Eric John R.

Balmadrid

BSIT 3-B

Preparation:

1. Give three (3) definitions of research other than those cited. Cite the authors and the
references.

• Scientific research is a systematic way of gathering data, a harnessing of curiosity. This

research provides scientific information and theories for the explanation of the nature and the
properties of the world. It makes practical applications possible. Scientific research is funded by
public authorities, by charitable organizations and by private groups, including many companies.
Scientific research can be subdivided into different classifications according to their academic
and application disciplines. Scientific research is a widely used criterion for judging the standing
of an academic institution, such as business schools, but some argue that such is an inaccurate
assessment of the institution, because the quality of research does not tell about the quality of
teaching (these do not necessarily correlate totally).

Reference: J. Scott Armstrong and Tad Sperry (1994). “Business School Prestige: Research
versus Teaching”. Energy & Environment 18 (2): 13–43.

• Another definition of research is given by Creswell who states that – “Research is a process of
steps used to collect and analyze information to increase our understanding of a topic or issue”.
It consists of three steps: Pose a question, collect data to answer the question, and present an
answer to the question.

Reference: Creswell, J. W. (2008). Educational Research: Planning, conducting, and evaluating

quantitative and qualitative research (3rd ed.). Upper Saddle River: Pearson.

• A broad definition of research is given by Martyn Shuttleworth – “In the broadest sense of the
word, the definition of research includes any gathering of data, information and facts for the
advancement of knowledge.”

Reference: Shuttleworth, Martyn (2008). “Definitions of Research”. Explorable. Explorable.com.

Retrieved14 August 2011.
2. Compare further scientific method and method of research.

Scientists conduct their research into natural phenomena using the scientific method, which is a
methodical technique. It often entails actions like observation, hypothesis formation,
experimentation, data collecting, analysis, and conclusion drawing. The natural sciences are
where the scientific method is most frequently applied.

Method of Research: This is a broader term that encompasses numerous approaches employed
in research across disciplines, not just the natural sciences. Case studies, questionnaires, and
other research techniques, both qualitative and quantitative, are all included.

How is the scientific approach used in knowledge generation?

The scientific approach, as used in knowledge generation, emphasizes empirical evidence,

objectivity, and replicability. It involves formulating hypotheses and testing them through
rigorous experimentation. This approach ensures that knowledge is based on systematic and
verifiable processes.

3. Discuss three (3) issues in doing research:

3.1. Managing Bias - Bias can affect the findings of study. Researchers ought to be conscious
of their own biases and take precautions to reduce them. Bias can be reduced, for instance, by
employing random sample techniques, remaining objective, and reporting any potential conflicts
of interest.

3.2. Ethics in Research - Research ethics are extremely important. Participants' safety, informed
consent, and privacy must all be protected by researchers. Maintaining ethical standards is
greatly aided by review panels (such as institutional review boards) and ethical guidelines.

3.3. Issue of Generalizability - Generalizability is the ability of study findings to be applicable to a

larger group of people or situation. Researchers should take into account their study's
limitations and recognize the particular circumstances in which their findings are valid. The
generalizability of a study can be improved by utilizing a representative sample and the right
statistical methods.
4. What is the importance of research to you as a graduate student? Give the titles of research
studies that you have undertaken as an undergraduate student and as a graduate student.

Research is immportant for as a student because it helps us to have a detailed analysis of

everything. The importance of research to me as a student is that we pursue ourselves into
knowing those things that we could vision in the near future and benefits us as well. We conduct
research for us to widen up our knowledge and know what was needed to address. When I was
in senior high we conducted a research with a title "Compost tea as an alternative fertilizer
using organic residue on the growth of Sili (Capsicum frutescens)", this is an experimental
research where we use compost tea as a fertilizer to grow Sili.

5. Compare the inductive and the deductive methods of reasoning used in research.

Inductive and deductive reasoning are two fundamental methods of reasoning used in research.
They differ in their approaches to drawing conclusions and generating knowledge:

A. Inductive Reasoning:

1. Bottom-up Approach: Inductive reasoning starts with specific observations or data and
moves towards broader generalizations or theories. It involves collecting and analyzing
evidence to form a general understanding.

2. Exploratory Nature: It is often used when researchers aim to explore a new or poorly
understood area. Inductive reasoning allows for the discovery of new patterns or phenomena.

3. Probabilistic Conclusions: Inductive reasoning doesn't guarantee certainty. Instead, it

provides probabilistic conclusions. The more evidence collected, the higher the probability that
the generalization is correct.

4. Example: If you observe that the sun rises in the east every morning (specific observations),
you might induce the generalization that the sun always rises in the east (broad generalization).

B. Deductive Reasoning:

1. Top-down Approach: Deductive reasoning starts with a general premise or theory and uses it
to derive specific predictions or hypotheses. It involves testing these predictions through
empirical observation or data collection.

