Hand Outs and Activity Sheets For Quantitative Research
Hand Outs and Activity Sheets For Quantitative Research
Hand Outs and Activity Sheets For Quantitative Research
Practical Research 2
Quantitative Research
CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH
Quantitative Research
• Is an objective, systematic, empirical investigation of observable phenomena through the use of computational
techniques
• Highlights numerical analysis of data
• Concerned with numbers and relationships with events
Characteristics
1. Objective – seeks accurate measurement and analysis of target concepts. Not based on mere intuitions or
guesses
2. Clearly Defined Research Questions – researcher know in advanced what they are looking for; aspects of the
data are designed before data are gathered
3. Structured Research Instruments – data are gathered through structured research tools
4. Numerical Data – data are numbers and statistics that are organized and presented in various forms
5. Large Sample Sizes – to be more reliable, normal population curve is preferred
6. Replication – can be repeated to verify or confirm the correctness of the results in another setting
7. Future Outcomes – using math calculations and computers, future results may be predicted
Strengths
1. It is objective.
2. Use of statistical techniques
3. Numerical data can be analyzed quickly and easily
4. Findings can be generalized
5. Replicable
Weaknesses
1. Requires large number of respondents.
2. It is costly.
3. Information contextual factors are usually ignored.
4. Many information are difficult to gather especially on sensitive issues.
5. If not done seriously, data from questionnaires may be incomplete or inaccurate
Quantitative Research
Experimental Non-Experimental
References:
Baraceros, E. L. (2016). Practical Research 2. Rex Bookstore.
Faltado III, R.E., Bombita, M.B., Boholano, H.B., Pogoy, A.M. (2016). Practical Research 2: Quantitative Research. Lorimar
Publishing, Inc.
Kind Goal Variables/ Data Sample Titles
Experimental Collection
Manipulation Techniques
Descriptive To observe and Variables are measured Questionnair Assessing Nurses’ Attitudes Toward Death
report on a certain as they occur. e and Caring for Dying Patients in a Cancer
phenomenon Experimental Center (Lange, M., Thom, B., Kline, N.E.,
Observation
manipulation is not used. 2008)
Self-Medication Practices of
Caguyumanons by Villano, N., et al, 2018
Correlational To determine the Variables are measured Questionnair Exposure to Korean Drama and its Effect
nature of as they occur. e to the Social Skills and Attitudes of Senior
relationship between Experimental High School Students by Barrogo, C. , et al
Tests
variables without manipulation is not used. 2018
Observations
looking into the
cause Stress Level, Emotional Intelligence, and
Academic Performance of Graduating
Senior High School Students by Orola, M.,
et al, 2018
Ex post facto To infer the causes Experimental Questionnair Comparison of Personal, Social and
(Comparative of a phenomenon manipulation is not used. e Academic Variables Related to University
which has already Groups exposed to Drop-out Rate and Persistence
)
occurred presumed cause are (Bernales, A., et al, 2016)
compared with those
who are not exposed to Study Habit, Attitude, and Academic
it. Performance of On-Line Gamers and Non-
on-line Gamers by Cordinillo, F. et al,
2017
Quasi- To establish cause- Experimental Test The Impact of Smoking Bans on Smoking
experimental and-effect manipulation is may and Consumer Behavior: Quasi-
relationships have limited used. experimental Evidence from Switzerland
(Boes, S., Marti, J., Maclean, J.C., 2014)
Social Inquiry: to better understand the behavior and social interactions among individuals
Sample Study: Malouf, J. M., Schutte, N. S., Rooke, S.E., and MacDonell, G. (2012). Effects on Smokers of Exposure
to Graphic Warning Images. The American Journal on Addictions, 21 (6), 555-557.
Arts: to investigate methods or approaches that enhance one’s creativity
Sample Study: Bringer, J., & Capra, R. (2011). Managing Music Across Multiple Devices and Computers: In
Proceedings of the 2011 iConference (pp. 489-495).
Information and Communications Technology: to examine the trends and tendencies in the use of information
technology
Sample Study: Tripathi, M., & Kumar, S. (2014). Use of Online Resources at Jawahalal Nehru University: A
Quantitative Study. Program, 48 (3), 272-292
Science: to understand the effectiveness of a newly developed medicine, treatment, or approach in addressing
problems
Sample Study: Fatmah, H. (2013). Effect of Tempeh Dates Biscuits on Nutritional Status of Preschool Children with
Tuberculosis. Malaysian Journal of Nutrition, 19 (2), 173-184.
Agriculture and Fisheries: to examine how agriculture in a particular community is influenced by global trends
Sample Study: Namisko, P., & Aballo, M. (2013). Current Status of E-agriculture and Global Trends: A Survey
Conducted in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya. International Journal of Science and Research, 2 (7), 18-22.
Sports: to understand the relationship between one’s health and athletic performance
Sample Study: Jones, J. G., & Hardy, L. (1989). Stress and Cognitive Functioning in Sports. Journal of Sports
Sciences, 7(1), 41-63.
Business: to assess approaches that will help companies in their decision-making practices
Sample Study: Ali, R., & Ahmed, M. S. (2009). The Impact of Reward and Recognition Programs on Employee’s
Motivation and Satisfaction: An Empirical Study. International Review of Business Research Papers, 5(4), 270-279.
Vocational and Livelihood: to develop new ways and new products
Sample Study: Motong, S.M. (2012). Acceptability of MIlkfish (Chanos chanos Forsskal) Skin as Chicharon.
Lesson 3: Kinds of Variables and their Uses
2. Qualitative variables are also referred to as categorical variables. Despite lacking numerical value, these
variables can still be used in quantitative research. Thy involve assigning values o specific categories or
groups. They are of two types:
Dichotomous variables are those that have only two distinct categories or variables.
