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Chapter 5 : Foundations for good research - Coggle Diagram
Chapter 5 : Foundations for good research
Empirical research
Defined as any research where conclusions of the study is strictly drawn from concretely empirical evidence, and therefore "verifiable" evidence.
Type of research methodology that makes use of verifiable evidence in order to arrive at research outcomes.
What is good research?
Clarify of purpose
The purpose of the research should ne stated clearly and explicitly.
The problem involved or the decisions to be made should be clearly defined and sharply delineated in its terms and as unambiguous as possible.
Relevance
Concern the questions 'what is to be gained from the research?
a.
Contributing to existing knowledge
- It is important for all researchers to be aware of previous study in the broad area to be researched.
b.
Addressing real problems or issues
- The problem in question needs to be considered within the context of what is already known about similar problems.
c,
Timeless, relevance to contemporary concerns
- Being able to demonstrate how it connects with contemporary concern in either a specific business or wider societal context
d.
Researcher's personal agenda
- helps the researcher to put into perspective past events.
Manageable research
An important issue for all researchers, particularly for undergraduate and postgraduate students working on tight schedules.
Need to plan carefully the timelines from a small-scales research project.
Originality
Should expect to be quizzed on their research along the lines 'What did you find out that we did not already know?'
Researcher should set out purposely in the direction of 'new territory' to try and arrive at new conclusion to the older research.
Accuracy
Should produce valid data using reliable methods
Question to ask include,
Has the research asked relevant questions of the right people?
Is the data collected sufficiently detailed and precise?
does the data connect with the conclusions reached in the research?
Credibility
Should include full and detailed accounts of its methodology to convince the readers and other interested parties that the findings and recommendations made are reasonable ones.
Applicability
Should aim to produce findings and conclusions that can apply to other similar situations and from which general principles or conclusions can be made or inferred.
Objectivity
Can lead us to consciously or unconsciously shape research to connect it with our frames of references.
To be open minded is very important, as research can often throw up unexpected results that may challenge beliefs and feelings that may have prompted the research in the first place.
Ethical approaches to research
Every participant has dignity and they should be respected before, during and after completing the research.
Ethics concerns the system of moral principals by which individuals can judge their own actions and the actions of others as right or wrong, good or bad.
Caution
Need to cautious about their findings; research rarely 'proves' anything, although it often 'suggest' a particular or significant cause-effect, suggest an approach to problem solving or lends support to a particular theory.