Question And Answer Research Methods in Computer Science
Question And Answer Research Methods in Computer Science
Multiple-Choice Questions:
1. Explain what constitutes research in computer science and list the established
methodologies it relies on.
o Research in computer science involves a systematic investigation aimed at
discovering new algorithms, improving existing technologies, or solving
specific computational problems. Established methodologies it relies on
include:
Mathematical proofs
Simulations
Experiments
Data analysis
2. Describe what is not considered research in computer science and list
examples.
o Activities that do not follow a structured and rigorous process are not
considered research in computer science. Examples include:
Trial-and-error coding without testing hypotheses
Informal discussions without systematic data collection
Personal opinions unsupported by data
3. Explain the principles of scientific research in computer science and list the
key elements involved.
o Scientific research in computer science follows principles similar to other
scientific disciplines, beginning with identifying a problem or knowledge gap
and followed by designing experiments, developing algorithms, or creating
models to address the issue. Key elements involved include:
Theoretical research
Applied research
Simulation and experimentation
4. Describe the objectives of research in computer science and list examples of
each objective.
o The objectives of research in computer science include:
Algorithm Development: Creating efficient algorithms to solve
computational problems.
System Improvement: Optimizing performance, scalability, and
security in software and hardware systems.
Technology Innovation: Driving advancements in fields like AI, cloud
computing, quantum computing, and big data.
5. Explain the motivations behind research in computer science and list common
motivations.
o Motivations behind research in computer science include addressing
complex computational challenges, contributing to cutting-edge technology
development, and responding to industry demand. Common motivations
include:
Problem-solving
Innovation
Industry demand
6. Describe the significance of research in computer science and list its impacts.
o The significance of research in computer science includes practical impact,
scientific progress, and economic and societal benefits. Impacts include:
Practical Impact: Technological innovations that transform
industries and everyday life (e.g., AI, machine learning, and cloud
computing).
Scientific Progress: Advancements in mathematics, logic, and
theoretical computer science.
Economic and Societal Benefits: Innovations in areas such as
automation, security, and data processing.
7. Explain the requirements for conducting research in computer science and list
the key requirements.
o Requirements for conducting research in computer science include:
Problem Definition: Clearly identifying a computational problem or
hypothesis.
Methodology: Selecting an appropriate approach, whether
algorithmic, experimental, or theoretical.
Data: Using relevant datasets or simulations to test hypotheses and
validate results.
Ethical Standards: Ensuring ethical practices in research, particularly
in areas like data privacy and artificial intelligence.
8. Describe the characteristics of research in computer science and list the key
characteristics.
o Characteristics of research in computer science include being systematic,
empirical, objective, and replicable. Key characteristics include:
Systematic: Follows a logical, organized process.
Empirical: Often involves data collection, simulations, or experiments
to validate results.
Objective: Free from bias, focused on accurate and reproducible
outcomes.
Replicable: Research results should be replicable by other
researchers using the same methods.
9. Explain the types of research in computer science and list examples of each
type.
o Types of research in computer science include theoretical research,
experimental research, and applied research. Examples include:
Theoretical Research: Computational theory, algorithms, and
complexity.
Experimental Research: Running experiments, such as simulations,
to test system behaviors or algorithm performance.
Applied Research: Developing solutions for real-world applications
like cybersecurity, machine learning, or software engineering.
10. Describe the approaches to research in computer science and list examples of
each approach.
o Approaches to research in computer science include qualitative research,
quantitative research, and mixed methods. Examples include:
Qualitative Research: Understanding human-computer interaction,
usability studies, or software development processes.
True/False Questions
1. A research problem refers to a difficulty which a researcher wants to obtain a solution
for. - True
3. The identification of a research problem does not require logical thinking. - False
5. Changes in technology or social environment are not sources for selecting a research
problem. False
7. Defining a research problem involves laying down boundaries within which the problem
will be studied.- True
9. The process of reviewing literature includes active reading and critical evaluation of
information. - True
10. Research must not consider ethical issues when selecting a problem.- False
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. Which of the following is NOT a condition for the existence of a research problem?