Nominal variables have more than two categories or values.
2. Dependent variables – those that depend on the independent variables; they are the outcomes or results of
the influence of the independent variable. They are being examined for changes.
Examples:
“The Relationship between Exposure to Mass Media and Smoking Habits among Young Adults”
4. Confounding variables – those that are not actually measured or observed in a study. They exist but their
influence cannot be directly detected in a study. This is the variable which the researcher fails to control and
threatens the validity of an experiment’s procedure.
Example:
“The Effects of Using Microsoft Word on the Writing Performance of Students”
Levels of Measurement
1. Nominal variables represent categories that cannot be ordered in any particular way. Examples are biological
sex, political affiliation, basketball team, religion.
2. Ordinal variables represent categories that can be ordered from greatest to smallest. Income brackets,
educational level (Grade 1, Sophomore), nutritional status, and ranks are examples of ordinal variables.
3. Interval variables have values that lie along an evenly dispersed range of numbers. Examples are
temperature and person’s blood pressure.
4. Ratio variables have values that lie along an evenly dispersed range of numbers when there is an absolute
zero. Examples are height, number of children, number of employees.
Name: ____________________________________________ Grade and Section: __________________
Give it A Try
Direction: Classify the following research characteristics as either that of qualitative or quantitative. Tick (√ )
the appropriate column properly.
On Your Own
Which between these two sets of statements is easier or quicker to understand? Justify your point.
Set A:
Ninety percent (90%) of the recorded Covid 19 cases in the Philippines are mild and
asymptomatic.
Only 2 senators voted against the passing of the anti-terror bill.
Set B:
A big number of the recorded Covid 19 cases in the Philippines are mild and asymptomatic.
Few senators voted against the passing of the anti-terror bill.
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
Thinking Time
Based on the two previous activities, what do you think are the strengths and weaknesses of
quantitative research.
Apply It
Ponder on the headlines of big newspapers, news outlet or on some TV programs; then, try asking
quantitative questions about them. Write at least 3 questions about the news or headlines.
Headline: ____________________________________________________________________________
1._____________________________________________________________________________
2._____________________________________________________________________________
3._____________________________________________________________________________
Assessment
I. True or False. Write True if the statement is correct and False if otherwise.
II. Multiple Choice. Write the letter of the correct answer on the space before the number.
______ 6. Which of the following BEST defines quantitative research?
A. It is an activity of producing or proving a theorem.
B. It is an activity concerned with finding new truths in education.
C. It is an exploration associated with libraries, books and journals.
D. It is a systematic process for obtaining numerical information about the world.
____1. This aims to find out if there is relationship between two or more variables.
____2. In this research, subjects are randomly assigned to experimental treatment and control groups who
are treated the same except for the treatment.
____3. This kind of research corresponds to identifying the characteristics of an observed phenomenon.
____4. Experimental manipulation has limited use in this research.
____5. This kind of research is used to infer the causes of a phenomenon which has already occurred.
Identify the right kind of quantitative research for each title.
____6. The Socioeconomic Profile of Households in Upland Communities in the Province of Iloilo
____7. The Comparison of Skills of Honor and Non-Honor Students
____8. Effect of Organic Fertilizers on the Growth of Cucumber
____9. Use of Online Platforms in Classroom Instruction: Effect on Students’ Performance
____10. Physics Anxiety, Habits of Mind and Self-Efficacy as Predictors of Students’ Academic
Performance
Apply It
Read and analyze the following studies. Answer the question that follows.
On Your Own
What do you think is the importance of quantitative research in your chosen field or endeavor?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
Name: ____________________________________________ Grade and Section: __________________
A. Fill in the blank/ boxes with the correct word/s. Write not applicable if there will be cases when the
required term is impossible to be determined.
1. The Relationship between Educational 2. The Effect of Music on the Social Studies
Attainment and Fathers’ Involvement in the Performance of Students
School Activities of their Children
a. Kind of Quantitative Research: _______________ a. Kind of Quantitative Research: _______________
b. Complete the diagram: b. Complete the diagram:
5. Influence of Social Media on Self-Esteem of 6.Music Therapy and its Effect to the Science
High School Students Performance of Students
a. Kind of Quantitative Research: _______________ a. Kind of Quantitative Research: _______________
b. Complete the diagram: b. Complete the diagram:
B. Classify the following variable as Quantitative or C. Classify the variable as either nominal (N),
Qualitative. Then determine if it is ordinal (O), interval (I), and ratio (R).
Discrete/Continuous, or Dichotomous/Nominal (One check per number)
(One check per number)
Variable Quantitative Qualitative Variable N O I R
D C D N 1.weight of air-conditioning unit
1.Movie Classification (G,
PG, SPG,…) 2.SSS number
2. Salary
(P5,135.50, P450.75) 3.ranking of tennis player
3.Product Satisfaction
(unsatisfied, satisfied,
4.Cellphone Number
very satisfied)
4.amount of time in playing
ROS (1.5 hr, 1.75 hr) 5. number of typhoons
5.Region
(R. Catholic, INC, GW) 6.exam score (9pt, 10pt, 8pt,…)
6.Color of shirt
7.Temperature 7.body mass index (25.3, 24.7,…)
8.Mobile Ownership
(Yes or No)
9.Number of Gr 7 Students
10.Marital Status (Single,
Married, Widow,..)
8.nutritional status (wasted, normal,
overweight)
9.temperature
PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2
Quantitative Research Module 2
The first and foremost step in the research is selecting and properly defining a research problem.
