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Methods of Research Thesis
UM Research Center
Chapter 1 ORIENTATION
Topics
Guidelines in the Conduct of Undergraduate Thesis/Research.
Objectives
Discuss the guidelines and procedure in the conduct of undergraduate research/thesis.
The following guidelines shall apply in the conduct of undergraduate thesis
1. A student research group shall consist of three members who shall select a research topic. The group shall submit a title proposal using the prescribed format. A research topic shall be in accordance with the research priority areas of the College.
The Title Proposal
2. Upon approval of title, the students may write the research outline proposal.
3. The adviser and other research personnel shall then be identified/chosen for the research study. All research personnel must possess qualifications enumerated in the UM Research Manual.
1. The students shall submit the research outline of approved title written in the prescribed format.
2. The thesis adviser shall review the academic soundness, departmental compatibility and appropriateness of the research proposal before submission.
The Outline Proposal
3. The thesis instructor shall schedule the outline defense before a panel of three faculty members chosen based on their field of training and interest.
4. The research study shall only be conducted after approval of the outline by the defense panel.
1. Each research group shall be required to enter all data and activities in a record book which is to be submitted to the thesis instructor during the final defense. The instructors shall have the right to inspect this record book from time to time. Each entry in the record book shall contain the following:
Conduct of Study
Date:
Activity:
By Whom:
Place:
Results:
Signature of Adviser:
Elements in Record Book
2. The thesis adviser shall be consulted for any change/modification in the methodology or for any incident that may affect the study. The thesis instructor shall also be informed of the same.
1. Oral defense will be conducted at least a month before the end of the semester. The thesis instructor shall arrange the schedule of said defense.
2. The students shall submit three (3) copies of the manuscript to the thesis instructor one week before the scheduled defense, for distribution to the panel members. The thesis manuscript shall be endorsed by the thesis adviser and certified by the editor.
The Final Defense
1. The research students shall revise/improve the report based on the recommendations and suggestions of the defense panel.
2. The final thesis report shall be submitted to the thesis adviser for endorsement.
3. The students shall accomplish the Approval Sheet.
4. The students shall submit six(6) bound copies of the final thesis report to the thesis instructor.
The Thesis Report
Each research group shall consist of at least three members each. Fees collected per group (P2700) shall be used as used as follows:
Research Fees
1 adviser …………………………… P 1000
1 grammarian ……………………… 500
1 statistician …..…………………… 500
2 panel members @ P200 each …..... 400
3 validators @ P100 each …...……... 300
Note:
Your professor will release your grade only after receiving a copy
of your duly approved manuscript.
END
Chapter 2 NATURE OF RESEARCH
Topics
ResearchCharacteristics of ResearchTypes of ResearchThe Research Process
Objectives
Define research. Discuss the characteristics of research.Differentiate the types of research.Discuss the steps in conducting a
research.
Definition of Research
Research is a purposive, systematic and scientific process of gathering, analyzing, classifying, organizing, presenting and interpreting data for the solution of a problem, for prediction, for invention, for the discovery of truth, or for the expansion or verification of existing knowledge, all for the preservation and improvement of the quality of life. (Calderon, 1993)
Characteristics of Research
1. Empirical
Research is based on direct experience or observation by the researcher. The collection of data relies on practical experience without benefit of the scientific knowledge or theory.
2. Logical
Research is based on valid procedures and principles. Scientific investigation is done in an orderly and accurate manner so the researcher can draw valid conclusions based on actual evidence.
3. Cyclical
Research starts with a problem and ends with a problem. From the recommendations of a completed research, other problems crop up as subjects for further study. Hence, research is a cyclical process.
4. Analytical
Research utilizes proven analytical procedures in gathering data and in analyzing them so that there is no error in their interpretation.
5. Replicability
Research designs and procedures are replicated to arrive at valid and conclusive results. The more replications, the more valid and conclusive the results would be.
6. Critical
Research exhibits careful and precise judgment. Data are treated statistically at a higher level of confidence to determine its significance or usefulness.
7. Objective and Ethical
There should be no bias or partiality in treating the results and no effort is made to alter them. Integrity in research is must. Ethical rules must be observed.
Types of Research
1. Basic or Pure Research
2. Applied Research
3. Action Research
Basic or Pure Research is conducted primarily to test or
arrive at a theory. Its main objective is to add to the body of scientific knowledge by exploring the unknown and discover new
facts without any particular thought as to its immediate and
practical application.
Applied Research involves seeking new applications of scientific knowledge to the
solution of a problem, such as the development of new device,
or new method. It is conducted for the purpose of applying, or testing
theory, and evaluating its usefulness.
Action Research is a feature of applied research which involves discovering and identifying a problem in the local setting
and solving it in the same setting but without intention of generalizing its
results. It is a decision-oriented research involving the application of scientific method in response to an immediate need to improve existing practices.
