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How_to_Prepare_Research_Proposal.pptx

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The document provides an overview of the research process. It begins by defining research as the systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of data to answer a question or solve a problem. It then discusses key aspects of developing a research proposal, including selecting a topic, reviewing existing literature, developing objectives and hypotheses, and outlining the methodology. The document presents examples of components to include in a research proposal, such as an introduction with the research problem, a theoretical framework, proposed hypotheses, and descriptions of variables and data collection methods. Overall, the document serves as a guide for planning and structuring a research study from selecting a topic to developing a proposal.

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Introduction Scientific / social research plays a very important role in our efforts to advance technological / knowledge envelope Research helps us create new knowledge and develop proper tools for the use of existing knowledge. Not only does it enable researchers/practitioners to diagnose problems, research also provides evidence for policies and decisions on socio-economic development
What is research? Research is the systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of data to answer a certain question or solve a problem. Characteristics of research: It demands a clear statement of the problem. It requires clear objectives and a plan (it is not aimlessly looking for something in order to come across a solution). It builds on existing data, using both positive and negative findings. New data should be systematically collected and analyzed to answer the original research objectives.
the meaning of proposal suggests looking forward, to what the researcher plans to do in the future. The proposal lays out the problem for research, describes exactly how the research will be conducted, and outlines in precise detail the resources both factual and instrumental the researcher will use to achieve the desired results. Leedy & Omrod, Practical Research. 8th ed, p. 117, 115. Research Proposal Definitions Essentially, to make the reader to understand :- What you are going to do Rational of the research Objectives of the research Methodology Expected output
A good proposal should consists of the first three chapters of the thesis It should :- Begin with an Introduction - statement of the problem/background information (Chapter 1) A review of the Literature (Chapter 2) Defining of the Research Methodology (Chapter 3) What is a proposal ? An outline of the research problem A statement of the significance of the problem A review of related studies A discussion of the procedures Methods for data collection and analysis A note about the studys limitations
6 The Research Process For Applied and Basic Research
Steps of conducting a research: A. Prioritizing and selecting a research topic B. Review of literature and other existing information C. Development of a Research Proposal D. Implementation of study: i. Data collection ii. Data processing and analysis iii. Interpretation of results iv. Final report writing v. Presenting the results: Scientific, presentation at meetings, seminars, workshops or conferences, and presentation for administrators and policy- makers
A. Prioritizing and selecting a research topic Criteria for selecting a research topic: 1. Relevance: The topic you choose should be a priority problem. Questions to be asked include: How large or widespread/depth is the problem? Who is affected? How severe is the problem? 2. Avoidance of duplication: Before you decide to carry out a study, it is important that you find out whether the suggested topic has been investigated before, either within the proposed study area or in another area with similar conditions. If the topic has been researched, the results should be reviewed to explore whether major questions that deserve further investigation remain unanswered. If not, another topic should be chosen Steps of conducting a research:
B. Literature review Why is it important to review already available information when preparing for a research? It prevents you from duplicating work that has been done before. It helps you to find out what others have learned and reported on the problem you want to study. This may assist you in refining your statement of the problem. It helps you to become more familiar with the various research methods that might be used in your study. It should provide you with convincing arguments for why your particular research project is needed. Steps of conducting a research: Learning what is known and unknown Learning how field of knowledge was developed (history) Showing you understand your field Confirming your own research is worthwhile Explaining how knowledge is developed over time Justifying your research Identifying how you will make a contribution See Example,,,pg 31