Before starting a laborious journey of finding the unknown, you need to know first what it is that you want to
find out, where and how you are going to find the answers to your questions, and what specific qualities are
you looking for. For instance, you want to find a specific kind of fish in the ocean; however, the ocean is so
vast that it is almost impossible for you to achieve that goal of finding the fish without equipping yourself with
the right tools and information about it. You may need to know first its behavior and living conditions before
you can precisely pinpoint the perfect spot to find the fish. Thus, baseline information is needed for a
successful quest.
That fish analogy can be applied to finding a research topic. A well-defined research topic is
essential for a successful research. When the topic is not well-defined, it becomes unmanageable and may
result in some drawbacks during data collection and analysis that could compromise the strength of your
study.
Hence, choosing a topic must undergo proper and thorough planning and designing. The four basic
steps in designing a research topic are the following: (1) choose a broad topic, (2) do preliminary research,
(3) define the problem, and (5) refine the question. Guided with these steps, a student researcher can
certainly jumpstart a quantitative research project.
WHAT IS IT
1. CHOOSE A BROAD TOPIC. The first step is quite simple. As a Senior High School student, these tips
will surely guide you in selecting a broad topic for quantitative research:
In the event, that the three tips above do not shed some light on your minds, do not despair; other
sources of ideas like the ones below may be available for you.
i. Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Harmonized National R & D Agenda for 2017-2022.
Early in 2017, DOST, together with researchers from the health, agriculture, industry, and academe,
released research priorities for 2017 to 2022 that are relevant for the economic growth of the
country. Visit this link https://bit.ly/3hHTf2Y for a list of suggested studies.
ii. Review of Literature. Some researchers reveal that reading previous studies fueled their minds with
tons of research topics. Reviewing the literature lets them know what has been studied, what is not
yet done, and what other researchers suggest working on. Journals, periodicals, and peer-reviewed
articles are a good read.
iii. Field experts. Gather up some guts to approach anyone you know that are experts on the field of
your choice because they may give valuable inputs or may currently be working on a study where
you can collaborate. Your instructor may also give you some advice, especially on the possible
obstacles, resource limitations, and expanse of the study.
iv. Brainstorming. Do not underestimate the ideas from classmates, friends, and family members. You
may be overwhelmed at first by the outpouring of ideas, just build a list, then cross off any topic
unrelated to your field or not so interesting to you. Of course, you must take precautionary measures
in doing this by observing physical distancing. You can use any social media platform to do this.
2. DO A PRELIMINARY RESEARCH. The second step is much more time-consuming. Once you have
chosen a broad topic, you need to have a better understanding of it by reading some more articles,
journals, and related research studies. Find out how other researchers gathered their data, what
research instruments were used, how the data were analyzed, and what important findings they shared.
Take note of every relevant research study for future reference. If you started the topic search (first
step) by doing a literature review, the second step is just a continuation of what you started. A much
deeper discussion of the literature review will be done in module 3.
3. DEFINE THE PROBLEM. After getting enough information, you may be able to list some questions or
problems that you want to research. At this stage, you should be able to narrow down broad topic into
feasible and manageable research questions. A broad topic can be narrowed down by limiting the
population, place, period, or a certain characteristic. However, be very mindful that your problem may
not be too narrow that it becomes very simple and does not need to collect unique data or does not
generate new information. A very narrow research question can be developed by doing a comparative
study or expanding the scope of the study.
4. REFINE THE QUESTION. This step lets you evaluate the questions formulated. What specific
questions should you ask? How should you gather your data sufficient to answer the questions? Are
the questions too narrow, or does it need to be trimmed down? While evaluating the research question,
consider the requirements of the course. How much time are you given to finish the research? What
resources do you need and are they available? You will learn more about research questions in lesson
4.
WHAT’S MORE
Let’s go online
Directions: Go to the link below and practice what you’ve learned from this lesson:
https://bit.ly/3fPFQUK
https://bit.ly/2NqVYzW
https://bit.ly/2NqmVUw
WHAT I CAN DO
Directions: Choose one broad topic related to your track that interests you. Do preliminary research on this
topic. Take note of at least 2 related studies with its corresponding author/s, then list three (3)
quantitative research questions related to the topic. Follow the format below. Write your
answers in separate sheet of paper.
References:
1. Title: _______________________________________________________________
Author/s: ____________________________________________________________
Year of Publication:____________________________________________________
Name of Journal/Publication: ____________________________________________
Link: _______________________________________________________________
Notes/ Important information: ____________________________________________
2. Title: _______________________________________________________________
Author/s: ____________________________________________________________
Year of Publication:____________________________________________________
Name of Journal/Publication: ____________________________________________
Link: _______________________________________________________________
Notes/ Important information: ____________________________________________
Question 1: _______________________________________________________________
Question 2: _______________________________________________________________
Question 3: _______________________________________________________________
The old saying “never judge a book by its cover” applies to research studies no matter how much we
say otherwise. When the title is poorly constructed that it does not accurately describe the objective of your
research, it can discredit the value of the entire research, let alone the implication of your research findings.
It is, therefore, important that you make your research title accurate yet captivating. Afterall, the research
title is the first thing your professor, fellow researchers, journal editors, or reviewers get to see first. Once it
captures the attention of the readers, they will be enticed to read the entire work and learn something from
your research. Learning how to make your research title create a good impression is essential.
WHAT’S NEW
True or False
Directions: Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE if it is incorrect.
_____________1. Inserting humor on the research title makes it more interesting to the reader.
_____________2. Abbreviations are a must to make the research title shorter.
_____________3. Proper punctuation and correct grammar must be observed in writing the title.
_____________4. All types of quantitative research design must include the independent and dependent
variables in the title.
_____________5. Jargons make a research title more sophisticated.
_____________6. Only the first letter of nouns and pronouns are capitalized.
_____________7. To minimize the number of characters in the title, only use the chemical formula than
generic names.
