Adigrat university

Chemical Engineering
Cours: Research Methods and Project Proposal (ChEg5251)

Lecture note: Chapter one and two

Lecture by : Andom M. (MSc.)

Adigrat University, Tigray, Ethiopia

November, 2024
1
Outline

 Introduction To Research

 Meaning and Definition

 Objectives & Significance

 Types of Research

 Research proposal writing

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Learning Outcomes

After completing this course you will be able to :

Define what a research means

Describe the objectives and significance of a research

Describe the various types of research

 Understand what a RP is and develop your own RP

 Understand and develop experimental design

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Chapter One: Introduction to research

Meaning & Definition

 Research is an academic activity so different scholars have defined it in different
way but in all the definitions the conceptual meaning remains the same.
 Clifford woody(Kothari 1988):
 Research comprises of defining and redefining problems, formulating
hypothesis, collecting, organizing and evaluating data, making deduction and
reaching conclusions and finally carefully testing the conclusion to determine
weather they fit the formulated hypothesis.
 Neuman Definition:
 Collection of methodologies that researchers use systematically to produce
scientific knowledge about the social world.
 Mouly definition:
 Research is simply the process of arriving at dependable solution to problems
through planned and systematic collection, analysis and interpretation of data.
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Cont.…
 D.slesinger and M.stephension(1993)
 The manipulation of things, concepts/symbols for the purpose of generalizing to extend,
correct or verify knowledge, weather that knowledge aids in construction of theory or
practice of an art.
 P.M.Cook:
 Method of studying problems whose solutions are either partially or wholly derived from
facts.
 Kerlinger,1976
 Systematic, controlled, empirical and critical investigation of hypothetical propositions
about the presumed relations among natural phenomena
 Research is a systematic and organized process of review, investigation, and exploration
undertaken to discover new knowledge, validate existing knowledge, or solve specific
problems under research methodology using one of the research methods.
 It involves gathering and analyzing information/data, and evidence to answer questions,
test hypotheses, or contribute to the understanding of a particular subject or phenomenon.
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Objectives of Research

 Research objectives can be summarized as:

 To gain familiarity with a phenomenon.

 To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular

situation/phenomena

 To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which

it is associated with something else

 To develop new scientific tools, concepts and theories used in solving

and understanding scientific problems

 To solve the problems happening in our everyday lives.

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Significance of Research

 Research is used as a tool in :

 Research inculcates scientific inductive thinking and it promotes the
development of logical habit of thinking and organization.
 Governments and business enterprises use research as a tool for making
policies and solving various planning and operational problems
 Social scientists use research as a tool to study social relation ship and to
seek answers to various social problems facing them
 For professionals: Research is used a source of livelihood
 Provides the basis for all government policies in our economic system
 Throws light on risks and uncertainty
 Identify alternative courses of action
 Helps in economic use of resources
 Helps in project identification
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 Types of Research

A. Classification based on Application:

1. Basic/ Fundamental /Pure research: A type of research conducted primarily
to expand our understanding about the fundamental principles and concepts of a
particular field of study.
 Its main focus is on gaining new knowledge and insights into natural
phenomena, without an immediate or specific practical application in mind
 Basic research often forms the foundation for future discoveries and
technological advancements.
 For example, the theoretical study of fluid dynamics, the fundamental
research in biomechanics, the fundamental studies in control theory, the
study of nonlinear dynamics in engineering systems, the fundamental
properties of particles in physics, the basic biological processes in biology,
the fundamental principles of mathematics, etc. 8
Cont..

2. Applied Research: is focused on solving practical problems or addressing

specific issues in real-world that we live and its primary goal is to generate
practical solutions/innovations that can be directly applied to improve processes,
products, or outcomes.

 This type of research often links the gap between theoretical knowledge
and practical application.
For example, applied researchers may investigate ways to:

improve the energy efficiency of homes, offices, or modes of transportation

Improve production capacity and quality in chemical reactions (processes) 9
Cont..