The Research Process
Problem
Theoretical/ Conceptual Framework
Review of Related Literature
Method and Materials
Data Collection
Data ProcessingAnalysis and
Interpretation of Data
Drawing of Conclusions
Making Recommendations
Chapter 3 THE RESEARCH PROBLEM
Topics
Identification of the ProblemCharacteristics of a Research ProblemGuidelines in the Selection of a
Research TopicThe Title Proposal
Objectives
Give the conditions for the existence of a research problem.
Explain the five criteria of a good research problem.
Discuss the sources of research problems.Be familiar with the guidelines in the
selection of a research problem.Submit a title proposal.
Identification of the Problem
A problem exists if:
1. there is absence of information resulting in a gap in our knowledge
2. there are contradictory results
3. a fact exists and you intend to make your study explain
Characteristics of a Research Problem
S
M
A
R
T
pecificeasurablechievable
ealistic
ime-bound.
The problem should be specifically stated.
It is easy to measure by using research instruments in collecting data.
Data are attainable using correct statistical techniques to arrive at precise results.
The problem is rational and real results are not manipulated.
Time frame is required in every activity. The shorter the completion, the better.
Sources of Research Problems
1. Personal Experience
There are a lot of happenings in the world for a person not to notice. What is required of a would be researcher is the keenness and sensitivity to what is occurring around him.
2. Practical Problems
Research may be stimulated by problems of existing practices and needs that require immediate solution.
2. Practical Problems
Research may be stimulated by problems of existing practices and needs that require immediate solution.
3. Research Journals, Theses, Dissertations
From any of these sources an investigator can draw research issues or problems which require a scientific study.
4. Conferences, symposia, dialogues, meetings
In any of these activities, it is likely that problems related to the theme or advocacy of the gathering are discussed.
5. List of research priorities of government agencies, NGOs, industry and private foundations.
Research priority areas of these groups are usually published in the internet.
Research Agenda for Engineering
• Environment studies• Policy issues and instructional development
for engineering education• Engineering technology studies• Energy
Guidelines in the Selection of a Research Problem
• The research problem or topic must be chosen by the researcher himself.
• It must be within the interest of the researcher.
• It must be within the specialization of the researcher.
• It must be within the competence of the researcher to tackle.
• It must be within the ability of the researcher to finance.
• It must be researchable and manageable, that is,
• Data are available and accessible.• The data must meet the standards of accuracy,
objectivity, and verifiability.• Answers to the specific questions can be found.• The hypotheses formulated are testable, that is,
they can be accepted or rejected.
• Equipment and instruments for research are available and can give valid and reliable data.
• It can be completed in a reasonable period of time.
• It is significant, important, and relevant to the present time and situation (timely and of current interest).
• The results are practical and implementable.• It requires original, critical, and reflective
thinking to solve it.
• It can be delimited to suit the resources of the researcher but big enough to be able to give significant, valid and reliable results and generalizations.
• It must contribute to the fund of human knowledge, to the national development goals for the improvement of the quality of human life.
• It must not undermine the moral and spiritual values of the people.
• There must be a consideration of the hazards involved, either physical, social or legal.
Parts of a Title Proposal
1. Research Title
2. Proponents
3. Description of the Project
Rationale
Objectives of the Study
Conceptual Framework
Methodology
4. Research Project Duration
5. Approximate Budget
The Research Title• a brief descriptive label (10-15 words)• names the major variables that are the
subject of investigation• answers the questions of what, who, and
where• eye-catching and thought-provoking
Proponents
• list of thesis group members
Rationale
This section gives the basis, motivation and justification of the study. It
discusses the reasons why the study should be undertaken.
Objectives of the Study
The general objective is a statement of the over-all purpose of the study and is generally expressed in a declarative
statement that is more or less consistent with the title of the study.
The general objective is followed by the specific objectives/problems that are clearly
based on the components of the broad problem. They may be stated in declarative
or interrogative form.
Each specific objective/question is researchable and can be interpreted apart
from the other objectives/questions.
Answers to these objectives/questions must contribute to the development of the whole research problem. Specific objectives must add to the totality of the research problem.
They must be stated in clear, concise, and measurable terms. Its number should be
enough to cover the whole development of the study.
The specific objectives must not exceed the coverage of the main problem. Neither can the specific objectives
exclude significant areas of the main problem.
Conceptual Framework
This section presents the concept upon which the study is based.
It is followed by a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship of the variables
being studied. The diagram shows the dependent variables, independent
variables and moderator variables(if any).
Independent Variable
Dependent Variable
Moderator Variable
Methodology
This part briefly describes the type of research method to be used, the method of
collecting data, research instruments, sampling design and statistical treatment.
Indicates the approximate period of time to be spent in conducting the study.
Research Project Duration
Approximate Budget
Indicates the approximate amount of money to be spent in conducting the study.
Title Proposal Format
END
Chapter 4 RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Topics
Parts of a Research Proposal
The Problem and its Setting
Review of Related Literature
Methodology
Objectives
Discuss the contents and characteristics of the different parts of a research proposal.
Submit a research proposal.