a) Fictional books
b) Professional experience
c) Random guesses
d) Astrology
- b) Professional experience
a) Personal biases
b) Magnitude (scope)
c) Popular opinions
d) Financial gain
- b) Magnitude (scope)
a) Conducting interviews
c) It helps to identify gaps, provide context, and understand the state of knowledge
2. **Describe the sources helpful in selecting a research problem and list examples of
each.**
3. **Explain the considerations in selecting a research problem and list the key
considerations.**
4. **Describe the steps involved in formulating a research problem and list the
techniques used.**
- Formulating a research problem involves defining the problem and laying down
boundaries for the study. Techniques used include:
5. **Explain the importance of formulating a research problem and list its impacts on
the research process.**
6. **Describe the reasons for reviewing the literature and list the benefits of a
literature review.**
- Reviewing the literature is essential for understanding the current state of knowledge
and identifying research gaps. Benefits include:
7. **Explain the stages of reading for research and list the activities associated with
each stage.**
- Reading for research occurs at different stages of the research project. Activities include:
- Selecting a research problem involves evaluating various factors to ensure the problem
is feasible and relevant. Key factors include:
- Defining technical terms in a research problem ensures clarity and understanding of the
specific concepts being investigated. Reasons for defining technical terms include:
10. **Describe the process of rephrasing a research problem and list the benefits of
doing so.**
- Rephrasing a research problem involves refining and focusing the initial problem
statement to make it more specific and manageable. Benefits include:
11. **Explain the importance of understanding the nature of a research problem and
list the steps involved.**
- Understanding the nature of a research problem is crucial for effectively addressing the
problem. Steps involved include:
12. **Describe the process of surveying the available literature and list the steps
involved.**
13. **Explain the benefits of discussing a research problem with experts and peers
and list the advantages.**
- Discussing a research problem with experts and peers provides valuable feedback and
new perspectives. Advantages include:
- Rephrasing a research problem into a working proposition provides a clear and focused
direction for the research. Steps involved include:
15. **Explain the considerations in selecting a research problem and list the key
factors.**
16. **Describe the process of formulating a research problem and list the steps
involved.**
- Formulating a research problem involves defining the problem and laying down
boundaries for the study. Steps involved include:
- Reviewing the literature is essential for understanding the current state of knowledge
and identifying research gaps. Benefits include:
18. **Describe the three stages of reading for research and list the activities
associated with each stage.**
- Reading for research occurs at different stages of the research project. Activities
include:
19. **Explain the importance of defining a research problem and list the steps
involved in formulating a problem statement.**
- Defining a research problem ensures that the research is focused and relevant. Steps
involved in formulating a problem statement include:
20. **Describe the criteria for a good research problem and list the characteristics.**
True/False Questions
1. True or False: A research problem is a difficulty or uncertainty faced by a researcher that
they seek to address.
- True
2. True or False: The process of selecting a research problem does not require logical
thinking.
- False
- True
- False
5. True or False: Reviewing the literature is essential for identifying gaps in existing
research.
- True
- False
7. True or False: Paraphrasing involves presenting an author's ideas in your own words.
- True
8. True or False: Direct quotes longer than four lines should be indented and set off from
the rest of the text.
- True
- False
- False
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. Which of the following is NOT a source for selecting a research problem?
a) Professional experience
d) Fictional novels
- d) Fictional novels
a) Magnitude (scope)
b) Personal biases
c) Financial gain
d) Random guesses
- a) Magnitude (scope)
a) Collecting data
d) Conducting interviews
a) It allows you to use the author's exact words without quotation marks.
5. What should be included in every point in the text where reference is made to
other writers, according to the Harvard system?
a) Libraries
b) Bookshops
c) Cafes
d) Internet centers
- c) Cafes
a) Novels
b) Journals
c) Magazines
d) Advertisements
- b) Journals
8. What approach is suggested by Blaxter for finding what you need to read?
1. **Explain the meaning of a research problem and list the conditions that must be
met for a research problem to exist.**
2. **Describe the sources helpful in selecting a research problem and list examples of
each.**
4. **Describe the steps involved in formulating a research problem and list the
techniques used.**
- Formulating a research problem involves defining the problem and laying down
boundaries for the study. Techniques used include:
5. **Explain the importance of formulating a research problem and list its impacts on
the research process.**
6. **Describe the reasons for reviewing the literature and list the benefits of a
literature review.**
- Reviewing the literature is essential for understanding the current state of knowledge
and identifying research gaps. Benefits include:
7. **Explain the stages of reading for research and list the activities associated with
each stage.**
- Reading for research occurs at different stages of the research project. Activities include:
8. **Describe the approach suggested by Blaxter for finding what you need to read
and list the steps involved.**
- Blaxter suggests an eight-stage approach for finding relevant literature. Steps involved
include:
- **Take Advice from Available Sources**: Seek guidance from supervisors, managers,
fellow researchers, or students.
