Research as a Method of Educating Oneself - Assignment Example

Table of Contents..............................................................................1 Introduction........................................................................................2 Learning Outcomes 1 and 2................................................................3 Learning Outcomes 3 and 4................................................................6 Learning Outcomes 5..........................................................................9 Learning Outcomes 6..........................................................................10 Conclusion...........................................................................................11 References............................................................................................13 Introduction As a matter of fact, research portfolio is the procedure of exploration of skills. It is also a study of certain subject from various viewpoints. Research is not merely a journey to a library to collect a heap of materials or collecting the initial few data through searching with a computer (Redding-Jones 2005). Research is hunting for the reality. It is gaining factual information of a subject through reflecting, reading on it, playing with various ideas, selecting one’s areas of interest as well as following them up. Research is also referred as a methodical investigation to explain, control, describe and predict the experiential phenomenon. In a word, research is a method of educating oneself (Redding-Jones 2005). Research involves both deductive and inductive methods. In this scenario, inductive methods evaluate experiential phenomenon and discover processes, structures or the general principles underlying the observed phenomenon whereas; deductive methods substantiate the hypothesised ethics via observations (Redding-Jones 2005). The functions are dissimilar: one is developing mechanisms while the other one is testing the legality of explanations. An important thing I have borne in my mind is that the central point of a particular research is not on information, but the thoughts behind that research. As a matter of fact, research contributes to four types of knowledge to education as described in this portfolio. First is description. In this scenario, outcomes of research can explain social or natural phenomena, like, its activity, structure, form alteration over time, correlation to other phenomena (What is Research? 2012). The descriptive purpose of research is dependent on instrumentation for observations and measurement. The descriptive study results in our comprehension of what took place. It at times yields statistical data about education aspects. The other type of knowledge contributed by research is prediction. In this case, prediction’s research intention is the forecast of phenomenon which will take place at time G from data at a previous time F. Researchers within educational research have been involved in: obtaining information about features which predict success of students in the work world and at school and recognizing likely unsuccessful students so that deterrence programs can be established. The other type of knowledge contributed by research is improvement (What is Research? 2012). In this scenario, this research is mostly concerned with efficacy of intervention. The research approach comprise of evaluation and experimental design research. The other type of knowledge contributed by research to education is explanation. In this regard, the research includes the other 3: provided the researchers are capable of explaining a didactic phenomenon, it points out that they are capable of describing, predicting its outcomes, and knowing how to intrude to alter those outcomes (What is Research? 2012). My major reason for involving myself in research through joining a doctoral degree mostly rise from inherent wish to become a life learner and motivate myself to gain higher levels of education and skills which would not only be beneficial to me, but to the wider community. Eventually, after completing this program, my objective is becoming an academician and well renowned researcher as well as become part and parcel of the bigger community researchers and contributors of knowledge. My first step in this long research journey involves comprehension of the activities that are involved in the victorious manufacture of a doctoral thesis as well as the proficiencies required to attain the deliverables of those activities. Provided my diffident knowledge in PHD level research, I have relied with the learning outcomes as written down within the course outline for guidance and strengthened my comprehension through adopting the research model with a little modification. I was also offered guidance and direction by my Dr.Majharul Talukder to whom I really thank. Consequently, I was capable of identifying the following doctoral research skills learning outcomes: (1) research idea development, (2) research question formulation, (3) conducting of literature review, (4) research design development (data gathering instruments), (5) research approach development (global view and method), (6) ethics approval attainment, (7) data collection (coding, organization and storage), (8) research methodology development (information sources), (9) data analysis, and (10) results interpretation. Actually, in order to successfully accomplish tasks in the research it required me to