Lecture Notes on Research Method and Methodology

Introduction

• Series of lectures on research method and methodology at EduCert network.
• Research defined as finding proof or solutions to problems.
• Importance of following certain procedures in research to obtain truthful results.
• Guest Speaker: Dr. M. N. Thakur, a researcher and educator at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Key Issues in Research Methodology

1. Selecting a Research Problem

   • Proper selection of research problem and formulation of questions is crucial.
   • A right problem and questions can constitute half of the research task.
   • Example: Selecting a car involves setting criteria based on personal needs and preferences.
   • Research is applicable to social issues, where problems are identified and addressed through data collection and analysis.

2. Constructing a Hypothesis

   • Developing a tentative answer to the selected research problem.

3. Philosophical Issues in Research

   • Overview of philosophical perspectives in research without going into too much detail.
   • Emphasis on understanding the methodologies used in research.

4. Qualitative vs. Quantitative Methods

   • Ongoing debate in social sciences about these approaches.
   • Modern research often incorporates both methods due to their complementary nature.

5. Selecting Research Methods

   • Overview of four major research methods that will be discussed in detail in future lectures:
     1. Content Analysis
     2. Interpretative Study
     3. Ethnographic Research
     4. Visual Research

Selecting a Research Problem

• Sources of Research Problems:

  • Everyday questions and challenges can lead to research problems.
  • Importance of having knowledge or experience in the chosen field to refine the problem.
  • Research should comply with scientific scrutiny and be understandable to the scholarly community.

• Criteria for a Research Problem:

  • Must be relevant and have societal value.
  • Feasibility in terms of time and budget.

• Methods for Identifying Research Topics:

  • Literature review to assess what has already been researched.
  • Challenges existing norms and assumptions in the field.

Importance of Formulating a Research Problem

• A well-defined research problem aids in designing the research effectively.
• Affects the choice of research instruments and analytical methods.

Steps to Formulate a Research Problem

1. Identify Interests:

   • Determine what topics intrigue or concern you personally.

2. Create Sub-Areas:

   • Narrow down broader topics to specific areas of interest.

3. Raise Research Questions:

   • Formulate sharp, focused questions to guide the research.

4. Design Objectives:

   • Clearly outline what the research aims to achieve.

Examples of Research Problems

• Zoya Hassan's "Politics of Inclusion": Examines societal inclusion of marginalized communities.
• Patricia Oberoi's "Freedom and Destiny": Investigates societal perceptions of beauty and marriage through literary analysis.
• Owen M. Lynch's "The Politics of Untouchability": Analyzes caste dynamics in Indian society.

Types of Research Questions

• What: Documents current phenomena.
• Why: Explains causal relationships.
• How: Investigates processes.
• What can be done: Proposes interventions.

Hypothesis Formulation

• Develop tentative statements regarding the relationships between variables.
• Importance of objectivity; avoid personal biases in hypothesis.

Method Selection Considerations

• Align the chosen methodology with the philosophical stance towards science.
• Embrace both qualitative and quantitative methods as necessary.

Conclusion and Future Topics

• Recap of the key points discussed regarding research problems, methods, and hypothesis formulation.
• Upcoming discussions on detailed qualitative methods: Content analysis, interpretative studies, ethnographic research, and visual research.