Research Methods

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 33

Outline of Presentation

➢ Introduction.
➢ What is research.
➢ Key aspects of research in electrical/electronics eng.
➢ Types Of Research.
➢ Research Methods versus Methodology.
➢ Research process
➢ Research process in the field of electrical engineering

1
Meaning Of Research
❖ in common parlance refers to a ❖ Research in electrical engineering
search for knowledge. involves the systematic
❖ a scientific and systematic investigation and exploration of
search for pertinent information various aspects related to electrical
on a specific topic. systems, devices, and technologies.
❖ is an art of scientific ❖ It aims to advance the field by
investigation. developing new knowledge, solving
complex problems, and improving
existing systems.

MIBAN-I ENGINEERING SERVICES 2


Some key aspects of research in electrical engineering
❖ Innovation and Invention: creating new technologies and devices,
eg. electronic circuits, communication systems, power generation and
distribution systems, etc.
❖ Fundamental Understanding: seek to deepen the fundamental
understanding of electrical principles, such as electromagnetism,
electronics, semiconductor physics, and other core concepts. This
knowledge forms the basis for new innovations.
❖ Advanced Materials and Components: development of new
materials, such as superconductors or advanced semiconductors,
which can have significant implications for electrical engineering
applications.

3
Some key aspects of research in electrical engineering
❖ Energy Systems: Research in electrical engineering often explores
sustainable and efficient energy systems, such as renewable energy
sources (solar, wind, etc.), energy storage, and smart grid
technologies.

❖ Electronics: Advancements in electronic devices, integrated circuits,


and microelectronics are a significant part of electrical engineering
research. This includes both hardware and software aspects.

❖ Communications and Networking: Research in this area may


involve improving communication systems, network protocols, and
data transmission technologies, including wireless communication and
the Internet of Things (IoT).

4
Some key aspects of research in electrical engineering
❖ Control Systems: Research may focus on developing control
algorithms and systems to regulate electrical processes, such as
robotics, automation, and mechatronics.

❖ Signal Processing: Researchers work on techniques to process and


analyze signals, including image and audio processing, data
compression, and filtering.

❖ Power Systems: Research in power systems engineering deals with


the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power, with
a focus on efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

5
Some key aspects of research in electrical engineering
❖ Safety and Reliability: Ensuring the safety and reliability of
electrical systems is a critical aspect of research, especially in
applications like aerospace, medical devices, and critical
infrastructure.

❖ Environmental Impact: Electrical engineering research also


addresses the environmental impact of electrical technologies, aiming
to develop cleaner and more sustainable solutions.

❖ Interdisciplinary Work: Many electrical engineering research


projects involve collaboration with other fields, such as computer
science, materials science, physics, and mathematics.

6
Some key aspects of research in electrical engineering

❖ Researchers in electrical engineering


typically work in academic institutions,
research laboratories, and industry.
❖ Their work contributes to technological
advancements and innovations that
impact various aspects of modern life,
from consumer electronics to
transportation, healthcare, and renewable
energy.
7
Types Of Research
Basic Research (Pure Research): Applied Research:
Purpose: To expand knowledge Purpose: To solve specific, practical
and understanding of a subject problems or address practical questions.
without any immediate application. Focus: Developing solutions, products,
Focus: Investigating fundamental or processes based on existing
principles and concepts. knowledge.
Examples: Exploring the behavior Examples: Developing a new drug for a
of subatomic particles, studying the specific medical condition, improving
genetics of a particular organism. the efficiency of a manufacturing
process.

8
Types Of Research
Quantitative Research: Qualitative Research:
Methodology: Involves the Methodology: Focuses on
collection and analysis of exploring and understanding the
numerical data through structured underlying motivations, beliefs,
and standardized methods. and behaviors of individuals or
Examples: Surveys, experiments, groups. It typically involves non-
content analysis, and statistical numerical data.
analysis. Examples: In-depth interviews,
focus groups, content analysis,
and ethnography.

9
Types Of Research
Descriptive Research: Explanatory Research:
Purpose: To provide an Purpose: To determine the reasons
accurate and detailed account or or causes behind a particular
description of a particular phenomenon.
phenomenon or subject. Focus: Investigating the
Focus: Documenting what relationships between variables and
exists, without manipulating explaining why something occurs.
variables. Examples: Causal research,
Examples: Case studies, experimental studies.
observational studies, surveys.