have both research skills and generic skills. Research skills turns to be the initial skills for all researchers. There are four research skills in existence. The first one is critical thinking which helps researchers examine the validity and truth of arguments and evaluate the relative purpose of ideas (Research Skills, 2013). As such, the researchers are capable of assessing and weighing conclusions that derive from data analysis and arguments. The other research skill is problem solving that helps researchers to recognize, define and evaluate problems, make solutions and analyse them and select the most excellent solution for a specific context. The other research skill is analysis that helps researchers to collect relevant information and data and put in place synthesis methods, critically think and reduce data to locate and comprehend connections or patterns within that information. The last research skill is dissemination that helps researchers to communicate to the outcomes and purpose of research to others (Research Skill 2013). On the other side, generic skills surround skills which are relevant to many areas particularly important while taking a PHD degree. Thus, generic skills are also known as character skills, studying how to study skills or meta-skills (Cooper, Forest & Cranp 2006). Generic skills include problem-solving, communicating, patience, curiosity, purpose, flexibility, resilience, persistence, creating and courage. They enable researchers to organize, adapt and tactically apply our particular skills in new circumstances and situations (Cooper, Forest & Cramp 2006). Additionally, they enable researchers to produce skills that assist them succeed in new situations, cope and adapt to dynamism and to prosper through producing what matters, even within the face of difficulty. For the purposes of having a clear direction of my portfolio, I have structured the learning outcomes of the unit in which every outcome is addressed in its separate section. Learning Outcomes 1 and 2: Recognition and Validation of Research Problems and Development of Research Questions and Purpose Statements In my writing of this doctoral research portfolio in back up of my PHD application, I have a wide topic that is aimed at reviewing and assessing existing bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Australia. My choice of this topic is mainly driven by the present apparent outcomes of UAE-Australia bilateral relationship. However, l have later on found another new interesting topic which underlines on the factors affecting the adoption and use of smart system in UAE. As a matter of fact, UAE has recently a huge interest in smart system and have increased its financial resources on this. Smart systems adoption and use of E-government has become part of the United Arab Emirates. Smart systems have transformed various sector of the UAE economy from transport, health, finance, public service among others (Bowes, 2013). However, despite the significance role that smart systems play in the day to day economic, social and political activities, minimal empirical research has been conducted to identify the factors that have contributed to the uptake and use of these smart systems. This study will seek to identify the factors that are affecting the increased adoption and use of smart systems in the United Arab Emirates. Smart systems technologies have been used all over the world to increase comfort for home owners and also by organizations to improve on efficiency and effectiveness. Among the most, used technology is energy management systems, financial management systems and security management system (World Economic Forum, 2013). They have been an increased uptake of smart system across the world, especially in developed countries. GCC countries such as the UAE, are now totally embracing the uptake of smart system, though there is a complain of lack of research to support factors that are leading to the uptake of smart technology and system in the UAE (Elbawaba News, 2014). The research will, as a result, identify the factors that are affecting the adoption and use of these systems. Accordingly, the thought has emerged within the last three months as I have tried very hard to concentrate on a more feasible and purposeful topic to examine. Eventually, I have come up with a number of working titles surrounding different themes that will come out from the literature review that includes: The management of smart systems. Factors affecting the adoption and use of smart systems. How smart system improves productivity. Evaluation of Skills/Knowledge Required For me to achieve the main idea, I will need first to develop an ability of conducting literature review dramatically, which will ultimately give rise to my literature review portfolio and the ultimate validation and recognition of the research problem. It is my recognition at the PHD level that literature review unlike in the past where I used to do minor research in a selected topic, this level demands critical thinking as well as being alert of likely research problems instead of passively absorbing content and writing it in different words. Additionally, carrying out literature review is regarded as a widespread research exercise which needs capability of recognizing key words, use of reliable sources and the manner of assessing them together with the capability of citing and referencing the material that has been used. Proposed Strategy of Action My main aims of