Social research methods

Table Of Contents

1:0        Introduction

1.1.                                  What Research is

1.2        Social research a science:

1.3        Characteristics of scientific social research

1.4        Stages taken in scientific social research:

1.5        The goals of scientific social research:

1.6        Basic concepts in research:

1.7        Possible outcomes of hypotheses

1.8        The characteristics of a usable hypothesis

2.0 Data Collection Methods

2.1               Introduction

2.2.             Non-survey research

Focus group discussions

Key Informant  Interviews

Observations

i.                              Non-participant observation

ii.                              Observation with some participation

iii.                              Participant observation

                                         A Case Study

2.3        Quantitative research (survey research)              

2.31      Personal interviews:

            Formal Interviews

            Informal Interviews

What to consider for a successful interview

Accessibility

            Cognition         

            Motivation

What is expected of the interviewer:

          Locating sample members.

            Obtaining the interview:

            The interviews:

Writing down (recording) responses:

Advantages of interview as a method of data collection

Problems met in using interview as a method of data collection

Response errors

How to reduce response errors

Self administered questionnaires:

Mail Questionnaire

 Home/office

Advantages of using mail Questionnaire:

Its Limitations

3.0    Sampling

3.1Some Concepts:

Stages taken in sampling

Why sampling is necessary

Sampling error

Non-sampling error

Sampling techniques

3.2 Random sampling techniques

·               Simple Random Sampling

·               Systematic Sampling

·               Stratified Sampling

·               Cluster sampling

Area Sampling

3.3 Non-random/probability sampling

·         Convenience Sampling

·         Purposive sampling

·         Network sampling

·        Quota Sampling

·        Dimensional sampling

4.0 Questionnaire design

Set of Principles for Proper questionnaire Design:

The design of non-survey research instructions:

5.0         Data Processing

o Editing

o Coding

o Tabulation And Analysis Of Data

                                        

6 Measurement

Levels Of Measurement

·               Nominal Measurement

·               Ordinal Measurement

_·                Interval Measurement

·               Ratio Measurement

7 Evaluation Of Research

8. The Use Of Secondary Data

9. Dissertation Writing

·         Formulation Of A Research Problem

·         Formulation of a Research Design (overall approach to data collections)

·         Method of data Collection (Personal Interviews, mail questionnaire)

·         Formulation/Design of Research Instruments

·         Deciding on the sample size

·         Data Collection

·         Analysis and Interpretation of Data Collected

·         Preparation and presentation of Research Report

1:0 Introduction

1.2.                                  What Research is:

It is taking another step forward is searching for the unknown. Someone else has searched and explained some phenomenon, and you are adding on what is already known.

            Since time immemorial, Scientists have been searching for different kinds of medicine for different types of illness; for a better drug, more search has to be carried out.

            Since society is dynamic, a consistent and persistent search for explanations as to why phenomena happen the way they do is not only necessary but a must.

            Research therefore, is a consistent and organised process of collecting and analysing information for a specifically defined purpose.

            For an academic(ian), a community and a business entrepreneur; the purposes could be to know more, to solve a problem and to plan ahead; respectively.

            A good research is systematic, well planned, organised and has specific goals. It involves observing, theorising, experimenting to test a theory or set of theories, drawing conclusions and reporting results (Kakooza:2000).

1.2                                     Social Research A Science

Social Research is a science since it involves gathering evidence and applying reason. It finds out why, when, who and what; about things in a systematic way. It uses theory[1] and facts[2] to understand our environment.

                                                                                                                

1.3                                    Characteristics Of Scientific Social Research

i)                      Its results are based on observations that can be verified and are on reason. The results are not based on speculation. Scientific Social Research is therefore empirical.

ii)                   It makes an attempt to analyse and explain observations in abstract terms in order to understand causal relations existing between them; that is Scientific Social Research is theoretical.

iii)                  What is discovered is added on earlier discoveries and knowledge. Data keeps adding to the pool of information. It is therefore cumulative.

iv)                 Research comes up with conclusions that are independent of personal biases of the researcher, and therefore scientific social research is objective.

1.4                                    Stages Taken In Scientific Social Research

i)                     Identifying the problem: The researcher begins by identifying the prevailing problem. Taking an example of the prevailing poverty in Uganda, or abuse of young girls. One must first identify that there is a problem in order to do research.

ii)                   Review of related literature: This is a necessary and important step. After the problem has been identified, the researcher must review the literature that is related to the subject under study. This helps the researcher to know what has already been studied and identify the gaps in which he/she can do the research without duplication of findings. 

iii)                  Research Design formulation: After identifying the prevailing problem, the methods of approach are then designed. This is determined by a multiple of factors of which there is the population structure, the population number, agency of the need for results, availability of funds etc. These could either be qualitative or quantitative design.

A qualitative design: This design promotes greater understanding of not just the way things are, but also why they are the way they are. Through intensive and extensive observation, interviews and discussions, the qualitative researcher seeks to derive and describe findings that promote greater understanding of how and why  people behave the way they do. It explains and gains insight and understanding of phenomena through intensive collection of narrative data (Martin E. Amin, 2005).

                                                                                   

In this approach, data collected is subjective and the main measurement tool for collecting data is the investigator him/herself (Martin E. Amin, 2005), therefore a need for an intensive training and practice in the methods to be used if one is to conduct an effective research. Its data is basically descriptive in nature.

A quantitative design: On the other hand however, this design deals with numbers. Quantitative research involves the collection of numerical data in order to explain, predict and control phenomena of interest, data analysis being more statistical (Martin E. Amin, 2005). It involves collecting data in order to test hypotheses or answer questions concerning the current status of the subject of the study.                                                              

iv)  Data Collection: This is always determined by the design and therefore the factors that determine the design. The methods of data collection include:  --    Personal interviews

                             -    Mail Questionnaires

                             -    Observations etc.

v) Processing of the Data: This involves checking and removing all mistakes (editing), categorising (coding) and analysing the data. Editing should be done within the same day of collection.

vi) Interpreting the results and writing the report. After the data has been analysed, it is interpreted and a report is made. This is the final stage. In case the researcher is sent by some agency, this is what he/she is expected to hand in.

The Goals/purpose Of Scientific Social Research; It must specifically be noted that society is dynamic; Leaders, Policy makers and other concerned persons cannot rely on previous knowledge but must keep doing research. As an example, low Life Expectancy in Uganda for years was a result of deaths due to malaria fever; but currently, deaths due to HIV/AIDS could have overtaken deaths due to malaria fever and therefore a need to find to find out whether HIV/AIDS is the number one current killer disease.

-        The general goals therefore are:-

i)                     to measure and describe a particular phenomena

ii)                   to predict phenomena

iii)                  to control the magnitude or occurrence of phenomena on the basis of the knowledge of the conditions under which the situation occurs.

Scientific Social Research follows two criteria in measuring and describing phenomena.

(i)                   All aspects, areas or issues that require the attention of the researcher is identified and a place for them is found on the research agenda i.e Exhaustiveness. If for example; of the five courses offered at Uganda Christian University (2001),

(LLB, BBA, BSWSA, M-COM and EDUC),if a questionnaire is designed which does not consider M.Com, then the research is not exhaustive. Even if all courses are identified but particular aspects that make up the course are left ie some subjects that make up the course, then still the investigation is not exhaustive.

(ii)                 Each particular element of interest must not be ambiguously place in more than one location ie one cannot be both guilty and innocent, Black and coloured etc.

When events are measured, the instruments used must be both valid and reliable. Valid in that the instrument used must be with the capacity of measuring what it intends to measure i.e Thermometer for temperature levels. The instrument must also be reliable by showing consistence in giving the same information always ie the same weight in kilograms for the same object whichever number of times its measured. In this case of reliability, let us take an illustration for clarity; suppose a non-resident student comes late to a lecture and the lecturer ask the student that, “where do you come from?” The student may interprete the question  either to mean where he resides or the home area. To avoid this ambiguity, one may ask, “where do you reside?”