Key Differences between Basic and Applied Research

 Basic Research can be explained as research that tries to expand the already existing scientific
knowledge base. On the contrary, applied research is used to mean the scientific study that is helpful in
solving real-life problems.
 While basic research is purely theoretical, applied research has a practical approach.
 The applicability of basic research is greater than the applied research, in the sense that the former is
universally applicable whereas the latter can be applied only to the specific problem, for which it was
carried out.
 The primary concern of the basic research is to develop scientific knowledge and predictions. On the
other hand, applied research stresses on the development of technology and technique with the help of
basic science.
 The fundamental goal of the basic research is to add some knowledge to the already existing one.
Conversely, applied research is directed towards finding a solution to the problem under consideration.
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B. Classification based on Objectives:
1. Exploratory Research:
 It is foundational, establishing that it should be the first kind of research to be conducted around
an issue or problem that has not yet been clearly defined.
 Exploratory research is preliminary study of an unfamiliar problem about which the researcher
has little or no knowledge. It is similar to a doctor’s initial investigation of a patient suffering from
an unfamiliar malady for getting some clues for identifying it.
 It is ill structured (unstructured) and much less focused on predetermined objectives. It usually
takes the form of a pilot study.
 Exploratory research is characterized by its flexibility. When a problem is broad and not
specifically defined, the researchers use exploratory research as a beginning step.
 Exploratory research usually relies on qualitative data from small sample sizes; however, the
flexibility surrounding the research lends to the number of data collection methods that can be
used for this type of research.
 Exploratory research is unstructured with no pre-planned design for analysis and is generally
filled up by either descriptive or explanatory research. 11
 Cont..

 Exploratory research is conducted by first identifying the problem,

next by creating a hypothesis, then by conducting research, and
lastly, deciding whether the subject is worth further research.
 The purpose of an exploratory study may be:
1. To generate new ideas or
2. To increase the researcher’s familiarity with the problem or
3. To make a precise formulation of the problem or
4. To gather information for clarifying concepts or
5. To determine whether it is feasible to attempt the study.
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2. Descriptive Research:
 Is likely the second step in an attempt to gain knowledge around a research question.
 Its purpose is to explore situations while providing further information regarding the research topic.
 Descriptive research is the type of research that expands knowledge of a project or phenomenon by
describing it according to its characteristics or concerning the population to answer the questions of
what, when, and how but not the why.
 This type of structured research can be used to present trends, public beliefs or perceptions, and even
how those viewpoints help to develop new trends among the studied population.
 Usually, descriptive studies are concerned with present phenomena; however, previous events can be
considered about current conditions.
 In this method researcher does not control any variables he/she only takes an account of what has
accused or happening.
 It uses mostly quantitative data, although quality data is also sometimes used for descriptive purposes.
 Data collection instruments used for descriptive research include questionnaires, interviews with
closed-ended questions, and observations.
3. Explanatory Research:

 Explanatory research is a technique used to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying reasons for,
causes of, and relationships behind a particular phenomenon that has yet to be extensively studied.
 Since there is limited information regarding the phenomenon being studied, it’s up to the researcher to
develop fresh ideas and collect more data.
 Explanatory research tests new theories and establishes cause-and-effect relationships between
different study variables.
 It usually involves several data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, experiments, and
observation.
 The results and conclusions drawn from explanatory research give researchers a deeper understanding
and help predict future occurrences.
 It usually starts with a theory or hypothesis and after gathering evidences it approves or disapproves a
theory.
 It does not give us complete evidence but help us understand the problem more effectively.
 Its main purpose is to increase the researcher’s understanding of a particular topic.
 It does not give solid results because of its lack of mathematical power, but it does cause the researcher
to decide how and why things happen.
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4. Experimental Research

 Experimental research is the inspection where one or more dependent variables is controlled
to determine the effect on one or more variable.
 It employs the use of two group that is control and experimental group where the
experimental group is given the treatment and control group is no manipulated in order to
form the nature of the relationship between the studied.
 Experimental research is a scientific method of research, in which one or more variables are
modified and applied to one or more dependent variables to measure their impact on the
latter .
 The impact of independent interdisciplinary variables is often observed and recorded over
time, to assist researchers in making a logical conclusion about the relationships between
these two variables
 The experimental research methodology is widely used in physical and social sciences,
psychology, and education. It is based on comparisons between two or more direct groups,
which, however, may be difficult to make.
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Cont..
 Related to the laboratory testing process, experimental research projects involve
collecting quantitative data and performing statistical analysis on it during the study.
 Experimental research design is common.
 The design of experimental research is especially useful if you want to explore how
different aspects affect the situation, making this type of design more versatile.
 The design of the experimental research uses a scientific approach, which includes
features such as hypothesis, independent variable, dependent variable, control
variable.
 Hypothesis is a statement that describes what you are predicting that your research will reveal.
 Independent variable is a variable that does not depend on other variables.
 Dependent variables are variables that depend on other variables.
 Control variables are static variables that remain constant during the experimental study.

