Research Orientation
Research Methods
In scientific research today, there are two main methods of conducting scientific research: quantitative and qualitative. Within both methods, there are numerous approaches. The research questions formulated in the early phase of research often dictate the method and approach that is required to answer such questions. Research is a skill developed through extensive practice and guidance.
Due to the unique features, nature, and limitations of each approach, researchers have debated as to which one is more appropriate in yielding the most reliable scientific results. Consequently, some researchers feel it necessary to combine the two methods throughout their research, an approach which is known as mixed methods research. In the field of education, all three methods are used. The video below summarizes some fundamental (but certainly not all) characteristics of each method.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8UFS5PE_Mw
Bias in Research
Bias in research can lead to false conclusions or observational misconceptions. Objectivity or binding in research refers to using specific mechanisms, tools or methods to eliminate individual bias or potentially influential personal associations that the researcher may have with the research and its participants. Bias may still occur in research even if it seems unlikely because it is difficult for researchers to know all the details of a given situation and the nature of all the variables involved.
Ethics in Research
Ethics in research are the fundamental guidelines to protect research participants and to guarantee responsible research practices. Ethics are an important part in the research process for researchers, institutions, communities, and other persons involved. A violation of ethics may not only tarnish the credibility of published research but may also seriously damage the reputation of the researcher and the institution of the researcher while risking great harm to any research participants.
Although many researchers in the 21st century have to exercise great caution in adhering to ethical standards while conducting research, it was not until after World War II that ethical consideration in science and research truly became an important issue. Two notable examples that highlighted the need for ethical standards in science and research include the human medical experiments found in concentration camps in Germany and the Manhattan Project in the United States. Following the Nuremburg trials in 1947, the Nuremburg Code was established and included ten ethical principles for research and human research participants.
Today, research ethics include procedural and situational dimensions which may be established locally, regionally, or internationally. Researchers of today need to be aware that certain transnational research projects often involve multiple ethical guidelines which must be followed.
Plagiarism in Research
Plagiarism occurs when a researcher uses the works of another author but fails to give credit. Sometimes, plagiarism can even be unintentional, which is why you should always check your work with your course instructor or research supervisor. Plagiarized work may result in the rejection of a publication, or the loss of certain credentials, a job, and even study rights. As described in the above section Ethics and Research, both student researchers and professionals need to be prudent in following the necessary guidelines at the university as well as the guidelines of any other institution or organization involved in the research. Read more about academic fraud and plagiarism at the university here. You can also quiz yourself on plagiarism here.
Useful links
Research ethics at the University of Jyväskylä can be found here.
The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity can be found here.