1.5                                    BASIC CONCEPTS IN RESEARCH:

i)               A variable: This is a measurable event with the capacity to change ie level of income, age, level of education etc.

ii)             A constant: A measurable event, which does not change. eg sex like male of female.

iii)            A proposition: This is a statement of relationship between variables. One which discusses a single variable is univariate, two a bivariate and a multivariate for three or more variables. The example of each respectively could be; He is a drug addict, He is a drug addict and he stay in a slum, He is poor, stays in a slum a drug  addict.

iv)            A Hypothesis: This is a tentative statement formulated for purposes of empirical testing. In a hypothesis, there are always two variables, the cause and the outcome (effect).  The cause is always independent of other factors, therefore an independent variable but the outcome is always dependent on the cause, therefore a dependent variable. If we take an example of level of Income and standards of living, one can confidently say that the level of income directly affects the standards of living of an individual.

The dependent variable can also be called the predicted variable while the cause, the predictor variable.

1.6                     POSSIBLE OUTCOMES OF HYPOTHESES

The essence of formulating a hypothesis is to verify or reject the ideas in the mind of the researcher. A hypothesis can therefore be either rejected or approved. Hypotheses are always derived from:

i)                                             the thoughts a researcher has as a result of observation or      experiences

ii)                                           the already formulated theories

iii)                                          the already available data etc

1.7                     THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A USABLE HYPOTHESIS

i)                                                                     It must be conceptually clear

ii)                         It must be measurable

iii)                        The operations and predictions indicated by the hypothesis must be spelt out clearly

iv)                       It must be related to the available methods of research

v)                         Must be related to a body of theories.

CHAPTER TWO

2.0        DATA COLLECTION METHODS

2.2                                       INTRODUCTION

There are basically two forms of data collection methods; these are Non-Survey   Research and Survey Research.

2.3.                                     NON-SURVEY RESEARCH

These are several methods within this form of research of which are:-

(i)                   Focus group discussions

(ii)                 Key Informant  Interviews

(iii)                Observations

2.2.1                                        FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS

This is a type of Qualitative Research in which the researcher brings together small groups of people, 6–12 in number, with similar characteristics ie Homogeneous, to discuss a particular topic of research. The Researcher plays the role of a modulator, and with an open instrument, the researcher engages the group in a discussion about the subject under investigation. The group is homogeneous in terms of the relevant variables for the study. If the study is on “Child Abuse”, the groups could be of 18-28 years, 29-40 years, 41-60 years etc.

It essentially relies on convenient sampling in which the researcher brings together groups of people that are easily accessible and have the information. Purposive sampling can also be used by deliberately choosing the people to get information from.

These Focus Groups Discussions are basically used for:

a)                               securing background information

b)                               getting feed back from project beneficiaries

c)                               Interpreting available quantitative data

d)                               Project monitoring and evaluation

e)                               Assessing responses to recommend for innovations, policies etc

Advantages of using Focus Group Discussions:-

a)                               It enables rapid generation of information

b)                               It reduces individual inhibitions and hindrances

c)                               It helps respondents to raise issues and concerns that the investigation may not have considered ie they come up with fresh ideas and open fresh issues

d)                                           They allow an interaction between the respondents and the investigator, creating a more in depth understanding of peoples’ understanding and lives.

e)                                           It flexibility allows the researcher to use the responses to frame relevant and necessary questions.

        Disadvantages of using Focus Group Discussions:-

f)                          Empirical generalisations cannot be from the data

g)                         Liable to interviewer biases since these are no structural questions

h)                         May lead to fear of giving  personal sensitive information

i)                           Despite the presence of the moderator, there are people who always dominate and those who cannot express themselves in-group discussions.

Note: The role of moderator:

-                            to control those who may dominate the discussion

-                            to encourage those who may not feel free to talk

-                            to probe in case need arises

2.2.2                                        KEY INFORMAT INTERVIEWS (K.I.I)

These are informal interviews directed to the knowledgeable people about the problem. These respondents may not necessarily be under the problem, but only with a sufficient knowledge ie

i)                     A District Local Council Chairman, in case of the prevailing poverty in an area.

ii)                   A Police Office, about the rates of committing a particular offence in an area.

iii)                  District Medical Office, about the progress in fighting HIV/AIDS.

These informants should be selected carefully to reflect diverse views and concerns. They should be selected from different social-economic groups and the ideal method should be according to the nature of the study. An interview guide with issues to be covered is used and it is carried out in an informal atmosphere. Probes to elicit more information are made, and detailed noted by the interviewer are made. If possible a tape-recorder should be used. This kind of data supplements other forms of data.

                                        

                                         It is most appropriate when:

A general descriptive information is sufficient for decision making ie-assessing performance of NGOs.

i)                     It is necessary to know why a particular group of people behave the way they do i.e. why  child abuse is on the increase?

ii)                   More light/interpretation is needed on the available quantitative data.

iii)                  The primary purpose of the study is to generate suggestions and recommendations.

iv)                 There is a need for proper questionnaire design, hypothesis and propositions for further testing and refinement.

I)                                            Advantages of using Key Informant Interviews:

i)                     Since it is from knowledgeable persons, it reveals in-depth, inside information, to the extent of providing confidential information, which may not be the case in a formal setting.

ii)                   It is cheap to conduct this kind of interview

iii)                  It reveals new ideas, relevant to the study, which may not have been anticipated, in the planning process.

iv)                 Easy to locate potential respondents willing to give the information.

II)            Disadvantages of using Key Informant Interviews:

The information cannot be generalised and therefore less reliable (ie incase it is biased).

2.2.3          A CASE STUDY

This studies in details, relatively few persons who volunteer to give all the required information. It could even be one person, hence the term “Case Study”. Such an individual could give in detail the culture of a particular group ie Ankole, explaining why, how and when it began to be what it is.

2.2.4          OBSERVATION

Observation is “ a purposive or intentional examination of something, particularly for purposes of data gathering”. (Chaplain 1968). It is a care full watching and noting phenomena as they occur in their natural setting. In case of any suspension from the observed, they may change behaviour temporarily.  This calls for high skills and patience in order for them to go back to the normal way of life.

There are basically three forms of observation:

·                                                Non-participant observation

·                                                Observation with some participation

·                                                 Participant observation

I) Non-Participant observation: In this form of observation, there is careful watching and noting of events as they occur in their natural setting, without the Researcher’s participation. This form of observation has some problems:

a)  It is easy to identify the researcher since he is a stranger to the    observed.

 b) Some salient aspects may not be observed by the researcher.

II Observation with some participation: This is where in addition to observation; the researcher takes part in some activities. The problems involved include:-

                                               

a)            The researcher may not observe some other aspects in which he     does not take part.

b)            The researcher may also fail to get real meaning of the practices leading to misinterpreting the information due to his own perceptions.

II)            Participant Observation:  In addition to observing the subjects, the researcher shares in the life and activities of those under investigation. This requires living in the community for a considerable period of time. This help to eliminate suspension and the subjects won’t continuously change behaviour. It also gives adequate time to study the events and practices under investigation and helps the observer to can understand and properly interpret the practices.

This form of observation has some problems of which there is:-

a)                               Possibility of failing to play a dual role of a participant and an observer, one of the two may be compromised.

b)                                Once the observer is identified, he may fail to observe each and every aspect of the practice.

ADVANTAGES OF OBSERVATION AS A METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION:

(i)      Able to see and observe what exactly takes place in its natural form without any distortion.

(ii)     Data collected is up to date and there is no memory failure.

                                  

DISADVANTAGES OF USING OBSERVATION AS A METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION:

1.         In case of any suspension, the subjects have the potential to change their behaviour and act otherwise.

2.         There us time constraint, in that some activities take place once for a period of time, so the researcher has to wait until that activity is performed.

3.         Some events are exclusive to none members and in such cases it is impossible to do observation.

4.         In case of observer bias, the observer may select on the activities that are more interesting, and the results may not be complete.