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C. Classification based on Inquiry Mode:

1. Structured approach:/ Quantitative Research

 The main goal is to test hypotheses, establish patterns, or confirm theories using objective
measurements. It seeks generalizable results.
 Example: To determine if there is a statistical correlation between hours of social media use
and feelings of loneliness.

2. Unstructured approach/ Qualitative Research

 Aims to gain in-depth insights into a phenomenon or process, explore underlying reasons, and
understand meaning. It focuses on context and complexity.

 Example: To explore how people perceive and interpret their social media experience in relation to
their mental well-being

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Cont.

Difference between Quantitative and Qualitative Research

1. Nature of Data:
 Quantitative Research: Involves numerical data. The data is measured and expressed in
numbers, such as percentages, statistics, or frequencies. It seeks to quantify the problem and
understand "how much" or "how many."
Example: A survey asking participants how many hours they spend on social media per day.

 Qualitative Research: Involves non-numerical data. It collects descriptive data, usually in the
form of words, narratives, or observations, to understand the "why" or "how" behind certain
behaviors or attitudes.

Example: Interviews exploring why people use social media and how it impacts their lives.
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Cont..

2. Research Methods:

 Quantitative Research: Uses structured methods like:

o Surveys and questionnaires with closed-ended questions.
o Experiments.
o Observations that can be quantified (e.g., counting occurrences).
o Statistical analysis of numerical data.
 Qualitative Research: Uses unstructured or semi-structured methods, such a
o Interviews with open-ended questions.
o Focus groups.
o Observations of behavior in natural settings.
o Text and document analysis.
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Cont..
3. Data Analysis:
 Quantitative Research: Relies on statistical analysis, such as:
o Descriptive statistics (mean, median, mode).
o Inferential statistics (correlation, regression, t-tests).
 Qualitative Research: Involves thematic or content analysis, coding of data, and narrative
interpretation to identify patterns or themes.

4. Research Outcomes:
 Quantitative Research: Produces results that can be presented as graphs, charts, or
tables, showing trends or relationships between variables.
o Outcome Example: 70% of respondents reported a positive experience with a
product.
 Qualitative Research: Produces rich, detailed descriptions, direct quotations, and insights
into complex processes or behaviors.
o Outcome Example: Participants shared that the product improved their self-esteem,
but some had concerns about its long-term use. 20
Steps in Conducting a Research
Irrespective of the category of a research study, the steps followed in conducting it are the same. These
steps are:-

1. Selecting and Defining Problem:

This marks the beginning of a research study and is the most difficult and important step. This involves

(i) identifying and stating the problem in specific terms;

(ii) identifying the variables in the problem situation and defining them adequately;
(iii) generating tentative guesses (hypotheses) about the relation of the variables or in other words
the solution of the problem, or writing explicitly the questions (research questions) for which
answers are sought; and
(iv) evaluating the problem for its research ability. To achieve this, you review the literature related
to the problem to know what other researchers have done and discovered and to identify the
possible methodology for conducting the research. 21
Cont.

2. Describing Methodology of Research:

You need to state the purpose of the study and to define the problem clearly. This
guides you in deciding the methodology of research which involves:
(a) identifying the method of research;
(b) specifying the subjects of study;
(c) selecting an adequate representative sample of subjects;
(d) selecting/constructing valid and reliable instruments for measuring the variables in
the problem;
(e) selecting a research design and describing the procedure to be employed for
conducting the research study.
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Cont..

3. Collecting Data:
 This step involves conducting the study as per the designed procedure
(manipulating the experimental variables in the case of an experimental
method),
 Administering instruments for measuring variables and/or gathering
information through observation.
 It also involves tabulating the data thus collected for the purpose of analysis.

