Research is about solving and finding solutions towards problems. It is done through studying and gathering factual information as well as data to gain new knowledge and comprehension regarding on certain matters. In the research process I had learned that any research should be systematic from the smallest detail up to the big ones. We should have a scheme set out in advance before the actual work begins, so that it will serve as our guide in gathering the essential data for the accomplishment of our study. It should also be organize, so that we won’t find any difficulties and slipups in the process making. Moreover it should also be objective, the outcome and conclusion from our research study must be based on observed and measured facts, not on subjective impression. In other words we should be transparent and unbiased.
In my own personal experience being a researcher is not an easy task just like what I had experienced in the previous years. We need to be physically, mentally, emotionally and financially prepared for all the various struggles that we will be facing before, during and after the research process. Some of the activities that I was able to experience during my journey as a senior high school student as a researcher are studying other people’s works such as journals, articles and research studies. In order to collect beneficial information that we could use to strengthen the foundation of our study. As well as to gain insights on how they’ve done their work. Furthermore I was able to participate towards conducting interviews to get the necessary data from our chosen respondents. Which we had analyze and interpreted as bases for our findings, conclusion and recommendations.
I can even still remember the day of our research defense for the accomplishment of our Practical Research 1 subject during the first semester of our final year as a senior high school student. Beads of sweat drips onto my face as my knees wobble drastically the whole moment of our defense. The panelists scrutinized our work and asked various questions regarding on our study and gratefully we didn’t failed to give them the answers that will content their curiosity. Moreover they had also shared their thoughts, opinions and recommendations as well that had helped us a lot in the process of improving our study. At the end of the said research defense everyone rejoiced. Loud applause could be heard and wide smiles can be seen for we know in our hearts that we had done our part, all of our endeavors where paid off and everything went well.
Despite of the difficulties and challenges that we had experience on those times, still I am able to learn few things that I had carried with me throughout the years. Such as learning how to balance my time properly so that I can do all my task and responsibilities thoroughly and well. Procrastinating works isn’t a good habit, we should eradicate it in ourselves because it will not cause us any good in the long run. I had also learned that we should have enough understanding about our surrounding particularly on social issues that are rampant in our society. For by doing this we are raising awareness not only for ourselves but also to other people as well. Lastly I had learned that no matter how hard it may seem to accomplish a task just like in our case doing a research study. But if we believe in ourselves that we can surely we will.
For those students that are taking practical research as their subject in their secondary or tertiary education. I will be sharing with you some tips that had helped me every time that I am doing a research study.
1. Selecting a research topic
A well define research topic is the preparatory point of every research study. In choosing a research topic, you can chose from something that interest you. It could be an issue within your school or community that concerns you. The reason for this is since you will be spending a lot of time learning and understanding the said issue therefore choose something that you are enthusiastic to learn and understand. In addition you should also consider if the topic has enough information from various platforms. For if it has little or outdated references then for sure you will find it difficult to construct your review of related literature. Lastly narrow it down. In choosing a research topic it is preferable to choose something specific in order for you to have enough time and avoid any conflicts when gathering the necessary information, literature and data for the success of your research study.
2. Constructing the introduction
In every research study the introduction gives the reader an overview about your research study. When constructing the introduction it must contain the problem that you want to address. It must also mention the importance why you are doing the said study, who are the people or institutions that would benefit from your study. In addition it must contain numerous review of related literature, which will help you towards expounding your research study to your readers. It must have an objective. For the readers to understand the causes why you are pursuing the said study. Lastly it must mention the timeframe of your study. On what school year, semester and subject you are doing the said study.
3. Make an outline
In my own personal experience, I always write down the things or the steps we need to accomplish for our research study. By doing this you won’t miss any important details that might rise conflict in the research process. In addition it also helps you to construct a time table, which will help you to keep in track.
4. Communicate
Communication is vital when making a research study, especially when you are doing it with a group. I recommend that you will conduct a daily or weekly meeting with all your group members regarding on the progress and the things that needs to be done for your research study. Also conducting a meeting will help you to open up and resolve conflicts or misunderstanding within the group regarding on task assignment and many more. Moreover communication is also necessary between the students and their research adviser. If you have concerns and confusion regarding on your study, don’t hesitate to ask your research adviser. For it is their responsibility to help you and guide you to succeed in your research study.
5. Don’t abuse yourself
Even though it is necessary to complete your research study for you to pass on a subject, but still don’t abuse yourself. Do not deprive yourself of sleep when your body can no longer take the exhaustion. Do not skip meals and most importantly do not forget to give yourself a break. For no matter how important it seems to complete your research study, but then again you will not be able function well if you yourself is sick, tired or stress. Which might affect your research study badly, therefore take care of yourself as you take care of your research study.
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