_____________8. Use declarative format in writing the research title.
_____________9. To make it more specific, the year must be included in the title.
_____________10. Using obsolete terms do not matter in writing the title.
WHAT IS IT
A research study title is the very first thing a reader comes across when searching for scientific
literature. It is a concise description of the content of the research study containing the fewest possible
words, yet adequate to describe the contents of the paper for a simple reason that we do not want to
mislead the readers. After conceptualizing a most probable research topic, drafting the title early in the
research process helps in keeping your focus on the subject. The following are the basic guidelines in
making a research study title:
1. Use an accurate description of the subject and scope of the study instead of using general terms.
2. Do not use abbreviations except for commonly known ones like DNA and ICT.
3. Do not include words like “The study of,” “analysis of,” “an investigation of” or similar construction
as these would only lengthen the title.
4. Include the main dependent and independent variables.
5. Be mindful of the proper use of grammar and punctuation.
6. Capitalize all nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs as well as the first letter of the first and
last words.
7. State in a declarative form, although you may also see titles in question form from time to time.
8. The year the study has been conducted should not be indicated unless it is a historical study.
9. Use current terminology.
10. Depending on the institutional requirements, 5 to15 words are sufficient to describe the research
study.
11. Use the common name instead of chemical formula (e.g., NH4)
12. Write and italicize the full scientific names.
13. Must reflect the tone of the paper. An academic research paper has title which is not casual, or
informal, or does not contain humor.
The following steps can guide you in writing your research title:
1. Determine what it is that you wish to accomplish or know from your study. Write one to two
sentences to state the main objectives of your research project.
2. Include important keywords and variables. Revise the sentences into one complete sentence that
includes important keywords and variables of the study.
3. Shorten the title by eliminating unnecessary words. You may also shrink a phrase into a simpler
phrase or a single word. In doing this, make sure that the main thought of the research study is
retained.
4. Correct grammar and punctuation errors if there is any.
5. Observe proper formatting. The format may vary according to the requirements of the course or
school. Please seek guidance from your professor.
WHAT’S MORE
Directions: Evaluate the following erroneous research title and justify what makes it wrong.
3. The Effects of Arts-Integrated Instruction on Arithmetic Skills of Students for S.Y. 2018-2019.
Answer: _________________________________________________________
4. Antibacterial effects of C2H5OH extract of Carica papaya leaves.
Answer: _________________________________________________________
WHAT I CAN DO
Directions: This activity is a continuation of what you have done in Lesson 1 of this module. You are to
construct a good research title for each of the quantitative research questions made on Lesson
1. Follow the format below:
Choosing a sound research topic entails a considerable amount of time, focus, and preliminary
research. Before a topic was finalized, you may have read and evaluated the question many times and even
consulted professionals or instructors to ensure its validity and feasibility. How you relay to the reader the
implication of the research problem formulated is what constitutes the background of the study section of
your paper. At the end of this lesson, you should be able to describe the background of research and will
learn what salient information should be included in the background of the study segment of your paper.
The background of the study is the part of your paper where you inform the reader of the context of
the study. When we say context, it means the situation or circumstances within which your research topic
was conceptualized. Ideally, this part is written when you have already conducted a literature review and
has a good perception of the topic so you can articulate the importance and validity of the research problem.
It is also in this part of the paper where you justify the need to conduct a research study about the topic
selected by establishing the research gap.
A research gap is an under or unexplored area of a topic that requires further exploration. The gap
can be in a form of other variables, conditions, population, methodology, or test subject. To identify research
gaps, an exhaustive literature review regarding the topic is required. You may have to look for similar or
related studies employing quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods from legitimate sources and examine
the gray areas. Reading through the Discussion, Conclusion, or the Recommendations sections of the
articles will help you know potential areas of study that need further attention. Identifying research gaps
sometimes would even make researchers modify their research problem as they get noteworthy ideas from
fellow researchers.
While both the Background of the Study and the Review of Related Literature involves reading past
related studies, they differ in some aspects. The former is at the introductory part of the paper with the
purpose of relaying the importance of your research study; the latter is more comprehensive and thoroughly
discuss the studies mentioned in the background of research. Moreover, the background of the study will
answer the following questions:
1. What is already known about the topic?
2. What is not known about the topic?
3. Why do you need to address those gaps?
4. What is the rationale of your study?
While answering these questions, keep in mind that the studies you include in this part of the paper are
laid down as part of the introduction and should not be discussed in great detail. The depth and length of the
background information largely depend on how much information you think the reader needs to know to
have a full grasp of the topic being discussed.
Directions: As you have learned from this lesson, answer each question comprehensively.
1. What is the relevance of the Background of the Study in your research paper?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
WHAT I CAN DO
Directions: Let’s expand the research topic and title you did in the activities from lessons 1 and 2 by
composing a one to two-page Background of the Study.
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________.
A research problem is simple as a problem you would like to research. Quantitative Research
Problem dealt more with the precision and specificity of the problem. Furthermore, the quantitative research
problem describes trends and patterns of a phenomenon.
When you have identified your quantitative research problem, you can now state it and make sure to
establish its place in your study. In your written paper, this can be found as Statement of the Problem,
where it formally introduces the problem that you want to investigate or address. Then you will start
specifying what you want to answer in your study.
Research Problem and Research Questions
The research questions help to clarify and specify the research problem. Research questions are
also considered as sub-problems of your research problem. These questions are informative in nature. It
specifies the method of collecting and analyzing data and the type of data to be collected since you are
exploring a quantitative research problem.
WHAT IS IT
Once you have already enumerated your research questions for your study, it is important that you
consider its quality to answer and explain your research problem. The following are good characteristics of
research questions, as described by Fraenkel and Wallen (2020).