C. Development of a research proposal Contents a. Title of the research b. Introduction: Background information and Statement of the research problem (Scientific justification for the study) c. Research objectives d. Research hypothesis e. Methodology f. Work plan g. Plan for utilization and dissemination of research results h. References i. Annexes Steps of conducting a research:
A good title should be short, accurate, and concise It should make the central objectives of the study clear to the reader It is important to specify what population will be investigated, and where it will be conducted. E.g. Factors Influencing e-Bidding Adoption in the Public Sector a. Title of the research proposal C. Development of a research proposal
This section should convince the reader of the relevance of the study It should provide enough background data for an outsider to understand the different aspects of the problem, or the different factors influencing the problem and the context in which it occurs. Your review of available literature and reports should further illustrate why the problem is important, not only in your own working area but probably also beyond Note: Be selective, remembering that this section serves to justify your study, not to display your ability to read literature. See example..pg 1 b. Introduction (Background information and Statement of the research problem) C. Development of a research proposal
c. Research objectives Research objectives are the goal to be achieved by a research. Why should research objectives be developed? The formulation of objectives will help you to: Focus the study (narrowing it down to essentials) Avoid the collection of data which are not strictly necessary for understanding and solving the problem you have identified Organize the study in clearly defined parts or phases - Properly formulated, specific objectives will facilitate the development of your research methodology and will help to orient the collection, analysis, interpretation and utilization of data. - How should you state your objectives? The general and specific objectives should be included as stated in the proposal Example Specific Objective: 1. To identify the variables that may influence the adoption of eBidding by government users 2. To examine the effects of the variables on the adoption of eBidding by government users 3. To propose a framework to analyze the adoption of eBidding by government users 4. To examine if some of the variables have moderating or mediating effects on the relationships established as stated in objective 2 Example Objective To examine the User Factors and System Factors that Influence eBidding Utilization among Government Sourcing Officials in Malaysian Public Sector C. Development of a research proposal
14 Having examined the different kinds of variables that could operate in a situation and how the relationships among these can be established, it is now possible to see how we can develop the conceptual model or the theoretical framework for our research. If the framework is logically sound and substantiated by previous research studies, there is a strong possibility that the predictions or hypotheses evolving from that framework will be supported The theoretical framework plays an important role in guiding the entire process of the research study Theories are constructed in order to explain, predict and master phenomena (e.g. relationships, events, or the behavior). In many instances we are constructing models of reality. A theory makes generalizations about observations and consists of an interrelated, coherent set of ideas and models. The Use of a Theoretical Framework in a Research Proposal
The variables considered relevant to the study should be clearly defined. A conceptual model that describes the relationships between the variables in the model should be given. A clear explanation of why we expect these relationships to exist. A conceptual framework is used in research to outline possible courses of action or to present a preferred approach to an idea or thought. The theoretical framework elaborates the relationships among the variables, explains the theory underlying these relations, and describes the nature and direction of the relationships. The theoretical framework provides the logical base for developing testable hypotheses. see example pg 64 The Use of a Theoretical Framework in a Research Proposal
E.g. The eBidding adoption study and the model proposed will be based on: Example of Theories Employed in Theoretical Framework Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) (Venkatesh et al., 2003) An Information System (IS) framework for assessing an individuals intention to use an IS technology Information System Success Model (Delone and Mclean, 2003) A system success can be evaluated in terms of information, system, and service quality; these characteristics affect the subsequent use or intention to use and user satisfaction Personal Innovativeness in Information Technology (Agarwal and Prasad, 1998) Domain-specific individual trait which reflects the willingness of a person to try out a new information technology
Example : Models related to Technology/Innovation adoption/acceptance/use Moderator Model of Personal Innovativeness in Information Technology (PIIT) (Agarwal & Prasad, 1998) Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) (Venkatesh et al., 2003) IS Updated Success Model (Delone and Mclean, 2003)
