EPCE 5203 Engineering Research

Methodology

CH-1: Introduction to Research Methods

 1.1 Why One Learn How to Conduct
Research?
Learning how to conduct research is important for several reasons:
• Critical Thinking Skills: Research fosters analytical thinking and problem-
solving skills. It encourages you to evaluate information critically and make
informed decisions.
• Knowledge Advancement: Conducting research allows you to contribute to
a field of knowledge, uncover new insights, and build on existing information.
• Informed Decision-Making: Whether in academia, business, or personal
life, research helps you make decisions based on evidence rather than
assumptions.
• Career Opportunities: Many professions value research skills, including
academia, healthcare, marketing, and technology. Being able to conduct
research can enhance your employability.
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• Communication Skills: Research often involves presenting findings clearly
and effectively, helping you develop strong written and verbal communication
skills.
• Intellectual Curiosity: Engaging in research satisfies a natural curiosity
about the world, allowing you to explore topics of interest in depth.
• Social Impact: Research can address societal issues, influence policy, and
lead to innovations that improve lives.
Overall, learning to conduct research equips you with valuable tools to navigate
a complex world and contribute meaningfully to your field and society.

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 1.2 Meaning and Objective of
Research
Definition
• Research in common parlance refers to a search for
knowledge.
• One can also define research as a scientific and systematic
search for pertinent information on a specific topic.
– In this regard or fact, research is an art of scientific investigation.
• The Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of Current English lays
down the meaning of research as “a careful investigation or
inquiry specially through search for new facts in any branch of
knowledge.
• Redman and Moray* define research as a “systematized
effort to gain new knowledge.
* Scholars
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• Some people consider research as a movement, a movement from the
known to the unknown.

- It is actually a voyage of discovery. We all possess the vital instinct

of inquisitiveness for, when the unknown confronts us, we wonder and
our inquisitiveness makes us probe and attain full and fuller
understanding of the unknown.

-This inquisitiveness is the mother of all knowledge and the method,

which man employs for obtaining the knowledge of whatever the
unknown, can be termed as research.

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• According to Clifford Woody research comprises
– defining and redefining problems,
– formulating hypothesis or suggested solutions;
– collecting, organizing and evaluating data;
– making deductions and reaching conclusions; and at last
– carefully testing the conclusions to determine whether they fit the
formulating hypothesis.

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• D. Slesinger and M. Stephenson in the Encyclopedia of Social
Sciences define research as
– “the manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the purpose of
generalizing to extend, correct or verify knowledge, whether that
knowledge aids in construction of theory or in the practice of an art.
– Research is, thus, an original contribution to the existing stock of
knowledge making for its advancement.
– It is the persuit of truth with the help of study, observation, comparison
and experiment.
– In short, the search for knowledge through objective and systematic
method of finding solution to a problem is research.
– The systematic approach concerning generalization and the formulation of
a theory is also research. As such the term ‘research’ refers to the
systematic method
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• The objectives of research is to discover answers to questions through the
application of scientific procedures.
• The main aim of research is to find out the truth which is hidden and which has
not been discovered as yet.
• Though each research study has its own specific purpose, we may think of
research objectives as falling into a number of following broad groupings:
1. To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it (studies with this
object in view are termed as exploratory or formulative research studies);

2. To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, situation or a group (studies

with this object in view are known as descriptive research studies);

3. To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which it is associated with
something else (studies with this object in view are known as diagnostic research studies);

4. To test a hypothesis of a causal relationship between variables (such studies are known as
hypothesis-testing research studies).
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• Knowledge Expansion: To generate new knowledge or insights about a
specific topic or phenomenon.
• Problem Solving: To identify, analyze, and provide solutions to specific
problems or questions.
• Hypothesis Testing: To test existing theories or hypotheses and validate or
refute them based on evidence.
• Informing Policy and Practice: To provide evidence that can guide
decision-making in various fields, such as healthcare, education, and public
policy.
• Understanding Relationships: To explore relationships between variables,
helping to establish patterns and correlations.