Feasible. Consider the amount of time, energy, money, respondents, and even your current
situation as a student-researcher. Is the research problem possible? Will it not spend unreasonable
amount? Consider these examples: “How do parents feel about the blended learning modality for
elementary learners?” and “How would giving each learner their own laptop to be used in this blended
learning modality affect their performance tasks?” The first example is definitely a more feasible research
question. Considering the resources, it is more possible to gather the data needed to answer the question.
Clear. The clarity of how the questions stated lead to agreement of meaning of the readers of your
study. Since your research questions are also considered as the main focus in the gathering and analyzing
the data, it is therefore very important that these are stated clearly.
Significant. Ask if your research questions are relevant or important to ask. Will answering these
questions provide an additional contribution to address the given research problem? In other words, are the
research questions really worth investigating?
At this point, you do not just consider the time and money that you will spend, but more importantly,
the value of what you are trying to investigate. So aside from the reason that your chosen research problem
is within your interest, you should also provide a sound justification of your choice as a researcher.
Ethical. Always consider the welfare of people, animals or who so ever involve in your study. Look
into ways of answering the research questions without inflicting physical and psychological harm to persons
involved.
Research questions can be generally classified into two: general and specific. The general question
of the study is derived from the research problem while the specific questions are anchored on the general
research problem.
For example:
This study aims to determine the relationship between the types learning delivery mode and
students’ learning styles. Furthermore, it seeks to answer the following research questions: (1) What are the
different learning delivery modes of the school? (2) What the various learning styles of the students? (3) Is
there a significant relationship between the different learning delivery modes of the school and the learning
styles of its students?
Notice that a general problem was presented first. Then it was followed by the specific questions
considered as research questions of the study.
In stating quantitative research questions, you should also consider the design of your quantitative
research. Quantitative research designs will be elaborated in Module 4. For the purpose of writing your
research question, here’s a quick guide of research questions for descriptive research, correlational
research, Ex Post Facto research, Experimental, and Quasi-experimental research.
Research Questions for Descriptive Research focuses on observing and reporting factors or
aspects of the research problem. Phrases such as how often/frequently, how many/much, what is/are, to
what extent/degree, and the likes are used in these questions. For example, you study the use of social
media among Senior High School Students, you can ask the following questions:
What are the various social media platforms used by Senior High Students?
What is the relationship between the length of hours spent on social media and level of digital
literacy of students?
Is there a significant relationship between the type of social media used and the level digital literacy
of students?
Research Questions for Ex Post Facto Research attempt to identify the causes of the
phenomenon in the context of your research problem. It is also assumed that no control or manipulation of
variable has been done in order to cause the effect. It is understood that the cause of the problem already
exists before you conducted your study. For example, ex post facto study on family background and digital
literacy of students, the following questions can be asked:
Is there a difference in the literacy level of students between their cultural and educational family
background?
Research Questions for Experimental and Quasi-experimental Research suggests that answers
to these questions are brought about by manipulation or control of a certain variable during the conduct of
the study. These questions provide explanation to the causal relationship of variables. The following
research questions can be asked on studies on elementary student’s remedial sessions and academic
performance of students:
Is there a significant difference in the posttest scores of the control group and experimental group?
WHAT’S MORE
Directions: Using the same examples in your Activity 1, rank them on the scale of 1 to 10 (1= lowest, 10 =
highest) based on the given parameters in writing a good research question. If you find that the
questions are not so good, then rewrite the questions on the last column of the table. If your
think it is already good, then write your justification also.
Revised Question/
Your Rating
Quantitative Research Question Justification
Feasible Clear Significant Ethical
1. How many Grade-7 students are
enrolled in blended learning this
School Year?
Go to the link below and practice what you’ve learned from this lesson:
https://bit.ly/2zxLYS5
https://bit.ly/2M2lfzC
Directions: Write one general research question and two specific research questions for the given research
problem below.
Organization’s Leadership
Practices and Employee’s Job
Satisfaction
WHAT I CAN DO
Directions: Perform the following task. Referring to your background of the study and research problem, list
your research questions. When formulating these questions, consider the design of your
quantitative research.
1. _______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
2. _______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. _______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
4. _______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
5. _______________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
REFERENCE:
Practical Research 2- Grade 12 Alternative Delivery Mode
Quarter 1 – Module 2: Identifying the Inquiry and Stating the Problem
First Edition, 2020
Published by the Department of Education – Division of Cagayan de Oro Schools Division
Superintendent: Dr. Cherry Mae L. Limbaco, CESO V
LESSON 5: SCOPE AND DELIMITATION OF THE STUDY
In doing research study, we make sure that we have certainty and reasons for drawing the inclusion
and exclusion of research variables. We do not write for the sake of writing the parts of the research paper;
such as setting the scope and delimitation of your study. It is important because it draws the boundary of
your study. Without doing so, research procedures and results will not be coherent to the goal of your study.
The scope specifies the coverage of your study such as variables, population or participant, and
timeline. Delimitation cites factors of your study that are not included or excluded or those you will not deal
in your study.
In this section of your research paper, you may also state the reasons why you did not include the
variables. A clearly written scope and delimitation of the study will make it definitely easier to answer
questions which are related or not related to your study.
In writing the scope and delimitation of your study, you are also asking the basic profile questions of
your research. The following are the components of the scope and delimitation of the study but not limited
to:
Topic of the Study. What are the variables to be included and excluded?
Objectives or Problems to be Addressed. Why are you doing this study?
Time Frame. When are you going to conduct this study?
Locale of the Study. Where are you going to gather your data?
Characteristics of the Respondents. Who will be your respondents?
Method and Research Instruments. How are going to collect the data?
The delimitation of the study describes the various limitations that arose during the design and
conduct of the study. Along the way of conducting your study, you will encounter limitations which you have
not drawn before you start – these are the delimitations of study. Most of the delimitations arose from the
applicability or usefulness of the findings of the study to the current problem.
