AS A RESEARCH STUDENT, YOU OUGHT TO KNOW SOME KEY TERMS / JARGONS ASSOCIATED WITH RESEARCH.


>>> "PLAGIARISM": IT INVOLVES BOTH STEALING SOMEONE ELSE'S RESEARCH WORK AND LYING ABOUT IT AFTERWARD. THIS IS AN ACT OF FRAUD.

DO EXPECT MUCH MORE!

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Some common terms you should know...

* Case Study -- the collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular participant or small group, frequently including data derived from the subjects themselves.

* Data -- factual information [as measurements or statistics] used as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or calculation.

* Data Mining -- the process of analyzing data from different perspectives and summarizing it into useful information, often to discover patterns and/or systematic relationships among variables.

* Data Quality -- this is the degree to which the collected data [results of measurement or observation] meet the standards of quality to be considered valid [trustworthy] and reliable [dependable].

* Correlation -- a common statistical analysis, usually abbreviated as r, that measures the degree of relationship between pairs of interval variables in a sample. The range of correlation is from -1.00 to zero to +1.00. Also, a non-cause and effect relationship between two variables.

* Covariate -- a product of the correlation of two related variables times their standard deviations. Used in true experiments to measure the difference of treatment between them.

* Population -- the target group under investigation. The population is the entire set under consideration. Samples are drawn from populations.



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(1)

Keys to Writing a Good Research Project

Research writing is easy and fun. Its relevance is very critical to the growth and development of any nation. Sadly, there are a growing number of students who have neither any clue nor ability to write a good research project. Thus, this article is aimed at eradicating the fears most students encounter while writing their research projects. It will help them to improve their research skills/knowledge. From our experience with students across different disciplines, we can authoritatively tell you that problems faced by students in writing good research projects are better imagined than experienced. Some major problems are treated below.

1. What to write on? This is usually a common problem especially among students who are very new to the subject (Research). At this stage, most are confused wondering what to do. We always advise students to write on a subject/field that they have so much interest/passion for; or anything that you find so curious about, but not satisfied with the information you are being told.

2. How to generate a research topic? Your research topic should be as simple as possible using a short sentence. It should be easy to carry out in your locality/state (It is advised to define your boundary, i.e., the scope of study). Your research project should either intend to solve a specific problem, or for improving an existing system. Examples are: The Effects of Unemployment in Nigeria (A Case Study of Lagos State). The Impacts of Corporate Governance in the Nigerian Financial Industry. The Relevance of Good Communication on Grass Root Development (A case study of Ikeja Local Government).

3. Where to find good quality research materials? Any research work that will stand out must have materials that are very rich information. It begins by visiting libraries/bookshops as well as reading past research works which are same/ similar to your own research topic. A researcher gathers lots of information by doing this well. It informs and paints a clearer picture on how the researcher will improve on previous works by identifying its limitations/ constraints/ problems.

4. How to formulate the required Research plan/outline? This is a roadmap that makes your research work relevant to the chosen research topic. It practically informs the areas you will research on as well as the approach to adopt. It can be modified in the course of the work to suit your contents/materials (this is allowed).

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

For more details, please mail/phone us on: tradern_n@yahoo.com /0708 860 8914.

(2)

Major Common Mistakes in Research Writing

Research projects are primarily aimed at contributing to the overall existing knowledge. It should be beneficial to all and sundry. This informs its relevance/significance to the readers (firms, students/teachers, governments, etc). It should be simple/clear to read, understand and well organized. There are many mistakes made by student researchers. Sadly, most of them are unaware of these major mistakes and its effects on their research works. That is we have compiled some common ones to learn from.

Poor Literature Review: This refers to carefully obtaining vital information similar or related to your research topic; and properly reading through so as to be abreast of the subject matter. It requires lots of time/dedication to do a good work as it is like the heart of the entire work. You will get information via secondary materials both online and offline (this means already researched/published work-e.g. books, journals, magazines, etc). This is the easiest way to know that you have actually reviewed related literature well. As you keep reading and finding new ideas, you will get to a point where any further information you get will not seem new to you since you must have read it in previous materials.