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Cont..

4. Analyzing and Interpreting Results:

 The results of the study are generated at this stage.

 The data are summarized, in other words analyzed to provide information for testing the hypotheses.

 Appropriate statistical methods of analysis are used to test the hypotheses. You can perform the
analysis manually, by using a hand calculator or a computer as per the demands of the problem, and
the available facilities.

 After completing the analysis results are tied together or summarized. The results are interpreted in
the light of the hypotheses and/or the research problem.

 These are then discussed in relation to: the existing body of knowledge, consistencies and
inconsistencies with the results of other research studies, and then the conclusions are drawn. This is
followed by writing the research report
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Chapter two: Research Proposal Writing

 A research proposal is simply a document that explains what you plan to

study, why you want to study and how you plan to investigate it (i.e.
Practical approach).

 Purpose of a research proposal: The purpose of the research proposal is

to convince your research supervisor, committee, or university that your
research is relevant, significant and original and manageable.

 The length of a research proposal varies dramatically but it is about 12-15

pages for bachelor’s or master’s thesis
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2.1. Structure/components of RP

 Cover/Title Page : Under this section you should write :

• The title of your research

• Your name /group name

• The name of your supervisor

• Your program/department, institution and date.

 Table of Contents: Outlines the contents of your entire proposal with

respective page numbers.
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Cont..

 Abstract/Executive summery:- In this section. the research proposal is concisely

summarized in the executive summary.
 It is a brief summery of the research problem, objectives, methodology, significance, time
frame and expected outcome of you research study.
 It should ideally be no more than 300 words.
 Introduction: Introduce the contexts of your research problem and try to demonstrate that
your research is :
 Interesting ,Relevant ,Original and Important.
 It also provides background information about the research topic, highlights the research
problem, defines objectives, and includes the research questions or hypotheses.
 It should be maximum of one and half pages.
 Questions that guide you writing the introduction section are : What is known about the
research problem? Who does the research impact? For whom will the research
interesting? And What are the research questions? 27
 Cont..

 Statement of the problem:- Must indicate exactly what the problem is.
 Indicate why and how it is a problem. Give information to support this e.g.
by use of statistics
 This should be derived from background information to illustrate
connectivity
 Length- maximum 2 paragraphs
 Objectives of the study:-
 General Objective:- Is a description of what is to be accomplished by
conducting the research. It is related to the specific research questions
the researcher wants to answer through the proposed study.
 One general objective which should be in line with the title

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Cont..

 Specific objectives:- have to be in line with the variables the candidates

hypothesize to influence the phenomenon being investigated
 Should be coherent & logical, feasible, realistic, defined in an operational
term and phrased to clearly meet the purpose of the study.
 They should also be stated using action verbs that are specific enough to
be measured such as to determine, to compare, to calculate, to describe, to
investigate.
 Should be related to the general objective.
 Should be “SMART’
 Verbs like to appreciate, to understand, to believe are not appropriate
for describing research objectives
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Cont..

 Example of Research title

• Humanitarian aid for tigrians affected by war in Tigray.

 General Objective:

• To evaluate changes in food, nutritional and sanitarian condition in tigrians highly

affected by war in Tigray.

 Specific Objectives:

• To asses the food and nutritional conditions of the participating families

• To identify the benefits obtained from the project

• To judge and evaluate the existing conditions in the communities with respect to
hygiene promotion, supply and use of filter water 30
Cont..

 Literature Review:- As we have seen before literature review is considered to be

the study of available knowledge in a particular field of study (in line with the
problem you stated).

The reviewing of available literature has the following advantages:

 Brings clarity and Helps you focus on your research problem:

 Available literature review helps you to clearly understand the problem stated
and issue that may need extra attention during actual process.

 It brings clarity and objectivity to the research problem and enables researcher
to understand the relationship between the research problem and the body of
knowledge related to it. 31
Cont..
 Reviewing literature is time-consuming, daunting and frustrating, but is also
rewarding.

 Improves Methodology: A review of literature enlightens you procedures and methods

used in previous research similar to the ones that you proposed and which procedures
and methods have yielded better results, and what problems they have come across in
the process.

 Expands knowledge base in the research area: Extensive LTR enables you to be
become more aware and have depth knowledge in your research area.

