How to Design a Research Project?

Definitions for research: Methodical investigation into a subject in order to discover facts, to establish or to develop a plan of action based on facts discovered Attempt to find out information in a systematically and scientific manner Human activity based on intellectual investigation and is aimed at discovering, interpreting, and revising human knowledge on different aspects of the world. Research can use the scientific method, but need not do so. Diligent and thorough inquiry and investigation into a subject. This includes using all appropriate print and electronic sources, asking the reference librarian for help, and making use of bibliographies given by other authors. The process of discovering new knowledge or of synthesis of existing knowledge into a form useful for a stated purpose

Why do we conduct Research Projects? To invent new things To solve a prevailing problem To support development programmes of a country To uplift living standards Because we are inquisitive about things happening around us

What are the Components of a Research Project? Rationale Objectives Project description Budget

Rationale Underlying reasons or Reasoning or principle that underlies or explains something, or a statement setting out this reasoning or principle

Objectives A goal or aim or Expected end result

Project description Duration (short-term, medium term, Long-term) Methods Materials Activity plan Analyses of data How to report the results

Methods Practical Laboratory Field Theoretical Using published or written information Using IT facilities

Materials Equipment Major Minor Consumables Glassware Chemicals Stationary etc.

Activity Plan

Analyses of Data Using statistical methods Computer programmes etc.

How to report results? Tables Graphs Flow charts Photographs Text Film etc.

Budget Equipment Consumables Salaries & Personnel allowances Travelling & subsistence Stationary Unforeseen – 5-10% of the total cost for above items

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