5.         Without enough skills, the results may not be exhaustive and may not describe in totality the events in the field.

6.            There may be unfair and poor representativeness of things to observe. The observer may fail to select a representative sample of aspects to observe and results cannot be generalised to the whole population.  

2.30      QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH (SURVEY RESEARCH)             

            Unlike the non-survey types of research, these are based on numbers, and the conclusions are based on the frequencies  of each category. These include:

2.31      PERSONAL INTERVIEWS:

In this method, data is collected from the respondent by asking questions in a face to face, one to one situation. The interviewer directs questions to the interviewee (respondent) from an interview guide, which is well structured, and the respondents are filled in by the interviewer. It is always “one to one” since most people become more free to give personal information, especially in case of sensitive issues in the absence of others. This requirement is in exception of special cases like when an interpreter is needed.

               There are two forms of interviews:

           

      I)    Formal Interviews: This is where  a set of well framed questions are asked by the interviewer to respondent and the responses are recorded in a standard form. Standard, well-structured questions in the same form, order and manner are directed to all the respondents. It is the Interview schedule that is used.

II)         Informal Interviews: The interview guide is not structured such that the interviewer can even change the order and wording  and explain the meaning. Depending on how questions are answered, supplementary questions can be given. Probing therefore is allowed, especially when the responses given are not sufficient. This is common when the interviewer is the researcher.

WHAT TO CONSIDER FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW:

1)         Accessibility - The researcher must seek for information from those who have it. If the subject of study was “Effects of HIV/AIDS on households”, for sufficient information, one needs to interview those households which have had a victim of HIV/AIDS. However, withholding the information, memory failure and misunderstanding of the questions may lead to inaccessibility.

2)         Cognition – It is a requirement that the respondent knows the role he is called on to do. There is therefore a need for an understanding on the part of the interviewee/respondent on what is required of him ie to give the required information. In some cases, especially where the respondent may want to lead the conversation which may distort the need and the purpose of the research. It is necessary therefore that the respondent’s role and purpose of the study be well explained to the respondent. 

3)         Motivation – There is a need to convince the respondent to :

i)                     accept to co-operate

ii)                   give accurate information

iii)                  start and finish the interview

The respondent should never be embarrassed. Assure the respondents that all responses are correct and that there is total confidentiality. Symbols/numbers may be substituted for names to ensure no suspension.

WHAT IS EXPECTED OF THE INTERVIEWER:

1)         LOCATING SAMPLE MEMBERS: This is after the researcher has identified the method of sampling and is in the field trying to formulate a sampling frame. The sampling method used determines how easy the task of locating the sample members will be. If for example simple Random Sampling was used as compared to cluster sampling where elements will be concentrated in some particular portions of the whole area.

 

                                                When locating a Sample, the researcher meets problems some of which are:

i)                     Unfavourable weather conditions

ii)                   Hostile attitudes towards strangers

iii)                  Failure to locate some addresses

iv)                 Mobility of some potential respondents

v)                   Unfavourable terraine

vi)                 Failure to find potential respondents at their places, therefore a need for call-backs.

2)         OBTAINING THE INTERVIEW:

                                                To win the motivation of the potential respondent, the interviewer begins by introducing himself and the organisation he/she represents to the respondent. The Interviewer then precisely explains the purpose of the study. The explanation should include the expected outcomes and how the results will be of benefit. The researcher should not tell lies about the outcomes of the research. It should be well explained how the potential respondent was selected and that the responses are both confidential and anonymous, which cannot be used against the respondent. It should be made clear to the respondent that the interview is not testing knowledge and no superior behaviours should be displayed by the interviewer. A friendly relationship called rapport is thereby created.

3)         THE INTERVIEWS:

                        This is the asking of questions and waiting for the responses. The types of questions expected include; factual questions, opinion questions and knowledge questions. The questions like: Have you ever been abused?, what opinion do you have on child abuse? Do you know any effect of child abuse? For factual opinion and knowledge questions respectively. Of these, it is the opinion questions which are always neither easy to ask not to answer and the interviewer must avoid showing his side. The types of responses expected include: Adequate responses, inadequate responses and non-responses. Of these responses, it is the inadequate type of responses where keen interest should be put. An inadequate response could be:-

i)                     Partial i.e. incomplete

ii)                   Inaccurate i.e. with distortions

iii)                  Irrelevant ie that which does not answer the given question

iv)                 Verbalised response ie the respondent cannot answer all the questions asked.

4)                                      WRITING DOWN (RECORDING) RESPONSES:

            As the interview goes on, the responses are recorded. This requires careful listening, and observing any movements/reactions and at times a need for  probing. Verbal and non-verbal responses should be taken care of in order to do proper analysis. Incase of rude, harsh and embarrassing responses, the interviewer should accommodate it to sustain the interview.

                                               

ADVANTAGES OF INTERVIEW AS A METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION

1.             It can be supplemental by observation

2.             Can Work for both the literate and the illiterate

3.             People naturally prefer talking to writing

4.             The interview maintains the order of questions

5.             Probing is possible, and  therefore some  flexibility

6.             It is the sampled person who give the responses

7.             The completion rate is high.

8.             In case of any need for clarifications, the researcher is available to the respondent.

PROBLEMS MET IN USING INTERVIEW AS A METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION

1.         In case of bad weather, poor terrained etc, transport and communication are a problem on the part of the interviewer.

2.         In accessibility caused by the mobility of the potential respondents at the time they are needed.

3.         It is a very expensive method in terms of training, paying and accommodating the interviewers.

4.         Accommodation may not be available

5.         Some societies show hostility to strangers

6.         In case of political problems like insurgency        

7.         Suspension from respondents for confidentiality and anonymity.

8.         Illiteracy levels of some people.

9.         A problem of language barrier between the respondent and the    interviewer.

10.        Distortions and at times filling of the questionnaires by the Interviewer (In case of tiredness, bad weather etc)

11.        Interviews’ opinion may influence the kind of answer received.

RESPONSE ERROS:

When the interviewer records anything that differs from the real happening, then there is a response error. Response error therefore is the difference between the true values of the respondent and the values recorded by the interviewer when interviewing. Each and every question has the right response; in case a wrong response is given by the respondent, or recorded by the interviewer, then there is a response error. Therefore, response errors can either be due to the respondent or the interviewer.

The Respondent as a source of Response error:

i)               Lack of knowledge: The respondent may avoid showing ignorance concerning a particular issue and gives a wrong answer.

ii)                   Memory failure - The respondent may have forgotten the right answer

iii)                  Misunderstanding the question -  The respondent may misunderstand the question and give an answer which is wrong

iv)                 Deliberate lying - The respondent may understand the question and has the collect answer but decides to tell a lie.

This could be due to:

a)                                  The question content: e.g. questions involving social gain, personal circumstances etc

b)                                  The presence of a “Third Party” which may jeopardise the conversation

c)                                  The place of the interview e.g. office, along the road etc.

d)                                  Time of the interview - ie busy hours, after work when one is tired etc

e)                                  The sponsorship of the inquiry ie personal, government, institution etc.

The interviewer as a source of response error:

The response given by the respondent may be right, but the interviewer either because of mishearing, carelessness or deliberately records what defers from the right answer.

This could be due to:

a)         Interviewer Opinion: The opinion of the interviewer may be evident which       may influence the respondents to give particular responses.

b)   Personal characteristics: This is what the Interviewer is in relation to the respondent. It includes age, sex, level of education etc. In case of sensitive questions a lady of 16 years interviewing an old man of 40 years may create errors in response.

c)                               Interviewer expectations: The interviewer may expect a particular answer from the respondent which he may not get leading to recording the expected (wrong) answer e.g. age, level of income etc.

i)                                             Probing in which meaning  is distorted

ii)                                           Asking ambiguous, vague  or leading questions

iii)                                          Careless recording of the responses

iv)                                         Wrong translation of the responses

v)                                           Deliberate cheating or conscious distortions

vi)                                         Asking long questions, which the respondent may forget some parts

vii)                                        Distorting the order of questions.