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 1.3 MOTIVATION IN RESEARCH
• Motivation in research refers to the underlying reasons or driving
forces that inspire individuals to engage in research activities. It can
stem from various sources and can be both intrinsic and extrinsic.
• Here are some common motivations: The possible motives for doing
research may be either one or more of the following:
Intrinsic Motivation:
• Curiosity: A desire to explore, learn, and understand new concepts or phenomena.
• Passion: A strong interest in a particular field or topic that fuels commitment to
research.
• Intellectual Challenge: The thrill of tackling complex problems and finding solutions.
• Desire for Discovery: A drive to uncover new knowledge or contribute original ideas
to a field.
• Personal Fulfillment: The satisfaction that comes from engaging in meaningful work
and contributing to a larger body of knowledge.

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Extrinsic Motivation:
• Career Advancement: The pursuit of research can lead to promotions,
grants, and job opportunities in academia or industry.
• Recognition: The desire for acknowledgment from peers, institutions, or the
wider community for contributions made through research.
• Funding and Resources: Access to grants and funding opportunities can
motivate individuals to undertake research projects.
• Social Impact: The aspiration to address societal challenges or contribute to
public policy can drive research efforts.
• Educational Requirements: For students, research may be motivated by
the need to fulfill degree requirements or gain practical experience.
• However, this is not an exhaustive list of factors motivating people to
undertake research studies.
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 1.4 TYPES OF RESEARCH and
Research Approach
• Research can be categorized in various ways based on its
objectives, methods, and nature. Here are some common types
of research and research approaches:
Types of Research
• Basic (Pure) Research:
– Aimed at expanding knowledge without immediate practical application.
– Focuses on theoretical questions and understanding fundamental
principles.
• Applied Research:
– Seeks to address specific practical problems.
– Uses theories and principles from basic research to develop solutions.
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• Quantitative Research:
– Involves the collection and analysis of numerical data (Experimental or
Simulation).
– Employs statistical methods to test hypotheses and establish
relationships.
• Qualitative Research:
– Focuses on understanding phenomena through non-numerical data (e.g., interviews,
observations).
– Aims to explore meanings, experiences, and perspectives.
• Descriptive Research:
– Provides a detailed account of a phenomenon or population.
– Often uses surveys, case studies, or observational methods.
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 Qualitative Research:
Qualitative research serves one or more purposes
(Perskin, 1993)

Showing Purpose of Quality Research (Perskin, 1993) Types of Qualitative Research:

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 Qualitative Research:
There are certain purposes of quantitative research which are given below:

Showing Types of Quantitative Research

Showing the Purposes of Quantitative Research

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• Experimental Research:
– Involves manipulating variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
– Commonly conducted in controlled environments (e.g., laboratories).
• Correlational Research:
– Examines the relationship between two or more variables without manipulation.
– Helps identify patterns but does not imply causation.
• Longitudinal Research:
– Studies the same subjects over an extended period to observe changes over time.
– Useful for understanding trends and long-term effects.
• Cross-Sectional Research:
– Analyzes data from a population at a single point in time.
– Provides a snapshot of a situation or phenomenon.

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Research Approaches
• Deductive Approach:
– Begins with a theory or hypothesis and tests it through data collection.
– Often used in quantitative research.
• Inductive Approach:
– Starts with observations and develops theories based on patterns found in
the data.
– Common in qualitative research.
• Adductive Approach:
– Combines elements of both deductive and inductive reasoning.
– Often used when exploring complex phenomena where existing theories
may not fully explain the situation
• .
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• Longitudinal Studies:
– Involves repeated observations of the same variables over time.
– Useful for studying changes and developments.
• Cross-Sectional Studies:
– Examines data from a population at a single point in time.
– Helps to understand the current state of a phenomenon.
Choosing the right type of research and approach depends on the
research question, objectives, and the context in which the research
is conducted.
Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and often a combination of
methods can yield the most robust findings.
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 1.5 Significance of Research
• The significance of research spans multiple dimensions, impacting various
fields, societies, and individuals. Here are some key points highlighting its
importance:
• Knowledge Advancement
– Research expands the frontiers of knowledge, contributing to scientific, technological,
and cultural understanding.
– It helps identify gaps in existing knowledge and encourages inquiry.
• Informed Decision-Making
– Research provides evidence-based information that guides decision-makers in
government, business, and healthcare.
– It helps policymakers develop effective strategies and solutions to societal challenges.

