SEP3707
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: MARCH 2025
, SEP3707
Assignment 2 Semester 1 2025
Unique No.
Due Date: March 2025
Criminal Justice Research Methodology
QUESTION 1: Research and Methodology
Research is the process of systematically investigating a specific topic to discover new
information, verify existing knowledge, or develop new theories. It involves collecting,
analyzing, and interpreting data to answer questions or solve problems.
Methodology refers to the structured approach and techniques used in research. It
includes the methods, tools, and procedures that guide how data is collected and
analyzed. Research is conducted to expand knowledge, improve decision-making, and
address real-world issues in various fields such as science, business, and social
sciences.
QUESTION 2: Techniques for Avoiding Errors in a Literature Review
An inexperienced researcher can apply the following techniques to minimize errors
when writing a literature review:
1. Define a Clear Research Focus – Clearly outline the research topic and
objectives to ensure that the review remains relevant and focused.
2. Use Credible Sources – Rely on academic journals, books, and reputable
sources instead of unreliable or outdated materials.
3. Take Systematic Notes – Keep organized notes with proper citations to avoid
missing important details or misrepresenting information.
, 4. Avoid Plagiarism – Always paraphrase and cite sources correctly to maintain
academic integrity.
5. Synthesize Information – Instead of summarizing each source separately,
compare and contrast different viewpoints to provide a comprehensive analysis.
6. Use a Reference Management Tool – Software like Zotero, Mendeley, or
EndNote can help organize references and citations.
7. Follow a Logical Structure – Arrange the literature review in a clear and
coherent manner, grouping related studies together.
8. Critically Analyze Sources – Evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, and
relevance of different studies rather than simply listing them.
9. Seek Feedback – Asking a mentor, lecturer, or peer to review the literature
review can help identify errors or gaps.
10. Revise and Proofread – Carefully check for grammatical errors, inconsistencies,
and formatting issues before final submission.
QUESTION 3: Research on Home Burglaries in Centurion
3.1 Suitable Research Approach
The most suitable research approach for this study would be a mixed-methods
approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative research.
Quantitative Approach: This would involve collecting statistical data on the
number of housebreaking incidents, types of security measures in place, and
their effectiveness. Surveys and official crime records would be useful.
Qualitative Approach: This would involve gathering residents' perceptions,
experiences, and concerns regarding home burglaries through interviews or
focus groups.
Using a mixed-methods approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the
problem by combining numerical data with personal insights, making it possible to
formulate well-informed security recommendations.
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: MARCH 2025
, SEP3707
Assignment 2 Semester 1 2025
Unique No.
Due Date: March 2025
Criminal Justice Research Methodology
QUESTION 1: Research and Methodology
Research is the process of systematically investigating a specific topic to discover new
information, verify existing knowledge, or develop new theories. It involves collecting,
analyzing, and interpreting data to answer questions or solve problems.
Methodology refers to the structured approach and techniques used in research. It
includes the methods, tools, and procedures that guide how data is collected and
analyzed. Research is conducted to expand knowledge, improve decision-making, and
address real-world issues in various fields such as science, business, and social
sciences.
QUESTION 2: Techniques for Avoiding Errors in a Literature Review
An inexperienced researcher can apply the following techniques to minimize errors
when writing a literature review:
1. Define a Clear Research Focus – Clearly outline the research topic and
objectives to ensure that the review remains relevant and focused.
2. Use Credible Sources – Rely on academic journals, books, and reputable
sources instead of unreliable or outdated materials.
3. Take Systematic Notes – Keep organized notes with proper citations to avoid
missing important details or misrepresenting information.
, 4. Avoid Plagiarism – Always paraphrase and cite sources correctly to maintain
academic integrity.
5. Synthesize Information – Instead of summarizing each source separately,
compare and contrast different viewpoints to provide a comprehensive analysis.
6. Use a Reference Management Tool – Software like Zotero, Mendeley, or
EndNote can help organize references and citations.
7. Follow a Logical Structure – Arrange the literature review in a clear and
coherent manner, grouping related studies together.
8. Critically Analyze Sources – Evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, and
relevance of different studies rather than simply listing them.
9. Seek Feedback – Asking a mentor, lecturer, or peer to review the literature
review can help identify errors or gaps.
10. Revise and Proofread – Carefully check for grammatical errors, inconsistencies,
and formatting issues before final submission.
QUESTION 3: Research on Home Burglaries in Centurion
3.1 Suitable Research Approach
The most suitable research approach for this study would be a mixed-methods
approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative research.
Quantitative Approach: This would involve collecting statistical data on the
number of housebreaking incidents, types of security measures in place, and
their effectiveness. Surveys and official crime records would be useful.
Qualitative Approach: This would involve gathering residents' perceptions,
experiences, and concerns regarding home burglaries through interviews or
focus groups.
Using a mixed-methods approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the
problem by combining numerical data with personal insights, making it possible to
formulate well-informed security recommendations.