Variables not included in your study are also determined by delimitation of your study. While on the
other hand, limitation of the study are those variables included in your study. Hence, limitation of the study
is actually the identified scope of the study.
The main objective of this study is to provide information about students’ knowledge and perception
of genetically modified foods and their family health practices. The study also includes the student’s
personal information and occupation of their parents and siblings. This study is limited to the 120
Grade 12 Male and Female enrolled in the First Semester, School Year 2019-2020 of Gusa Regional
Science High School – X. Each of the respondent is given questionnaire to answer. The students
selected came from six different sections to prevent subjective perceptions.
Other parameters
PRACTICAL RESEARCH 2
Quantitative Research Module 3
As you begin writing your research project, you must consider the framework that is suitable for your
study. What is a research framework? A research framework illustrates the structure or blueprint of the
research plan and helps the researcher formulate relevant research questions.
The framework consists of the key concepts and assumed relationships of the research project. It is
normally used as a guide for researchers so that they are more focused on the scope of their studies. It can
be presented using visual (diagrams, chart, etc.) and narrative (paragraph stating the concepts and
relationships of the study) forms.
The types of research frameworks are classified as the theoretical and conceptual frameworks. A
theoretical framework is commonly used for studies that anchor on time-tested theories that relate the
findings of the investigation to the underpinning relevant theory of knowledge. At the same time, a
conceptual framework refers to the actual ideas, beliefs, and tentative theories that specifically support
the study. It is primarily a conception or model of what is out there that the researcher plans to study.
The following are the similar characteristics of Theoretical and Conceptual Framework:
1. Provide an overall view of the research study;
2. Anchor a theory that supports the study;
3. Guide in developing relevant research questions/objectives;
4. Help justify assumptions/hypothesis;
5. Aid in choosing appropriate methodology;
6. Help in gathering and interpreting data and
7. Guide in identifying possible threats to validity.
These are the following guidelines and strategies of choosing and developing a Research Framework
according to Barrot (2017, p.73).
Concept Map
A concept map is a visual representation of information that helps show the relationship between
ideas. Concept maps begin with the main topic and then branch out into sub-topics, reflecting the
connection of all the elements in the study. It can also provide and organize new ideas.
It is composed of different figures such as lines, circles, boxes, and other marks or symbols which
represent the elements of your research. It can take the form of charts, graphic organizers, tables,
flowcharts, Venn Diagrams, timelines, or T-charts. Concept map arranges related ideas in a hierarchy. You
start broad, and the sub-topics will get more and more specific. It also helps you in formulating a specific
topic from the general or the main idea with significant connections of information. In other words,
understanding the big picture makes the details more significant and easier to comprehend.
Concept maps are very useful for researchers and readers who understand better visually. With the
proper connection of lines and linking arrows to shapes and other symbols representing your concepts
about the research, the readers can visualize a comprehensive picture of your study.
However, in the concept map, you are not yet actually researching your study. It is developing or
creating your plan or blueprint so that you will be guided on the flow and direction of your research study.
And that includes your research questions, variables, and methodology. It means that you are just gathering
and soliciting ideas on what you could learn about your chosen topic.
Before creating your conceptual framework, you have to understand first the different variables of
your study. Although these were already discussed in the previous module for the purpose of utilizing it in
your framework, an in-depth concept is a need.
The independent variable is the “presumed cause” of the research problem. It is the reason for any
“change” or difference in a dependent variable. It can be purposely manipulated by the researcher,
depending on the focus of the study. It maybe can cause, influence, or affect the result or outcome of the
study. It is also called as the experimental, treatment, antecedent, or predictor variable. Moreover, it refers
to the variable that is stable and unaffected by the other variables you are trying to measure.
The dependent variable is the “presumed effect” of the research problem. It is usually the problem
itself or the element that is being questioned. This variable is altered as a result of experimental
manipulation of the independent variable or variables. It is also called as the criterion, effect, response, or
outcome variable which captures the interest of the researcher and requires analysis, interpretation, and
implication of the findings of the study. The variable that depends on other factors that are measured and
are affected or influenced by the independent variable.
The moderating variable is an independent variable which influences the direction and the strength
of the connection between independent and dependent variables. The independent variable interacts with
the moderator variable, which makes the relationship of the independent and dependent variable stronger
or weaker. It alters the effect that an independent variable has on a dependent variable base on its value.
The moderator thus influences the effective component of the cause-effect relationship between the two
variables. This is also called as the interaction effect.
Mediating variable or Intervening variable is an element that exists between the independent to
the dependent variable. A mediator (or mediating) variable is an integral part of the cause-effect relationship
and helps us to understand the effects of the independent variable on the dependent variable. It is a
variable that describes the effect and influence of the relationship between the variables and what is
controlling that relationship. This is also called as correlated or mediator variables
The control variable is a special type of independent variable that can influence the dependent
variable. It takes an active role in quantitative studies. Statistical procedures are used to control this
variable. It is useful to integrate the control variables into your research study, but it is not the main focus.
It has somehow an effect on the dependent variable and an extension of the independent variable.
However, if you omit the control variable from your study, the findings would be less accurate. It is mostly
relevant if your study is about to prove a cause-effect relationship by undertaking statistical analysis.
The Input-Process-Output Model (IPO) is a conceptual paradigm which indicates the inputs, required
process, and the output. This approach is seated on the premise of acquiring essential information by
converting inputs into outputs through the required processing steps in obtaining the result. The IPO Model
is also referred to as a functional model that is usually used in action research where an intervention or
solution is necessary to solve the identified problem.
The Input is usually the independent variable of the study. Meanwhile, the Process is the intervention
or solution consist of the instruments and analyses used to acquire the result. Lastly, the Output is the
findings or outcome of the interventions being made to solve the identified problem.