**Ask a Librarian**: Get help from a librarian, browse around, or use a catalogue.
**Identify Relevant Shelf Locations**: Look at other books in the same area that are
relevant to your topic.
**Look Through Recent Issues of Journals**: Find the most up-to-date writing on
your topic.
**Identify Key Texts**: Note texts that are referred to repeatedly and seek out the
latest editions.
**Develop a Feeling for the Literature**: Ensure you have some understanding of
the literature relevant to your field.
**Read Core Meaning from Original Sources**: Follow up interesting references.
**Maximize Your Reading**: Use the time and resources available to do as much
related reading as possible.
- Defining technical terms in a research problem ensures clarity and understanding of the
specific concepts being investigated. Reasons for defining technical terms include:
- **Clarity**: Avoids ambiguity and confusion by ensuring that everyone understands the
terms in the same way.
- **Foundation for Analysis**: Establishes a clear basis for data collection and analysis.
10. **Describe the process of rephrasing a research problem and list the benefits of
doing so.**
- Rephrasing a research problem involves refining and focusing the initial problem
statement to make it more specific and manageable. Benefits include:
- **Enhanced Focus**: Narrows down the research scope to a specific issue.
- **Improved Clarity**: Makes the problem statement clearer and more understandable.
11. **Explain the importance of understanding the nature of a research problem and
list the steps involved.**
- Understanding the nature of a research problem is crucial for effectively addressing the
problem. Steps involved include:
12. **Describe the process of surveying the available literature and list the steps
involved.**
- **Identifying Sources**: Finding books, articles, journals, and other relevant sources.
- **Reading and Analyzing**: Reading the identified sources and analyzing the
information.
- **Citing Sources**: Properly citing all sources to give credit and avoid plagiarism.
13. **Explain the benefits of discussing a research problem with experts and peers
and list the advantages.**
- Discussing a research problem with experts and peers provides valuable feedback and
new perspectives. Advantages include:
- **New Insights**: Gaining new ideas and approaches to address the problem.
- Rephrasing a research problem into a working proposition provides a clear and focused
direction for the research. Steps involved include:
- **Discussion and Refinement**: Discussing with peers and refining the statement.
15. **Explain the considerations in selecting a research problem and list the key
factors.**
16. **Describe the process of formulating a research problem and list the steps
involved.**
- Formulating a research problem involves defining the problem and laying down
boundaries for the study. Steps involved include:
- **Developing the Idea Through Discussion**: Engaging with peers and experts to
refine the problem.
- **Rephrasing the Research Problem into a Working Proposition**: Crafting a clear and
focused research question.
17. **Explain the reasons for reviewing the literature and list the benefits it
provides.**
- Reviewing the literature is essential for understanding the current state of knowledge
and identifying research gaps. Benefits include:
18. **Describe the three stages of reading for research and list the activities
associated with each stage.**
- Reading for research occurs at different stages of the research project. Activities
include:
- Focusing ideas
19. **Explain the importance of defining a research problem and list the steps
involved in formulating a problem statement.**
- Defining a research problem ensures that the research is focused and relevant. Steps
involved in formulating a problem statement include:
20. **Describe the criteria for a good research problem and list the characteristics.**
- A good research problem should be clear, specific, and researchable. Characteristics
include:
True/False Questions
1. True or False: The dependent variable is the one that is influenced by the independent
variable.
- True
2. True or False: Background variables are unrelated to the research problem and should
be excluded from the study.
- False
3. True or False: Confounding variables can either strengthen or weaken the apparent
relationship between the problem and a possible cause.
- True
4. True or False: Composite variables are based on two or more other variables.
- True
- True
- False
7. True or False: Ordinal scales provide a ranking but do not imply equal intervals between
ranks.