Performance Expectancy Effort Expectancy Social Influence Facilitating Conditions eBidding Adoption System Quality Service Quality Information Quality H1 H3 H5 H6a H2 H4 H1a H2a H2b H3a H4a H7a H6 H5 H7 Example :Proposed Research Model 18 Experience Personal Innovativeness In IT Satisfaction
d. Research hypothesis A hypothesis can be defined as a prediction or explanation of the relationship between : one or more independent variables (PREDISPOSING/RISK FACTORS) and one dependent variable (OUTCOME/CONDITION/DISEASE)). o a logical relationship between two or more variables expressed in the form of a testable statement. A hypothesis, in other words, translates the problem statement into a precise, clear prediction of expected outcomes. o It must be emphasized that hypotheses are not meant to be haphazard guesses, but should reflect the depth of knowledge, imagination and experience of the investigator must be based on established theory/model o Therefore, in the process of formulating hypotheses, all variables relevant to the study should be identified. o See example..pg 76 & 77 C. Development of a research proposal
H1: Performance expectancy is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H2: Effort expectancy is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H3: Social influence is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H4: Facilitating conditions is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H5: Information quality is significantly related to eBidding adoption H6: System quality is significantly related to eBidding adoption H7 : Service quality is significantly related to eBidding adoption H5a : Satisfaction significantly mediates relationship between information quality and eBidding Adoption Example : Hypotheses
e. Methodology This section summarizes the most important points of the research design including: Variables: It is necessary to identify the variables that will be involved in the research project being designed. Independent (predisposing/risk factors/antecedents), Dependent (outcome), see example It is also necessary to specify whether these variables are Numerical (continuous/discrete), or Categorical (ordinal/nominal). Operational definition of different study variables should be clearly phrased. C. Development of a research proposal The methodology you followed for the collection of your data should be described in detail. The methodology section should include a description of: - the study type - major study variables on which data was collected - the study population, sampling method and the size of the sample - data-collection techniques used - how the data was collected and by whom - procedures used for data analysis, including statistical tests (see example)
No Section Variables No. of Statements Scale of Measurement References 1 A Performance expectancy 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 2 B Effort Expectancy 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 3 C Social influence 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 4 D Facilitating Conditions 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 5 E System Quality 7 Interval Delone and Mclean, (2003) 6 F Information Quality 7 Interval Delone and Mclean, (2003) 7 G Service Quality 7 Interval Delone and Mclean, (2003) 8 H Satisfaction 7 Interval Wixom and Todd, (2005) 9 I Experience 5 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 10 J Personal Innovativeness in IT 5 Interval Agarwal and Karahanna, (2000) 11 K Actual Use 4 Interval Nominal Delone and Mclean, (2003) 12 Respondents profile Example : Operationalizing Research Instrument
Purpose of the of Study Explanatory (Hypothesis Testing) Time Horizon Cross Sectional (One-Shot) Sampling Design Probability: Simple Data Collection Method Survey (Structured Questionnaire) Primary Data source Pilot Study Unit of Analysis Individual Type of Investigation Correlation Extent of Researcher Interference Minimal: Studying events as they normally occur Study Setting Natural Setting (Non- contrived) Measurement and Measures 5 point Likert- Type Scale (Adapted UTAUT, IS Success Model, PIIT Metrics) Data Analysis Adopted From Sekaran, 2003 (p.118) Problem Statement 1. Feel for Data 2.Goodness of data 3. Hypothesis Testing An Example of Research Design
Significance of the Study Why this study is significant? Why do it now? What will it contribute to the existing research literature? What implications your findings may have? Who will benefit from it? [Scholarly acceptability] See Example
References The references in your text can be numbered in the sequence in which they appear in the report and then listed in this order in the list of references Harvard Citation or author/date system references made in the text are listed in alphabetical order by the surname of the first author in the bibliography at the end of the text. e.g. Reference within essay: In his survey of the mating habits of frogs, Bloggs (1998) refuted that ... Entry in bibliography: Bloggs, B. 1998. Frogs and their mating habits . London: Tadpole Press The Vancouver System or footnotes/endnotes or numeric system; references are numbered consecutively in the order in which they are first cited in the text. e.g. Reference within essay: In his survey of the mating habits of frogs, Bloggs (1) refuted that ... Entry in bibliography: 1. Bloggs B. Frogs and their mating habits. London : Tadpole Press; 1998