HOW TO REDUCE RESPONSE ERROS:

a)                                  Controlling the interview

b)                                  Careful coding

c)                                  Good selection, training and supervision of the  interviewers

d)                                  Recording verbatim

e)                                  Use of tape recorders

f)                                   Matching interviewers with respondents in terms of age, sex, social status etc.

g)                                  Motivation of respondents from start to end

h)                                  Building a warm rapport and confidence in the respondent

i)                                    Concealing of opinions, on the side of the interviewer

j)                                    Appropriate questionnaire design i.e. question order, precision, content etc.

2.32                                          SELF ADMINISTERED QUESTIONNARES:

In this method of data collection, the respondent gets and fills in a formerly well structured questionnaire. The respondent must be literate, i.e. knowing how to read and write.

There are basically two types: -

i)                                             Mail Questionnaire

ii)                                           Home/office

                                        

I)                                            The Mail Questionnaire: The questionnaires are sent to the postal address and the respondent fills and sends them back to the researcher. This necessitates sending a stamped self-addressed envelope in order not to burden the respondent. It is popular and most frequent method used in developed countries.

Advantages of using mail Questionnaire:

i)                                             costs a stamp and an envelope and therefore very cheap.

ii)                                           Reaches isolated and remote areas.

iii)                                          Eliminates the possibility of non-contact i.e. not finding the respondent

iv)                                         Gives the respondent enough time to reflect, concentrate and at times consult

v)                                           Can be used to screen for subsequent researches

vi)                                         Eliminates response errors due to the interviewer

vii)                                        Ensures anonymity and confidentiality

Its Limitations

i)                                             It works only with the literates

ii)                                           Works only with topics and questionnaires which are clear and easy to understand

iii)                                          There is no probing

iv)                                         It is not flexible

v)                                           Works only when there are postal services.

II)                      HOME/OFFICE DELIVERY QUESTIONNAIRES

-                                              The questionnaires are either sent or personally delivered to and later picked from the premises of the respondent. The respondent is given time to fill in the questionnaires. This is commonly used when:

i)                                             The postal system is not efficient

ii)                                           There is need for more  explanations and clarification

iii)                                          It minimises non-response

iv)                                         It saves time.

Some of its disadvantages are:

i)                                             It is expensive

ii)                                           It is tiring

iii)                                          There may be non-contact

 

CHAPTER THREE

3.0           SAMPLING

In an investigation, one may decide to do research on the entire population  or part of the  population. The method of selecting that part of the entire population for purposes of research is known as sampling.

3.1                 Some Concepts:

a)   Sample: This is the part of the entire population that is selected for study purposes. It can also be described as a subset of measurements selected from the population of interest (Mendenhall). A sample from a population is any subset of that population (Madsen W. R).

b)   Population: This refers to a complete set of elements having some common characteristics. It is a set representing all measurements of interest to the sample collector (Mendenhall). A population is a collection of objects having a well defined set of characteristics (Madsen W. R.)

c)  Element: This is an individual from whom information is collected.

d)  Sampling frame: This is a list from which a sample is drawn i.e. a list of blocks in a town etc.

e)  Attribute:    This is a characteristic that describes an element i.e. rich or poor, illiterate or literate etc

f)   Parameter: This is a summary description of a given variable in a population. Any numerical value describing a characteristic of a population is called a parameter. (Walpole R.E.)

g)  Statistic: This is a summary description of a given variable in a sample. Any numerical value describing a characteristic of a sample is called a stististic. (Walpole R.E.)

                               

h)             Sampling Error: The difference between the parameter and  Statistic,

i.e. the difference between the description of a given variable in a population and in a sample from that population.

                                               

                                                STAGES TAKEN IN SAMPLING

1.  Defining the study population: This shows exactly what the population is in terms of parameters.

2.  Specifying the sampling frame: In this, a list of all the elements (or group of elements in form of blocks, maps etc) from which the sample is to be got is made.

3.  Identifying (specifying) the sampling unit/unit of analysis: This is the smallest unit to be used in analysis i.e. household, person, school etc.

4. Identifying the method of sampling: This is the method that is most suitable and chosen in that study for sampling. It could be a Random or Non-Random method of sampling.

5. Specifying the size of the sample: The Sample size should be proportional to the population size.

6. Designing a sampling plan: Steps to be taken at each stage of sampling are described in the plan.

7. Sample Selection: this is the act of selecting the sample from the population.

WHY SAMPLING IS NENCESSARY

It is necessary because it is:

a) Cheaper: it saves time and money.

b) Higher level of accuracy. It permits a higher level of accuracy because of better manpower, and more care taken in analysis.

c) Quick results: There are some problems, which require immediate solutions, e.g. an epidemic. In such cases, a sample can be used.

d) In case of tests which affect the sampled elements e.g. the melting temperature of a fuse, the effectiveness of a new drug etc

e)   Higher level of adaptability in samples compared to censuses.

 f)   Populations require much management as compared to samples.

 

SAMPLING ERROR

This is the difference between the true values of the population and the estimated values of the sample. In other words, the difference between the parameter and the statistic.

If there is a population of 100 people whose mean income is Shs. 48,000; and a Random Sample of 10 people is chosen whose mean income is Shs. 51,000.

                                                            Y = Shs . 48,000

                                                            y = Shs. 51,000

                                                s.e =Y-y

                                                               = Shs. 51,000 – 48,000

                                                                  Shs. 3,000

The smaller the sampling error The more accurate and exact are  the sample estimates. In the given illustration, if another sample is selected and its mean income is Shs. 50,000=; the sampling error will be Shs. 2,000= which will be smaller than the previous one; and the sample estimates will be closer to the true population values and the better for the researcher.

Sampling error is a function of two factors; i.e. the structure of the population and sample size.

a) Population structure: The population can either be homogeneous or heterogeneous in behaviour. The more heterogeneous the population, the bigger the sampling error and the more homogeneous the population, the less the sampling error.

NOTE: If the population is completely homogeneous, there is no sampling error and if it is completely heterogeneous, there is no possibility of sampling.

b)                   The size of the sample selected: For heterogeneous populations, the bigger the sample, the smaller the sampling error. This is so because as the sample becomes bigger, it tends to a population.

NON-SAMPLING ERROR:

These are the errors outside sampling. They are due to improper selection of the sample, faulty methods of collecting and analysing data etc.

SAMPLING TECHNIQUES

These are basically two broad techniques/methods in sampling:-

i)                     Probability (Random) sampling

ii)                   Non-probability (non-random) sampling

A technique is under probability sampling if each element in the population has a chance of being selected into the sample; otherwise it is non-random sampling.

RANDOM SAMPLING TECHNIQUES:

1.                   Simple Random Sampling: this is the easiest and simplest of all. Each and every element in the study population has an equal chance of being selected into the sample. A simple Random Sample of n objects chosen from a population is on chosen in such a way that all samples of size n are equally likely to be chosen (Madsen W.R).  This is applicable when:

a)      The population is relatively homogeneous

b)    The study population is small such that the sampling frame can easily be specified.

It can be by use of Lottery Method or by Random Numbers:

In this method, discs/folded papers written on the names or numbers of the elements to be selected, put in a bowl, mixed by shaking and picked at random. This can be done with replacement in which the picked disc is dropped back and the same process continues until the whole sample is selected. This implies that one element can be selected more than once. In this case, the probability of choosing an element remains constant i.e. p= 1/N;

                  Where N= population Number.

                     P= probability of choosing an element

It can also be with replacement in which the selected disc is not replaced. The process of shaking and selecting another disc continues without the previously selected disc until the whole sample is selected. The probability of choosing each element there varies.