- True
- False
- True
- False
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. What is the dependent variable in a study?
c) A background characteristic
d) A confounding variable
a) Ordinal scale
b) Interval scale
c) Nominal scale
d) Ratio scale
- c) Nominal scale
a) Temperature in Fahrenheit
d) Gender categories
1. **Explain the difference between dependent and independent variables and list
examples of each.**
- Dependent variables describe or measure the problem under study, while independent
variables describe or measure the factors that influence the problem. Examples include:
- Background variables are characteristics that influence the problem indirectly and are
often related to independent variables. Examples include:
Age
Sex
Educational status
Monthly family income
Marital status
Religion
3. **Explain what confounding variables are and list their potential effects on
research.**
- Confounding variables are associated with both the problem and a possible cause and
can either strengthen or weaken the relationship between the problem and the cause.
Potential effects include:
- Composite variables are based on two or more other variables. Examples include:
5. **Explain the process of operationalizing variables and list the reasons for doing
so.**
Avoiding ambiguity
Ensuring consistency in measurement
Making the variables more measurable
Facilitating data collection and analysis
6. **Describe the importance of defining variables and indicators of variables and list
the steps involved.**
- Defining variables and indicators ensures clarity and consistency in measurement. Steps
involved include:
7. **Explain the different scales of measurement and list examples of each scale.**
- There are four types of scales of measurement: nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio.
Examples include:
9. **Explain the characteristics of ordinal scale and list the appropriate measure of
central tendency for this scale.**
- Ordinal scale places events in order but does not imply equal intervals between ranks.
Characteristics include:
10. **Describe the interval scale and list its limitations and appropriate measures.**
- Interval scale involves equal intervals based on a rule but lacks a true zero.
Characteristics include:
11. **Explain the characteristics of ratio scale and list examples of variables
measured on this scale.**
- Ratio scale has an absolute or true zero and represents actual amounts of variables.
Characteristics include:
Weight
Height
Distance
12. **Describe the process of hypothesis formulation and list the steps involved in
testing a hypothesis.**
14. **Describe the difference between null and alternative hypotheses and list
examples of each.**
15. **Explain the importance of hypothesis testing in social science research and list
the steps involved.**
17. **Explain the different scales of measurement and list examples of each scale.**
- There are four types of scales of measurement: nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio.
Examples include:
18. **Describe the characteristics of nominal scale and list its limitations.**
19. **Explain the characteristics of ordinal scale and list the appropriate measure of
central tendency for this scale.**
- Ordinal scale places events in order but does not imply equal intervals between ranks.
Characteristics include:
20. **Describe the interval scale and list its limitations and appropriate measures.**
- Interval scale involves equal intervals based on a rule but lacks a true zero.
Characteristics include:
21. **Explain the characteristics of ratio scale and list examples of variables
measured on this scale.**
- Ratio scale has an absolute or true zero and represents actual amounts of variables.
Characteristics include:
22. **Describe the process of hypothesis formulation and list the steps involved in
testing a hypothesis.**
23. **Explain the meaning of hypothesis and list the characteristics of a good
hypothesis.**
24. **Describe the importance of null and alternative hypotheses in research and list
examples of each.**
Null and alternative hypotheses are essential for testing relationships between
variables and making scientific inferences. Examples include:
**Null Hypothesis (H0)**: There is no difference in the average test scores between
male and female students.
**Alternative Hypothesis (H1)**: There is a difference in the average test scores
between male and female students.
25. **Explain the importance of operationalizing variables and list the steps involved
in this process.**
- Operationalizing variables ensures that variables are measurable and clearly defined for
data collection and analysis. Steps involved include:
Age
Sex
Educational status
Monthly family income
Marital status
Religion
27. **Explain the significance of composite variables and list examples of such
variables.**
- Composite variables are based on two or more other variables and provide a combined
measure. Examples include:
28. **Describe the characteristics of confounding variables and list their potential
effects on research.**
- Confounding variables are associated with both the problem and a possible cause,
influencing the relationship between variables. Characteristics include:
29. **Explain the importance of clearly defining variables and indicators and list the
reasons for doing so.**
- Clearly defining variables and indicators ensures that everyone involved in the research
understands what is being measured. Reasons include:
Avoiding ambiguity
Ensuring consistency in measurement
Facilitating data collection and analysis
Providing a clear basis for interpreting results
30. **Describe the process of determining the variables to be studied and list the
steps involved.**
True/False Questions
1. True or False: A null hypothesis predicts no significant difference or relationship
between groups.
- True
- False
3. True or False: Parametric tests are used to test hypotheses with nominal and ordinal
data.