3 Parts of a Research Proposal
The Problem and its Setting
Review of Related Literature
Methodology
Components of a Research Proposal
Title PageTable of ContentsChapter 1. The Problem and its SettingChapter 2. Review of Related LiteratureChapter 3. MethodologyAdditional Parts
Title Page
The title page presents the title, the kind of research work, the faculty to be submitted to; the name of school; the submission statement; the degree granted; full name of the researcher; month and year in which the degree is to be (or was) granted. The title is written in all capital letters in an inverted pyramid style.
Sample Title Page
BACK
THE EFFECT OF INTERMITTENT HIGH TEMPERATURE IN IN-SHELL DRYING
OF COCONUTS
A Thesis Proposal
Submitted to
The Faculty of the Chemical Engineering Department
University of Mindanao
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
Submitted by
Voltaire S. Templa
October 2002
Table of Contents
This is a list of all elements in the research paper – chapter titles, the main heading and subheadings in the text, bibliography and appendix. The numbering of chapters, wording and punctuation must be exactly similar as they appear in the text.
Tables. The list of tables should follow the table of contents. If there are only two or three tables in the text of the research paper, this page may be omitted. All captions should appear exactly the same in the listing.
Figures. The list of figures follows the list of tables. List of Figures is omitted if there are only two or three figures in the text. All captions should appear exactly the same in the listing. Flowcharts, graphs, paradigms, charts, drawings, maps, and diagrams are usually grouped as figures.
Sample Table of Contents
CONTENTS
ACKNOLEDGMENTS iiiTABLES vii
FIGURES xi
Page
CHAPTER
1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING 1 Background of the Study 1
Statement of the Problem 4
Theoretical Framework 5
Scope and Limitations of the Study 8
Significance of the Study 9
Definition of Terms 10
2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 12 3 METHODOLOGY 20
Research Design 20
Subjects/Participants 21
Research Instruments 22
Research Procedure 24
Statistical Tools 29
BIBLIOGRAPHY 33SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES 36
PROPOSED BUDGET 38
Sample List of Tables
LIST OF TABLES
Page
TABLE
1 Distribution of UM Students by Program 40
2 Distribution of UM Faculty by Program 45
3 Mean Performance Ratings of UM Faculty 52
4 Mean Values of the Level of Satisfaction
of UM Students on Faculty
Performance 60
Sample List of
Figures
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
FIGURE
1 Conceptual Paradigm of the Study 6
2 Flowchart of the Preparation of Cheese
from Coconut Milk 25
3 Mean Score on the Color Acceptability
of Cheese from Coconut Milk 42
4 Mean Score on the Flavor Acceptability
of Cheese from Coconut Milk 57
BACK
Chapter 1.
1.1 Background of the Study
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Theoretical Framework
1.4 Scope and Limitations of the Study
1.5 Significance of the Study
1.6 Definition of Terms
THE PROBLEM
1.1. Background of the Study
This refers to the overview of the study discussing the factors that lead to the conceptualization of the problem. It should indicate the importance and validity of the particular problem. It must point out that the problem has not been fully studied or that its study would make a useful contribution.
Guidelines in the Writing the Background of the Study
This section should contain a discussion of any or all of the following:
Presentation of the Problem. Tells what the problem is all about and indicates what will be covered by the study.
The existence of a problem. Discusses the existing unsatisfactory condition that needs a solution.
Rationale of the Study. Talks about the reason or reasons why it is necessary to conduct the study – to discover or solve something; to find a better way of doing something or improving a product; to have a deeper and clearer understanding of a situation, circumstance, or phenomenon
Historical Background of the problem. Gives a bird’s eye view of the backdrop of the problem by citing published materials relevant to the study.
BACK
1.2. Statement of the Problem
There should be a general statement of the whole problem followed by specific questions or sub-problems into which the general problem is broken up.
The research problem subsumes two important pieces of information: the study content and the precise objectives of the investigation.
This implies that a researcher cannot effectively carry out a study unless he has
a purpose and knows what to look for during the investigation. To define a
problem means to specify it in greater detail to focus on its main objective. This focusing provides a clear direction to the
research activity.
The statement of the problem should identify, if possible, all the variables, and
what questions about these variables does the research seek to answer.
Sample Statement Of the Problem
Assumptions and Hypotheses
Historical and descriptive investigations do not need explicit hypotheses and assumptions. Only experimental studies need expressly written assumptions and hypotheses.
Assumptions are presumed to be true statements of facts related to the research problem. They are clearly stated as a foundation to form conclusions. It is advisable that evidences or arguments in support of these assumptions are presented. Not all studies have a section on assumptions because some of these are already included in the background of the study.
A hypothesis is a tentative and educated guess that is formulated and temporarily adopted to explain or answer specific questions of the study. It is important for it tells the researcher what to do and how to go about solving the problem.
Types of Hypothesis
Null Hypothesis (HO) is a denial of an existence of an attribute, a relationship or a difference of an effect. It is always stated in the negative form.
Alternative Hypothesis (HA) is the opposite extreme of the HO and is always stated in the positive form. It is an affirmation of the existence of an observed phenomenon.