 It also helps you understand how the findings of your study fit into the existing body
of knowledge.
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Cont..

 Contextualizes your findings: It gives a base to add contexts to the question

being raised and the problem being addressed.

 Under the LTR Section: you have to prepare description, summary, and
critical evaluation of previous researches related to your research problem.

 That is you have to summarizes existing research related to your topic,

identifies gaps, and explain how your proposed research will fill those gaps.

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Cont..

 Research Materials and Method :- Under this section you should explain:

 Your research type (quantitative/qualitative)

 The materials and equipment require for the study
 Method you will use in the study
 The practical considerations that may affect your research progress.
 The procedures/steps that you follow to investigate your research problem.
 The type of research design that you select
 The sample that you will select
 Your data collection process
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Cont..

 Study Site: State where the study will be done (location) and why it was chosen
 Study design:- state and justify the research design required
 Study Variables. Explain the independent and dependent variables
 Sample Size Determination
 Describe how the sample size will be computed
 Sampling techniques- Provide description of the technique
 Data collections tools (if any)
 Explain the tool that will be used in the study and how they will be constructed
 Data Collection
 Explain how field or laboratory data collection will be done

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Cont..

 Expected Outcomes: Forecasts the potential findings and their significance or

application.

 Timeline: A schedule of tasks and deadlines for completing each phase of the
research.

 References: A list of works cited in the proposal

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2.2 Data Collection Methods

Data collection methods are the techniques used to gather information for research. They should align
with the research objectives and questions. Common methods include:

 Surveys/Questionnaires: Collects data from large groups using standardized questions; best
for quantitative research.

 Interviews: Gathers in-depth, qualitative information by engaging participants in detailed discussions.

 Observations: Records behaviors or phenomena in natural settings, useful in both qualitative and
quantitative research.

 Experiments: Conducts controlled studies to test hypotheses, often in scientific research.

 Document/Archival Analysis: Involves analyzing existing documents or records to find

patterns or historical data.
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2.3 Analysis and Evaluation Methods

These methods describe how the collected data will be analyzed and evaluated to draw
meaningful conclusions:
 Quantitative Analysis: Uses statistical methods (e.g., regression, ANOVA) to analyze
numerical data.

 Qualitative Analysis: Involves methods like coding, thematic analysis, or narrative analysis to
interpret non-numerical data (e.g., interview transcripts).

 Mixed Methods: Combines both quantitative and qualitative analysis to provide a

comprehensive understanding.

 Evaluation: Ensures that the data is valid and reliable, and that it addresses the research
questions adequately.
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2.4. Paper Organization

Clear organization is essential for effective communication in a research proposal or paper. A

typical layout includes:
 Introduction: Defines the research problem, objectives, and significance.

 Methods: Describes the process for data collection and analysis.

 Results: Presents findings, usually through text, tables, and figures.

 Discussion: Interprets the results, connects them to the research questions, and compares
them to the existing literature.

 Conclusion: Summarizes key findings and suggests implications or future research directions.

 References: Lists all sources cited in the proposal or paper, formatted consistently.
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2.5 Style and Appearance

A professional appearance and clear writing style enhance the quality of a research proposal. Key
points to consider include:

 Formatting: Consistent use of font (e.g., Times New Roman, size 12), double-spacing, and 1-inch
margins.

 Headings and Subheadings: Organize the document with clear headings to improve readability.

 Formal Writing: Avoid colloquial language, maintain an academic tone, and use precise
terminology.

 Figures and Tables: Label and number all visuals clearly; refer to them in the text.

 Length: Keep the proposal concise, usually between 5–15 pages, following any specific guidelines
provided. 40
 2.6 Quotation and Citation

Proper quotation and citation are essential to avoid plagiarism and to attribute credit to original
sources. Guidelines for citation include:
 Direct Quotations: Use quotation marks and cite the source directly when quoting verbatim.
 Paraphrasing: When restating ideas in your own words, still provide a citation.

 Citation Styles: Use a consistent citation style throughout the paper. Common styles include:

o APA: Popular in the social sciences.

o MLA: Used mainly in the humanities.

o Chicago: Common in business, history, and the social sciences.

o Harvard: Widely used in academia, especially in the UK and Australia.

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