IRM1501
OCTOBER/NOVEMB
ER PORTFOLIO
(COMPLETE
ANSWERS) Semester 2
2024 - DUE 10 October
2024
, IRM1501 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER PORTFOLIO
(COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 2 2024 - DUE 10
October 2024
QUESTION 1 Discuss empirical research and its components
and provide examples where necessary. (15 marks)
Empirical research is a type of research that relies on real-world data and observable
phenomena. It involves systematically gathering and analyzing information through direct or
indirect observation and experiences rather than relying on theories or logic alone. Empirical
research is commonly used in the natural and social sciences to test hypotheses and answer
specific questions based on measurable evidence.
Components of Empirical Research
1. Research Question/Problem Statement
Empirical research begins with a clear, focused research question or problem statement.
This outlines what the study intends to investigate, why it is significant, and what the
expected outcomes might be.
o Example: In psychology, a research question could be, "Does sleep deprivation
affect cognitive performance in adults?"
2. Literature Review
Before conducting empirical research, a literature review is performed to examine
existing studies related to the topic. This helps in identifying gaps in knowledge, refining
the research question, and ensuring that the study is built upon previous research.
o Example: For a study on sleep deprivation, researchers might review previous
studies on sleep cycles, cognitive abilities, and related psychological effects.
3. Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction about the relationship between
variables. It serves as the foundation for empirical research, guiding the direction of the
study and determining what data needs to be collected.
o Example: A hypothesis might state, "Adults who are sleep-deprived for 24 hours
will perform worse on cognitive tasks compared to those who are well-rested."
4. Methodology
Methodology refers to the design and approach used to collect and analyze data. It
includes:
o Participants/Sample: The group of individuals or items that the research will
study.
o Data Collection Methods: Can include experiments, surveys, observations,
interviews, etc.
o Instruments/Tools: The tools used to measure or record observations (e.g.,
questionnaires, tests, measuring devices).
o Example: A researcher may select 50 adult participants, half of whom are sleep-
deprived and half who have had a full night of sleep. They may administer
cognitive tests to both groups and record their performance.
OCTOBER/NOVEMB
ER PORTFOLIO
(COMPLETE
ANSWERS) Semester 2
2024 - DUE 10 October
2024
, IRM1501 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER PORTFOLIO
(COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 2 2024 - DUE 10
October 2024
QUESTION 1 Discuss empirical research and its components
and provide examples where necessary. (15 marks)
Empirical research is a type of research that relies on real-world data and observable
phenomena. It involves systematically gathering and analyzing information through direct or
indirect observation and experiences rather than relying on theories or logic alone. Empirical
research is commonly used in the natural and social sciences to test hypotheses and answer
specific questions based on measurable evidence.
Components of Empirical Research
1. Research Question/Problem Statement
Empirical research begins with a clear, focused research question or problem statement.
This outlines what the study intends to investigate, why it is significant, and what the
expected outcomes might be.
o Example: In psychology, a research question could be, "Does sleep deprivation
affect cognitive performance in adults?"
2. Literature Review
Before conducting empirical research, a literature review is performed to examine
existing studies related to the topic. This helps in identifying gaps in knowledge, refining
the research question, and ensuring that the study is built upon previous research.
o Example: For a study on sleep deprivation, researchers might review previous
studies on sleep cycles, cognitive abilities, and related psychological effects.
3. Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction about the relationship between
variables. It serves as the foundation for empirical research, guiding the direction of the
study and determining what data needs to be collected.
o Example: A hypothesis might state, "Adults who are sleep-deprived for 24 hours
will perform worse on cognitive tasks compared to those who are well-rested."
4. Methodology
Methodology refers to the design and approach used to collect and analyze data. It
includes:
o Participants/Sample: The group of individuals or items that the research will
study.
o Data Collection Methods: Can include experiments, surveys, observations,
interviews, etc.
o Instruments/Tools: The tools used to measure or record observations (e.g.,
questionnaires, tests, measuring devices).
o Example: A researcher may select 50 adult participants, half of whom are sleep-
deprived and half who have had a full night of sleep. They may administer
cognitive tests to both groups and record their performance.