Grammatical/Spelling Errors: Never confuse these two words. Grammar and spelling in English language do not have same meanings. Grammar relates to the use of words in their correct forms and relationships, while spelling refers to the way letters are arranged in a word. The more grammatical/spelling errors, the more misleading your work would be. This is why you must carefully proof-read your work before finally sending it for binding/publication. We advise you to find someone you can trust to do this for you as well (Caution: the person must have rock-solid knowledge about the English Language).

Research Terms Unfamiliarity: This is very common especially among research learners. There are some terms associated with research which also form the rules/policies guiding research conducts. They some sort of benchmarks to writing research projects. Few examples: plagiarism, data, citation, case study, variables, sample, chi-square analysis, APA style, etc. It is important to state that where a researcher fails to understand any of these mentioned here (and more) they will not be able to present their research work well since it will be breaking the laid down rules.

Unpublished Work: Many Nigerian students always fail to publicize their works (from experience, many do not show it to their classmates/friends). This does not mean that you have to take your work to the press as it is common here. Please do not get us wrong, an easy and cheaper way to do this is to upload your research work online. This is acceptable and gives a global platform for it to be accessed by any interested reader/researcher anywhere. Don’t panic, nobody will steal your work for making it public (in fact, it is part of the features of a good research work). So, what’s the mistake in this (you may ask)? Your work should be subject to objective criticisms so that it can be improved upon by other researchers. We hope this helps?

“If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first four hours sharpening the axe.” – Abraham Lincoln

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(3)

Research Project: Some Key Terms Defined

It is usual to find some words or phrases associated with every discipline/profession. This is also akin to research projects. From experience, many students do not understand these basic terms; so they find research writing very confusing and stressful. Thus, in today’s piece, we shall explain some key terms associated with research study. Research jargons help student researchers write well and present their works in line with best practices. They are very easy to practise provided it is well understood. Please find below some of them. We hope all stated herein is very clear to you. Please feel free to share your thoughts/views regarding this.

1. Hypothesis: This refers to an uncertain explanation (assumption) based on theory (personal belief) to predict a casual relationship between variables. It is either rejected or accepted at the end of the research work based on the results produced. It forms a key element in making decisions. The opposite of this is called ‘Null Hypothesis.’

2. Population: This refers to the size of focus under investigation. In other words, the population is the total area of scope to be studied, or investigated.

3. Sample: This is a reasonable percentage of the population to be studied. It represents the entire population in itself. It is generally believed that the larger the sample size, the more accurate it will reflect the population size; and vice versa.

4. Probability: It is the chance that an event will occur randomly. It is usually symbolised with the letter "p.” This is mostly used in chapter 4 for measurement/analysis of data obtained.

5. Questionnaires: They are structured set of questions drawn up and suitable to the research topic being conducted; used to gather information, attitudes, or opinions as the case may be (space constraint would not allow us to show you a sample).

6. Variable: It refers to any feature that can vary from one person to another (e.g. gender, age, etc).

7. Data: This means any information obtained that can help you answer your research questions.

8. Theory: This is a general explanation about a specific reaction/attitude or a set of events that is based on known principles and serves to organize related events in a meaningful way.

9. Testing: This is the act of gathering and processing information about each person’s understanding, knowledge under same situations (controlled conditions).

10. Case Study: This is the collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular participant (it is more or less a group-focused type of research).

To be continued if space permits us.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

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(4)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Answered

Research practice is interestingly growing in Nigeria today; it is advisable for many students to take it very seriously due to its potentials/relevance. We have been receiving many enquiries from various students and this informs the need to provide answers to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding research projects. The top questions have been answered herein.

· Why must I write a Research Project?

In most schools, it is made very compulsory as it is greatly impossible for a student to complete his/her course without writing a research project. It is a partial fulfillment to awarding whatever certificate being expected. Schools made this so due to its importance to the students concerned, school and the society at large.

· How do I choose a Research Topic?