the literature review are to give me the required authentic information on my topic and arrange the obtained literature into associated themes to as the deepest breadth as possible and recognise potential research issues, problems or issues which will help me to obtain information on my topic. Thus, my strategy to build up the capability of carrying out literature review will include: Using good keywords that will assist me in finding good sources of information. Consulting my supervisors and friends about the best way of conducting literature review. Finding information from reliable sources on the ways of conducting literature review. Borrowing information from previously conducted literature reviews Evidence of Actions Completed Practically, I have tried to deal with attainment of the first skill by use of the following actions: 1. To gain a good knowledge of the basics of conducting research, I have enrolled in the Research Methods and Research Design provided by the university where I have gained knowledge on the way of analysing questions, coming up with correct keywords, evaluating information, and how to use the library to obtain information among others. 2. In order to fully understand the manner of conducting literature review I have read the previous works of other students on literature review, asking my supervisors on the best way of conducting literature review and reading relevant library sources on the manner of conducting literature review 3. I have as well gone through chapters of literature review of a number of previous proposals to acknowledge myself with the involved work which comprises of: comparison (Research in Progress), 45th Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences, (pp. 1- 10). Hawaii. Alam, S, S., Yunus, M., & Jani, M, 2011, AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF FACTORS AFFECTING ELECTRONIC COMMERCE ADOPTION AMONG SMEs IN MALAYSIA. Journal of Business Economics and Management, 12 (2), 375–399. Al-Khouri, M, 2014, Identity management in the age of mobilification, Internet Technologies and Applications Research, 1 (15), 1-15. Alomari, K., Sandhu, K., & Woods, P., 2009, E-government Adoption in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan: Factors from Social Perspectives, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, , 1 (1), 1- 7. Alomari, M., Woods, P., Sandhu, K., 2012, Predictors for e-government adoption in Jordan, Information Technology & People, 25 (2), 207-234. Chen, K., Jengchung, C. b., & David, C. Y., 2011, Dimensions of self-efficacy in the study of smart phone acceptance, Computer Standards & Interfaces , 33 (1), 422–431. Pei-Lee, T, et al, 2014, Age-group differences in near field communication smartphone, emrald publisher group , pp. 1- 5. Bauer, G., & Lukowicz, P., 2012, Can Smartphones Detect Stress-Related Changes in the Behaviour of Individuals? 1European funded project , 12 (1), 423- 426. Christopher, G., & Antonio, R. S., UN, Open Government Opportunities and Challenges for Public, (4, Ed.) Public Administration and Information Technology. Dörflinger, T., Anna, V., Kräme, J., & Fromm, R., UN, MY SMARTPHONE IS A SAFE, pp. 1- 10. Kiyohide, H., & Saleem, A., 2014, Policy Perspective Analysis of Technology Adoption in Industries, International Journal of Smart Home , 8 (1), 103-112. Lytras, M. and Corti, I., 2012, Trends and effects of technology advancement in the knowledge society, Hershey, PA: Information Science Reference. Indication that Assessment Criteria has been satisfied As I am writing this initial portfolio, I have a primary comprehension of type of knowledge to which my topic of discussion belongs and how to carry out a PHD literature review. Thus, I now understand that literature review requires not only reading through good sources and making conclusions, but requires more of critical thinking in order to fully explain and understand a given topic. The literature review has helped me find the topic to demand further research. Additionally, literature review has enabled me to obtain relevant information on the factors affecting smart system. Plan for Further Actions Additional actions that I require taking to add my skills comprise of: Use of credible sources like, books that offers more information on my topic Conducting live interviews with different people of UAE and comparing the information that they offer with that from published work Consulting other people like, professional management who are involved on adoption of smart system in any given organisations. Learning Outcomes (3) and (4): Understanding Relevant Research Methodologies and Techniques & Comparison and Evaluation of a Range of Methodologies and Methods Research design is the main glue that holds the research project together (Creswell, 2009). A research design structures the research to show how the major part of the research works to address the central research question. The researcher will use a descriptive research design because the subjects under study were not influenced in any way. Evaluation of Knowledge/Skills Required In order to select the best method of research, it demands a clear understanding of the three research methods for the purposes of coming out with the most feasible one. In order for me to successfully pursue my learning outcomes 3 and 4 I really require clear examination of research methodologies. At the end, I should be able to know the meaning of all of them and how I will apply the most suitable one