BACK
1.3. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
This component expounds on the theory, indicator, and variables that led to the evolvement of the research problem and its corresponding hypotheses. Its narrative text is supported by a schematic diagram that graphically portrays the theories and concepts involved.
Theoretical Framework is a symbolic construction which uses abstract concepts, facts or laws, variables and their relations that explains and predicts how an observed phenomenon exists and operates.
Conceptual Framework presents specific and well-defined concepts called constructs that are derived from abstract concepts of the theoretical framework.
Level Independent Variable
Moderator Variable
Dependent Variable
Theoretical
Conceptual
River Qualities
Color, odor, temperature, pH,
turbidity, DO, BOD
Sampling conditions
Time of Sampling, Sampling site
Health of River
River classification
Paradigm is a diagrammatic representation of a framework. It depicts in a more vivid way what the framework wants to convey.
RIVER QUALITIES
Color, odor, temperature, pH, turbidity, DO, BOD
RIVER CLASSIFICATION
Standard A-Quality Standard B-Quality
SAMPLING CONDITIONS
Time Location
Variables are plain information to which are attached certain meanings or symbols. Independent variables should be controlled so that the interference of other variables will be minimized or avoided.
Selection and Control of Variables
In other words, the variables that could affect the independent variables should be held constant. In the case of dependent variable, one should be sure that it has been caused by the independent variable.
Types of Variables
1. Independent Variable
It is a variable which is measured, manipulated or selected by the researcher to determine its relationship to an observed phenomenon; it is the stimulus variable.
Independent variables may be called actors. They are either discrete or continuous. Discrete variables should be classified, categorized and labeled into classes. Continuous variables should be stated in numerical terms indicating its degree(level).
2. Dependent Variable
This is the variable which is observed and measured to determine the effect of the independent variable; it is the response variable. It is the variable which that appears, disappears, or varies as the researcher introduces, removes or varies the independent variable.
3. Moderator Variable
The moderator variable is a type of independent variable which is measured, manipulated or selected by the researcher to discover whether it modifies the relationship of the independent variable to the observed phenomenon.
4. Control Variable
The control variable is a a variable which is controlled by the researcher to cancel out or neutralize any effect that might otherwise have on the observed phenomenon.
5. Intervening Variable
This a factor which theoretically affects the observed phenomenon but cannot be seen, measured or manipulated. Its effects must be inferred from the effects of the independent and moderator variables on the observed phenomenon.
BACK
1.4. Scope and Limitations of the Study
This section sets the precise limits of the problem area – what the researcher will include and what he will not include. This should discuss the weaknesses of the study which are beyond the control of the researcher.
The limitations of the study can be in terms of the subject and location coverage of the investigation, including the reasons for such limitations. Other coverage of the limitations are program/project components and time span, including availability of time and resources.
BACK
1.5. Significance of the Study
A short paragraph explaining why the research is important and what possible effects the results of the study will have on present conditions. In writing this part, one basic question has to be answered: Of what use will be the findings of the study?
It should specify who or what agency/ organization will benefit from the findings of the study and in what way will they benefit.
By setting forth the significance of the study, the researcher provides a convincing rationale for justifying the research problem.
BACK
1.6. Definition of Terms
It is useful to provide brief operational definitions of the variables It is not necessary to operationally define all terms, just the principal variables.
Two ways of Defining Terms
Conceptual Definitions. The terms are defined based on concepts rather than observable ones and are usually taken from the dictionary, encyclopedia or books.
Operational Definitions. The terms are defined based on observable characteristics and how it is used in the study.
BACK
Chapter 2.
This refers to the body of literature related to the study being proposed or a discussion on how the research proposal is related with current researches in the field. This is a list of previous studies and researches made which have some relationship with the present problem.
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Included may be some professional literature or monographs written about the subject area under investigation. A brief annotation under each of these related literature explaining the relevance of the said materials to the present study is in order.
Use and Citation of Literature
Review of Related Literature The review of related literature involves
the systematic identification, location and analysis of documents containing information related to the research problem.
Sourcesarticles, abstracts, reviews, monographs, dissertations, books, research reports and electronic media.
Purposes of the Review of Literature
To place the topic in a historical concept. To provide for the assessment of previous studies. To justify selection of the topic. To provide the theoretical framework. To assist the researcher in making his research design. To facilitate interpretation of the results of the study.
Characteristics of Related Literature
The materials must be as recent as possible. Materials must be as objective and unbiased as possible. Materials must be relevant to the study. Materials must not be too few nor too many.
Approaches in Presenting Reviewed Literature
Chronological approach Literature is presented according to the time
they were written, that is following the time-sequence pattern.
Type of literature approach Literature is classified into two categories – research and conceptual.
Findings, theme, or topic approach Literature is classified according to
similarity of findings, theme or topic.
Country approach Literature is classified by country, or into “local” and “foreign” studies categories.
Writing the Literature Review
IntroductionSummary of articlesConclusion
Sections of the Review
Introduction
Always begin with an introduction. Introduce your topic and briefly explain why this is a significant or important area for study.
Summary of Articles
For each study, briefly explain the purpose, how it was conducted and the major findings.