First, visit your school library to see how various past project topics are constructed. Take up a research topic that interests you. For example, as a law student who is worried about the legal system practice of his/her country, you may draw up two/three topics relating to the legal system in your country. Please do not copy someone else topic since you may not find it interesting. We always advise our clients to be original, real and objective.

· Must there be 5 Chapters?

This is simply the steps as advised worldwide. Some advanced research works could take just three/four steps against the five steps practice. For example, chapter 3 and 4 can be fused together. It is important you abide by your school project guidelines.

· What makes a good Research Work?

Everything does. From the beginning to the end (please see our past articles for details).

· How do I start the Research Project?

You begin with a Project Plan which is commonly referred to as Project Research Proposal (PRP). Before then, it is essential to carry out an in depth literature review (hope you know what this means now? If no, please see our past article).

· Must I reference my Research Work?

Yes! This means stating the source of authors quoted in your work. It enables your readers to take up a deeper study at their own discretion.

· Is Bibliography same with list of References?

No! Bibliography refers to all sources visited irrespective of if they were stated in your research work, while ‘list of references refers to details of citation in your work.

· What can I research in?

Anything. Well, it is best to stick to the area that you have deep knowledge about.

· Do people fail in Research Writing?

Yes! Every school has their marking standards in deciding the quality of research works done by students. In most schools, the pass mark is “50” (i.e. a Credit). The student is usually advised to review his/her work with the help of the project supervisor if such work is marked below the average score. Some of the yardsticks to be considered in marking a research work are: quality of the literature review, use of words/conceptual clarity and accuracy, presentation of work, style of writing regarding typing, spacing, binding, data collection/presentation/analysis, etc.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

For more help/guidance, please mail/phone us on: tradern_n@yahoo.com /0708 860 8914.

(5)

Qualities of a Good Researcher

It is not wrong to state that research practice has been on for a long while. It used to be carried out unorganized with little fact findings. Truth is it is now improving in great deal as well as taking centre stage in almost every sphere of life due to its relevance. In short, the importance of research cannot be over-emphasised. To this end, this means everyone needs information which is based on facts and figures as this is the only way to make information reliable. Thus, in this week’s write-up, we are going to highlight some key qualities a good researcher must possess. We urge you to digest it well. Feel free to reach us for further enquiries.

Intelligence

In simple words, intelligence refers to the ability to get something done well irrespective of the difficulties faced. Make no mistake about this, writing a good research project, like every worthwhile endeavour, can be very challenging! The more and faster it takes you to get the tasks done, the more intelligent you are; and vice versa. Writing a good research work requires that you make a plan which is usually called Project Research Proposal (PRP). For those starting out for the first time, we advise you to see past works done in this regard (We would be willing to show you some quality works from our library).

Sacrifice

A good researcher should have a strong motivation in meeting his/her set out goals. This would consume lots of time, money and energy as the case maybe. It is important to carefully examine the cost and time needed to produce a good research work. This helps you to know whether you are ready to give your best for a quality work. Please never underestimate the relevance of this.

Interest

This means having a strong desire to learn about something so as to have clear first-hand information about same. We always advise our students to choose topics they find interesting. It makes everything about the research work interesting. For example, a 400 level student studying architecture in a top private university, says she wants to know about the perception of Nigerians about “architects and architecture.”

Good General Knowledge

Good researchers are supposed to have basic information about life in general. They are meant to be in constant quest for acquiring knowledge. The vaster they are in diverse fields, the better research work they would produce. Thus, to a good researcher, every profession/discipline counts.

Commitment

Trust me, you have shown lots of commitment that is why you have read through this piece till this point. In research, you lack commitment at any point that you stop losing interest or fulfilling your obligations to the work. It’s not enough to have interest in it.

Technical Skills

This refers to some jargons associated with research. For you to succeed well, you have to master these jargons (please see past article for details).

Coordination/Integration

This refers to the preparation, organization and presentation of the research work. It makes the entire work clear and concise.

In closing, these mentioned above are the basic tips needed to writing a good research projects. Finally, you are not a good researcher if you have never attempted one before. Are you starting a project soon? We will be glad to help/guide you!

