The course topic on introduction has been a critical source of many lessons. One essential lesson is that successful completion of a study requires precisely defining a research problem. Primarily, a research problem specifies the issue/ problem which is vital in showing the study need (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). I hold the ability to have a well-defined research problem as very impactful on the success of the research proposal. Also, with the need to gain attention and show relevance, having a strong narrative hook, supported by evidence is vital. Thus, from the need in completing proposals, the lessons have also demonstrated the value of literature review in studies. As a learner with a focus on completing the proposal, utilization of other researchers’ works by debating their literature is one key source of research problems and solutions. Particularly, with a wide range of information, from online academic sources and in hard copies, showing integrity and citing other people’s works is vital. Winchester and Salji (2016) agree that literature reviews are essential allowing for the critical appraisal of a defined subject, placing it in the right context. Literature is vital, but Creswell and Creswell (2018) recommend using those within 10 years unless old sources are deemed valuable.
The data collection and statistical analysis skills and how to perform in these areas is another key lesson learned, which is vital in current and future research. As noted by Creswell and Creswell (2018) lecture notes, it is essential for one to state the data collection measures and statistical outcomes found in studies. As an evidence-based researcher, learning how to collect data is an integral part of being successful in the future. Taking the initiative and supplementing the information has led to being well aware of what to expect and plan better. As a good researcher, proper data collection and management is vital in subsequent analysis (Peersman, 2014). For sufficient statistical analysis in the future, the collected data must meet quality measures like validity, integrity, precision as well as reliability (Peersman, 2014). The need in ensuring that utilized data is reliable lies in the fact that as a researcher, I am obligated to adhere to academic standards, which will be vital in improving the reception and acceptability of projects I undertake in future. Essentially, from the lecture lesson, there is an emphasis on quality in the completion of proposals, from following a specific style to including credible materials.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
Another useful lesson is the need for proper citation, in the wiring of papers. From the examples shown in the PowerPoint lecture, there is a citation of sources, showing quality. Also, from the proper citations, it is evident that different persons can have aligned ideas, which makes it essential in including all authors within the literature reviews, e.g. (Ball, 1987; Hoyle, 1986; Pratt, 1984), as shown in lecture slides. Likewise, for the efficient supporting of the research problem, explaining the deficiencies in the studies is necessary. As a hint, looking at suggestions for the conducting future research segment can help with showing deficiencies.
The other lesson is that in undertaking studies, there is a need for solving a problem or have key stakeholders in which the outcomes will benefit (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). Thus, in as much as there exists a gap in knowledge, the proposed intervention needs to have novelty or a key benefit for society. With this fact in mind, I always focus on finding ways of solving current issues facing the community and open-minded to the measures I can undertake in answering them. As a critical lesson, as opposed to generally completing proposals/projects, the reading has led to a more problem-solving approach character, both at work and in my social life.
Finally, although the lesson has been efficient, I need more research and practice on differentiating between the various study designs and their specific introductions. With designs as quantitative, qualitative or either mixed (Creswell & Creswell, 2018), a better understanding of these concepts will make the conducting of studies in future much simple.
References
Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Chapter 5: Introduction Lecture Notes; From: Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . Thousand Oaks, California: SAGE Publications, Inc.
Peersman, G. (2014). Overview: Data Collection and Analysis Methods in Impact Evaluation . UNICEF Office of Research-Innocenti.
Winchester, C. L., & Salji, M. (2016). Writing a literature review. Journal of Clinical Urology , 9 (5), 308-312.