                  I.e. p=1/N, 1/N-1, 1/N-2 -------- 1/{N- (n-1)}

Where P- probability of choosing an element

                  N- Population Number

                  n- Sample Number

RANDOM NUMBERS

This uses a table of Random Numbers- The elements are numbered from 1 – N. The table does not follow any pattern and the sample is selected in any convenient way i.e. horizontally vertically, diagonally etc.

ie

109               210                                  111                   413                   517                   567      

   

316                718                                  617                   273                   161                   174

   

100                910                                  818                   512                   414                   876

327                254                                  154                   146                   271                   186

511                423                                  616                   641                   172                   275

156                578                                  963                   985                   243                   432

694                904                                  806                   372                   571                   576

_                   _                                     _                      _                      -                       -          

If a sample of 20 elements is to be selected from the above table, the first 5 elements could be:

i)                                 Horizontally – from the left top corner:

109, 210, 111, 413, 517, 567

ii)                               Vertically – from the fifth column:

517, 161, 414, 271, 172, 243, 571

 2. Systematic Sampling:

This is always done from a population which is relatively small and homogeneous. A certain order of selecting elements is followed. In this technique, a sampling fraction (k) is selected first. This divides population into the number of samples possible ie k=N/n. where k = the sampling fraction

                                                 N = Population Number

                                                 n = Sample Number

The first selection is done using simple Random Sampling from the first k elements. If W is the first element selected; the W, W+R, W+2R, W+3R, -------- is the sample. This is done by selecting every element after the previous one until the whole sample is selected.

e.g. if the population size is 900; and the sample size is 30.

i.e N=900, n=30, then

R=N/n = 900/30 = 30.

By simple Random sampling, if W=15, then the whole sample selected will be W, W+R, W+2R, W+3R, -------

= 14, 45, 75, 105, 135, 165, 195, --------

3. Stratified Sampling:

In this method, the population is first divided into groups called strata. It works best in populations, which are:

i)                     Large; therefore without a specified sampling frame.

ii)                   Heterogeneous in nature

Each stratum should be as homogeneous as possible and as different from any other as possible. If for example the study is on “The Availability of textbooks in the Library.” The Researcher should stratify according to the Departments.

                  I.e. Business Studies

                        Education Studies

                        Social Work Studies

                        community leadership and Developmentetc.

After stratifying the population, a sub-sample is selected from each stratum by simple Random sampling or systematic sampling. These sub-samples can be selected proportionately or disproportionately.

An example of a proportionate stratified sample:

Uganda Christian University       -           1800 students

Law Studies                                          -              300    “

Social Science Studies              -              500    “

Business Studies                       -              400    “

Mass Communication Studies     -             100    “

Education Studies                      -              500    “

If a sample of 180 students is needed from the total population, the sampling fraction is

S=n/N = 180/1800                                 = 1/10.

Law Studies - 1/10x300                          = 30

Social Studies  - 1/10x500                      = 50

Business Studies - 1/10 x 400                = 40

Mass Communication – 1/10x 100           = 10

Education  - 1/10 x 500                           = 50

                                                            ---------

Sample Number                                       180

                  n is the sample size

                  N is the population size

                  S is the sampling fraction                                                                

                                    The sub-sample is got by multiplying the sampling fraction s by the stratum size (xi).

                                                i.e. Education Department         

                                                            S x Xi = 1/10 x 500 = 50.

For a disproportionate stratified sample, the sub samples are not proportional to the Stratum

Advantages of using stratified sampling:

i)                                             It is sometimes the most representative way of sampling i.e. it ensures representativeness of the sample. This is so because it helps to capture the view of the minority.

ii)                                           Heterogeneous populations with their varied behaviour and opinions bring in sampling error, which is always reduced by stratification.

iii)                                          It makes the administration of the whole exercise easier.

iv)                                         Different methods of data collect, if appropriate can be applied

v)                                           Different sampling frames can be used to select the sample.

4.  CLUSTER SAMPLING:

This is most common in populations, which are completely heterogeneous. The population is divided into groups, which are themselves heterogeneous. A sample of some of the groups (Clusters) is got and all the elements in the clusters sampled are taken for the study. A part from this single stage cluster sampling, a multi-stage cluster sampling can be done where sub-clusters are sampled from the sampled clusters.

                                     

This method is most applicable in large populations, without a specific sampling frame and completely homogeneous.

                                               

Reasons for using cluster sampling:

i)                                             -It is cheap; this is because it saves on time and money.

ii)                                           Selection of sample very simple

iii)                                          It facilitates supervision

iv)                                         If there is no sampling frame

Differences between stratified sampling and cluster sampling:

i)                                             The sample selected from all the strata, but a sample of clusters is selected.

ii)                                           The final sample is selected using simple random sampling from each stratum but all elements in the sampled clusters are considered.

iii)                                          The size of the sample is known and fixed in stratified sampling, but is unknown and varies in cluster sampling.

iv)                                         To minimise the sampling error, each stratum should be as homogeneous as possible and each cluster as heterogeneous as possible.

4.                               Area Sampling:

In this method of sampling, areas are marked; sampled and the elements within the areas are also sampled to make the final sample. Maps are commonly used and if not available physical features, such as road, rivers etc are used. These are very commonly used in less developed countries.

NON-RANDOM/PROBABILITY SAMPLING:

There are several methods under Non-probability sampling but most of them are used for quick results, and always by administrators and other persons of some authority.

1. Convenience Sampling: This normally selects those elements that are easiest to find i.e. those you know by name, those on the front bench, those you come close to in a gathering etc.

2. Purposive sampling: The Researcher uses his own judgement about which respondents to choose. He picks only those elements that best meet the purposed for the study. The Researcher uses his skills and prior knowledge to choose the respondents.

3. Network sampling: This works best with very sensitive issues i.e. drug abuse and traffic; sex selling etc. One element is identified; confidence is built in that respondent who is later given a task of identifying another. One identified later identifies another until the sample is complete.

4. Others include:

i)                                             Quota Sampling

ii)                                           Dimensional sampling etc.

CHAPTER  FOUR

QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN:

This is commonly called questionnaire construction. It involves the framing of questions in a format and wording which will be taken to the respondent. In order to create a favourable atmosphere (rapport) between the respondent and the researcher, designing a questionnaire requires beginning with simple and clear questions, to move sensitive and complex questions.

Set of Principles for Proper questionnaire Design:

1. Precision: The questions set must be short and precise but sufficient. They should be set in such a way that they are answered easily and quickly. Long questions would confuse the respondent who may  probably forget the first part of the question before the last word is read.

 2. Questionnaire Relevance: The questionnaire should not only be relevant to the objectives and variables of the study but also to the respondent. This can be achieved by a multiple of questionnaires or multiple wording which can be assisted by word like “if No skip To” according to the categories available.

3. Question Order: Questions should be set in an orderly manner to fit together and form a conversation. There should be a logical progression for the respondent to be drawn into the study by raising his interest. This call for beginning with simple and clear questions to sensitive and complex questions; from more general to more specific questions. Begin with filter questions, which are followed by contingency questions.

                                    e.g.      

1- Are you in School?

a) Yes                           b)         No        “If  No, jump to on 4” 

2-                   In which level are you?

3-                   Who pays your School fees?

a) Parent                                   b)         Government                  c)         other

4-                   How do you always spend your day?

4. Question content – This is concerned with the wording of the questions. The questions should never offend the respondent. They should be phrased in a simple and straight forward manner and should avoid phrases (words) which have several meanings. Generally avoid

a)                                           Ambiguous questions i.e. questions with several meanings e.g. where do you come from?

b)                                           Double-barrelled questions i.e.  two or more questions in one e.g. Do you wake up early on Sunday and go to Church?

c)                                           Leading questions e.g. You attend Church Services, don’t you.

d)                                           Presumed questions e.g. How often do you attend church services? before you find out whether the respondent attends the services at all.

e)                                           Abstract questions e.g. Are you happy with your Church services?

5. Close ended and open ended questions - it is normal practice to begin with close ended questions e.g. questions which require answers like

      a) YES                    B)         NO

      a) Married    b)         unmarried               c)    Widowed/separated

Open-ended questions are at times opinion questions, which bring out salient information. The researcher is at liberty to even use only close-ended questions or open ended questions.

