Research Methodology

Importance

• To generate knowledge /literature• To evolve theories, principles, constructs or

models• Discovery of facts or finding out truth• To solve problems/ resolving the conflicts

Definitions

• John W Best “ Research is considered to be more formal

systematic, intensive process of carrying on the systematic structure of investigation, usually resulting in some sort of procedures and a report of the results”.

• F.N. Kerlinger

“ defines research as the systematic, controlled, emprical and critical investigation of hypothetical propositions about the presumed relations among natural phenomena”.

• G.J. Mouly “ Research is best conceived as the process of

arriving at dependable solutions to problems through the planned and systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of data. It is most important tool for advancing knowledge, for promoting progress…. for resolving conflicts”.

Types of Edul. Research

• Purpose

• Basic/ Fundamental Research - is conducted in the sterile laboratory setting. - results in the form of knowledge/ literature

- evolves theories, principles, models etc.- sets the ground for the other form of researches- conducted by the experienced researcher

• Applied Research

• aims to solve the problems• is conducted on a representative sample• findings are generalised over the entire population• almost all researches in edu. are applied in nature• based on a very sound research methodology• Conducted by educationist/ experienced researcher

•Action Research

• is small- scale intervention, in terms of- - time

- sample• is conducted to solve immediate problem• is conducted by the practioners• findings are applicable on the specific group

• Research Paradiagm Qualitative Quantitative

• Studies relationship, effects and causes• Holistic enquiry• Focuses on individual variables• Studies social phenomena

• Context specific enquiry• Context free ( generalisation)• Participant observer• Detached role of researcher

• Narrative description• Statistical analysis• Design flexibility• Rigidity in research design

• Case study, ethnographic studies, historical researches• Experimental researches, ex-post

facto research, survey researches