LRM 715/EDM716:  Research Methodology –     3 Units

Course Purpose:

The focus of this course is to explore key approaches in research, fundamental research ideas, and the correlation between theories, hypotheses, and scientific methods of investigation. It also covers the various stages of the research process, including identifying the problem, developing hypotheses, creating a research design and measurement plan, collecting and analyzing data (both quantitative and qualitative), and making generalizations. Additionally, it will delve into essential components of a strong research proposal such as conducting a literature review, selecting appropriate research designs, defining the target population and sampling methods, determining data collection procedures, and composing a thesis. The course will also address methods for evaluating potential threats to the internal and external validity of studies.This course aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively conduct research on topics related to leadership and management.

Expected Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

i) Comprehend and apply education research techniques including research design,

data analysis, and interpretation.

ii) Create testable hypotheses that can be validated through research.

iii) Differentiate between research design and measurement design.

iv) Plan and execute quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods studies using various techniques.

v) Adhere to ethical guidelines when collecting, storing, and utilizing data from human participants.

vi) Evaluate the validity of research conclusions and their applicability.

Course Content

The course examines major paradigms in research, research concepts, and the relationship

between theory, hypotheses and scientific methods of enquiry, the steps in the research process,

including statement of the problem, formulation of hypotheses, research design, measurement

design, data collection, quantitative and qualitative data analysis and generalization. To be

discussed are components of a good proposal, literature review, research designs, target

population, samples and sampling strategies, data collection procedures and finally, writing

of the thesis. Also to be discussed are ways of assessing threats to the internal and external

validity of the studies.

Mode of delivery

Lecture, group discussions, class presentation, reflection exercises and library research.

Instructional Materials

Online tools such as Zoom, Google class and voice recording.

Course Assessment

Continuous Assessment Tests     – 30%

End of Semester Examination     – 70%

Total                                        – 100%

Core Texts

1. Creswell, J.W. & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative,

and Mixed Methods Approach. Sage Publishing Inc.

2. Merriam S. B. & Tisdell E. J. (2016). Qualitative Research: A Guide to Design and

Implementation. Jossey Bass Publishing.

3. Lodico, M.G. (2006). Methods in Educational Research: From Theory to Practice.

Jossey-Bass Pub.

4. Ogula, P. A. (1998). Handbook on Educational Research, Nairobi: New Kermit

Publishers.

5. Patton, M. Q. (2015). Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods. (4 th Edition) Sage