- False
4. True or False: Non-parametric tests are less powerful than parametric tests because they
do not assume interval or ratio measurements.
- True
5. True or False: The first step in hypothesis testing is making a formal statement of the
hypothesis.
- True
- True
7. True or False: A research proposal outlines the various tasks a researcher plans to
undertake.
- True
8. True or False: The significance level in hypothesis testing is the probability of making a
Type II error.
- False
9. True or False: The abstract of a research proposal is a concise summary of the entire
paper.
- True
10. True or False: Defining the scope of the study includes detailing the depth and breadth
of the research.
- True
Multiple-Choice Questions:
1. What is a null hypothesis (Ho)?
a) Publicly traded firms will have growth rates different from privately held firms
b) Publicly traded firms will have higher growth rates than privately held firms
c) There is no difference in growth rates between publicly traded and privately held firms
- b) Publicly traded firms will have higher growth rates than privately held firms
3. Which type of hypothesis test is more powerful due to its use of interval and ratio
measurements?
a) Non-parametric test
b) Parametric test
c) Chi-square test
d) Nominal test
- b) Parametric test
a) Title Page
b) Abstract
c) Discussion
d) Methodology
- c) Discussion
c) Full methodology
d) Raw data
- **Null Hypothesis**: There is no difference between the growth rates of publicly traded
firms and privately held firms.
- **Alternative Hypothesis**: Publicly traded firms will have higher growth rates than
privately held firms.
2. **Describe the two general classes of significance tests and list examples of each.**
- There are two general classes of significance tests: parametric and non-parametric.
Parametric tests are more powerful and used with interval and ratio data, while non-
parametric tests are used with nominal and ordinal data. Examples include:
3. **Explain the steps involved in hypothesis testing and list each step in order.**
4. **Describe the types of errors in hypothesis testing and list the outcomes that lead
to each type of error.**
- There are two types of errors in hypothesis testing: Type I error and Type II error.
Outcomes that lead to each type of error include:
5. **Explain the meaning of a research proposal and list its basic components.**
- A research proposal is important because it provides a systematic plan for the research,
helps determine the feasibility of the project, and guides the researcher and supervisor.
Benefits include:
7. **Explain the components of the prefatory parts of a research proposal and list
what should be included in each part.**
- The prefatory parts of a research proposal include the title page and abstract.
Components include:
- **Title Page**: Title of the study, author's name, institutional affiliation, and date
- The statement of the problem is important because it focuses on the central theme of the
research and identifies gaps in existing knowledge. Elements it should address include:
- The objectives of the study specify the goals of the research. General objectives indicate
the central drive of the study, while specific objectives identify the specific issues to be
examined. Differences include:
10. **Describe the scope of the study in a research proposal and list what it should
include.**
- The scope of the study specifies the depth and detailness of the research. It should
include:
11. **Explain the significance of the study in a research proposal and list the points it
should address.**
- The significance of the study justifies the need and importance of the research. Points it
should address include:
12. **Describe the definition of terms and concepts in a research proposal and list
why it is important.**
- Defining terms and concepts ensures that technical terms and phrases are clearly
understood. Importance includes:
Avoiding ambiguity
Providing clear definitions for technical terms and phrases
Ensuring consistent understanding among readers
Facilitating accurate interpretation of research findings
14. **Describe the process of making a formal statement of the hypothesis and list
the key components that should be included.**
- Making a formal statement of the hypothesis involves clearly defining the predicted
relationship between variables. Key components include:
- Selecting a significance level determines the threshold for rejecting the null hypothesis.
Common significance levels include:
0.05 (5%)
0.01 (1%)
0.10 (10%)
16. **Describe the process of deciding the distribution to use in hypothesis testing
and list factors to consider when making this decision.**
- Computing an appropriate value involves calculating the test statistic based on the data.
Steps involved include:
18. **Describe the process of calculating the probability in hypothesis testing and list
the steps involved.**
19. **Explain the importance of comparing the probability in hypothesis testing and
list the criteria for making a decision.**
- Comparing the probability involves determining whether the p-value is less than the
significance level. Criteria for making a decision include:
If the p-value is less than the significance level, reject the null hypothesis
If the p-value is greater than or equal to the significance level, fail to reject the null
hypothesis
20. **Describe the steps involved in writing a research proposal and list the
components of each section.**
- Writing a research proposal involves outlining the plan for the research project.
