(Podcast) Research Methodology

Episode 9 introduces the processes of analysis of the data, which include several interrelated procedures that are performed to summarise and rearrange data. The goals of most research are to provide information. The topic will discuss the processes of rearranging, ordering or manipulating data to provide descriptive information that answers questions posed in the problem definition. All forms of analysis attempt to portray consistent patterns in data so the results may be studied and interpreted in a brief and meaningful way.

Episode 1 describes the concept of science, the scientific research process in problem solving and the need to formulate a good hypothesis.

Episode 2 describes the processes in doing research starting from the identification of a specific problem, the identification and definition of the concepts, and the identification of the methodology of the research.

Episode 3 defines the importance of literature review in research methodology and procedure to review literature. This topic also explores some common weaknesses encountered in the review of literature and how to critique a journal articles.

Episode 4 introduces the strategies that can be used to collect primary data. The process of collecting primary data must be identified properly based on the purpose and objectives of the research. Data to be used to answer the research questions must come from the appropriate population in order to be useful. The process of selecting the right individuals, objects or events for study is known as sampling.

Episode 5 defines concepts and discusses methods of measuring the concepts to help researchers to determine the methods of collecting and analysing data. Once the concept has been defined, it is necessary to identify the methods to measure the concept. Unless the variables are measured in some way, the researcher will not be able to test the hypotheses and find answers to complex research issues.

Episode 6 examines the application of the different types of secondary data to help in answering the research questions and to meet objectives of the study. Different types of secondary data will be explained, and the strengths and weaknesses of using secondary data will be discussed. The topic will also discuss the different sources of secondary data. Besides that, it also introduces the different survey methods for collecting primary data. The communication techniques used in collecting the primary data can be classified into personal interview, telephone interview and self-administered survey.

Episode 7 presents the research design. Research design is used in seeking an answer to the research questions. The topic also explains the differences between a true experimental design and a quasi experimental design.

Episode 8 devoted towards explaining the definition and types of qualitative research methods. This topic also explicates the differences between quantitative and qualitative research methods.