Now that you are familiar with the terminology of research and have learned about the structure of research and had a first go at formulating a research objective and research questions, it is time to discuss the different phases and methods of scientific research. In this module we will cover the following topics:

1. Research Questions & Hypotheses
2. Desktop Research & Literature Study
3. Theoretical Models and Conceptual Frameworks
4. Experimental Study Design
5. Data Collection
6. Evaluation, Validation, & Verification
7. Research Ethics

 

 [Image: Moon Cycle Pixabay CC0]

 

At the end of this module you will be able to:

• Explain the difference between a Hypothesis and a Research Question
• Develop a Hypothesis from a Research Question
• Perform Desktop Research and find relevant literature
• Explain why it is important to have a Theoretical Model and/or Conceptual Framework and its minimum requirements
• Explain the function of the Experimental/Study Design in research and its  minimum requirements
• Understand and know what Data Collection is and its minimum requirements
• Explain the difference between Validation and Verification and why they are important in research
• Why Evaluation is important and how it is done
• Explain what Research Ethics is and why it is important
• Know how to adhere to ethical guidelines and how to apply for ethical permission