Include a transition paragraph from one subtopic to the next.
Present your knowledge on the topics.
Cite your sources. Use direct quotations infrequently.
Example
Communication serves two primary functions in families--cohesion and adaptability (Galvin and Brommel, 1996).
Calvin and Brommel (1996) believe family communication . . .
OR
Conclusion
Briefly summarize the major findings of the studies chosen. Comments about what questions need to still be answered may be included.
BACK
Chapter 3.
This section includes information on the research design to be used, the techniques to be utilized in gathering and analyzing data, the type of data needed to test the hypothesis. Statistical techniques in analyzing the data are also included.
METHODOLOGY
This section may contain the following subtopics:
Research Design Sample size, sampling design and technique Subjects/participants Research Instruments Research Procedure Statistical Treatment
Research Designs
Historical Research Descriptive Research Experimental Research Ex-Post Facto Research Participatory Research
Historical Research
Historical research interprets past trends of attitude, event and fact. It is regarded as much more than just a chronicle of the impressive events of the past; its data must find applicability to contemporary issues and problems.
Descriptive Research
Descriptive research involves the collection of data in order to test hypotheses or to answer questions concerning the present status of the subject of the study.
Types of Descriptive Researches
1. Case StudiesCase studies involve studying one person or just a few persons over a considerable period of time. This entails discovering and studying all the important variables which have contributed to the history of the subject.
2. Surveys
Surveys involve getting information involving a relatively large number of cases. It measures existing phenomenon without inquiring why it exists.
3. Developmental Study
Developmental study uses longitudinal and cross-sectional methods. The longitudinal method studies the same sample participants over an extended period of time while the cross-sectional method studies participants of various characteristics at the same point in time.
4. Flow-up Study
A follow-up study is employed when one intends to investigate the subsequent development of participants after a specified treatment or condition.
5. Documentary Analysis
Documentary analysis involves gathering data by examining records and documents.
6. Trend Analysis
Trend analysis involves studies that seek future status. It is employed in studies which aim to project the demands or needs of the people in the future.
7. Correlational Studies
Correlational studies are designed to determine the extent to which different variables are related to each other in the population of interest.
Experimental Research
Experimental research has to do with controlled observation of change and development in which the researcher manipulates at least one variable (independent variable), controls other relevant variables, and observes the effect on one or more dependent variables.
Ex Post Facto (Causal-Comparative) Research
Ex post facto research investigates a problem by studying the variables in retrospect. The researcher attempts to determine the cause, or reason, for existing differences in the behavior of the subjects under study.
Inferences about relations among variables are made, without direct intervention from concomitant variation of independent and dependent variables.
Participatory Research
Participatory research is people-oriented and focuses on the involvement of everyone touched by the problem from the planning stage to the implementation and evaluation of solutions.
Classification of Research According to Findings
1. Qualitative Research
involves interpretative findings
2. Quantitative Research
involves statistical findings
Research Design
The method of research used should be explained briefly. The procedural part of the method, its appropriateness to the study, and some of its advantages should also be discussed.
BACK
Sample Size, Sampling Design and Technique
The researcher must explain very clearly how he collected his sample. He must show that his sample is representative of the population by showing that he used the appropriate technique of sampling whether pure random sampling, systematic random sampling, stratified random sampling, cluster sampling, or a combination.
This is very important because if sampling is faulty, his findings and conclusions will not be valid nor reliable.
The size of the sample used in the study must be justified.
BACK
Subjects/Participants
This section is labeled as subjects or participants depending on whether animals or humans are used in the study.
Indicate who participated in the study, how many, and how were they selected. With human subjects, be sure to address the issue of informed consent.
Include any details which are relevant to the study. For humans, include the demographic characteristics.
BACK
Research Instruments
For descriptive research, the questionnaire, test, interview, observation schedule, checklist, or rating scale may be described here. How the validity and reliability of these instruments were tested must also be explained.
For experimental research, describe what pieces of apparatus or equipment were used and how they functioned in the study. Also enumerate the actual materials used in the study.
BACK
Research Procedure
For descriptive research, the researcher must explain his data gathering and processing procedures.
For experimental research, the researcher must describe the procedure used in the laboratory or field.
BACK
Statistical Treatment
The statistical tools used to answer the research questions may be described here and the formula may be explained. The level of probability may be stated to determine the degree of significance of the findings.
Considerations in the choice of statistical treatment:
1. The statistical test to be used must be appropriate.
2. The choice of a statistical test is dictated by the questions for which the research is designed, and the level, distribution, and dispersion of data.
3. Other considerations include the extent of your knowledge of statistics and the availability of resources in connection with the computation and interpretation of data.
General Types of Statistical Tests
Parametric Testsused for data that are of the interval or ratio levels of measurements. In addition, the within group scatter of scores of each of the groups to be compared should be equal, and that the population distributions from where the samples were obtained must be normal.
Nonparametric Tests
are called distribution-free statistics since their uses do not always depend on some specific type of score distribution like the normal curve.