2. Hypothesis Testing: Researchers use deductive reasoning to test whether their theoretical
framework or hypothesis is supported by empirical evidence.

3. Certainty: Deductive reasoning aims for certainty. If the premises are true, and the logic is
valid, the conclusions are certain and logically sound.

4. Example: Given the general premise that "all humans are mortal," and the specific observation
that "Socrates is a human," you can deduce the specific conclusion that "Socrates is mortal."

In conclusion, the primary distinction between inductive and deductive thinking is in the
direction of inference: while deductive reasoning proceeds from general premises to specific
conclusions, inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to generalizations.
Depending on their objectives, the data at hand, and the specifics of the research challenge,
researchers decide which of these approaches to use. Deductive reasoning is utilized for testing
theories or hypotheses, but inductive reasoning is frequently used for exploratory research.

6. List down research priorities and new research paradigms in your field of specialization.
Consult the CHED, DepEd and international organizations. Focus on your field of study.

7. List down the roles of research in:

7.1 Education:

1. Improving Teaching and Learning: Educational research helps identify effective teaching
methods and strategies that enhance student learning outcomes.

2. Curriculum Development: Research informs the design and revision of educational curricula
to ensure they are relevant and aligned with educational goals.

3. Assessment and Evaluation: Research provides insights into assessment techniques and
tools, enabling educators to evaluate student performance accurately.
4. Policy Development: Educational research informs the development of education policies at
various levels, ensuring evidence-based decision-making.

7.2 Public Administration:

1. Policy Analysis: Research in public administration aids in analyzing the impact of government
policies and programs, facilitating evidence-based policy decisions.

2. Efficiency and Effectiveness: Research evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of

government agencies and programs, leading to improvements in public service delivery.

3. Accountability: It assesses the performance of public administrators and government entities,

promoting transparency and accountability.

4. Public Service Innovation: Research identifies innovative approaches to addressing complex

public issues and improving governance.

7.3 Business Administration:

1. Market Analysis: Research provides insights into market trends, consumer behavior, and
competitive dynamics, assisting businesses in making informed decisions.

2. Strategic Planning: It supports strategic decision-making by providing data-driven information

on business operations, market positioning, and growth opportunities.

3. Product and Service Development: Research informs the development of new products and
services by identifying customer needs and preferences.

4. Performance Measurement: It assesses business performance through key performance

indicators (KPIs) and benchmarks, guiding improvements and goal setting.

7.4 Social Sciences:

1. Understanding Human Behavior: Research in social sciences helps understand individual and
collective behavior, attitudes, and cultural dynamics.

2. Policy Formulation: It informs the development of policies related to societal issues, such as
healthcare, economics, and social welfare, by providing data and analysis.

3. Social Problem Solving: Research identifies solutions to social problems, including poverty,
inequality, discrimination, and environmental challenges.

4. Cultural Preservation: Social science research contributes to the preservation and

documentation of cultural heritage, traditions, and practices.

8. Cite the diverse personal and professional preparation of a global educational manager.

A global educational manager requires a diverse set of personal and professional preparations,
including:

- Cross-Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting cultural differences is vital when

managing educational programs globally.

- Advanced Education: Often, a master's or doctoral degree in education, international relations,

or a related field is essential.

- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in multiple languages can be a significant asset for

communication and understanding in international contexts.

- Interpersonal Skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills are critical for building
relationships with educators, students, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

- Leadership and Management Skills: Strong leadership and management abilities are
necessary to oversee educational institutions and programs effectively.

- Knowledge of International Education Systems: Understanding various education systems

and policies worldwide is crucial.

- Adaptability: Global educational managers must adapt to changing environments and

evolving educational trends.

- Ethical Awareness: Awareness of ethical issues in education and the ability to make ethically
sound decisions.
9. Discuss some issues of quality in graduate educational research.

Quality in graduate educational research is paramount, and some common issues include:

• Lack of Rigor: Insufficient research design, methodology, or data analysis can lead to weak
research outcomes.

• Plagiarism and Ethical Concerns: Ethical issues like plagiarism can compromise the quality
of research.

• Data Quality: Inaccurate or biased data can affect the validity of research findings.

• Research Bias: Bias in the selection of research topics, methodologies, or interpretation of

results can be problematic.

• Limited Generalizability: Research conducted on a small, non-representative sample may

lack generalizability to broader populations.

• Insufficient Literature Review: A lack of comprehensive literature review can lead to research
that is not well-informed by existing scholarship.

• Weak Theoretical Framework: An underdeveloped or poorly conceptualized theoretical

framework can weaken research.