Advantages of close ended questions:

            -           Responses are standard and can be easily compared.

            -           They are easy to analyse

            -           The respondent becomes clear of what the researcher wants

            -            Answers are relatively more complete.

Disadvantages of close ended questions:

-                                              it is easy for the respondent to guess the answer

-                                              If one’s category is not available, it frustrates the respondent

Advantages of open ended questions:

-                                              Can be used when all answer categories are not known

-                                              It allows the respondent to answer adequately

Disadvantages of open ended questions:

-                                              They lead to countless responses which are hard to code

-                                              Some of the responses may be irrelevant

-                                              They often require superior interviewing skills

-                                              They are often too general to explore specific aspects

THE DESIGN OF NON-SURVEY RESEARCH INSTRUCTIONS:

Non-survey Research is:

i)                                             not based on probability sampling techniques

ii)                                           findings cannot be generalised

iii)                                          Data tends to be qualitative in nature

Non-survey Research Include:

·                                    Key Informant interviews

·                                    Focus Group discussions etc.

Just like the case of survey research, Non-Survey research is based on the Research problem, the objectives and the Research Questions. The research instrument is therefore essentially trying to get the information about the issues determined earlier (The principles used in designing survey instruments also apply to non-survey instruments  though to a less extent).

Other guidelines include:

1. They are generally less structured. Questions are not pre-coded and are therefore open ended.

2. They tend to have more elaborated instructions i.e. they introduce and explain the purpose of the study more than in the survey method.

3. They identify the parameters for data collection. And in this case, four should be considered:

·                                 The setting (place, environment)

·                                 The participants/Actors

·                                 The events/phenomena

·                                 The process (i.e. order)

4. The nature of questions: These are simply guidelines to the interviewer about the kind of issues to be covered. They tend to be flexible and the interviewer is under no obligation to ask every question. Each key question is followed by probes, which assist the researcher to make in-depth investigations.

5. Recording: In this case, unlike in survey research, the answers are made separate sheet from the research instrument. The following should be taken care of;

 i) The Descriptive notes - The physical state which the respondent is in.

 ii) The reflective notes - These are personal thoughts. 

iii) Information about time, date, and the number of participants in the interview.

5.                               The structure of the instrument:

i)                                             The Heading

ii)                                           Instructions to the interviewer

iii)                                          Introductions

iv)                                         Key questions to be covered

v)                                           The probes to follow the key questions

vi)                                         Space for recording interviewer’s comments

vii)                                        The space in which the interviewer records the reflective notes.  

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0         DATA PROCESSING

5.1         Data Processing

This involves three stages:-

i)                                             Editing

ii)                                           Coding

iii)                                          Tabulation and analysis of data

When data is collected in a raw form, it is compressed by putting it into tables, calculated values or graphs. This is what is known as Data Processing. When the processed data is used to interpret the findings, the process is known as Data Analysis.

I.                                            EDITING

This is the checking of the filled questionnaires to ensure consistency, completeness, and accuracy. It could be done in the field or back at home but at least within the same day of data collection. The Researcher checks that all the relevant questions have to be asked and the corresponding answers recorded. All questions must be answered and the spaces provided filled in. Otherwise it should be indicated that not applicable. The researcher therefore goes through the filled instrument to fill up the gaps, correct the errors as one recalls all the responses and the reactions of the respondent during the interview.

II.                                          CODING:

This is a process of giving a category to every answer so as to bring out their essential patterns.

This has two parts:

a) Coding the frame: This comprised of all possible answer categories in which the data to be collected may be classified. For example, at Uganda Christian University, 2001, the Departments can be categorised as Law, Social Sciences, Business studies, Education and Theology. The answers are categorised into mutually exclusive¹, exhaustive² and representative categories. Each category of answers is referred to as a Code. All the codes of the whole questionnaire are what is referred to as a coding frame.

Foot Note

1.      Mutually exclusive implies that no answer fits in more than one category.

2.             Exhaustive answer category implies that all the possible categories are provided for in the coding frame.

b)             Coding Answers: This is normally done by the interviewer by ticking the answer relevant to the question. This is normally done for close-ended questions. Even for open ended questions, after all answers have been collected, they have to be coded.

III.          TABULATION: This is the last stage of data processing, which is always done after editing and coding. The data is put in tables according to their codes and frequencies. This is when the data is quantitative in nature, which requires statistical analysis.

There are two major forms of tables:

a) Univariate Tables which involve the frequencies of one variable e.g.

            Number of students per subject

            SUBJECT                     No.

            R.Methods                    400

            Economics                    500

            History                             60

            Geography                      40      

                                                ------------

            Total:                            1000

                                                =======

AGE GROUP      No.

16-20                          200

21-25                          600

26-30                          200

                         ----------

Total:               1000

                    ======

              COURSE                                No.

                        Law                                          300

                        Education                                  400

                        Social Sciences                         300

                                                                        --------   

                                    Total:                            1000

                                                                        ====

b)             The Bivariate Tables: 

They involve the frequencies of more than one variable e.g. course by Age.

The final stage is analysis which involves the interpretation of the research findings. If the data is qualitative i.e. incase of focus group findings; analysis is done directly from the quotations given by the respondents and therefore no need for tabulations.

6.0 MEASUREMENT

This is the process of determining the value or level of a particular unit of analysis.

Importance of Measurement:

a) It is the only way through which variables are especially defined; implying that a precise description of a variable can be reached at only through measurement.

b) It enables a researcher to clarify his theoretical thinking and to suggest new variables.

c) A good theory can be greatly enhanced through measurement, such that if measurement is done correctly, it can improve the qualities of research i.e. increasing reliability and validity of research.

d) It is a requirement in everyday life e.g. measurement of distance, weight etc.

Functions of Measurement:

a)         To describe phenomena empirically

b)                   It makes statistical manipulation and treatment of data possible.

c)                   It helps in testing of theories and hypothesis.

d)                   It enables a researcher differentiate between the objects of study according to the level of properties they posses.

LEVELS OF MEASUREMENT:

There are basically four levels of measurement.

1. Nominal measurement: This is the simplest and lowest form of measurement, also known as the classification measurement because it involves classfying concepts. In this level of measurement, numbers or lebels are assigned to identify objects according to their characteristics. This is a qualitative measurement which classifies elements according to similar characteristics e.g.   Car Numbers.

                                                                                                  House Numbers etc

It is therefore for identification purposes.

It must have:

i)                                             At least two categories

ii)                                           The categories must be mutually exclusive

iii)                                          The categories must be exhaustive.

2. Ordinal Measurement: This implies following order:

i.e. the ranking of objects according to their characteristics. This could be either in the ascending or descending order. In addition to having all the characteristics of norminal scale, it shows orderliness i.e. it clearly shows pisitions of the objects - Second, third etc.

3. Interval Measurement: In addition to all the characteristics of ordinal measurement, it gives the differences in values e.g. The First student had 10 marks higher than the second.

                                    Position                        1^st         2^nd        3^rd        4^th

                                                                        ^{Total Marks} 340       330       300       287

                                    Differences       -           10         30         17

In this form of measurement, O is arbitrary e.g. o^o_{C= 32}⁰_F.

4. Ratio Measurement: In addition to all the characteristics of interval scale, it has an absolute zero ie a point of beginning. Observations can be compared meaningfully through ratio measurement e.g.weight 1Kg (A) 10 Kg (B)           

Such that B is ten times heavier than A.

 

6.1 Evaluation Of Research

Evaluation allows the researcher to decide for himself what conclusions to draw from evidence/data found.

Questions to think about in evaluation:

i)                     Does the data agree or support the researchers’ conclusions in respect to the population studied?

ii)                   If the conclusions are sound, do they make a generalisation beyond the sampled population and the setting in which the research was made?

