MODULE WEEK NO.
7
INITAO College
Jampason, Initao, Misamis Oriental
College of Hospitality Management
HPC 10: Research in Hospitality 1
2nd Semester of A.Y. 2024-2025
Introduction
This module will discuss on how to conceptualize a research study; the
research process and its scientific approaches such as the introduction to the
research problem, purposes, questions and hypothesis. This also includes the
topic of concept mapping.
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Rationale
Conceptualization is the process of refining the important concepts and
terms in the thesis/dissertation by giving them conceptual or theoretical
definitions (de Belen, 2015).
Intended Learning Outcomes
At the end of this module, students are expected to:
A. Conceptualize a research study.
B. Write a research title that describes what the study is all about.
C. Write a statement of the problem.
D. Write an appropriate background of the study.
E. Identify the independent and dependent variables.
F. Formulate a hypothesis.
Activity
1. Interactive and thorough discussions on the topic.
2. Exercises to enhance the learning of the students.
3. At home Activity that will practice the knowledge that the students
acquired through concept mapping.
Discussion
One of the most difficult aspects of research is how to develop the idea
for the research project. The research process has three phases: the conceptual
phase, the empirical phase, and the interpretative phase. Chapter 4 focuses on
the conceptual phase - the process that determines which questions are to be
addressed by the research and how research procedures are to be used as
tools in finding the answers to these questions. Conceptualization involves
bringing together several considerations to identify a good research idea, i.e.
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Crafted by: Prof. Loida A. Cabaraban, MM-HRM, ARF, CTP
MODULE WEEK NO.7
an answerable research question that is worth answering. Components of this
process include, 1) conducting a thorough search of the peer-reviewed
literature; 2) finding a research mentor and other collaborator; 3) considering
methodology and study design; and 4) assessing feasibility (Jain, Lindley &
Rosen, 2013).
Conceptualization is guided by the theoretical framework, research
perspectives or approach in the research study.
Research Topics
Research is a systematic process. The first step in research is identifying
a topic. Research topic broadly defines the area of research. They are not the
same as the title of the research study. And there is need of further work to
become feasible research studies.
Conceptualizing research topic according to Moyer, (2011) would include:
1. Finding your focus
Which aspects of your discipline interest you most?
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What have you observed that you have questions about?
What articles have you read that have raised questions in your mind?
2. What are the gaps in the literature?
By topic (what is not being looked at?)
Methods (what is not being done?)
Populations (who is not being studied?)
Comparisons (who is not being compared?)
3. Where to start?
Read
Detailed literature searches
Attend seminars, conferences and presentations
Discuss subject area with peers
Listen and ask questions
4. Refining research topics
Discuss with fellow researchers
Discuss with stakeholders
Assess what is most critical to learn
Assess research sources available
5. Questions to ask yourself
Is this a good idea?
Who cares?
Can it be addressed using appropriate research methods?
Will it stimulate interest by others and the sponsor?
Is it feasible/practical/doable?
Is it fundable?
Introduction to the Research Problem, Purpose, Questions and
Hypothesis
1. A research problem is considered a professional situation in need of
improvement, change or a solution. Houser (2012) considered research
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Crafted by: Prof. Loida A. Cabaraban, MM-HRM, ARF, CTP
MODULE WEEK NO.7
problem to be the "why".
2. The research purpose is the goal or interest of the study. The purpose
statement also investigates how variables (qualities, properties, characteristics)
are studied in a setting and population, (Housers, 2012). Polit and Beck (2012)
support that a problem statement represents and indicates a situation to be
studied.
3. Research questions are specific questions that researcher wants to know
the intent of the study. According to Polit and Beck (2012), research questions
direct the data to be collected for the study.
4. A hypothesis is a statement that makes a specific prediction between one
or two variables in a population then tested.
Concept Mapping
A structured approach that groups can use to map out organize their
ideas on any topic is called concept mapping. This can be used by research
teams to help them clarify and map out the key research issues in an area, to
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help them operationalize the programs on interventions on the outcome
measures for their study. The concept mapping method isn't the only method
around that might help researchers formulate good research problems and
projects. Some of the methods that might be included in the toolkit for research
formulation might be: brainstorming, brain writing, nominal group techniques,
focus groups, etc. (Trochim, 2006)
According to Katsumoto, 2005 (cited in de Belen, 2015) concept
mapping is a general method with which you clarify and describe people's ideas
about some topic in a graphical form. By mapping out concepts in pictorial form
you can get a better understanding of the relationships among them. Concept
mapping encourages the participants rather than on the planner or evaluator.
Exercise
Apply Your Knowledge (Review/Discussion Questions)
A. Read the title below. Does it ask the basic question about the research title?
Explain.
“The Effects of Parental Reading Socialization and Early School
Involvement on Children’s Academic Performance: A Panel Study of Primary School
Plus in Netherlands”
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
Assessment
Explain how to conceptualize a research topic.
1. Finding your focus
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Crafted by: Prof. Loida A. Cabaraban, MM-HRM, ARF, CTP
MODULE WEEK NO.7
2. What are the gaps in the literature?
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3. Where to start
4. Refining research topics
Reflection
Now that you have completed your module for this week. Write a reflection about what
you have learned. Your reflections should include:
(1) your opinion about the lesson
(2) personal experience
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Crafted by: Prof. Loida A. Cabaraban, MM-HRM, ARF, CTP
MODULE WEEK NO.7
(3) evidence to back up your thoughts and/or opinion (APA citation).
Things you can reflect on include the readings for this week, videos, and the
discussions. The purpose of this reflection is to ensure you are processing your
thoughts on the course content. This will enhance your learning and knowledge.
Resources and Additional Resources
Guidebook:
• Beuno, Cababaro et al Research Writing for Business and Hospitality
Management
Students 2016
Textbook:
• Almeida, Adelaida et al Research Fundamentals From Concept to Output 2016
Additional Resources:
Internet sources and studies
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Crafted by: Prof. Loida A. Cabaraban, MM-HRM, ARF, CTP