Let us Talk About Thesis
The classical thesis structure INTRODUCTION What I want to do LITERATURE What others say about it DESIGN My plan for doing it RESULTS What happened when I did it DISCUSSION What this means CONCLUSIONS What I found out
Punch, K. F. (2007). Developing Effective Research Proposals (2 ed.). Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications. Simplified model of research
Writing a Research Paper ..Overall Main Components of a Paper : I. Title or cover page II. Abstract III. Introduction IV. Objectives V. Methodology VI. Research results (findings) VII. Discussion VIII. Conclusions IX. Recommendations X. References XI. Annexes or appendices (data collection tools, tables)
Chapter 1 : Introduction Background of the study Overview of research subject Broad to specific Problem statements Objectives of study Practical implications Theoretical contributions Study Limitations Chapter 2: Literature Review Past research related to study Global & local publications journal and books Overview of theories related to research subjects at least 5 or 3 key theories Review and critique Main Components of a Paper
Chapter 3: Theoretical Framework Introduction Conceptual development Models/theories comparisons Which models as base of proposed model Proposed research model Hypotheses development Independent variables Dependent variables Moderating / mediating variables Chapter 4: Methodology Introduction Population and sampling Data Collection and Sampling procedure (target ; sampling population ; size) Questionnaire design Measurement of variables Research design SEM- Measurement model Main Components of a Paper
Chapter 5 : Data Analysis & Discussion Introduction Feel for data Frequency distribution of demographics Positions ; locations ; years of working ; gender Testing Goodness of Data Reliability and validity Results from SEM analysis Significant or not significant related to hypotheses Chapter 6 : Conclusions Introduction Discussions on results conform to findings in literature ; if not why..? Implications of Research Findings Theoretical Implications Practical Implications Policy Implications Recommendations for Future Research Limitations Main Components of a Paper
CONCLUSIONS - The conclusions should follow logically from the discussion of the findings. - As the discussion will follow the sequence in which the findings have been presented (which in turn depends on your objectives) the conclusions should logically follow the same order. .RECOMMENDATIONS - The recommendations should follow logically from the discussion of the findings. - Recommendations may be summarized according to the groups towards which they are directed, for example: policy-makers / stakeholders program managers/implementing officials at different levels potential clients the community at large
.Plan for utilization and dissemination of research results - The proposal should indicate what reports or other means of disseminating research findings are planned. - Any or all of the following are appropriate for disseminating the results of the study: Progress reports Final report Publications Seminars, workshops, and conferences Discussion with policymakers and program managers
.ANNEXES OR APPENDICES The annexes should contain any additional information needed to enable professionals to follow your research procedures and data analysis. Examples of information that can be presented in annexes are: - Tables referred to in the text but not included in order to keep the report short. - Interview schedule/ questionnaires (and/or other data collection tools). - Informed consent form - Institutional/Ethical approval for the study
Further Readings 1. Creswell, J. W. (2009). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, p. 97127. 2. Hernon, P. (2007). Editorial: what is problem statement? Library & Information Science Research, 29, 307309. 3. Hernon, P., & Metoyer-Duran, C. (1993). Problem statements: An exploratory study of their function, significance, and form. Library & Information Science Research, 15, 7192. 4. Metoyer-Duran, C., & Hernon, P. (1994). Problem statements in research proposals and published research: A case study of researchers' viewpoints. Library & Information Science Research, 16, 105118. 5. Nitecki, D. A. (2010). Guest editorial: Finalizing a research paperfindings through conclusion. Library & Information Science Research, 32, 13. 6. Sproull, N. L. (1988). Handbook of research methods: A guide for practitioners and students in the social sciences. London: Scarecrow Press, p. 140. 7. Teddlie, C., & Tashakkori, A. (2009). Foundations of Mixed Methods Research : Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches in the Social and Behavioral Sciences. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, p. 120124.