Components of each section include:
True/False Questions
1. True or False: The theoretical framework provides an overview of the theories relevant
to the research topic.
- True
2. True or False: The conceptual framework defines the specific concepts and variables
involved in the study.
- True
3. True or False: A cross-sectional study design involves collecting data at multiple points
in time.
- False
4. True or False: The setting of the study should include a description of the organization or
community where the research will be conducted.
- True
5. True or False: Measurement procedures involve operationalizing major variables.
- True
6. True or False: Sampling design refers to the strategy used to select a sample from the
population.
- True
7. True or False: Primary sources of data are original and first-hand information collected
by the researcher.
- True
8. True or False: Secondary sources of data are obtained from existing records or
publications.
- True
9. True or False: Data analysis should specify whether the data will be analyzed manually
or by computer.
- True
10. True or False: The work schedule and financial budget should be included in the
research proposal.
- True
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. What is the purpose of the theoretical framework in a research proposal?
3. Which of the following should be included in the description of the setting for a
community study?
1. **Explain the purpose of a literature review in a research proposal and list its key
components.**
General overview
Theoretical framework
Conceptual framework
2. **Describe the different study designs that can be used in research and list
examples of each.**
- Study designs describe the methodology and structure of the research. Examples
include:
3. **Explain the importance of describing the setting in a research proposal and list
what should be included in this description.**
- Describing the setting provides context for the research and helps readers understand
where the study will be conducted. What should be included:
6. **Describe the difference between primary and secondary sources of data and list
examples of each.**
- Primary sources of data are collected firsthand by the researcher, while secondary
sources are obtained from existing records or publications. Examples include:
7. **Explain the importance of data analysis in research and list the components to
be included in the data analysis section of a research proposal.**
- Data analysis is crucial for interpreting the collected data and drawing conclusions.
Components include:
8. **Describe how to structure the report in a research proposal and list the key
elements to include.**
- Structuring the report involves organizing the final document around the main themes
of the study. Key elements include:
- A work schedule and financial budget ensure the research is completed within a certain
timeframe and within budget. What should be included:
- Attaching references and bibliography provides a list of all sources cited in the proposal.
Key points to consider include:
11. **Explain the role of the appendix in a research proposal and list what should be
included.**
- The appendix provides additional materials and bulky information that support the
research. What should be included:
13. **Explain the purpose of the conceptual framework in a research proposal and
list its components.**
- The conceptual framework defines the specific concepts and variables involved in the
study and illustrates their relationships. Components include:
14. **Describe the process of identifying the strengths and weaknesses of a study
design and list examples of each.**
15. **Explain the importance of justifying the choice of research tool in a research
proposal and list the factors to consider.**
- Justifying the choice of research tool ensures the tool is appropriate for measuring the
variables. Factors to consider include:
- Operationalizing major variables involves defining how they will be measured. Steps
involved include:
17. **Explain the process of selecting a sample size in research and list the factors
that influence this decision.**
Selecting a sample size involves determining the number of participants needed for
the study. Factors influencing this decision include:
The size of the population
The desired level of precision
The variability of the population
The sampling design
Available resources and time
18. **Describe the types of sampling designs and list examples of each.**
- Sampling designs describe the strategy used to select a sample from the population.
Examples include:
- Primary data sources are original and collected firsthand by the researcher, while
secondary data sources are obtained from existing records or publications. Examples
include:
20. **Describe the strategy for data analysis in a research proposal and list the
components that should be included.**
- The strategy for data analysis outlines how the collected data will be interpreted to
draw conclusions. Components that should be included:
21. **Explain the importance of organizing the final report in a research proposal
and list the key elements to consider.**
- Organizing the final report ensures clarity and coherence in presenting the research
findings. Key elements to consider include:
22. **Describe the importance of a work schedule in a research proposal and list the
steps to create one.**
- A work schedule ensures the research is completed within the specified timeframe.
Steps to create one include:
Listing the various operational steps required
Assigning dates to each step
Including buffer time for unexpected delays
Developing a timeline or Gantt chart
23. **Explain the significance of a financial budget in a research proposal and list the
components to include.**
- A financial budget ensures that the research is conducted within the allocated financial
resources. Components to include:
- Attaching references and bibliography provides a list of all sources cited in the proposal.
