FWR2102 Research Methods

The course is handled at two stages; Research methods and Data analysis using applied statistics. Research methods will theoretically introduce students to the whole process of conducting research while applied statistics will practically help students to conduct data analysis using quantitative techniques. The course prepares students to conduct research and empirical inquiry in the field of natural resources.  Major emphasis is given to the identification of research gaps in fisheries resources using field surveys and experimentation.  Students will use this course to begin formulating their research topics.

Course objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Explain the meaning, nature, purpose and process of research
• Formulate and refine research ideas into research topics or projects 
• Review literature related to the research ideas and identify research gaps
• Develop suitable measurement scales/ indicators for the objective variables
• Critique the Qualitative and Quantitative research paradigms 
• Design data collection tools, collect data, enter data into appropriate software
• Identify the research designs best suited for investigating different types of research problems 
• Develop research proposals and write research reports.

Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, the student should demonstrate capacity to:

• Understand the meaning, nature, purpose and process of research,
• Develop research ideas into research topics and projects,
• Critically conduct literature review to identify research gaps,
• Apply appropriate measurement scales/ indicators in deriving research variables,
• Appreciate the differences between the Qualitative and Quantitative research paradigms 
• Collect and analyse data using appropriate softwares at descriptive and inferential stages
• Demonstrate an understanding of different research and sampling designs best suited for investigating different types of research problems and
• Write a research proposal and research report.