Introduction to the Research Process.pptVIP

Introduction to the Research Process Bijie Institute of Education Sciences 毕 节 市 教 育 科 学 研 究 所 Liu Yongzhong 刘 永 忠 Reference: Creswell, Ch 1 What is Research “ A careful, systematic, patient investigation undertaken to discover or establish facts and relationships.” (Mertler Charles, 2005, p. 6) A process or set of steps involving collecting and analysing information to increase understanding of a topic or issue. Involves: Posing a question Collecting data to address the question Presenting a response (answer) to the question The Importance of Research Adds to Knowledge e.g., research on gender differences in aggression; Serbian refugees to Australia; school community relationships; rural migrants to Chinese cities; grassland degradation in northern China; environment problems in China e.g., wall of knowledge analogy e.g., consider what defines a university Improves practice e.g., reading, student well-being, interventions to redress bullying and conflict in schools, expansion of higher education in China, meeting social security needs of rural migrants; addressing pollution by Chinese industries Informs policy e.g., subject offerings in senior secondary schooling; climate change policy; environmental laws, social security laws Builds skills (Informs management) Steps in Conducting Research 1. Identifying a Research Problem 2. Reviewing the literature 3. Specifying a Purpose for Research 4. Collecting Data 5. Analyzing and Interpreting Data 6. Reporting and Evaluating Research The Process of Research Research Ethics Respecting rights of participants Knowledge of aims, purpose, methods, use of research Informed consent Anonymity, confidentiality Right of refusal and withdrawal Benefits to participants Honouring research sites Permissions Minimum disturbance Reporting research fully and honestly * * Identify the Research Problem Review the Literature Report and Evaluate Research Specify a Research Purpose Collect Data Analyze and Interpret Data