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How_to_Prepare_Research_Proposal.pptx

  • 2. Introduction Scientific / social research plays a very important role in our efforts to advance technological / knowledge envelope Research helps us create new knowledge and develop proper tools for the use of existing knowledge. Not only does it enable researchers/practitioners to diagnose problems, research also provides evidence for policies and decisions on socio-economic development
  • 3. What is research? Research is the systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of data to answer a certain question or solve a problem. Characteristics of research: It demands a clear statement of the problem. It requires clear objectives and a plan (it is not aimlessly looking for something in order to come across a solution). It builds on existing data, using both positive and negative findings. New data should be systematically collected and analyzed to answer the original research objectives.
  • 4. the meaning of proposal suggests looking forward, to what the researcher plans to do in the future. The proposal lays out the problem for research, describes exactly how the research will be conducted, and outlines in precise detail the resources both factual and instrumental the researcher will use to achieve the desired results. Leedy & Omrod, Practical Research. 8th ed, p. 117, 115. Research Proposal Definitions Essentially, to make the reader to understand :- What you are going to do Rational of the research Objectives of the research Methodology Expected output
  • 5. A good proposal should consists of the first three chapters of the thesis It should :- Begin with an Introduction - statement of the problem/background information (Chapter 1) A review of the Literature (Chapter 2) Defining of the Research Methodology (Chapter 3) What is a proposal ? An outline of the research problem A statement of the significance of the problem A review of related studies A discussion of the procedures Methods for data collection and analysis A note about the studys limitations
  • 6. 6 The Research Process For Applied and Basic Research
  • 7. Steps of conducting a research: A. Prioritizing and selecting a research topic B. Review of literature and other existing information C. Development of a Research Proposal D. Implementation of study: i. Data collection ii. Data processing and analysis iii. Interpretation of results iv. Final report writing v. Presenting the results: Scientific, presentation at meetings, seminars, workshops or conferences, and presentation for administrators and policy- makers
  • 8. A. Prioritizing and selecting a research topic Criteria for selecting a research topic: 1. Relevance: The topic you choose should be a priority problem. Questions to be asked include: How large or widespread/depth is the problem? Who is affected? How severe is the problem? 2. Avoidance of duplication: Before you decide to carry out a study, it is important that you find out whether the suggested topic has been investigated before, either within the proposed study area or in another area with similar conditions. If the topic has been researched, the results should be reviewed to explore whether major questions that deserve further investigation remain unanswered. If not, another topic should be chosen Steps of conducting a research:
  • 9. B. Literature review Why is it important to review already available information when preparing for a research? It prevents you from duplicating work that has been done before. It helps you to find out what others have learned and reported on the problem you want to study. This may assist you in refining your statement of the problem. It helps you to become more familiar with the various research methods that might be used in your study. It should provide you with convincing arguments for why your particular research project is needed. Steps of conducting a research: Learning what is known and unknown Learning how field of knowledge was developed (history) Showing you understand your field Confirming your own research is worthwhile Explaining how knowledge is developed over time Justifying your research Identifying how you will make a contribution See Example,,,pg 31
  • 10. C. Development of a research proposal Contents a. Title of the research b. Introduction: Background information and Statement of the research problem (Scientific justification for the study) c. Research objectives d. Research hypothesis e. Methodology f. Work plan g. Plan for utilization and dissemination of research results h. References i. Annexes Steps of conducting a research:
  • 11. A good title should be short, accurate, and concise It should make the central objectives of the study clear to the reader It is important to specify what population will be investigated, and where it will be conducted. E.g. Factors Influencing e-Bidding Adoption in the Public Sector a. Title of the research proposal C. Development of a research proposal