Examples of Statistical Tests
1. The Z‑test of one sample mean is used to determine if an obtained sample mean or average of scores or values is but a random sample from a population with a given or hypothesized or expected population mean.
2. The t‑test for independent sample means is used to determine if an observed difference between the averages of two independent groups is statistically significant.
3. The t‑test for dependent sample means is used to determine if there is a significant difference between two groups of correlated scores in terms of their means.
4. The one‑way analysis of variance is used in order to determine if there are differences among means of three or more groups. When a significant value yielded by the analysis of variance test(also called F value) occurs, there is need to do a posteriori test in order to determine which means are different.
5. The two‑way analysis of variance, also called a factorial analysis of variance, is employed in order to determine the main and interaction effects of two independent factors.
6. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation
is employed when there are two sets of scores and you would like to determine if the two sets are correlated.
7. The chi-square goodness-of-fit test tells if an observed frequency distribution on a variable differs significantly from an expected or theoretical distribution of frequencies. The computation calls for data on either the nominal or ordinal level.
8. The chi-square test of association is used to determine whether or not two variables are associated with each other.
9. Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance is used to determine the degree of agreement or concordance among subgroups in ranking a number of sets of items or aspects on the variables of interest.
10. Spearman rho is a test of correlation that is used when the values of both the X and Y variables are ordinal or rank ordered.
BACK
Other Parts
List down, in outline form, the steps to be done in undertaking the research and indicate opposite each step the approximate period of time to be spent in each phase of the study.
Timetable
This consists of publications which have been consulted prior to making the outline. It may also include titles which are intended to be consulted further.
Working Bibliography
How to list the bibliography using APA Style
Mitchell, T. R., & Larson, J. R. (1987). People in organizations: an introduction to organizational behavior (3rd ed.) New York: McGraw hill.
Book
Group Author (government agency) as publisher
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (1991). Estimated resident population by age and sex in statistical local areas. New South Wales, June 1990 (No. 3209.1). Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: Author.
Merriam-Webster’s collegiate dictionary (10th ed.). (1993). Springfield, MA: Merriam Webster.
Book, no author or editor
Article or chapter in an edited book
Bjork, R. A. (1989). Retrieval inhibition as an adaptive mechanism in human memory. In H. L. Roediger 111 & F.I.M. Craik (Eds), Varieties of memory and consciousness (pp. 309-330). Hillslade, NJ: Erlbaum.
Saywitz, K. J., & Mannarino, A. P. (2000). Treatment for sexually abused children and adolescents. American Psychologist, 55, 1040-1049.
Journal article
Newspaper article
Schwartz, J. (1993, September 30). Obesity affects economic, social status. The Washington Post, pp. A1, A4.
Almeida, D. M. (1990). Fathers’ participation in family work. Consciousness for fathers’ stress and father-child
relations. Unpublished master’s thesis, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Unpublished thesis
Internet
VandenBos, G., & Doe, J. (2001). Role of reference elements in the selection of resources by psychology undergraduates. Journal of Bibliographic Research. 5, 117-123. Retrival October 13, 2001, from http://jbr.org/articles.html
University of California, San Francisco, Institute for Health and Aging. (1996, November). Chronic care in America: A 21st century challenge. Retrieval September 9, 2000, from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Web site: http://
www.rwjf.org/library/chcare/
List down proposed budget for expected expenses.
Proposed Budget
Type using double space
Use 8.5” x 11” bond paper
Use 1” upper, right, and lower margins
Use 1.5” left margin
Page no. is placed at upper right hand
corner of page.
Reminders:
END
Chapter 5 RESEARCH REPORT
Topics
The Research Report
Objectives
Discuss the contents and characteristics of the different parts of a research report.
Submit a research report.
Components of a Research Report
The PreliminariesThe Thesis Text BibliographyAppendix
The Preliminaries
A widely accepted format in the writing of a thesis is to start with the preliminaries which usually include the following in their order:
1. Title Page
6. List of Figures
2. Approval Sheet
3. Acknowledgement
4. Table of Contents
5. List of Tables
The Title Page
Use the same format in the Research Proposal but change “ A Thesis Proposal” to “A Thesis”
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Approval Sheet
This is the second page of a research paper which is a certification of approval of the college to which the thesis is presented. This is signed by the thesis adviser, members of the panel and dean of college.
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Acknowledgement
This page is the researcher’s written recognition and appreciation for the assistance and guidance provided by people who in a way helped the researcher in bringing his thesis to completion. Ideally expressed in simple, sincere and tactful language and limited to one or two pages. (This page is optional.)
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Table of Contents
This page lists the chapter headings into which the thesis is divided. It gives an overview of the material covered by the thesis.
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List of Tables
This page comes after the Table of Contents and is made up of the captions of the tables included by the researcher to provide substantial evidences to his presentation. It may include the number of the table, exact caption or title, and page number.
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List of Figures
This page is included only if the researcher used figures such as graphs, charts and other illustrative materials. It may include the number of the figure, exact caption or title, and page number.