If the date support the conclusions made in the specific instance studied, then there is internal validity. At times, a careful look at the conclusions made by the researcher from the evidence can sometimes reveal errors of reasoning that undermine the conclusions that seem to follow from the study. Suppose one concludes that poverty is the major cause of child abuse”, would the data be in agreement with the conclusion?

The second consideration is whether the conclusion can be generalised to the population, other settings inclusive. This involves external validity and it is meaningful if the internal validity is already established. Therefore a study has external validity if its results can be generalised to other situations in which the same variables operate. Suppose  it was true that “poverty is the major cause of child abuse” in Mukono District

         Is it true in all other places?

         Is it true always?

Chapter  Six

7. The Use Of Secondary Data:

This is the use of the already collected data that was not specifically gathered for the research question at hand. This data could be government or non-government/private statistical studies already undertaken or unpublished observations of a knowledge observer.

7.1 Advantages of using Secondary Data:

1. Cheap, using already collected data requires less time and money. Therefore the whole research is cheap in terms of time and money spent.

2. Quick Results: If the researching body needs quick results, its better to use already collected data than going to the field for primary data.

3. It acts as a starting point for additional research from recommendations, policies etc.

4.                                        It provides the means for increasing the efficiency of the research costs by targeting real gaps and oversights in knowledge.

5.                                        The existing data and the new data can be compared for purposes of examining differences on trends, and therefore secondary data acts as a comparative tool in research.

6.                                        It provides a basis for determining whether or not new information is representative of a population as in the case of sampling e.g. comparison of demographic characteristics of a sample to those of a large population may reveal how representative the sample is of the large population.

7.2 Disadvantages of using secondary data:

1. There is a possibility of using outdated data therefore not timely for the research purpose.

2. The unit of aggregation may not be appropriate for a particular purpose.

3. Categories and measurements used in the data may not be appropriate for the research purpose at hand.

7.3 How To Evaluate Secondary Data

Secondary Data needs to be evaluated since it is not necessarily reliable and valid.  Data is always evaluated according to how recent and credible it is.

Data can be evaluated basing on the following questions:

a) What was the purpose of the study? The objectives of the study always determine the sampling and data collection methods, the degree of precision and the types of categories used. This may limit the usefulness of the data for some other particular purpose.

b)                                        Who had the responsibility of collecting the data: The qualifications technical competence, resources available and potential biases determine the quality of the data collected.

c)                                        The Research Design i.e. what methodology was used in obtaining the data? There is need of getting information about:

i)                                             Size and nature of sample

ii)                                           Response rates and missing data

iii)                                          Experimental procedures

iv)                                         Validation efforts

v)                                           Questionnaires and coding forms

vi)                                         Interview guides

vii)                                        Methods of analysis

This allows for a proper critique of the data collection procedure. Knowing the sample design is very helpful since it deals with the question of generalisation and representativeness of the results.

d)                                        When was data collection done? Is the data still current or has been overtaken by some events and is obsolete? Society is dynamic, like what used to be a taboo in the 20^th Century, may be acceptable today: What used to be a living wage by 1999, may be a “pea-nut”  by 2001.

e)                                        What type of data was actually collected? How were units and concepts defined? How direct were measures used? How complete was the information? Apparent inconsistencies across studies often have more to do with the operational definition of terms than actual differences in the underlying phenomena.

f)                                         In comparison to other sources, how consistent is the information obtained? In case of differences and disagreements between different sources, there is need of identifying the reasons why such differences exist and then determine which source is more credible.

Chapter Seven

7.0 Dissertation Writing

Introduction:

This is not an easy task as some would want to think. It tests ones ability to manage a research project, and write it up in a clear and orderly fashion. A high level of originality and initiative are expected.

7.1 Stages Of Social Research

1.         Formulation of a Research Problem

2.         Formulation of a Research Design (overall approach to data collections)

3.         Method of data Collection (Personal Interviews, mail questionnaire)

4.         Formulation/Design of Research Instruments

5.                   Deciding on the sample size

6.                   Data Collection

7.                   Analysis and Interpretation of Data Collected

8.                   Preparation and presentation of Research Report

1.0                                          Formulation of a Research Problem: This constitutes writing a Research Topic. Specific situations lead to the formulation of a particular problem. These include: The Paradigm, values of the Researcher, Methodology and the time factor.

a)                       Paradigm: This is the perspective or frame of reference with which the Researcher views the Social World - “Child Abuse in Mukono”

b)                       Values:            What one desires influences the selection of a particular topic – “Women emancipation”.

c)                       Methodology: Is the method of research qualitative or quantitative or both. The method you choose, will influence how you approach the topic you have chosen, ie it influences on the sampling method, the data collection method, the method of analysis etc

 d)     Time Factor: Is it for a long or short time period? The time schedule in which each part of the research work is to be completed is very important. The following should be included in your time planning: -When to have your proposal approved

                                    -When to have done the pre tests

                                    -When to have trained the research assistants

                                    -When to have collected the data

                                    -When to have finished data editing

                                    -When to have completed the analysis

                                    -When to have completed the research work ready for dissemination.

Be realistic about the time allocated to each item; one would rather finish an exercise much before than being caught by time. In case of need, make some readjustments as you go along.

                         

                          After a topic has been selected, there is a need for evaluation. The problem area selected has to be of significant importance to the research world.

What to consider when evaluating a Research Problem:

a)                       The research on that problem is expected to give a solution, which has a significant contribution to the body of organisation knowledge.

b)                                              It should be able to fill some gaps in the present knowledge, solve some inconsistencies in previous research and make a general improvement in earlier studies.

c)                                              The solution to the problem should open up new problems for further research. A good study while arriving at a solution leads to other problems that need investigation.

d)                                              The problem must be one that can be empirically studied  i.e. its hypothesis can be proved right or wrong.

e)                                              It must be sustainable for the investigator in terms of:

i)                                                genuine interest and enthusiasm

ii)                                              having knowledge and some experience

iii)                                             being feasible to the investigator i.e. availability of funds, and ability to complete in the available time.

iv)                                            Being investigated and completed in the available time.

1.1                                       Developing a problem statement (statement of the problem).

It is advisable to begin with a broader problem area and narrow it down to a specific research problem. A properly defined research problem should       (i)       be stated in the simplest form

                           ii)       Identify the variables being investigated

                          iii)       Indicate the relationship between the variables being investigated

                          iv)          Identify the target population

1.2                                       Feasibility of a Research Project:

-                                              Some students select the topics which have already been studied, while others select very new topics. The better alternative is the in between the two extremes. This is because there is no rationale of researching on what has been researched on and it becomes very difficult for a student who chooses on very new topics: for it may even be impossible to identify the relevant literature.

8.2                           RESEARCH DESIGN: This is the general outline of the procedures involved in conducting a research. It is a set of operating guidelines within which research is carried out, consistent with the scientific methods available. It can be in form of a census where a complete enumeration of the whole population is done at a point in time. It can also be in form of a case study where relatively few persons, (even one person) are studied in detail. It can also take the form of surveys, which we are more concerned with where samples using sampling techniques are selected to represent the whole population.

The design involves the literature review, the sampling techniques (methods); data collection methods, the identification of the Independent, dependent and the intermediate variables; formulation of the hypothesis, the methods of data analysis and the research report writing.

                                                           

 d) Variables: These are the independent, dependent and the intermediate variables. These are used in formulating hypotheses where it can clearly be shown that the independent variable determines the dependent. In tabulation, the independent is always placed on top while dependent on the left hand i.e. When drawing graphs, the Independent is always placed on the horizontal axis, while the dependent is on the vertical axis.

                         

For a variable to be independent, dependent or intermediate, it dependents on the context of the research. It is advisable to explain why one considers a variable to be whither independent, dependent or intermediate.

                         

The Independent variable is always the “cause” of the event while the dependent is the result or “Effect”.

“Causes of high infant mortality rates in Uganda”

-Malnutrition, disease & wars could be some of the causes and therefore the independent variable.

 -“Poverty levels” could be one of the intermediate variables.