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• Innovation and Development
– Research drives innovation by developing new technologies, products, and services.
– It fosters creativity and experimentation, leading to economic growth and improved
quality of life.
• Social Change
– Research sheds light on social issues, helping to understand and address inequalities,
health disparities, and environmental challenges.
– It can mobilize communities and advocate for policy changes.
• Education and Learning
– Research enhances educational practices and curricula, enriching the learning
experience.
– It promotes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a lifelong love of learning.

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• Cultural Preservation and Understanding
– Research in the humanities and social sciences preserves cultural heritage and promotes
cross-cultural understanding.
– It helps societies reflect on their histories, values, and identities.
• Professional Development
– Engaging in research fosters skills such as critical analysis, problem-solving, and
communication.
– It enhances the professional capabilities of individuals across various fields.
• Health and Well-Being
– Medical and health-related research leads to improved treatments, preventive measures,
and health policies.
– It contributes to a better understanding of diseases and health behaviors.

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• Environmental Awareness
– Research helps understand environmental issues, driving efforts towards sustainability
and conservation.
– It informs practices that protect natural resources and biodiversity.
• Economic Impact
– Research contributes to economic development by supporting industries, creating jobs,
and fostering competitiveness.
– It attracts investment in research and development sectors.

In summary, the significance of research lies in its ability to inform, innovate, and inspire
change, ultimately enhancing the quality of life and addressing the complex challenges
faced by individuals and societies.

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 1.6 Research Methods Vs Methodology(cont’d)
• Research methodology is a way to systematically solve the research
problem. It may be understood as a science of studying how research is
done scientifically.
• In it we study the various steps that are generally adopted by a
researcher in studying his research problem along with the logic behind
them.
• It is necessary for the researcher to know not only the research
methods/techniques but also the methodology
• Researchers not only need to know how to develop certain indices or
tests, how to apply particular research techniques, but they also need to
know which of these methods or techniques, are relevant and which are
not, and what would they mean and indicate and why.
• Researchers also need to understand the assumptions underlying various
techniques and they need to know the criteria by which they can decide
that certain techniques and procedures will be applicable to certain
problems and others will not.
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• The scope of research methodology is wider than that of research
methods.
• Thus, when we talk of research methodology we not only talk of the
research methods but also consider the logic behind the methods we use
in the context of our research study and explain why we are using a
particular method or technique and why we are not using others so that
research results are capable of being evaluated either by the researcher
himself or by others.
– Why a research study has been undertaken,
– how the research problem has been defined,
– in what way and why the hypothesis has been formulated,
– what data have been collected and what particular method has been
adopted,
– why particular technique of analyzing data has been used
• And a host of similar other questions are usually answered when we talk
of research methodology concerning a research problem or study.
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 1.7 Research & Scientific Methods
• Research and scientific methods are essential components of systematic
inquiry, aimed at generating knowledge and understanding the natural and
social worlds. Here’s an overview of these concepts:
Research
– Research is a structured process of investigation aimed at discovering new information,
validating existing knowledge, or exploring specific questions or hypotheses.
– It can be classified into various types, including basic and applied research, as well as
quantitative and qualitative approaches.
Scientific Methods
– The scientific method is a systematic, logical approach used in research to ensure that
findings are reliable and valid.
– It typically involves several key steps:

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1. Observation:
– Identify a phenomenon or problem that sparks curiosity.
– Gather preliminary data and insights.
2. Question:
– Formulate a specific research question based on observations.
– Ensure the question is clear, focused, and researchable.
3. Hypothesis:
– Develop a testable hypothesis or prediction that addresses the research question.
– A hypothesis should be falsifiable, meaning it can be tested and potentially disproven.
4. Experimentation/Research Design:
– Design an experiment or study to test the hypothesis.
– Determine variables (independent, dependent, and control), sample size, and data
collection methods.
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5. Data Collection:
– Gather data using appropriate techniques (surveys, experiments, observations,
etc.).Ensure methods are reliable and valid to maintain the integrity of the data.
6. Analysis:
– Analyze the collected data using statistical or qualitative methods.
– Interpret the results in the context of the hypothesis and research question.
7. Conclusion:
– Draw conclusions based on the data analysis.
– Determine whether the hypothesis is supported or rejected.
8. Communication:
– Share findings with the scientific community through publications, presentations, or reports.
– Peer review is often a critical part of this process, ensuring the research is scrutinized by
other experts.
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Importance of the Scientific Method
• Objectivity: Reduces bias by relying on systematic observation and
empirical evidence.
• Replicability: Enables other researchers to reproduce studies, which helps
verify findings.
• Predictability: Helps develop theories that can predict future outcomes
based on established patterns.
• Progress: Advances knowledge by building on previous findings and refining
theories over time.

By employing the scientific method, researchers can contribute to a reliable

body of knowledge that informs various fields, from medicine and engineering to
social sciences and the humanities.
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1.8 Research Process and Criteria of Good
Research.
The research process is a systematic series of steps that researchers follow to
conduct their investigations effectively. Here’s a detailed outline of the research
process:
1. Identifying the Research Problem
– Definition: Clearly articulate the issue or phenomenon you want to study.
– Importance: Ensure the problem is relevant and significant within your field.
2. Review of Literature
– Purpose: Gather existing information and studies related to your topic.
– Activities: Identify gaps in the literature, understand current theories, and contextualize
your research.

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3. Formulating Research Questions/Hypotheses
– Questions: Develop specific, focused research questions that guide your inquiry.
– Hypotheses: If applicable, create testable hypotheses based on your questions.
4. Research Design
– Types: Decide on the overall approach (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
– Methodology: Choose specific methods (e.g., surveys, experiments, case studies) and
define your study’s framework.
5. Sampling
– Population: Identify the population you want to study.
– Sample Selection: Decide on a sampling method (random, stratified, convenience) and
determine sample size.

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6. Data Collection
– Techniques: Use appropriate tools and techniques to gather data (interviews,
questionnaires, observations, etc.).
– Ethics: Ensure ethical considerations are addressed, including informed consent and
confidentiality.
7. Data Analysis
– Quantitative Analysis: Use statistical methods to analyze numerical data.
– Qualitative Analysis: Employ coding and thematic analysis for non-numerical data.
– Interpretation: Make sense of the data in relation to your research questions and
hypotheses.
8. Drawing Conclusions
– Findings: Summarize the main findings of your research.
– Implications: Discuss the significance of your findings in the context of the broader field.

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9. Reporting and Presenting Results
– Format: Prepare a research report, thesis, or article that details your methods, findings,
and conclusions.
– Presentation: Share your findings through presentations, conferences, or publications.
10. Review and Reflection
– Evaluation: Reflect on the research process, its limitations, and the implications for
future research.
– Further Research: Identify new questions or areas for further investigation based on
your findings.
11. Dissemination
– Sharing Knowledge: Share your research with the wider community, including
stakeholders, practitioners, and policymakers.

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Importance of the Research Process
• Structure: Provides a clear framework for conducting research
systematically.
• Consistency: Ensures that research is replicable and reliable.
• Quality: Enhances the credibility and validity of the findings.

By following this structured research process, researchers can

conduct thorough and meaningful studies that contribute to their
fields and society at large.
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Criteria of Good Research
• Good research is characterized by several key criteria that ensure its quality,
reliability, and validity. Here are the main criteria for evaluating the
effectiveness of research:
1. Clarity and Precision
– Well-defined Objectives: Research should have clear, focused questions or
hypotheses.
– Specific Terminology: Use precise language to avoid ambiguity in the research context.
2. Relevance
– Significance: The research should address important issues or gaps in existing
knowledge.
– Applicability: Findings should have practical implications or contribute to theoretical
understanding.

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3. Reliability
– Consistency: Research methods and procedures should yield consistent results over
time and across different contexts.
– Repeatability: Others should be able to replicate the study and achieve similar results.
4. Validity
– Internal Validity: Ensures that the study accurately measures what it intends to measure
(i.e., the relationship between variables).
– External Validity: Findings should be generalizable to other settings, populations, or
times.
5. Methodological Rigor
– Appropriate Design: The research design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed
methods) should align with the research questions.
– Robust Data Collection: Use reliable and valid instruments for data gathering.

