Unit 2 Research Aptitude Notes

Comprehensive Guide to Research Aptitude Notes and Methodology

This detailed guide provides an in-depth analysis of foundational research concepts and procedures. It begins by defining research as the creation of new knowledge and outlines its core characteristics, such as being systematic, objective, logical, and replicable.

Key Methodologies and Paradigms

• Positivism and Post-Positivism: Distinguishes between Positivism, which argues for a true objective reality , and Post-Positivism, which acknowledges the existence of a single reality but accepts that it can never be fully known due to human limitations.
• Hypothetico-Deductive Research (Quantitative): Focuses on generalization, single reality, and outcomes in controlled settings.
• Empirico-Inductive Research (Qualitative): Focuses on participant perspectives and processes in actual/natural settings, gathering empirical data to generalize findings.
• Action Research: Defined as a cyclical process (Plan, Act, Observe, Reflect) aimed at simultaneously investigating and solving an issue.

Data and Variables

The document clarifies the difference between Quantitative (number-based, measurable) and Qualitative (interpretation-based, descriptive) data. It also breaks down variable types:

• Independent (IV) & Dependent (DV): DV is changed by the manipulation of the IV.
• Extraneous Variables: Factors that unintentionally affect the dependent variable and threaten validity.

The Research Process and Sampling

The guide systematically lists the seven steps in research, from establishing the research question and reviewing the literature to formulating a hypothesis, collecting/analyzing data, and sharing the findings. Sampling is covered in detail, differentiating between:

• Probability Sampling: Includes Simple Random, Systematic, Stratified, and Cluster Sampling.
• Non-Probability Sampling: Used in Qualitative Research for fast, inexpensive data collection, including Convenience, Quota, Snowball, and Purposive (Judgment) Sampling.

Academic Standards

The document concludes with a useful section on academic abbreviations (like cf., Et.al., Ibid.) and a comparison of APA (American Psychological Association, used in Social Sciences) and MLA (Modern Language Association, used in Humanities) citation styles, complete with examples of journal article references.