  • 12. This section should convince the reader of the relevance of the study It should provide enough background data for an outsider to understand the different aspects of the problem, or the different factors influencing the problem and the context in which it occurs. Your review of available literature and reports should further illustrate why the problem is important, not only in your own working area but probably also beyond Note: Be selective, remembering that this section serves to justify your study, not to display your ability to read literature. See example..pg 1 b. Introduction (Background information and Statement of the research problem) C. Development of a research proposal
  • 13. c. Research objectives Research objectives are the goal to be achieved by a research. Why should research objectives be developed? The formulation of objectives will help you to: Focus the study (narrowing it down to essentials) Avoid the collection of data which are not strictly necessary for understanding and solving the problem you have identified Organize the study in clearly defined parts or phases - Properly formulated, specific objectives will facilitate the development of your research methodology and will help to orient the collection, analysis, interpretation and utilization of data. - How should you state your objectives? The general and specific objectives should be included as stated in the proposal Example Specific Objective: 1. To identify the variables that may influence the adoption of eBidding by government users 2. To examine the effects of the variables on the adoption of eBidding by government users 3. To propose a framework to analyze the adoption of eBidding by government users 4. To examine if some of the variables have moderating or mediating effects on the relationships established as stated in objective 2 Example Objective To examine the User Factors and System Factors that Influence eBidding Utilization among Government Sourcing Officials in Malaysian Public Sector C. Development of a research proposal
  • 14. 14 Having examined the different kinds of variables that could operate in a situation and how the relationships among these can be established, it is now possible to see how we can develop the conceptual model or the theoretical framework for our research. If the framework is logically sound and substantiated by previous research studies, there is a strong possibility that the predictions or hypotheses evolving from that framework will be supported The theoretical framework plays an important role in guiding the entire process of the research study Theories are constructed in order to explain, predict and master phenomena (e.g. relationships, events, or the behavior). In many instances we are constructing models of reality. A theory makes generalizations about observations and consists of an interrelated, coherent set of ideas and models. The Use of a Theoretical Framework in a Research Proposal
  • 15. The variables considered relevant to the study should be clearly defined. A conceptual model that describes the relationships between the variables in the model should be given. A clear explanation of why we expect these relationships to exist. A conceptual framework is used in research to outline possible courses of action or to present a preferred approach to an idea or thought. The theoretical framework elaborates the relationships among the variables, explains the theory underlying these relations, and describes the nature and direction of the relationships. The theoretical framework provides the logical base for developing testable hypotheses. see example pg 64 The Use of a Theoretical Framework in a Research Proposal
  • 16. E.g. The eBidding adoption study and the model proposed will be based on: Example of Theories Employed in Theoretical Framework Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) (Venkatesh et al., 2003) An Information System (IS) framework for assessing an individuals intention to use an IS technology Information System Success Model (Delone and Mclean, 2003) A system success can be evaluated in terms of information, system, and service quality; these characteristics affect the subsequent use or intention to use and user satisfaction Personal Innovativeness in Information Technology (Agarwal and Prasad, 1998) Domain-specific individual trait which reflects the willingness of a person to try out a new information technology
  • 17. Example : Models related to Technology/Innovation adoption/acceptance/use Moderator Model of Personal Innovativeness in Information Technology (PIIT) (Agarwal & Prasad, 1998) Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) (Venkatesh et al., 2003) IS Updated Success Model (Delone and Mclean, 2003)
  • 18. Performance Expectancy Effort Expectancy Social Influence Facilitating Conditions eBidding Adoption System Quality Service Quality Information Quality H1 H3 H5 H6a H2 H4 H1a H2a H2b H3a H4a H7a H6 H5 H7 Example :Proposed Research Model 18 Experience Personal Innovativeness In IT Satisfaction
