Components of Research Design
COMPONENTS OF RESEARCH DESIGN
1. Introduction
2. Statement of the problem
3. Reference to previous studies made
4. Objectives of the study
5. Definition of concepts
6. Hypothesis
7. Designing the experiment
8. Limitations of the study
9. Methodology and sampling
10. Processing, analysis and interpretation
11. Report writing and publication
12. Budget
13. Chapter scheme
1. Introduction
In the introduction, the researcher has to introduce the subject and relevant information relating to the topic of research. Introduction should not be too lengthy.
2. Statement of the problem
The researcher must point out the reason or reasons for choosing the particular problem for the research study.
3. Reference to previous studies made
Referring previous studies can help the researcher to locate a course of action for his study based on the earlier studies.
4. Objectives of the study
The objective must be framed bearing in mind the topic of research. In other words , the objectives must elaborate the title and must indicate in its wordings the things to be investigated further.
5. Definition of concepts
The important concepts that appear frequently in the study must be explained. These concepts, may relate to the title of research or the objectives or with the analysis.
6. Hypothesis
A researcher can include hypothesis in the study or he can omit hypothesis. But once hypothesis is included, it must be tested. Through this test, it can be proved or disproved.
7. Designing the experiment
This step is very important in experimental research. It is on the effectiveness of this step that the ultimate reliability and validity of research findings depend.
8. Limitations of the study
A study as well as the researcher is subject to limitations of time, cost, sample, etc. while interviewing respondents, he has to face difficulties. Eliciting of responses may be difficult. The researcher can point out such limitation in his report.
9. Methodology and sampling
Under this heading the researcher has to state the method of research followed for his study and the tools and techniques of research used to collect data. The number of scheduled prepared and the way in which data have been collected could also be explained. Method of sample that has been followed for the study at various stages must also be mentioned. The researcher can give the sampling frame mentioning how he has arrived at the number of samples at various stages
10. Processing, analysis and interpretation
A collected data need to be checked for their inconsistencies or in accuracies. They are then analyzed and interpreted. This involves selection of appropriate statistical techniques.
11. Report writing and publication
This is the ultimate step which should describe the target audience, style and content of the research report.
12. Budget
Though budget does not have a place in all research designs it must find a place in research projects aided by various sponsoring agencies. Time budget as well as cost budget must find separate place in the budget. The budget aids the researcher to complete the project within the stipulated cost.
13. Chapter scheme
Last item of the research design is the chapter scheme. The number of chapters that the study contains and name of each chapter must be mentioned. The basis for the chapter scheme must include main findings prominently in independent chapters. The last chapter must always are findings, conclusions and suggestions.