Research Methods
NOTES BASED ON RESEARCH METHODOLOGY BY WELMAN, KRUGER AND MITCHELL, 3RD EDITION. THE AIMS OF RESEARCH Research is a process that involves obtaining scientific knowledge by means of various objective methods and procedures. The term objective indicates that these methods and procedures do not rely on personal feelings or opinions and that the specific methods are used at each stage of the research process. These methods include procedures for drawing samples (e.g. simple random sampling), measuring variables, collecting information and analysing the information. Research methodology considers and explains the logic behind research methods and techniques.
Sources of non – scientific knowledge The sources include authority, opinion of peers, traditions, debating and accidental observation. Under authority, non – scientific knowledge is often merely accepted on the basis of the authority of some or other source. In contrast, with scientific approach, one should check the way in which findings are acquired and not accept them merely because they originate from a so – called expert. Non –scientific knowledge can also be acquired by asking the opinion of peers. Traditions refer to knowledge which is carried over from one generation to the next. Under debating, people attempt to obtain knowledge and insight by arguing in a seemingly logical manner. Accidental observation – this is where we notice something happening in one situation, but do not investigate the phenomenon in a systematic and planned manner
Core features of scientific knowledge They include systematic observation, control and replication. Systematic observation – scientific approach requires that we plan an investigation in which we use the results of two groups that have applied the methods. Control – scientific knowledge can be obtained in a controlled manner. Control means that alternative explanations for the obtained results should be eliminated systematically.
Sources of non – scientific knowledge The sources include authority, opinion of peers, traditions, debating and accidental observation. Under authority, non – scientific knowledge is often merely accepted on the basis of the authority of some or other source. In contrast, with scientific approach, one should check the way in which findings are acquired and not accept them merely because they originate from a so – called expert. Non –scientific knowledge can also be acquired by asking the opinion of peers. Traditions refer to knowledge which is carried over from one generation to the next. Under debating, people attempt to obtain knowledge and insight by arguing in a seemingly logical manner. Accidental observation – this is where we notice something happening in one situation, but do not investigate the phenomenon in a systematic and planned manner
Core features of scientific knowledge They include systematic observation, control and replication. Systematic observation – scientific approach requires that we plan an investigation in which we use the results of two groups that have applied the methods. Control – scientific knowledge can be obtained in a controlled manner. Control means that alternative explanations for the obtained results should be eliminated systematically.
References: We conclude the research project with a list of relevant and key references. Finally, the entire proposal should be well thought-out, logically coherent, and grammatically flawless. 60