10
Types Of Research
Cross-Sectional Research: Longitudinal Research:
Time Frame: Data is Time Frame: Data is collected
collected from a single point over an extended period, often
in time. involving multiple data collection
Purpose: Examining a points.
population or phenomenon at Purpose: Studying changes and
a specific moment. trends over time.
Examples: Opinion polls, Examples: Cohort studies, panel
one-time surveys. surveys, tracking the development
of a technology.

11
Types Of Research
Action Research: Interdisciplinary Research:
Purpose: To address practical Purpose: Combining knowledge and
issues or problems in a real- methodologies from multiple fields to
world setting and bring about address complex problems.
change. Focus: Collaboration between
Focus: Collaboration between researchers with diverse expertise.
researchers and practitioners to Examples: Studying the
solve specific issues. environmental impact of a new
Examples: Improving teaching technology, like nanotechnology,
methods in a classroom, which involves expertise from
enhancing customer service in engineering, environmental science,
a business. and social sciences.

12
Types Of Research
Experimental Research: Non-Experimental Research:
Methodology: Involves Methodology: Does not
manipulating variables and involve manipulation of
measuring their effects in variables; it observes and
controlled settings. measures naturally occurring
Purpose: To establish phenomena.
cause-and-effect Purpose: Often descriptive or
relationships. exploratory in nature.
Examples: Clinical trials Examples: Observational
for a new drug, laboratory studies, surveys, content
experiments in psychology. analysis.

13
Choice Of Research Type

The choice of research type


depends on the research
question, objectives, and the
nature of the problem being
investigated. Researchers often
use a combination of these types
to gather comprehensive insights
and address multifaceted issues.

14
Research Methods versus Methodology
❖"Research method" and "research methodology" are related but
distinct concepts in the context of conducting research.

15
Research Methods versus Methodology
Research Method
❖Definition: A research method refers to the specific techniques,
procedures, or processes that researchers use to collect and analyze data
during a research study.
❖Focus: Research methods are concerned with the practical aspects of how
data is gathered, measured, and analyzed. They answer the question, "How
will the research be conducted?"
❖Examples: Common research methods include surveys, experiments, case
studies, interviews, content analysis, observations, and statistical analysis.
❖Variety: There are numerous research methods available, and researchers
choose the method that best suits their research questions and goals.
❖Application: Researchers may use one or more research methods within a
single study, depending on the complexity of the research project.
16
Research Methods versus Methodology
Research Methodology
❖ Definition: Research methodology, is a broader framework that outlines the
philosophy, approach, and principles that guide the entire research process. It
encompasses the overall strategy for conducting research.
❖ Focus: Research methodology deals with the theoretical and philosophical aspects
of research, including the rationale for using specific methods, the theoretical
underpinnings, and the logic behind research design.
❖ Components: Research methodology includes elements such as the research
design, data collection techniques, data analysis methods, ethical considerations,
and the overall approach to knowledge generation.
❖ Application: Researchers define their research methodology at the outset of a
study to provide a systematic and structured plan for conducting research.
❖ Example: A researcher might choose a qualitative research methodology,
indicating an approach that prioritizes understanding human behavior and
experiences through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and content
analysis. This methodology provides the overarching framework for how17 the
research will be conducted.
Research Methods versus Methodology

❖ In summary, research methods are the specific techniques used


to collect and analyze data, while research methodology is the
broader theoretical framework and approach that guides the
entire research process.
❖ Research methodology provides a structured plan for
conducting research and serves as the foundation for selecting
and applying specific research methods to achieve the research
objectives.

18
Research Process
❖ The research process is a systematic, organized, and
structured sequence of steps or activities that
researchers follow to investigate a topic, answer
research questions, or test hypotheses.
❖ This process is designed to ensure the quality, rigor, and
credibility of research findings.

19
Research Process
Specifics of the research process may vary depending on
the field of study and the nature of the research.
The general outline of the research process is as follows:

MIBAN-I ENGINEERING SERVICES 20


Research Process
Identify the Research Problem or Topic:
Begin by selecting a research area or topic of interest.
Define a clear research problem, question, or hypothesis
that you aim to investigate.
Review Existing Literature:
Conduct a comprehensive review of existing research and
literature related to your topic. This step helps you
understand the current state of knowledge in the field and
identify gaps in the existing research.
Formulate Research Objectives and Questions:
Define the specific objectives and research questions that
your study aims to address. These should be clear, concise,
and aligned with your research problem.

21
Research Process
Choose a Research Methodology:
Select the research methodology that best suits your
research objectives. This involves deciding whether you
will use quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods, and
outlining your research design.