As you read on different research studies, the common conceptual frameworks used of most studies
are the independent and dependent variable model and the input, process, and output model.
For example:
Figure 1. The schematic diagram of the Independent and Dependent Variables of the Study.
This conceptual framework shows the independent and dependent variables of the study. It is
presumed that the more number of hours a student prepares for the exam, the higher would be the
expected academic performance.
Figure 2. The schematic diagram of the Input, Process, and Output Approach of the Study.
This conceptual framework shows the input, process, and output approach of the study. The input is
the independent variable, which includes the socio-demographic and food safety profile of the respondents.
The process includes the tools and analyses in gathering the data, while the output is the outcome based
on the results of the study.
WHAT IS IT
Example 1
Research Title: Effect of Mentoring Program on Academic Performance among Senior High School
Students
Conceptual Paradigm:
In this conceptual framework, it is expected that the students who underwent the mentoring program
will have better academic performance than those who did not.
Example 2
Research Title: Awareness on the Safety Precaution against COVID 19 among the Senior Citizens
who are living in the Home Care Facilities: Basis for a Proposed Intervention Program
Conceptual Paradigm:
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
Socio-demographic Profile
1. Age 1. Profiling
2. Sex
3. Marital Status 2. Survey Tool Proposed
4. Educational Attainment Intervention
Safety Precaution Awareness 3. Data Gathering
Program
Against COVID 19
4. Data Analysis
1. Causes and Interpretation
2. Management
3. Prevention
In this conceptual framework, the input is the baseline information about the respondents.
Necessary steps and procedures are to be implemented to obtain the vital data as a result and findings of
the research. Furthermore, these findings will be the basis for a proposed intervention program as the
output of the study.
What’s More
After thorough reading on the guidelines on how to make your conceptual framework, kindly answer
the following activities. You are given the title of the research study and the variables in the framework.
Designate which box or variable you are going to place the different elements in the study. Make sure to
identify only the factors that can affect the result of the study. (Note that not all of the elements are
applicable.)
In this conceptual framework, there are assumed moderating variables that are taken into
consideration that somehow they would influence the relationship between the independent and the
dependent variable. They can affect the strength of the connection of the variables.
Activity 2: Spot the Variable (Part 2)
Definition of Terms is also called as Operational Definition of Variables (ODV). The word
operational refers to “how the word/term was used in the study. At the same time, the variables are the
elements essential to the study.
There are two ways in defining the terms, the conceptual and operational definition. The conceptual
definition is the meaning of the term that is based on how it is defined in the dictionary or encyclopedia.
Operational definition on the other hand is the meaning of the term based on how it was used in the
study.
Generally, there are two cases in which important terms need to be defined. First, if the term is not
common or widely known and second, if the term has a specific or unique meaning in the context of the
study.
Note: Refer also to your institutional format (some institutions have different formats)
Examples of Writing the Definition of Terms
1. Conceptual definition
Face to face. It is when the people involved are being close together and looking directly at each
other.
Module. Is any in a series of standardized units used together, such as an educational unit that
covers a single subject or topic.
Online. Is controlled by or connected to another computer or network.
2. Operational definition
Face to face. This refers to one of the modalities used in learning delivery in which the teacher and
students should be in the same place or setting, such as the classroom.
Module. Teaching modules are guides of the topics and lessons of a specific subject given to
students under the modular method. It is also an alternative distance learning delivery in which students are
required to read and answer the activities specified in the module.
Online. It refers to another form of distance learning wherein the teacher and students will have their
lessons using internet connectivity.
WHAT IS IT
Example 1
Compose a brief introductory statement written before the list of terms to be defined.
1. For a better understanding of this study, the following terms are defined in the context of this research.
2. The following terms are defined as used in the study.
3. To comprehend the study better, the following terms are operationally defined.
Example 2
Write the meaning of the key terms, both conceptually and operationally.
1. Student. A person who is enrolled or attends classes at school, college, or university. (This is defined
conceptually).
Student. Refers to a person who is enrolled and attends a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy of this
university. (This is defined operationally).
2. Undergraduate. A student at a college or university who has not yet earned a bachelor's or equivalent degree.
(This is defined conceptually).
Undergraduate. Refers to a student who is enrolled in the course of Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy
in this university who has not yet received the degree. (This is defined operationally).
3. Graduate. A person who has completed a course of study or training, especially a person who has been
awarded an undergraduate academic degree. (This is defined conceptually).
Graduate. Refers to a student who has completed the degree of Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy of
this university. (This is defined operationally).
A Hypothesis is a tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a specific
and testable prediction on what you expect to happen with the variables in your study. Usually, it proposes a possible
relationship between the independent variable (what the researcher changes) and the dependent variable (what the
research measures). It is also described as an “educated guess” of what possibly the result would be of your research,
which should be supported on existing theories and knowledge. Furthermore, the hypothesis states a tentative answer
to your research question that can be tested by further investigation in which you can support or refute it through
scientific research methods such as data collection and statistical analysis. It is the primary idea of any inquiry that
transforms the research questions into a prediction and integrates components like variables, population, and the
relation between the variables. Hypothesis formulation is employed when conducting correlational, ex-post facto, quasi
experimental, and experimental studies.
As a researcher, you must determine whether your hypothesis is accepted or not base on the findings and
outcome of your research study. Not all studies have a hypothesis while, some studies have several hypotheses.
4. Logical hypothesis
Logical hypothesis expresses explanation with limited evidence that can be verified logically. It reflects
a relationship of the variables which anchored based on logical phenomena. Sometimes, a logical hypothesis
can be turned into an empirical hypothesis in which you have to test your theories and postulates.