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

This piece was compiled by TRADERN NETWORK (a team of research experts based in Lagos).

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As you mark your Special Day Today, WE wish you all A better LIFE that will make you forever Happy And Richly Blessed.

Enjoy your Day...happy celebration!!!


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Thanks a lot

Hi

Hello!

cowleg: Hi

TRADELYN: Hello

Boss!! How far for our biz na?

cowleg: Boss!! How far for our biz na?

It's UP to you!

TRADELYN:


It's UP to you!

tradelyn my brother. Na wa oooo. Thank God this probblem no affect u. Hw tins na?

Yes O ...I dey surprised Ooo!

I miss your interesting comments...

mencade5: tradelyn my brother. Na wa oooo. Thank God this probblem no affect u. Hw tins na?

TRADELYN:
Yes O ...I dey surprised Ooo!

I miss your interesting comments...

me too, i missed ur research comments too. I will begin proper on monday.

Thanks!

I can't wait.


It's well!

mencade5: me too i missed ur research comments too. I will begin proper on monday.

TRADELYN:
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As you mark your Special Day Today, WE wish you all A better LIFE that will make you forever Happy And Richly Blessed.

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Thank you

TRADELYN:
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Thank You Very Plenty

TRADELYN:


It's UP to you!

i am so broke and unemployed.

TRADELYN:


It's UP to you!

i am so broke and unemployed.

TRADELYN:
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thanks a lot

preticuti: thanks a lot

Happy birthday mate

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TRADELYN: We hereby take time off from work for a brief moment just because of you, our special Birthday Celebrants

As you mark your Special Day Today, WE wish you all A better LIFE that will make you forever Happy And Richly Blessed.

Enjoy your Day...happy celebration!!!

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TRADELYN: [color=#000099][b])

thank uuuuu

TRADELYN: We hereby take time off from work for a brief moment just because of you, our special Birthday Celebrants

As you mark your Special Day Today, WE wish you all A better LIFE that will make you forever Happy And Richly Blessed.

Enjoy your Day...happy celebration!!!

manos, Tomi Swag, Lanuel(25), anthoniaz(28), blueheart, Busoladan(38), Folala(32), Arrowman(24), profjendor(27), lobito94(25), Achieverbb(24), Bakozy(22), promire2004, realbest(30), nikkyshyne, Degis(42), kayslimshady(25), paulmarkino(28), dedonfranco(32), blesseenE(19), tosynbaba(23), Jetworld25(27), khristology(22), ashezbrown(24), soil_sista, Muzikluva, McGibson(25), Gnii(28), ekenetheorg(24), opeyemi45(23), Kajith(19)

Thank you so much tradelyn. May God bless u richly.

[quote author=ayukdaboss]
Happy birthday mate thanks and Hapi bday also

TRADELYN: We hereby take time off from work for a brief moment just because of you, our special Birthday Celebrants

As you mark your Special Day Today, WE wish you all A better LIFE that will make you forever Happy And Richly Blessed.

Enjoy your Day...happy celebration!!!

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thank you very much...

TRADELYN: We hereby take time off from work for a brief moment just because of you, our special Birthday Celebrants

As you mark your Special Day Today, WE wish you all A better LIFE that will make you forever Happy And Richly Blessed.

Enjoy your Day...happy celebration!!!

manos, Tomi Swag, Lanuel(25), anthoniaz(28), blueheart, Busoladan(38), Folala(32), Arrowman(24), profjendor(27), lobito94(25), Achieverbb(24), Bakozy(22), promire2004, realbest(30), nikkyshyne, Degis(42), kayslimshady(25), paulmarkino(28), dedonfranco(32), blesseenE(19), tosynbaba(23), Jetworld25(27), khristology(22), ashezbrown(24), soil_sista, Muzikluva, McGibson(25), Gnii(28), ekenetheorg(24), opeyemi45(23), Kajith(19)

Thank you so much

nikkyshyne: Thank you so much

. THANKS.

promire2004:



Thank you so much tradelyn. May God bless u richly.

Happy birthday my good friend.