RESEARCH/THESIS WRITING

WHAT IS RESEARCH? S

cientific research defines as a systematic, controlled, empirical and critical investigations of hypothetical propositions about presumed relations among natural phenomena.

Scientific research is a systematic because it follows steps/stages in the process.

1.Identification of the problem2.Relating the problem to existing theories

3.Formulating Hypothesis4.Data gathering5.Analysis and Interpreting data6.Formulating conclusions and recommendations

Scientific research is controlled because variables are manipulated, classified and categorized based on the purposes or aims of the study

Scientific research is critical investigation because it involve in-depth analysis of natural phenomena and employs higher-order thinking skills of the researcher.

Scientific research is empirical because it is based on the data gathered at the time of the study.

IDENTIFYING PROBLEM T

he research always starts with a problem felt by people or individuals in a social setting. The problem is actually a “gap” between “what is” and “what ought to be”.

When a research is conducted to solve the problem, the “gap” is hen filled. New knowledge is then evolved through the conduct of research.

“What is the actual Situation?”

“What ought to be”Gap/problem

The “gap” has already filled, the problem

solved and new knowledge had been

evolved.

What characterize good problem?

1. Should be of great interest to you.2. Should be useful for the concerned

people.3. Should be novel. Your research

topic should be something new so that you can be sure that it really contributes to the formulation of new knowledge.

4. Should be completed in the allotted time desired.

The problem that you identified maybe too broad in scope. The problem should be narrowed down in on a specific research problem.

Formulating your thesis title will help you to narrow-down your problem/topic.

THE THESIS TITLE1. Signifies a very timely and

significant contribution to the needs of society.

2. Should be a specific and concise statement of the topic.

3. Its principal function is to inform the reader about the study, therefore it should be explanatory by itself.

4. Should focus on the topic investigated an the main variables studied.

5. The recommended maximum length for title is 10-14 substantive words.

CHAPTER I & II

Chapter I – The Problem and Its BackgroundChapter II – Review of Related Literature