BED2104 Educational Research and Statistics

The purpose of this course is to introduce and develop students’ skills and understanding on how to conduct research work. It is meant to acquaint students with types of scientific research relevant for anyone working in the field of Science and Education. It will enable students to develop capacity to conduct small, simple research projects while at and out of the university.  It covers topic identification, problem statement, purpose and specific objectives, literature review, various research paradigms and models of methodology. Students will be trained in the data collection, analysis and presentation of results, exposition of processes and methods used and the conclusions drawn. Guidelines outlining the preparation and writing of a research dissertation and or a project will be provided at the conclusion of the course.

Course Objectives    
The aim of this course is to:

• Enable students become competent in understanding the research process
• Provide skills that will enable students undertake independent research using a variety of    appropriate methods, using primary and secondary data, as well as qualitative and quantitative techniques
• Equip the students with skills on literature review
• Provide students with skills to produce a research proposal
• Introduce the students to various methods of data collection and analysis
• Introduce students to report writing.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course students should be able to:

• Identity suitable research area
• Able to contribute in an entrepreneurial and innovative way within their business, workplace or community in the field of research;
• (Review relevant literature on the area of interest
• Follow the practical and ethical issues in research
• Choose a suitable research method to use
• Aware of research and research methodology in subsequent years of study
• Carry out data collection and analysis
• Write a standard proposal and report.