Research Methodologies
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victorsebstarResearch Methodologies
Uploaded by
victorsebstarNAME AND REGISTRATION NUMBER
- Victor Mwebi Bokambi : SCT221-C004-0362/2023
- Kevin Kiambo Maina : SCT221 – C004 -0762/2022
- Michael Onyango Ager : SCT221-C004-0382/2023
REFERENCING SYSTEMS
Definition
A structured method used to acknowledge and cite sources of information, ideas, or data that a
researcher uses in their work.
Importance
- Avoids plagiarism by giving proper credit.
- Supports arguments with authoritative evidence.
- Demonstrates research depth and credibility.
- Provides a clear trail for readers to follow the researcher’s sources.
Main Components
- In-text citations: brief references within the body of the text.
- Reference list / bibliography: a detailed list at the end of the document with full source
information.
Common Referencing Styles
- APA (American Psychological Association) – Used in social sciences. Author-date style (e.g.,
Mark, 2020).
- MLA (Modern Language Association) – Used in humanities/literature. Author-page style (e.g.,
Smith 23).
- Chicago – Used in history and arts. Two versions: author-date or footnote style.
- Harvard – Widely used across disciplines. Similar to APA, uses author-date style.
- IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) – Used in engineering and technology.
Numbered citations [1].
- Vancouver – Used in medicine and health sciences. Numbered references in order of use.
RESEARCH PHILOSOPHY
Definition
A set of beliefs and assumptions about how knowledge is developed, understood, and interpreted
in a field of study.
Importance
- Guides the choice of research design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
- Ensures coherence between research questions, methodology, and analysis.
- Justifies your approach in academic writing.
Types of Research Philosophy
- Positivism: Reality is objective; knowledge is based on measurable facts. Methods:
experiments, surveys.
- Interpretivism: Reality is subjective; knowledge is context-based. Methods: interviews, case
studies.
- Realism: Reality exists independently but can be interpreted differently. Mixed methods are
used.
- Pragmatism: Reality is practical; knowledge is what works. Methods: problem-focused, mixed.
- Constructivism: Reality is socially constructed; knowledge is developed through interaction.
Methods: ethnography, narratives.
SLOGAN VS EVIDENCE
Slogan
- Catchy, persuasive statement lacking proof.
- Aims to attract attention.
- Example: “Technology is the answer to all our problems.”
Evidence
- Verified data or information that proves a claim.
- Supports arguments or findings objectively.
- Example: “According to a 2023 study by WHO, 72% of respondents in urban areas use
smartphones to access health services.”
ARGUMENTS AND PERSUASION
Arguments
- Logical and reasoned claim supported by facts.
- Structured and objective.
- Includes counterarguments.
- Example: “Remote work increases productivity. A study by Stanford University (2015) showed
remote workers were 13% more productive.”
Persuasion
- Seeks to influence through logic, emotion, or credibility.
- Relies on evidence, not manipulation.
- Example: “Given the growing mental health crisis among youth, it is imperative that
policymakers integrate digital well-being education into school curricula.”
PLAGIARISM
Definition
Using someone else’s work, ideas, or words without proper acknowledgement.
Types of Plagiarism
- Direct – Copying text word-for-word without citation.
- Self – Reusing your own previous work without citing it.
- Mosaic – Mixing copied phrases with original text without credit.
- Paraphrasing – Rewording ideas without citing the source.
- Source-Based – Using fabricated or incorrect references.
Importance
- Breaches academic ethics.
- May result in rejection, legal action, or reputational harm.
- Hinders academic progress by concealing original authorship.
