.

Hypothesis: Sometimes, the hypothesis of the studies is included in the research report.

Aim and Objectives: Aim and objectives of the study should be stated.

Materials and Methods: Description of the research design, including the study type, participants or
sample, materials used and procedures followed. Ethical considerations and approval (if applicable)
should be stated here. Details on data collection methods, including instruments and measures and data
analysis techniques

Results: This is the presentation of the findings, usually through text, tables and figures. Data should be
described objectively without interpretation. Statistical analyses and tests performed are to be presented
clearly. Results should directly address the research question or hypothesis.

Discussion: The discussion is the interpretation of the results and their significance. It involves
comparison of findings with previous research. Implications of the results of the study and how they
contribute to the field should be described. Any unexpected results and potential limitations should be
explained.

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 BCH4111 Supplementary lecture notes by Prof. Y.Y. Muhammad February, 2024

Conclusion: A brief summary of the main findings. Conclusion could include a restatement of the
study's importance and implications.

Recommendations: recommendations based on the findings of the research. Suggestions for future
research should also be given here.

References

List of all sources cited in the report write-up. References are listed following a specific citation style
(e.g. APA, Havard, MLA, etc.).

Appendices: (If needed) Any additional information such as raw data, detailed methodologies or
supplementary figures.

Tips in writing good reports:

 Use clear and concise language, avoiding jargon when possible.

 Present data visually with tables and figures for easier understanding.
 Ensure consistency in formatting and citation throughout the report.
 Proofread carefully for grammar, spelling and accuracy.

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