MIS112- Research Methodology and Scientific Writing

Dr. Burcu Arsan, MBA

[Link]@İ[Link]
-Week 1
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH REPORTS AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Scientific Research
Definition: A systematic, controlled, empirical, and critical investigation of hypotheses
about presumed relationships among phenomena.
Systematic
Research conducted according to an organized, structured, and replicable procedure.
Empirical
Based on observable and measurable evidence rather than theory or belief alone.
Replicable
The ability of a study to be repeated by other researchers and produce similar results.
Objectivity
Minimizing researcher bias in data collection and interpretation.
What is Scientific Research?
Scientific research is the systematic investigation of natural phenomena through observation, experimentation, and
analysis to generate new knowledge, validate existing theories, or develop new technologies. It follows a
structured methodology to ensure the reliability and validity of findings, contributing to the advancement of
science and technology.

The Importance of Scientific Research

Scientific research is fundamental to understanding the world around us, driving innovation, and solving complex
problems. It underpins progress in various fields such as medicine, engineering, environmental science, and social
sciences, improving the quality of life and fostering economic development.
Key Components of Scientific Research

1. Hypothesis Formulation
The research process begins with formulating a hypothesis, a testable statement or prediction based on existing knowledge and
observations. This hypothesis guides the direction and focus of the study.

2. Literature Review
A comprehensive literature review involves studying existing research and theories related to the topic. This step helps identify
gaps in knowledge, refine the research question, and ensure that the study builds on and contributes to the existing body of
knowledge.

3. Experimental Design
Designing experiments involves selecting appropriate methods and tools to test the hypothesis. This includes defining variables,
selecting samples, and determining procedures for data collection and analysis to ensure the study’s validity and reliability.

4. Data Collection and Analysis

Data collection involves gathering information through experiments, surveys, observations, or other methods. The collected data
is then analyzed using statistical techniques to test the hypothesis and draw conclusions.

5. Interpretation and Reporting

Interpreting the results involves comparing the findings with the original hypothesis and existing knowledge. The research is
then documented in a detailed report or scientific paper, often subjected to peer review before publication in scientific journals.
IMRAD Model
Introduction
Introduces the research problem and establishes the study’s
purpose.
Methods
Explains how the study was conducted.
Results
Presents the findings without interpretation.
Discussion
Interprets results and connects them to existing literature.
Research Design
The overall strategy chosen to integrate study components coherently.
Types:
•Experimental: Experimental research establishes a relationship between the cause and effect of a situation. It is
a causal research design where one observes the impact caused by the independent variable on the dependent variable.
•Descriptive: In a descriptive composition, a researcher is solely interested in describing the situation or case under
their research study. It is a theory-based design method created by gathering, analyzing, and presenting collected data.
This allows a researcher to provide insights into the why and how of research.
•Correlational: It helps researchers establish a relationship between two closely connected variables.
•Case study
•Mixed methods

Quantitative Research
Research that collects numerical data and uses statistical Quantitative research is for cases where statistical
analysis. conclusions to collect actionable insights are essential.
Qualitative Research
Qualitative research determines relationships
Research that explores meanings, experiences, or interpretations
between collected data and observations based on
using non-numerical data.
mathematical calculations.
Mixed Methods
Combines quantitative and qualitative approaches in one study.
Statement 1

This study aims to measure the relationship between digital leadership skills and employee productivity using survey
data collected from 450 participants.

Quantitative
Measuring
Numerical data
Large sample

Statement 2

The purpose of this research is to explore how middle managers experience digital transformation in their
organizations.

Qualitative
Explore
Experience
Meaning-focused
Statement 3

The study tests whether remote work significantly affects employee job satisfaction levels.

Quantitative
Tests hypothesis
Statistical significance

Statement 4

This research investigates how nurses interpret the integration of artificial intelligence into clinical decision-making
processes.

Qualitative
Interpret
Lived experience
Meaning construction
What is Research Design?
Research design is the framework of research methods and techniques chosen by a researcher to
conduct a study. The design allows researchers to sharpen the research methods suitable for the
subject matter and set up their studies for success.

The Process of Research Design

The research design process is a systematic and structured approach to conducting research. The process is essential to ensure
that the study is valid, reliable, and produces meaningful results.

1. Consider your aims and approaches: Determine the research questions and objectives, and identify the theoretical
framework and methodology for the study.
2. Choose a type of Research Design: Select the appropriate research design, such as experimental, correlational, survey,
case study, or ethnographic, based on the research questions and objectives.
3. Identify your population and sampling method: Determine the target population and sample size, and choose the
sampling method, such as random, stratified random sampling, or convenience sampling.
4. Choose your data collection methods: Decide on the data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations,
or experiments, and select the appropriate instruments or tools for collecting data.
5. Plan your data collection procedures: Develop a plan for data collection, including the timeframe, location, and
personnel involved, and ensure ethical considerations.
6. Decide on your data analysis strategies: Select the appropriate data analysis techniques, such as statistical analysis,
content analysis, or discourse analysis, and plan how to interpret the results.
Purpose of Literature Review
Synthesis
Combining findings from multiple studies into coherent themes.
Conceptual Framework
A structured explanation of the main concepts and their
relationships.
Theoretical Framework
The underlying theory guiding the research.
Purpose of Literature Review
Synthesis
Combining findings from multiple studies into coherent themes.
Conceptual Framework
A structured explanation of the main concepts and their
relationships.
Theoretical Framework
The underlying theory guiding the research.