  • 19. d. Research hypothesis A hypothesis can be defined as a prediction or explanation of the relationship between : one or more independent variables (PREDISPOSING/RISK FACTORS) and one dependent variable (OUTCOME/CONDITION/DISEASE)). o a logical relationship between two or more variables expressed in the form of a testable statement. A hypothesis, in other words, translates the problem statement into a precise, clear prediction of expected outcomes. o It must be emphasized that hypotheses are not meant to be haphazard guesses, but should reflect the depth of knowledge, imagination and experience of the investigator must be based on established theory/model o Therefore, in the process of formulating hypotheses, all variables relevant to the study should be identified. o See example..pg 76 & 77 C. Development of a research proposal
  • 20. H1: Performance expectancy is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H2: Effort expectancy is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H3: Social influence is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H4: Facilitating conditions is significantly related to officials adoption of eBidding H5: Information quality is significantly related to eBidding adoption H6: System quality is significantly related to eBidding adoption H7 : Service quality is significantly related to eBidding adoption H5a : Satisfaction significantly mediates relationship between information quality and eBidding Adoption Example : Hypotheses
  • 21. e. Methodology This section summarizes the most important points of the research design including: Variables: It is necessary to identify the variables that will be involved in the research project being designed. Independent (predisposing/risk factors/antecedents), Dependent (outcome), see example It is also necessary to specify whether these variables are Numerical (continuous/discrete), or Categorical (ordinal/nominal). Operational definition of different study variables should be clearly phrased. C. Development of a research proposal The methodology you followed for the collection of your data should be described in detail. The methodology section should include a description of: - the study type - major study variables on which data was collected - the study population, sampling method and the size of the sample - data-collection techniques used - how the data was collected and by whom - procedures used for data analysis, including statistical tests (see example)
  • 22. No Section Variables No. of Statements Scale of Measurement References 1 A Performance expectancy 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 2 B Effort Expectancy 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 3 C Social influence 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 4 D Facilitating Conditions 7 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 5 E System Quality 7 Interval Delone and Mclean, (2003) 6 F Information Quality 7 Interval Delone and Mclean, (2003) 7 G Service Quality 7 Interval Delone and Mclean, (2003) 8 H Satisfaction 7 Interval Wixom and Todd, (2005) 9 I Experience 5 Interval Venkatesh et al., (2003) 10 J Personal Innovativeness in IT 5 Interval Agarwal and Karahanna, (2000) 11 K Actual Use 4 Interval Nominal Delone and Mclean, (2003) 12 Respondents profile Example : Operationalizing Research Instrument
  • 23. Purpose of the of Study Explanatory (Hypothesis Testing) Time Horizon Cross Sectional (One-Shot) Sampling Design Probability: Simple Data Collection Method Survey (Structured Questionnaire) Primary Data source Pilot Study Unit of Analysis Individual Type of Investigation Correlation Extent of Researcher Interference Minimal: Studying events as they normally occur Study Setting Natural Setting (Non- contrived) Measurement and Measures 5 point Likert- Type Scale (Adapted UTAUT, IS Success Model, PIIT Metrics) Data Analysis Adopted From Sekaran, 2003 (p.118) Problem Statement 1. Feel for Data 2.Goodness of data 3. Hypothesis Testing An Example of Research Design
  • 24. Significance of the Study Why this study is significant? Why do it now? What will it contribute to the existing research literature? What implications your findings may have? Who will benefit from it? [Scholarly acceptability] See Example
  • 25. References The references in your text can be numbered in the sequence in which they appear in the report and then listed in this order in the list of references Harvard Citation or author/date system references made in the text are listed in alphabetical order by the surname of the first author in the bibliography at the end of the text. e.g. Reference within essay: In his survey of the mating habits of frogs, Bloggs (1998) refuted that ... Entry in bibliography: Bloggs, B. 1998. Frogs and their mating habits . London: Tadpole Press The Vancouver System or footnotes/endnotes or numeric system; references are numbered consecutively in the order in which they are first cited in the text. e.g. Reference within essay: In his survey of the mating habits of frogs, Bloggs (1) refuted that ... Entry in bibliography: 1. Bloggs B. Frogs and their mating habits. London : Tadpole Press; 1998