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Text of the Thesis
The Problem and its SettingReview of Related Literature MethodologyResults and DiscussionSummary, Conclusions and
Recommendations
Review of Related Literature
Same as thesis proposal
The Problem and its Setting
Methodology
Same as thesis proposal but use past tense
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Results and Discussion
In this section, the data gathered in the study is presented, analyzed and interpreted.
Presentation of data is the process of organizing data into logical, sequential, and meaningful categories and classifications to make them amenable to study and interpretation. Data may be presented in 3 ways: textual, tabular and graphical.
Analysis of data suggests putting the data into proper order and categories. It is the process of breaking up the whole study into its constituent parts of categories according to the specific questions under the statement of the problem.
Interpretation means making inferences pertinent to the research relations investigated in the study.
The purpose of this section is to present the results, evaluate and interpret them with respect to the original research question.
The meaning of each of the significant findings are discussed. Observed trends, variable relations, and cause-effect relationships are explained in terms of the statistical measures used.
Inconsistent findings are pointed out and due interpretations are made thereof. Circumstances which may have affected the unexpected outcomes of the study are explained. Limitations which may have affected the results of the study must be honestly admitted.
Guidelines in Writing Results and Discussion
Briefly state the main findings in words. That is, first give a general description, then go into the details.
When presenting the results of statistical tests, give descriptive statistics before the corresponding inferential statistics. In other words, give means and/or percentages (perhaps referring to a table or figure), before talking about the results of any statistical tests you performed.
When presenting nominal or ordinal data, give the percents rather than frequencies (since percents are independent of the sample size).
When actually presenting the results, try to emphasize the meaning of the statistics. That is, clearly describe what it is you are testing and what significance means for the variables involved.
If you are presenting a lot of material here, you may wish to employ subheadings (as is done in the methods section). These subheadings should have meaning and relevance to the data and should help to organize your presentation of it.
In cases where the reader would expect something to be significant and it is not, you should address the issue.
It is also important to discuss how the results relate to the literature you cited in the introduction. In other words, emphasize any theoretical consequences of the results.
You might (or might not) also mention any limitations of the study and any suggestions for future research in this section.
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Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations
Summary
The Summary presents a general overview of the study from the problem and research objectives to the methodology used ending up with a summary of significant findings which provide answers to the research questions.
Guidelines in Writing the Summary
There should be a brief statement about the main purpose of the study, hypotheses, research design/method used, the sample, research instruments, data gathering and processing methods and statistical treatment. There should be no explanation made.
The summary of findings must answer the specific sub-problems or objectives presented in Chapter 1 of the report. They must be presented in the same order as the sub-problems/objectives.
The findings must be textual generalizations,that is, a summary of the important data consisting of text and numbers. Every statement of fact should consist of words, numbers, or statistical measures woven into a meaningful statement. No deduction, nor inference nor interpretation should be made otherwise it will only be duplicated in the conclusion.
Only the important findings, the highlights of the data, should be included especially those upon which the conclusions should be based.
Findings are not explained nor elaborated upon anymore. They should be stated as concisely as possible.
No new data should be introduced in this section.
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Conclusions are inferences, deductions, abstractions, implications, interpretations, general statements, and/or generalizations based upon the findings. They are the logical and valid outgrowths of the findings.
Conclusions
Guidelines in Writing the Conclusions
The conclusions should not contain any numeral because numerals generally limit the forceful effect or impact and scope of a generalization. No conclusions should be made that are not based upon the findings.
Conclusions should appropriately answer the specific questions raised at the beginning of the investigation in the order they are given under the statement of the problem. If there are only three summarized findings, there should also be three conclusions.
Conclusions should point out what were factually learned from the inquiry. No conclusion should be drawn from the implied or indirect effects of the findings.
Conclusions should be formulated conscisely, that is, brief and direct to the point, yet they convey all the necessary information resulting from the study as required by the specific questions.
Conclusions should be stated categorically. They should be worded as if they are 100 percent true and correct. They should not give any hint that the researcher has some doubts about their validity and reliability. The use of qualifiers such as probably, perhaps, may be, and the like should be avoided.
Conclusions should refer only to the population, area, or subject of study.
Conclusions should not be repetitions of any statements anywhere in the thesis. They may be recapitulations if necessary but they should be worded differently and they should convey the same information as the statements recapitulated.
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Recommendations are proposals of how the results can be used in terms of existing knowledge. It also gives suggestions for further research that is related to the study.
Recommendations
Guidelines in the Recommendations
Recommendations should aim to solve or help solve problems discovered in the investigation. No recommendations should be made for anything that has not been discovered or discussed in the study because they are irrelevant.
There may also be recommendations for the continuance of a good practice or system, or even recommendation for its improvement.
Recommendations should aim for the ideal but they must be feasible, practical, and attainable. They should also be logical and valid.
Recommendations should be addressed to the persons, entities, agencies, or offices who or which are in a position to implement them.
There should be a recommendation for further research on the same topic to verify, amplify, or negate the findings of the study.
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Bibliography
This section is a must and considered an integral part of the report. It is the concluding section of a research paper where listing of source materials is presented according to prescribed format and written on a separate page.