Key points to consider include:
25. **Explain the role of the appendix in a research proposal and list what should be
included.**
- The appendix provides additional materials and detailed information that support the
research. What should be included:
- The general overview provides a summary of existing research and sets the context for
the study. Key components to include:
27. **Explain the process of developing the theoretical framework and list the key
components to include.**
- Developing the theoretical framework involves identifying and explaining the theories
relevant to the research topic. Key components to include:
28. **Describe the conceptual framework and list the steps to create one.**
- The conceptual framework defines the concepts and variables involved in the study and
illustrates their relationships. Steps to create one include:
29. **Explain the purpose of the methodology chapter in a research proposal and list
the key sections to include.**
- The methodology chapter outlines the research design, data collection methods, and
data analysis plan. Key sections to include:
Study design
Setting
Measurement procedures
Sampling
Sources of data
Analysis of data
Structure of the report
Work schedule and financial budget
30. **Describe the process of creating a concise and informative abstract for a
research proposal and list the key elements to include.**
True/False Questions
1. True or False: Research is the collection of data from existing sources without any
original analysis or experimentation.
- False
2. True or False: A Ph.D. student is expected to develop independent and original research
skills.
- True
3. True or False: Research can be performed by both individuals and teams.
- True
4. True or False: The primary outcome of research is the transportation of facts from one
resource to another.
- False
5. True or False: A good research problem must have clear and defined goals.
- True
6. True or False: Systematic observation and rational processes are key components of
scientific research.
- True
7. True or False: Scientific research involves collecting data without any hypotheses or
predictions.
- False
8. True or False: Graduate students at the master's level develop only basic research skills.
- True
9. True or False: Research must always follow a spontaneous and unplanned procedure.
- False
10. True or False: Research results should be documented to allow others to reproduce the
findings.
- True
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. What is the definition of research according to Merriam-Webster?
a) Systematic investigation
c) Organized method
a) Spontaneity
3. **Explain the significance of research and list its benefits for different groups of
people.**
4. **Describe the scientific research method and list the steps involved in this
method.**
- The scientific research method employs systematic observation and rational processes
to create new knowledge. Steps involved include:
Problem definition
Hypothesis formulation
Design of experiments
Data collection
Analysis of data
Testing and validation of hypotheses
Documentation for reproducibility
5. **Explain the role of hypotheses in scientific research and list the criteria for a
good hypothesis.**
- Hypotheses propose testable predictions related to the research question and guide the
research process. Criteria for a good hypothesis include:
Testability
Specificity
Relevance to the research question
Potential to be supported or refuted by data
8. **Describe the motivation for undertaking research and list the common reasons
researchers are driven to conduct research.**
- Researchers are motivated by various factors, including the desire to solve challenging
problems, contribute to existing knowledge, attain research degrees, and experience
intellectual joy. Common reasons include:
9. **Explain the significance of documenting research results and list the key
elements that should be included in research documentation.**
- Documenting research results ensures that the research process and findings are
transparent, reproducible, and verifiable. Key elements that should be included in research
documentation include:
10. **Describe the types of research in computer science and list examples of each
type.**
11. **Explain the concept of reproducibility in scientific research and list the steps
researchers can take to ensure their research is reproducible.**
12. **Describe the significance of ethical considerations in research and list common
ethical principles that researchers should follow.**
- Ethical considerations ensure that research is conducted responsibly and with integrity,
protecting the rights and welfare of participants. Common ethical principles include:
Informed consent
Confidentiality
Avoidance of harm
Transparency and honesty
Respect for intellectual property
**13. Explain the role of literature review in the research process and list the
benefits it provides.**
- **Identifying research gaps**: Highlights areas that have not been sufficiently
explored, providing direction for future research.
- **Providing context for the current study**: Helps to situate the research within the
broader academic conversation and justify the importance of the new study.
- **Avoiding duplication of effort**: Ensures that the current research does not repeat
previous work unnecessarily.
- **Building on existing research**: Allows the researcher to use and build upon the
findings of previous studies to advance knowledge further.