10. List down and explain the quality indicators of research.

Quality indicators in research help assess the reliability and validity of research findings.
Some key indicators include:

A. Research Design - A well-structured and appropriate research design is essential.

B. Methodology - Clear and robust data collection and analysis methods are crucial.
 C. Data Validity and Reliability - Ensuring that data is accurate and consistent.

D. Peer Review - Publication in peer-reviewed journals is a strong indicator of quality.

E. Transparency - Clearly documenting research methods, data sources, and potential

conflicts of interest.

F. Ethical Compliance - Adhering to ethical standards in research conduct.

G. Citation and References - Properly citing sources and referencing relevant literature.

H. Impact and Contribution - Assessing the impact and contribution of the research to the
field.
Preparation:

Define the following terms:

1.1 Validity - refers to the degree to which a research study accurately measures or assesses
what it claims to measure. It indicates the extent to which the research findings are trustworthy
and meaningful.

1.2 Reliability - refers to the consistency and stability of research measurements or results. In
other words, it assesses whether the same results or measurements can be obtained
consistently under different conditions or by different researchers.

1.3 Basic research - also known as pure or fundamental research, is a type of research
conducted to expand our understanding of a scientific or theoretical concept without any
specific practical application in mind.

1.4 Applied research - is aimed at solving specific practical problems or answering real-world
questions. It involves using scientific knowledge to develop solutions or address issues in
various fields.

1.5 Descriptive research - seeks to describe and document the characteristics, behaviors, or
phenomena being studied without altering or manipulating them. It provides a snapshot of the
current situation.

1.6 Experimental research - is a systematic approach that involves manipulating one or more
variables to observe their effect on other variables. It aims to establish cause-and-effect
relationships.

1.7 Likert scale - is a commonly used rating scale in surveys or questionnaires that allows
respondents to express their level of agreement or disagreement with a series of statements. It
typically ranges from strongly agree to strongly disagree.

1.8 Interview scale - An interview scale may refer to a structured set of questions or criteria
used during interviews to assess and rate candidates, respondents, or subjects. It helps ensure
consistency in the evaluation process.
1.9 Quantitative - Quantitative research involves the collection and analysis of numerical data to
draw conclusions and make inferences. It often uses statistical methods to quantify
relationships and patterns.

2.0 Qualitative - Qualitative research focuses on exploring and understanding complex

phenomena through the collection and analysis of non-numerical data, such as interviews,
observations, or textual information. It seeks to gain insights and generate theories.

2. Why is it important for the researcher to learn all the steps of the research process?

To assure the accuracy and dependability of their findings and uphold the integrity of their work,
researchers must learn every step of the research process. They can benefit the larger scientific
community by effectively communicating their procedures and findings thanks to an
understanding of this process. Additionally, it gives researchers the ability to solve problems so
they can deal with difficulties that can come while conducting their research, encouraging
creativity and advancement in their respective professions.

Write down the title of the concept paper you are most interested in to pursue as your thesis.
(Select from the three (3) titles you have submitted for this course). Answer the following:

Title: "Usability and Accessibility Evaluation of Mobile Health Applications for Elderly Users,"

3.1 Data needed for the proposed study, "Usability and Accessibility Evaluation of Mobile Health
Applications for Elderly Users," include both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data
would involve performance metrics like task success rates and completion times, while
qualitative data would encompass user feedback and perceptions regarding usability and
accessibility.

3.2 The sources of data for this study would primarily be elderly users of mobile health
applications. These users would be recruited from healthcare facilities or senior living
communities where they regularly use such applications. Additionally, data may also be
collected from expert evaluations by researchers or usability experts.
3.3 The research design for this study would be mixed-methods, combining quantitative and
qualitative approaches. This choice is justified because it allows for a comprehensive
assessment of usability and accessibility, capturing both objective performance data and
subjective user experiences, providing a more holistic view of the mobile health applications'
effectiveness for elderly users.

3.4 Data collection methods in this study would include:

- Task Performance Testing - Elderly users would be asked to perform specific health-related
tasks using the mobile applications while researchers measure task success rates, time taken,
and errors. This method provides objective performance data.

- Questionnaires and Interviews - Surveys and interviews would gather qualitative data,
including user feedback, preferences, and challenges faced during app usage. These methods
provide insights into user experiences.

- Heuristic Evaluation - Usability experts could assess the applications using recognized
usability heuristics to identify potential issues. This method adds an expert evaluation
perspective.

3.5 Instruments for data collection would include a combination of researcher-made and
standardized instruments. Researcher-made questionnaires and interviews would be tailored to
gather user-specific feedback on usability and accessibility aspects relevant to elderly users.
Standardized instruments, such as the System Usability Scale (SUS) or the Mobile App Rating
Scale (MARS), may also be used to provide benchmarking data and comparisons with existing
research. Using a mix of instruments ensures a comprehensive evaluation, tailored to the
study's specific focus on elderly users' needs and experiences.