to my topic of investigation. Proposed Strategy of Action My stratagem regarding understanding of the research methodologies and their application includes: Getting more information on the research methodologies from various sources. The sources to obtain information from include libraries, Google Scholar, books, articles, and authorised websites. I will also learn more about research methodologies from my colleagues and my supervisors. I will also learn about research methodologies by testing each and every one of them in my topic where I will finally select the one that will be fitting well. Evidence of Actions Completed The following is my understanding of the research methods Qualitative research: This is a research method of enquiry which is deployed in several academic disciplines. Qualitative researchers’ purpose is gathering of deeper comprehension of human behaviour together with the reasons which rule such behaviour (Merriam 2009). The qualitative method examines the how and why of decision making and not merely when, where and what. This method uses smaller samples that are focussed than big samples. Qualitative researchers are faced with several options associated to collection of data that ranges from narratology, shadowing, classical ethnography, or grounded hypothesis practice (Merriam 2009). In the other approaches of methodologies, qualitative methods tend to be slackly present like, actor-network theory or action research. The major method turns to be the qualitative study interview, but data forms collected might also comprise of reflection and observation field notes, pictures, various texts, and group discussions among others. Frequently, qualitative research classifies data in patterns as the prime ground for reporting and organising reports (Merriam 2009). Actually, qualitative researchers characteristically rely on the subsequent gathering information methods: field notes, semi-structured interview, structured interview, analysis of materials and documents, unstructured interview, non-participant observation, participant observation and reflexive journals (Merriam 2009). Quantitative research: quantitative research is the research that makes use of numerical analysis (Balnaves & Caputi 2001). Essentially, this approach decreases data into digits, for example the % of young girl in Australia. In this case, the researcher possesses the idea of what s/he is finding and every feature of the research is cautiously designed ahead of the data being collected. The aim of quantitative research in real sense is employing and developing mathematical model, hypothesis and or theories pertaining to phenomenon (Balnaves & Caputi 2001). The measurement process is core to qualitative research as it offers the primary link between mathematical expression and empirical observation of quantitative relationships. In a word quantitative is whichever data which is statistical form, like, percentages and statistics (Vogot 2006). This brings forth the meaning that quantitative researcher possess a particular, narrow question where she gathers a numerical data sample from the participants to answer her question (Balnaves & Caputi 2001). Mixed method: Mixed is also known as multiple methodology, mixed methodology, or multi-methodology research. Mixed method research provides a researcher the better of the two worlds: the natural, contextualized in-depth, but insights that are more time-consuming of qualitative research together with the more-effective, but poor or forcing predictive quantitative research power (Creswell & Clark 2011). The primary objective of mixed methods research is dealing with a provided research question in whichever angle, while utilising the suitable earlier research and or in excess of one kind of investigative viewpoint. In order to use this method effectively, one must have understood both qualitative and quantitative research (Fischler 2013). The mixed method approaches turn to be far more inclusive than dealing with a problem from a single perspective and, with the establishment of tools and strategies for joining together those dissimilar data types, permit for the crossing of punitive limits like never before (Creswell & Clark 2011). Indication That Assessment Criteria Has Been Satisfied Research Method As a result of the setting of my research which requires involvement of people for it to be successful, instead of gathering statistical data, I prefer using the qualitative approach. I have chosen qualitative research because it would be simpler to unearth the behavioural range of the aimed audience together with insights which drive it with orientation to particular issues or topics. Additionally, this method will allow me to study deeply the participants which would assist me in constructing a theory. After all, my results would be descriptive instead of predictive. Research Design (Process of Inquiry/Data Collection Instruments) There are many methods of planning and developing research designs apart from qualitative method that includes storytelling, shadowing, and grounded hypothesis practice among others. However, qualitative research frequently classifies information in patterns as the principal ground for reporting and organizing results. Thus, I will be using the case study design due to its easiness in evaluating people’s lives, feelings, and perceptions among others. Research Methodology (Data collection) The research will consist both Primary and secondary data. The main