  • 26. Let us Talk About Thesis
  • 27. The classical thesis structure INTRODUCTION What I want to do LITERATURE What others say about it DESIGN My plan for doing it RESULTS What happened when I did it DISCUSSION What this means CONCLUSIONS What I found out
  • 28. Punch, K. F. (2007). Developing Effective Research Proposals (2 ed.). Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications. Simplified model of research
  • 29. Writing a Research Paper ..Overall Main Components of a Paper : I. Title or cover page II. Abstract III. Introduction IV. Objectives V. Methodology VI. Research results (findings) VII. Discussion VIII. Conclusions IX. Recommendations X. References XI. Annexes or appendices (data collection tools, tables)
  • 30. Chapter 1 : Introduction Background of the study Overview of research subject Broad to specific Problem statements Objectives of study Practical implications Theoretical contributions Study Limitations Chapter 2: Literature Review Past research related to study Global & local publications journal and books Overview of theories related to research subjects at least 5 or 3 key theories Review and critique Main Components of a Paper
  • 31. Chapter 3: Theoretical Framework Introduction Conceptual development Models/theories comparisons Which models as base of proposed model Proposed research model Hypotheses development Independent variables Dependent variables Moderating / mediating variables Chapter 4: Methodology Introduction Population and sampling Data Collection and Sampling procedure (target ; sampling population ; size) Questionnaire design Measurement of variables Research design SEM- Measurement model Main Components of a Paper
  • 32. Chapter 5 : Data Analysis & Discussion Introduction Feel for data Frequency distribution of demographics Positions ; locations ; years of working ; gender Testing Goodness of Data Reliability and validity Results from SEM analysis Significant or not significant related to hypotheses Chapter 6 : Conclusions Introduction Discussions on results conform to findings in literature ; if not why..? Implications of Research Findings Theoretical Implications Practical Implications Policy Implications Recommendations for Future Research Limitations Main Components of a Paper
  • 33. CONCLUSIONS - The conclusions should follow logically from the discussion of the findings. - As the discussion will follow the sequence in which the findings have been presented (which in turn depends on your objectives) the conclusions should logically follow the same order. .RECOMMENDATIONS - The recommendations should follow logically from the discussion of the findings. - Recommendations may be summarized according to the groups towards which they are directed, for example: policy-makers / stakeholders program managers/implementing officials at different levels potential clients the community at large
  • 34. .Plan for utilization and dissemination of research results - The proposal should indicate what reports or other means of disseminating research findings are planned. - Any or all of the following are appropriate for disseminating the results of the study: Progress reports Final report Publications Seminars, workshops, and conferences Discussion with policymakers and program managers
  • 35. .ANNEXES OR APPENDICES The annexes should contain any additional information needed to enable professionals to follow your research procedures and data analysis. Examples of information that can be presented in annexes are: - Tables referred to in the text but not included in order to keep the report short. - Interview schedule/ questionnaires (and/or other data collection tools). - Informed consent form - Institutional/Ethical approval for the study
  • 36. Further Readings 1. Creswell, J. W. (2009). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, p. 97127. 2. Hernon, P. (2007). Editorial: what is problem statement? Library & Information Science Research, 29, 307309. 3. Hernon, P., & Metoyer-Duran, C. (1993). Problem statements: An exploratory study of their function, significance, and form. Library & Information Science Research, 15, 7192. 4. Metoyer-Duran, C., & Hernon, P. (1994). Problem statements in research proposals and published research: A case study of researchers' viewpoints. Library & Information Science Research, 16, 105118. 5. Nitecki, D. A. (2010). Guest editorial: Finalizing a research paperfindings through conclusion. Library & Information Science Research, 32, 13. 6. Sproull, N. L. (1988). Handbook of research methods: A guide for practitioners and students in the social sciences. London: Scarecrow Press, p. 140. 7. Teddlie, C., & Tashakkori, A. (2009). Foundations of Mixed Methods Research : Integrating Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches in the Social and Behavioral Sciences. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, p. 120124.