Any citations made in the manuscript must be presented in this section.
This section is arranged in alphabetical order.
A hanging indent is employed for each reference, that is, the first line is not indented and the rest are five-space indented.
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Appendix
Appendix materials include the questionnaire, letter of transmittal, verbatim comments of the respondents, original data, summary, tabulations and computations of data, computer print-outs, tables that contain data of lesser importance, and other supporting documents used in the study. It is listed by letter and may be subdivided according to certain logical classification.
References
Ardales, Venancio B.(2001). Basic concepts and methods in research. Iloilo City: Concerns Inc.
Calderon, J.F. &Gonzales, E.C.(1993). Methods of research and thesis writing(1st ed.). Mandaluyong City:
National Bookstore, Inc.
California State University, Sacramento, School of Social Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies. Organizing and writing a literature review. Retrieval August 26, 2005 from the Web site: http://www.csus.edu/
Taylor D. & Procter M. (July 2005). University of Toronto, Health Sciences Writing Centre. The literature
review: tips on conducting it. Retrieval August 26, 2005 from the Web site: http://www.utoronto.ca/
Paler-Calmorin, L. & Calmorin, M.A.(1995). Methods of research and thesis writing(1st ed.). Quezon City: Rex Printing Company, Inc.
Sample manuscript in apa format. Retrieval September 13, 2005 from http://www.oswego.edu/~psychol/sample manuscript.pdf
Chapter 5 ORAL PRESENTATION
Topics
Guidelines in the Conduct of the Oral Defense
Criteria and Rating Scale
Objectives
Be oriented with the policies and guidelines in the conduct of the oral defense for undergraduate thesis.
Be acquainted with the criteria and rating scale in the evaluation of an oral thesis presentation.
The following guidelines shall apply in the conduct of undergraduate thesis oral defense.
1. Students applying for final defense shall coordinate with the subject teacher for his/her schedule and panel members.
2. The following requirements shall be met by the students before applying for an outline defense:
Payment of thesis fee. Three copies of thesis manuscript
endorsed by the adviser one week before the scheduled outline defense, for distribution to the panel members.
3. A powerpoint presentation of the research output is required during the defense, good for 15 mins. max.
4. Students are advised to wear business attire during the oral defense.
5. The presence of the adviser is a must during the defense of his/her advisee. He/she shall take note of the comments/suggestions of the panel and make sure that his/her advisee follow them.
6. The statistician shall not sit as a panel member and may not be present during the defense.
7. A student shall not be allowed to participate in the commencement exercises if he/she cannot submit five(5) copies of bound thesis book properly signed by the adviser, panel members and dean of college.
Evaluation Criteria for Research Course
1. The Problem. Gives a clear exposition on the nature and background of the problem area in general and the rationale of the study. The problem is original, unique, relevant and reflects a noteworthy contribution to the researchers’ field of specialization and to society in general.
2. Review of Related Literature. Provides profound insights into the nature of the research problem. Discussions on theories, concepts, facts, and/or ideas are adequate and relevant. Points of agreement, disagreements, similarities, contrasts of related works are given.
3. Methodology. Description of the research approach used is concisely written. Procedures are presented/written in very clear and logical sequence. The rationale behind the choice of method/procedure is explained. Sample size, sampling technique, research instruments and statistical treatment are suitable.
4. Results. Data are systematically and logically presented, thoroughly analyzed, and soundly interpreted as to their meanings, substance, trends, relationships, implications and/or statistical significance. The findings, conclusions and recommendations dovetail with each other and give answers to the research problems.
5. General Format. The manuscript is very well-organized and contains all the main requisites of a typical thesis manuscript. The prescribed rules on the format, spacing, and pagination are strictly followed. Physical appearance is attractive and mechanics of writing is satisfactory. The style used is impersonal, straight forward, and objective.
Unity, coherence, and emphasis are very much in evidence in the presentation and analysis of data, facts and ideas. Variations in the structure and length of sentences and paragraphs are maintained, ensuring an interesting and effective individual style.
6. Oral Presentation. The oral presentation is methodical, rational and coherent. It is brief but complete. Appropriate and attractive visual aids are used. Presenters are are articulate and questions are answered satisfactorily.
Grading System
CRITERIA WEIGHT (%)
The Problem 10
Related Lit/Studies 10
Methodology 10
Results 40
General Format 10
Oral Presentation 20
Rating Scale
SCORE RANGE DESCRIPTION
100.00-95.00 Outstanding
94.99-90.00 Very Good
89.99-85.00 Good
84.99-80.00 Poor
79.99-75.00 Very Poor
74.99-BELOW Failed
Outstanding. The indicators of the criterion are carried out very evidently.
Very Good. The indicators of the criterion are carried out evidently.
Good. The indicators of the criterion are carried out fairly.
Poor. The indicators of the criterion are carried out deficiently.
Very Poor. The indicators of the criterion are carried out very deficiently.
Failure. The indicators of the criterion are not evident at all.
Good Luck