collection tool for primary data will be questionnaires. Data Types and sources The researcher will use a combination of both primary and secondary data. Primary data will be derived from questionnaires that will be issued among business executives and homeowners. The questionnaires will be constructed in a way that will enable the researcher to get specific information from the respondents. The questionnaires will comprise both close ended and open ended format. The secondary data will mainly be from internet source and business journals. Pilot Study Validity is the extent to which data collected from the analysis of a research project represent the phenomenon under study. A validity study will be carried out by the researcher. The researcher will issue ten questionnaires to selected groups of business executives and professional management. This will enable the researcher to check for any inaccuracies and review the content in the questionnaires, and collect any inefficiency. Data Analysis The responses that will be collected from the questionnaires will be keyed and coded in a computer to facilitate the data to be analysed. Data will then be analysed using descriptive statistics using the Statistical package for social sciences application (SPSS) and excel spreadsheets. The information that will be collected will then be presented using pie charts, bar charts, graphs and tables. Plan for Further Actions Utilise more the strengths of the qualitative method in order to come up with strong findings. Improve my communication skills greatly for the purposes of interacting well with the business executives and professional management. Read more on qualitative and quantitative method from credible sources, like, books. Learning Outcomes (5): Designing a Research Plan apposite to Research Question In writing my doctoral portfolio, I have decided and agreed with my supervisor to design a research plan that will describe my research question (the factors affecting the adoption and use of smart system in UAE), its importance and the manner of conducting it. Evaluation of Skills/Knowledge Required In order to attain the above, I have established that I need to gain an understanding of conducting literature review and the relevant research methodologies and techniques which will finally yield: the literature review chapter of the proposal and the ultimate validation and recognition of the research problem, and making of a sound and reasonable choice of the research methodology to be utilised to my topic. Proposed Strategy of Action The chief aims of literature review will be offering a thorough explanation of the part of knowledge to which my topic lies and organization of the literature into associated themes dramatically, and identification of latent research problems, gaps or issues that will help in discovering a niche for my research. On the other hand, the aim of research methodologies understanding will help me in choosing the most suitable and applicable method to be used in my research. Thus, my strategies to develop an understanding of those aims include: Consulting my supervisor and friends about the best way of conducting literature review Validating and identifying possible research problems Getting more information on the research methodologies from various sources which include libraries, Google Scholar, books, articles, and authorised websites Seeking help from my supervisor on the suitable ways of conducting research methodologies. Evidence of Actions Completed 1. For the purposes of gaining a deeper understanding of conducting literature review I have; visited various libraries sources and learnt how to conduct literature review, read previous literature reviews of past students, and sought help from my supervisor on the best ways of conducting it. 2. In order to gain a clearer understanding of research methodologies I have learnt the three research methodologies (quantitative, qualitative and mixed) from various sources. Additionally, I have also read about their application from previous proposals. Indication that Assessment Criteria has been Satisfied After learning about various ways of conducting literature review, I have been capable of narrowing down my broad topic to a narrow research question. On the other hand after reading and understanding the three research methodologies, I have been able to select qualitative research method as my preferred method of conducting this study. Plan for Further Action Finding other information on qualitative research method from credible sources like, books, and approved previous proposals. Reading and understanding literature reviews from various sources and relating them to my research question which will help me come up with appropriate findings. Learning Outcomes (6): Communicating Research Plans and Potential Outcomes Effectively Evaluation of Skills/Knowledge Required In order to effectively communicate the research plan and its outcomes, it would require a clear understanding of the entire research plan. For the research plan to be helpful both to me and my surrounding, I would be required to communicate it clearly so that it everybody who comes across it understands it clearly and makes good conclusions. Proposed Strategy of Action In point of fact, I will learn about communication and presentation skills from: Looking for colleagues working in my field to assist each other on how best to communicate our research plans. Attending seminars at least two times in a month. Practising writing essays and taking to my supervisors for marking and making necessary changes for improvement. Seeking help from my supervisors on how I can best communicate and present information that everybody can understand. Evidence of Actions Completed 1. To improve my communication skills, I have joined the journalism club of our university that involves itself in writing weekly magazines for sale. Writing of magazines involves collection of relevant data that is evaluated and published in the magazine. As such, I have begged the authors to be given the role of collecting information from outside which would greatly improve my communication with the professional management. 