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6. Ethical Considerations
– Informed Consent: Participants should be fully informed about the research and provide
consent.
– Confidentiality: Ensure that participants' data is kept private and secure.
– Ethical Review: Research should be reviewed by an ethics committee if it involves
human or animal subjects.
7. Critical Analysis
– Thorough Interpretation: Data should be analyzed comprehensively, considering
alternative explanations and potential biases.
– Acknowledgment of Limitations: Recognizing the study’s limitations enhances its
credibility.

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8. Transparency
– Clear Documentation: All aspects of the research process, including methodology, data, and
analyses, should be documented and available for scrutiny.
– Open Access: Where possible, making data and findings accessible to others promotes
transparency.
9. Contribution to Knowledge
– Originality: The research should provide new insights, challenge existing theories, or offer
innovative solutions to problems.
– Integration: Findings should connect with or build upon existing literature and theories.
10. Effective Communication
– Clarity of Reporting: Research findings should be presented clearly and logically in reports,
articles, or presentations.
– Target Audience: Tailor communication to the intended audience, whether academic,
professional, or public.
By adhering to these criteria, researchers can ensure that their work is credible,
impactful, and valuable to their respective fields.
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 1.9 Skeleton of Research Proposal
Here's a skeleton outline for a research proposal:
• Title Page
– Title of the Research
– Your Name
– Institution/Department
– Date
• Abstract
– A brief summary of the research proposal (150-250 words)
• Introduction
– Background Information
– Statement of the Problem
– Research Objectives
– Significance of the Study

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• Literature Review
– Overview of Relevant Research
– Gaps in Existing Literature
– Theoretical Framework
• Research Questions/Hypotheses
– Specific questions or hypotheses the research aims to address
• Methodology
– Research Design : Qualitative, Quantitative, or Mixed Methods
– Sample Selection : Description of the sample and sampling method
– Data Collection Methods: Surveys, interviews, experiments, etc.
– Data Analysis Plan: Tools and techniques for analyzing data

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• Timeline
– Proposed timeline for each phase of the research
• Budget (if applicable)
– Estimated costs and funding sources
• References
– List of all cited works in the proposal
• Appendices (if necessary)
– Additional materials such as questionnaires or consent forms

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 1.10 Research Ethics
Research ethics is a crucial aspect of conducting research
responsibly and ethically. Here’s an overview of key principles and
considerations:
Key Principles
• Respect for Persons
– Acknowledge autonomy and the rights of individuals.
– Ensure informed consent, meaning participants understand the study and
voluntarily agree to participate.
• Beneficence
– Aim to maximize benefits and minimize harm.
– Assess potential risks and take steps to mitigate them.
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• Justice
– Ensure fair distribution of the benefits and burdens of research.
– Avoid exploitation of vulnerable populations and ensure equitable
selection of participants.
• Integrity
– Maintain honesty in all aspects of research, including data collection,
analysis, and reporting.
– Avoid plagiarism, fabrication, and falsification.

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Ethical Considerations
• Informed Consent
– Provide clear information about the study's purpose, procedures, risks,
and benefits.
– Allow participants to ask questions and withdraw at any time.
• Confidentiality and Privacy
– Protect participants' personal information and data.
– Use anonymization techniques where possible.
• Vulnerable Populations
– Be extra cautious when working with groups such as children, prisoners,
or those with cognitive impairments.
– Ensure additional safeguards are in place.
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• Research Misconduct
– Familiarize yourself with definitions of misconduct (e.g., plagiarism, data
manipulation).
– Promote a culture of ethical research within your institution.
• Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval
– Seek approval from an IRB or ethics committee before starting your
research.
– Prepare to provide details on how you will uphold ethical standards.
Conclusion
Adhering to ethical guidelines in research not only protects participants but also
enhances the credibility and validity of your findings. Always stay informed
about ethical standards relevant to your field and continuously reflect on the
ethical implications of your research decisions.
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