Ex: Tomato plants bear fruit faster in Earth than in Moon. (Until we are can test the soil and plant
growth in Moon's ground, the evidence for this claim will be limited, and the hypothesis will only remain
logical).
5. Statistical hypothesis
A statistical hypothesis is an analysis of a portion of a population. It can be verified statistically. The
variables in a statistical hypothesis can be transformed into quantifiable sub-variable to assess it statistically.
Ex: If your research is about the psychosocial development of K-3 pupils of the private and public
schools in the city, you would want to examine every single K-3 pupil in the city. It is not practical.
Therefore, you would conduct your research using a statistical hypothesis or a sample of the K-3 pupil
population.
6. Null hypothesis
The null hypothesis is denoted with the symbol Ho It exists when you consider that there is no
relationship between the independent and dependent variables or that there is an insufficient amount of
information to claim a scientific hypothesis.
Ex: There is no significant change in my health, whether I exercise every day or not.
7. Alternative hypothesis
An alternative hypothesis is denoted with the symbol (H a). It is an alternate statement expressed to be
tested in order to generate the desired output when the empirical or working hypothesis is not accepted. In an
attempt to disprove a null hypothesis, you tend to seek an alternative hypothesis.
Ex: My health improves during the times when I sleep 8 hours a day than sleeping for 4 hours only.
A Hypothesis can be classified as Directional and Non-directional Hypothesis
Directional Hypothesis
The directional hypothesis relates the relationship between the variables and can also predict its
nature. It illustrates the direct association of the impact of the independent variable with the dependent
variable, whether it is positively or negatively affected. The direction of the statement should be clear and
justified according to the findings of the study. Since the hypothesis is gearing to one specific direction it is
investigated through a one-tailed test.
Ex: Students who are eating nutritious food have higher grades than students not having a proper
meal. (This shows that there is an effect between the grades and nutritious food and the direction of
effect is clear that the students got a higher grade).
Non-directional Hypothesis
A non-directional hypothesis is used when there is no principle involved. It is a premise that a
relationship exists between two variables. However, the direction of the effect is not specifically determined. It
is a statement that reflects the association of the independent variable to the dependent variable without
predicting the exact nature of the direction of the relationship. This relationship is not specified as negative or
positive. The hypothesis, in this case, is investigated through a two-tailed test.
Ex: There is a significant difference in the average grades between those students that have proper
nutritious meal and those that do not have proper meals. (This depicts that there is an effect between
the average grades and nutritious food, but it does not reflect the direction of the effect whether it is
positively or negatively affected).
WHAT IS IT
Example 1
Determine the following hypotheses, whether it is a good or bad hypothesis base on what you have learned.
Put a check (√) mark on the right column to indicate your answer. Briefly support your answer with an explanation or
remark.
Hypotheses Good Bad Reason/Remark
1. If the amount of water given to my √ This hypothesis is not clear and specific. It does
plants will be altered, then they may not answer a specific question or give a possible
grow at different rates. explanation of a potential phenomenon.
2. When there is less oxygen in water, √ This hypothesis is good because it is testable,
the mortality rate of the fish is simple, written as a statement, and establishes
increased. the participants (fish), variables (oxygen in
water, and mortality rate), and predicts effect (as
oxygen levels decrease, the mortality rate is
increased).
3. Pest infected plants that are exposed √ This hypothesis gives a clear indication of what
to insecticidal soap will have fewer is to be tested (the ability of the insecticidal soap
pest after a week than pest infected to minimize pest infestation), it includes the
plants that are not treated. independent variable (insecticidal soap) and the
dependent variable (number pest), and predicts
the effect (exposure to insecticidal soap reduces
the number of pests).
4. In detecting enemy aircraft, a sound √ This hypothesis is not clear in its statement.
warning signal is more effective to a There is no point of comparison with the sound
fighter pilot. warning signal.
5. Studying of students is more efficient √ This hypothesis is clear, concise, and complete.
under bright lights than studying under It can also be tested and can be falsifiable.
dim lights.
After you have selected your research topic, you have to spend more time for your review of related literature.
As a researcher, you are promoting knowledge. The knowledge created by other previous studies is essential because
it can be a baseline or reference for your research study as the related literature.
Review of related literature is a compilation of studies related to a specific area of research. It evaluates,
classifies and summarizes all the relevant previous studies conducted on a specified topic. It is also design to justify
your research by exposing the gaps of the previous studies. It is vital that your literature review is centralized. Thus,
you should choose studies that are focused to your topic rather than collecting a broader scope of studies which are
already not relevant to your research.
Moreover, literature review is an essential component of research. It forms a "picture" for the reader, providing
a support and full comprehension of the developments in the field. This picture tells the reader that you have
acknowledged, considered and adapted previous related significant works in the field into your research.
Literature review plays a significant impact in the discussion of the results and findings. The discussion of
results and findings should focus on your research rather than those of the other previous researches. Hence, the
literature review should be used only in the discussion as support, evidence, and further explanation for your study.
These are the three (3) ways of using literature review in the discussion of your study: a) providing context as a
foundation to develop your ideas, b) comparing your findings from other previous related studies, and c) stating what
contribution your study has made in the field.
However, there are also three (3) common errors that are usually made when including literature reviews in the
discussion of the study. First, there are wide range of studies being included in which most of them are not anymore
relevant to your specific topic under investigation. Second, stating the related article mentioning the original article
rather than citing the original article itself. Lastly, previous work has been cited by the researcher based only on the
abstracts and without even reading the entire research.
Task 3: My Hypothesis
Based on your research study, refer to your research questions. Formulate the appropriate null
hypotheses and alternative hypotheses.
After you submit your research framework, definition of terms, hypothesis and review of related literature,
once it is corrected in accordance with the guidelines given, you may start incorporating your research framework
into your research manuscript.