Introduction to Research
Introduction to Research
Topic Description
The purpose of this topic is to provide information that will help you understand the meaning and
significance of research. This topic will provide you with the knowledge that will enable you to
understand the importance of educational research, what research is, importance of research, the
historical development of research, and the steps of scientific research.
You will be introduced to the process of conducting research. Major steps are outlined that will
guide you in this process. The research process begins from the time you identify the research
problem to the time you develop your findings. Here discuss: how we design a research study, the
main steps in conducting research and using the quantitative and qualitative research process. You
will also be able to determine various sources which would be used to identify a suitable research
problem for your study.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the topic, the trainee should be able to:
a) Define research
b) Describe the historical development of research
c) Explain the importance of research
d) Identify problems facing research
e) Explain the steps of scientific research
1. Introduction
Defining Research
The term research is a relative concept derived from the French verbs rechercher and chercher.
Research stands for an activity that involves searching, investigating, search for truth or search for
knowledge.
The term research also has some technical definitions. Research may be defined as a systematic
and objective analysis and recording of controlled observations that may lead to the development
of generalization, principles or theories resulting in prediction and possible ultimate control of
events.
Another definition by Mugenda and Mugenda [1999] states that: research means, to carry out a
diligent inquiry or a critical examination of given phenomenon. It implies exhaustive study,
investigation or experimentation following some logical sequence. Therefore, research means a
continued search for new knowledge and understanding of the world around us.
You may have noted the following terms used in defining research:
Study
Analysis
Examination
Investigation
Systematic/logical sequence and so on.
Educational research
It is also important to briefly outline what our focus in this study manual is on the educational
sector.
Educational research is that activity which is directed towards the development of a science of
behaviour in educational institutions. Mwiria and Wamahiu (1995) define educational research as
a scientific or systematic and objective activity aimed at developing a theory of learning - or
improving education for rural development
a. The method of tenacity is where people held firmly to the truth because they have always
known is to be true. Facts or evidence to support the truth was not a major concern. In this case,
the validity of such truths would be enhanced, as people repeatedly regarded them as truth. This is
a situation where, despite clearly conflicting facts, people continually clung to their beliefs.
b. The method of authority emerged as another way of fixing beliefs. It refers to the means of
established belief. For instance, if the Bible says it, then it is so. In some populations, an idea that
is based on tradition and public consensus is viewed as truth. We can say that the method of
authority is superior to the method of tenacity. A large body of facts and information is developed
through the method of authority.
c. The priori method is the third way of developing knowledge. It is also referred to as the
method of intuition. The priori position is based on logical reasoning and not merely on experience.
Reason may sometimes be biased because facts or evidence could be lacking to support it.
d. The method of science forms the basis of current research studies. This method is based on:
development of truth that is independent of our opinions, beliefs or simply reason. The method of
science emphasizes that: there are real things whose characters are entirely independent of our
perceptions about them.
The scientific method forms the basis of modern quantitative research. In this case, research is
seen as an investigation, which involves careful observation and measurement of phenomenon.
The measurement is carried out by means of objective or reliable instruments. The instruments
generate data, which is then subjected to statistical analysis. The results of statistical analysis are
used to explain, describe or predict the phenomenon, which constitutes new knowledge. The
investigation must, however, be based on hypothesis. The hypothesis is verified through data
collection and analysis.
Summary
Summary
In this topic, you observed that research is an investigation that is systematic, objective and
scientific. The purpose of the investigation is to discover new knowledge; apply existing
knowledge or interpret current knowledge.
This knowledge represents facts, principles or theories that enable us understand, explain and
control phenomena.
Research plays significant roles in educational practice. It enables us to describe, explain, predict
and evaluate educational programs. This enables educational practitioners to control educational
programs to achieve desired outcomes.
Topic 1 Assignment
Activity
Identify two examples where people cling to beliefs as truths, in your own community.