2. To be able to present my research findings in soft copy, I have first read the works of previous students who were undergoing PHD. This has offered me a better path of presenting my information to the supervisors. 3. I also have read various examples of researched work from the textbooks that which have added my knowledge on presenting my findings. Indication That Assessment Criteria has been satisfied Before beginning writing this research portfolio, I had a primary comprehension of the part of knowledge I was going to cover and how to present my information. Nevertheless, after reading various textbooks and being assisted by my supervisors, I am capable of exploring only the required authentic information and putting it on paper. Plan for Further Action The other actions that I have taken to improve my communication skills comprise of: Looking at weaknesses of my communication skills and trying my best to improve them. Listening to news in the television and radio and trying to provide that information in same as well as different words. Emphasising listening carefully to what I am hearing from other people. Conclusion As a matter of fact, this portfolio reflects my ability of recognising and documenting the learned research skills that are vital for completing a PHD degree. As such, it offers the strengths and weaknesses that I am currently having. Interestingly, it offers the alternatives for improving the detected weaknesses. At the beginning as I had a very wide topic, I had very little idea of how to develop it to become a research topic. However, after dealing with learning outcomes appropriately, I now have the idea of formulating my broad topic to a narrowed research topic. This is made possible through using the research methodologies, designing a research plan and communicating effectively what I have found. Actually, generic skills turn to be very useful when undertaking a PHD degree and in general life as with them one becomes capable of solving multiple problems that arise in our daily lives. Other Things to be Reflected on: Build up of a more efficient style of reading textbooks My aptitude awareness Learnt how to use literature review A nice way gaining self-confidence in myself through hard problem-solving. References Balnaves, M., & Caputi, P, 2001, Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods: An Investigative Approach. London: Sage Publications. Bowes, A., 2013, Cost effectiveness of assistive technologies, Accessed 19 May 2014 Cooper, N., Forrest, K & Cramp, P, 2006, Essential Guide to Generic Skills. Malden, Mass.: BMJ Books. Creswell, J, W & Clark, V, L, P, 2011, Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research. Los Angeles: SAGE Publications. Creswell, J. W., 2009, Research design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. 2nd ed. New York: SAGE Publications. Creswell, J. W 2014, Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches, 4th edn, SAGE, California, London, New Delhi, Singapore. Elbawaba News, 2014, Oracle reports rapid cloud uptake in the UAE, Accessed 14 May 2014 Merriam, S, B, 2009, Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and Implementation. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Rhedding- Jones, J, 2005, What is Research? : Methodological Practices and New Approaches. Oslo: Universitesforlaget. University of Canberra (UC) 2013, Generic Skills Descriptor, University of Canberra, Canberra, Accessed 19 May 2014, University of Canberra (UC) 2013, Generic Skills & Attributes, University of Canberra, Canberra, Accessed 19 May 2014, < http://www.canberra.edu.au/research/current-research-students/degree-milestones-and-generic-skills/generic-skills> Vogt, W, P, 2006, Quantitative Research Methods for Professionals. Boston, MA: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon World Economic Forum, 2013. The Global Information Technology Report 2013 PDF – Strat, Accessed 19 May 2014 Chen, K., Jengchung, C. b., & David, C. Y., 2011, Dimensions of self-efficacy in the study of smart phone acceptance, Computer Standards & Interfaces , 33 (1), 422–431. Al-Khouri, M, 2014, Identity management in the age of mobilification, Internet Technologies and Applications Research, 1 (15), 1-15. Christopher, G., & Antonio, R. S., UN, Open Government Opportunities and Challenges for Public, (4, Ed.) Public Administration and Information Technology. Alomari, M., Woods, P., Sandhu, K., 2012, Predictors for e-government adoption in Jordan, Information Technology & People, 25 (2), 207-234. 2012, What is Research, Accessed 19 May 2014, 2013, Research Skills, Accessed 19 May 2014, Fischler, A, S, 2013, Mixed Methods, Accessed 19 May 2014 < http://www.fischlerschool.nova.edu/Resources/uploads/app/35/files/ARC_Doc/mixed_methods.pdf> Read More