**14. Describe the process of hypothesis testing in scientific research and list the
steps involved.**
**15. Explain the importance of systematic observation in scientific research and list
the benefits it provides.**
**16. Describe the role of a research problem in scientific research and list the
criteria for a good research problem.**
- A research problem is the starting point of scientific research and guides the entire
research process. Criteria for a good research problem include:
**18. Describe the characteristics of applied research and list examples of applied
research in computer science.**
**19. Explain the difference between exploratory and descriptive research and list
their purposes.**
- Exploratory research aims to gather preliminary data and define problems for future
investigation, while descriptive research aims to describe characteristics of a population or
phenomenon. Purposes include:
**20. Describe the process of designing experiments in scientific research and list
the key components of an experimental design.**
- Designing experiments involves planning how to test hypotheses and collect data
systematically. Key components include:
True/False Questions
1. True or False: Research is only about collecting information from existing sources
without any analysis or experimentation.
- False
2. True or False: The scientific research method begins with the definition of a problem.
- True
3. True or False: High-quality research requires the scope and limitations of the work to be
clearly defined.
- True
4. True or False: Pure research is mainly concerned with finding immediate solutions to
practical problems.
- False
5. True or False: Applied research aims at finding solutions for immediate problems facing
society or organizations.
- True
- True
7. True or False: An exploratory study is conducted to gather data about the main problems
of the research.
- True
8. True or False: Synthetic research involves designing a system that satisfies known input-
output relations.
- True
9. True or False: Historical research studies past phenomena in an orderly manner.
- True
10. True or False: The first step in the scientific research method is to collect data.
- False
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. What is the primary goal of scientific research?
a) Applied research
b) Pure research
c) Descriptive research
d) Exploratory research
- b) Pure research
b) To put together the researcher’s ideas and research results in a specific subject area
- b) To put together the researcher’s ideas and research results in a specific subject
area
a) Descriptive research
b) Exploratory research
c) Empirical/experimental research
d) Historical research
- c) Empirical/experimental research
6. Which type of research aims at finding solutions for immediate problems facing
society or organizations?
a) Pure research
b) Exploratory research
c) Descriptive research
d) Applied research
- d) Applied research
7. What does a research question help you to do?
- The scientific research method involves systematic observation and rational processes
to create new knowledge. Steps involved include:
3. **Explain the difference between general and specific research questions and list
examples of each.**
- General research questions guide thinking and are valuable for organizing the research
project but are not specific enough to be answered directly. Specific research questions
direct empirical procedures and are the questions actually answered in the research.
Examples include:
General question: What are the data rates of Wi-Fi and Wi-Max?
Specific question: How does the data rate of Wi-Fi compare to Wi-Max under
different environmental conditions?
4. **Describe the types of research in computer science and list examples of each
type.**
Informed consent
Confidentiality
Avoidance of harm
Transparency and honesty
Respect for intellectual property
6. **Describe the motivation for undertaking research and list common reasons
researchers are driven to conduct research.**
7. **Explain the importance of documenting research results and list the key
elements that should be included in research documentation.**
- Documenting research results ensures that the research process and findings are
transparent, reproducible, and verifiable. Key elements that should be included in
research documentation include:
8. **Describe the role of literature review in the research process and list the
benefits it provides.**
9. **Explain the concept of reproducibility in scientific research and list the steps
researchers can take to ensure their research is reproducible.**
10. **Describe the types of research questions and list the importance of formulating
good research questions.**
- Types of research questions include general and specific questions. General
questions guide thinking and organizing the research project, while specific
questions direct empirical procedures. Importance includes:
11. **Explain the difference between qualitative and quantitative research and list
examples of each in computer science.**
12. **Describe the process of hypothesis testing in scientific research and list the
steps involved.**
13. **Explain the importance of systematic observation in scientific research and list
the benefits it provides.**
- A research problem is the starting point of scientific research and guides the
entire research process. Criteria for a good research problem include:
16. **Describe the characteristics of applied research and list examples of applied
research in computer science.**
17. **Explain the difference between exploratory and descriptive research and list
their purposes.**
- Exploratory research aims to gather preliminary data and define problems for future
investigation, while descriptive research aims to describe characteristics of a population or
phenomenon. Purposes include:
- Exploratory: To design a problem for investigation, formulate hypotheses, and
determine research priorities
- Descriptive: To report what has happened and what is happening, and to compile ideas
and results
18. **Describe the process of designing experiments in scientific research and list
the key components of an experimental design.**
- Designing experiments involves planning how to test hypotheses and collect data
systematically. Key components include:
19. **Explain the importance of documentation in research and list the elements that
should be included in research documentation.**
20. **Describe the benefits of team-based research and list strategies for effective
teamwork in research projects.**