Note: Social Sciences, the demographic and social economic factors are always the Independent variables so long as they explain the results of the study. They include sex, tribe, religion, level of income level of education, marital status etc.

e) Hypotheses:   A hypothesis is a predicted relationship between the Independent and the dependent variables, which can be empirically tested with significant tests.

e.g. The better the Income, the higher the standard of living.

Income level is the “cause” and the Independent variable while the standard of living is the “effect” and the dependent variable.

8.3 Formulation Of Research Instruments: These are the guidelines used by the researcher to collect information from the sampled population. They could be formal or informal. The commonly used are the formal interview schedules called the questionnaire:

                         

                          There are five principles, which must be considered for proper researcher instrument formulation.

a) The Question order: The questions should be set in an orderly manner to fit together and form a conversation. Begin with simple clear questions to more sensitive and complex questions. This helps to remove tension and build rapport with the respondent.

b)                            Questionnaire relevance: The questions should be relevant to the study and to the respondent. Make sure that no respondent. Make sure that no respondent is asked a question that does not apply to him/her. This necessitates the application of more than one questionnaire or the use of contingency questions with instructions like “If NO SKIP TO”.

c)                                              Precision: The questionnaire should be limited in length and scope. The questions should be short, easy to answer but sufficient

d)                                              Question Content: The wording of the questions must never offend the respondent. Avoid phrases or words, which have more than one meaning and the questions, must be phrased in a simple straight forward manner.

i)                                                Avoid two barrelled questions i.e. two questions in one e.g. Do you wake up early and attend the chapel services?

ii)                                              Avoid abstract questions: Are you happy with this University.

iii)                                             Avoid leading questions: You don’t smoke, do you?

iv)                                            Avoid vague/ambiguous questions: Where do you come from? This could be residence, place of birth or nationality.

v)                                              Avoid presumed questions: How often do you go to Church? Before you find out whether he does.

e)                                              Open and close ended questions: The researcher should know how he wants to categorise his responses and therefore the need for using either open or close ended questions.

8.4                     Writing A Research Proposal: Like any work or construction, planning is a necessity. As you plan, it is possible to find out that the study is not possible e.g. in terms of cost, time etc. In is therefore better to alter things at the planning stage than when you are in the middle of your study. Luke 14:28.

                         

                          A proposal is a detailed description of the proposed study designed to investigate a given problem. It is a master plan for your study and is critically important because it will communicate your preliminary ideas on what you are trying to do, when you plan to do it, how you plan to do it and how you plan to analyse your data.[3] It brings about careful thinking about many aspects of the proposed study. In the process, one may discover matters he otherwise would have ignored. Evaluation of the proposed study becomes easy and certain weakness may be discovered and improvement made at the very beginning. It is generally a guide for conducting the study in terms of orderliness, time schedules etc. It ensures that the study addresses the problem that has been framed, otherwise the target may be missed.

                          Components of a Research Proposal:

                          i)Title page; With the Researcher’s name

                          ii) Table of contents

iii)Introduction:

-                         Background to the study

-                         Statement of the problem

-                         Justification/significance of the study

-                         Objectives

-                         Hypotheses

iv) Review of relevant literature

v) Methodology

-                         Subject

            - Data Collection instrument

            - Design

            - Procedure

vi)Time Schedule

vii)The Budget

viii)Bibliography

i) The Title Page: This give the Topic of study, the name of the researcher and who the researcher is.

ii) Table of contents: This outlines what is contained in the proposal and on which page it is located.

iii)Introduction

a)                       Background: In the background, all information required for an understanding of the problem is given. This includes what is already known and written on the subject of study. It helps the researcher to identify the gaps in what is already known and to identify what is not yet known on the subject of study. It is a stepping stone in framing the problem statement.

b)                                              Statement of the problem: This must be stated as clearly as possible since the rest of the proposal depends on the problem statement. It should be guided by a series of questions or statements that will be answered by the proposed research.

c)                                              Justification of the study: It must be justified by discussing its significance e.g.

-                         It could be filling the gaps in knowledge

-                         it could be useful for planning etc.

d)                                              Objectives – The overall objective that you want to achieve must be stated; then state specific objectives if necessary.

e)                                              Hypothesis: Each hypothesis should clearly state the expected relationship between the variables in the study.

iv) Literature review: This is the reading and writing on what has been written down on the subject under study. It should be more detailed, coherent and consistent to bring out the real situation. As the background to the study, it helps the researcher to clearly identify the gaps in what is known, identify what is unknown and in framing the hypotheses. Use as many different types of sources as possible. These may include journals, the internet, textbooks, government publications – that is; all that you deem relevant and of use. Whenever you read something or take notes on a source, always take down full bibliographic details to avoid time wasting and loss of some when you are compiling references and full bibliography.[4]

v) Methodology: This helps to identify and work on the following so that a proper research procedure is followed.

a) Subjects: These are the potential respondents. Description of the subjects clearly defines the population from which the sample is selected. Description indicates the size and the major characteristics of the population. Such should be answered when describing the subjects:

-                         Where are my subjects to come from?

-                                              What are they like?

-                                              Are they scattered or close to one another?

-                                              Are they homogeneous or heterogeneous?

b)                                              Design - This described the basic structure of the study e.g. census, sample survey or case study. It goes further to explain whether the research will be qualitative or quantitative or both. It also explains the sampling methods, data collection methods, method of data processing and analysis and presentation of results.

All this is determined by a number of factors among which is the population structure, urgency of need of results, availability of funds etc.

c)                                              Data gathering Instrument: This involves the designing of the questionnaire. Its validity and reliability must be tested before using it in the actual study. The instrument designed may be structured or not structured. This among others may be determined by whether the approach is qualitative or quantitative.

d)                                              Procedure: This describes all the steps that will be followed in conducting the study, in the order in which they will occur.

e)                                              Data analysis: Here you specify the method to be applied in analysing the data.

f)                                               Anticipated problems during research. These problems could either be technical, physical, social or financial. If possible explain how you plan to overcome them.

vi)Time Schedule for the different stages of the study mean that the researcher keeps to the deadlines set for the particular research project.

vii)Budget: It could be in such a form:

                          Subsistence                            -30,000/=

                          Travel                                     -20,000/=

                          Accommodation                        -40,000/=

                          Stationary                               -100,000/=

                          Typing and Secretarial work      - 40,000/=

                          Research Assistants                - 100,000/=

                                                                           -------------------

                          Total:                                            330,000/=

                                                                               ===========

     

viii) Bibliography                                                           

Bibliography

1)                                              Bailey K. D. (1982).  Methods of Social Research 2^nd Edition. The Free Press, New York.

2)                   Moser C.A. and Kalton G. (1971) Survey Methods in Social Investigation. Heinemann, London.

3)                   Selltiz c.  et el (1978). Research Methods in Social Relations, 3^rd Edition.

4)                   Margaret Riel . Social Science Research Methods (A handbook of Africa and Revised Edition).

5)                                              Stuart Melville and Wayne Goddard. Research Methodology; An Introduction for Science and Engineering Students.

6)                                              Tereza kakooza. An Introduction to Research Methodology.

7)                                              Uganda Christian University (2004) – Guidelines for Dissertation writing

8)                                              Jack R. frankel and Norman E. Wallen. How to Design and Evaluate Research in Education, Third Edition.

9)                                              Mark L. Berenson and David m. Levine. Basic Business Statistics: Concepts and Applications.

10)                                          Hannah W. Kinoti. A handbook of Social Research Methods.      

11)                                          Richard W. Madsen/Melvin L. Moeschberger. Introductory Statistics for Business and Economics.

12)                                          Ronalr E. Walpole. Introduction to Statistics,3^rd Edition.

13)                                          Mendenhall. Introduction to probability and Statistics.

13) Martin E. Amin. Social Science Research;     Conception, Methodology and Analysis

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[1] A collection of facts showing relationships between them

[2] An empirically verifiable observation

[3] Uganda Christian University – Guidelines for dissertation writing

[4] Uganda Christian University – Guide lines for Dissertation writing