Design the Research:


Plan the research design, including data collection
methods, instruments, and procedures. Create a detailed
research plan that specifies how you will collect and
analyze data.

22
Research Process
Obtain Ethical Approvals:
If your research involves human subjects, animals, or sensitive data, seek
ethical approvals from relevant review boards or committees to ensure the
ethical treatment of research participants.

Data Collection:
Collect data according to your research plan. This may involve conducting
surveys, interviews, experiments, observations, or other data collection
methods.

Data Analysis:
Analyze the collected data using appropriate statistical, qualitative, or
analytical techniques. Interpret the results to draw meaningful conclusions.

23
Research Process
Draw Conclusions:
Based on your data analysis, draw conclusions that address your research
questions or hypotheses. Discuss the implications of your findings and their
relevance to the research problem.

Report Findings:
Prepare a research report or paper that communicates your research findings,
methodology, and conclusions. Adhere to the appropriate format and style
guidelines for your field.

Peer Review and Publication:


Submit your research findings to journals or conferences for peer review and
possible publication. Respond to feedback and revisions as needed.

24
Research Process
Share and Disseminate Results:
Present your research findings at conferences, seminars, or other academic
events. Share your work with the academic community and the public
through appropriate channels.

Reflect and Iteration:


Reflect on your research process and outcomes. Consider potential
improvements, follow-up studies, or future research directions.

References and Citations:


Properly cite and reference the sources and literature that informed your
research, ensuring academic integrity and acknowledging prior work.

25
Research Process
❖ The research process is iterative, and researchers
often revisit and refine earlier steps as they
progress.
❖ It requires careful planning, rigorous data
collection and analysis, and adherence to ethical
and academic standards.
❖ The process may vary based on the specific field,
research objectives, and the complexity of the
research project.

26
Research process in the field of electrical engineering
Identify Research Area and Problem:
Start by identifying a specific area within electrical engineering that interests you.
Define a research problem or objective within that area. It could be related to power
systems, electronics, communications, control systems, or any other subfield.

Literature Review:
Conduct a thorough literature review to understand the current state of knowledge in
your chosen research area. Identify existing research, relevant theories, and gaps in
the field.

Research Objectives and Hypotheses:


Clearly define the research objectives and hypotheses that your study aims to
address. These should be specific and relevant to your research problem.

27
Research process in the field of electrical engineering
Research Methodology:
Choose the research methodology that suits your objectives. Electrical engineering
research often involves experimental work, simulations, modeling, or analytical
approaches. Define the research design and methodology.

Data Collection and Experimentation:


Depending on your research, you may need to design and conduct experiments,
simulations, or collect data through various measurements and tests. Ensure that you
have access to the necessary equipment and resources.

Data Analysis:
Analyze the collected data using appropriate techniques. This may involve
mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, or software simulations to test your
hypotheses.
28
Research process in the field of electrical engineering
Prototyping and Development:
If your research involves designing new electrical devices or systems, develop
prototypes or proof-of-concept models. Ensure that you have the necessary
skills and resources for prototyping.

Simulation and Testing:


In cases where real-world testing is not feasible, use computer simulations to
test and validate your concepts. Simulations are common in the design and
analysis of electrical circuits and systems.

Ethical Considerations:
If your research involves human subjects, ethical considerations, such as
informed consent and participant safety, must be addressed. Similarly, consider
safety protocols for laboratory experiments.
29
Research process in the field of electrical engineering
Results and Conclusions:
Interpret the results of your research and draw meaningful conclusions.
Discuss how your findings address the research problem and contribute to the
field of electrical engineering.

Documentation and Reporting:


Prepare a well-structured research report or thesis that includes details of your
methodology, results, discussions, and conclusions. Ensure that you follow
appropriate formatting and citation styles.

Peer Review and Publication:


Submit your research to reputable electrical engineering journals, conferences,
or academic forums for peer review and potential publication.

30
Research process in the field of electrical engineering
Presentation and Dissemination:
Present your research at conferences or seminars to share your
findings with the academic and professional community. Consider
publishing your work in relevant journals and collaborating with
colleagues.

Reflect and Plan for Future Research:


Reflect on the research process, the strengths and limitations of
your study, and consider how your findings may inform future
research or engineering projects.

31
Research process in the field of electrical engineering

The research process in electrical engineering combines theoretical


knowledge and practical experimentation to advance the field and
solve real-world problems.
It involves a balance between laboratory work, data analysis, and
theoretical research, all within a framework of ethical and safety
considerations.

32
conclusion

MIBAN-I ENGINEERING SERVICES 33

You might also like