Research process

1. Research Proposal

   • A document outlining the research project's objectives, methods, and significance.

   • Contains a rationale for the study and a description of the intended research design.

2. Literature Review

   • An analysis and summary of existing research and literature on the topic.

   • Helps identify gaps in current knowledge and provides a theoretical framework for the study.

3. Research Question

   • The central question that the study aims to answer.

   • A clear and focused research question guides the entire research process.

4. Hypothesis

   • A testable statement predicting the relationship between variables.

   • Can be either directional (predicting the direction of the relationship) or non-directional.

5. Variables

   • Factors or characteristics that can change or be measured in a research study.

   • Independent Variable: Manipulated or controlled by the researcher.

   • Dependent Variable: The outcome or response affected by the independent variable.

6. Data Collection

   • The process of gathering information or data for the research study.

   • Methods can include surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments.

7. Data Analysis

   • The process of interpreting and making sense of collected data.

   • Statistical tools and software are often used to analyze quantitative data.

8. Findings

   • The results and conclusions derived from data analysis.

   • Presented in a clear and organized manner to address the research question.

9. Discussion

   • Interpretation and explanation of the research findings.

   • Comparisons with existing literature and implications of the results.

10. Conclusion

    • A summary of the research study's key findings and their significance.

    • May also include recommendations for future research.

11. Validity

    • The degree to which the research measures what it intends to measure.

    • Ensuring that the research design and methods accurately represent the research question.

12. Reliability

    • The consistency and stability of research findings over time and across different situations.

    • Ensuring that the research can be replicated and produces consistent results.

13. Ethical Considerations

    • Addressing potential ethical issues related to research participants and data collection.

    • Informed consent, privacy, and confidentiality are essential ethical principles.

14. Peer Review

    • Evaluation of the research by experts in the field for quality and credibility.

    • A critical step before publication in academic journals.

15. Research Limitations

    • Potential weaknesses or constraints in the research design or methodology.

    • Acknowledging limitations provides context for interpreting the study's findings.

16. Sampling

    • The process of selecting a representative group from a larger population for research.

    • Different sampling techniques include random sampling, stratified sampling, etc.

17. Survey

    • A data collection method that involves asking questions to a group of participants.

    • Surveys can be conducted through questionnaires, interviews, or online forms.

18. Interview

    • A data collection method where a researcher asks questions directly to participants.

    • Interviews can be structured (follow a specific format) or unstructured (open-ended).

19. Observation

    • A data collection method where researchers observe and record behaviors in real settings.

    • Can be participant observation (researcher actively involved) or non-participant observation.

20. Case Study

    • In-depth analysis of a particular individual, group, or situation over a period of time.

    • Provides detailed insights into a specific context.

These vocabulary words will help you discuss the various stages and components of the research process more effectively. Remember to practice using these terms in context and improve your overall academic vocabulary for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your studies!