WORKSHOP ON THESIS WRITING FOR

ENGINEERING STUDENTS

By: Roy Christopher Escalante

What is Research?What is Research?

Research has been defined in many ways and from various stand points. On the basis of its structure, the word research or re-search implies that the person has “to search again, to take another look, to find out more”.

It is systematic, controlled, empirical, and critical investigation of natural phenomena guided by theory and hypotheses about the presumed relations among such phenomena. ( Kerlinger,2006)

Inclusive definition of RESEARCHInclusive definition of RESEARCH

Research is a systematic, objective, and comprehensive investigation of certain phenomena, which involves accurate gathering, recording, and critical analyzing and interpreting of all facts about the phenomenon.

Main Purposes of Research

1.Search for a theory

2.Test a theory

3.To solve a problem

Major Types of Research

PURE and THEORETICAL ResearchPURE and THEORETICAL Research it is conducted for the sake of knowing. Its main objective is to test or arrive at theory with the ultimate goal of establishing general principles.

APPLIED and PRACTICAL ResearchAPPLIED and PRACTICAL Research is to be done so as to obtain knowledge for useful ends. The intention is not just to obtain knowledge but to use that knowledge to solve certain difficulties or discomfort, or to improve the prevailing condition which, in its present state, maybe satisfactory but which has still room or possibility for improvements.

Its purpose is to apply, test, and evaluate, the usefulness of a theory or knowledge arrived at in solving problems.

Common Stages of A Thesis WorkCommon Stages of A Thesis Work

Stage 1: The Problem / Theory

The research always starts with a problem felt by people or individuals in a given setting. The problem is actually a gap between “what is” and “what ought to be”.

Stage 2: The Problem Statement

The problem identified in stage 1 is too broad in scope. So the problem statement should be narrowed-down to zero-in on a specific research problem in a specific setting. Thus, from the problem statement , research questions are formulated.

Stage 3: Research Goals and Objectives

Goals and objectives of a thesis report must be so clear. The goals are broader in scope but are translated into specific termsto become the objective of the study. Just remember the acronym

SMART.Specific- the research problem tackles a specific

problem in a specific setting at a specific time.

Measurable – there is a way of measuring the constructs or concepts.

Attainable – there is a possibility of achieving what you intend to do at the start of the research.

Result-oriented – the research should yield results that will be useful to the proponent, the research locale, and society in general.

Time-bounded – the research undertaking should be accomplished within the time frame specified for its completion.

Stage 4: Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

This indicates all constructs or concepts definitions and propositions that relate to the problem. The problem is hinged to a theory or theories. These theories are then operationalized into the context of the study.

Stage 5: Research Questions/Hypothesis

The hypotheses to be tested are formulated based on the research problems.

Stage 6: Data Collection

Using different research tools, the data are collected. Data maybe collected through methods like questionnaires, interview, observation, and documentary analysis.

Stage 7: Data Processing and Analysis

To gather the raw data, the research instruments are

scored, tabulated, computed, and analyzed.

Stage 8: Data Interpretation

Interpretations of data are based on inferences and deductions on documented evidences, supporting or contradicting the findings of the study and on the researcher’s insightful interpretation using implications and synthesis.

Stage 9: Summary and Conclusions

Statement of the major findings which answer each sub-problem and hypothesis is formulated.

Stage 10: Recommendations

What the findings imply or mean and what suggestions can be given to improve the status or conditions being studied are given.

ESSENTIAL SECTIONS OF A THESIS REPORTESSENTIAL SECTIONS OF A THESIS REPORT

FORMAT B:

Chapter 1: The Problem and Its SettingChapter 2: MethodologyChapter 3: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of DataChapter 4: Summary, Conclusion, and RecommendationsBIBLIOGRAPHY

FORMAT A:

Chapter 1: The Problem and Its Setting Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature and Studies Chapter 3: Methodology Chapter 4: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data Chapter 5: Summary, Conclusion, and Recommendations BIBLIOGRAPHY

FORMAT A:

Chapter 1: The Problem and Its SettingChapter 1: The Problem and Its Setting

a. Introductionb. Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworkc. Statement of the Problemd. Significance of the Studye. Scope and Delimitationf. Definition of Terms

Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature and StudiesChapter 2: Review of Related Literature and Studies

a. Related Literature b. Related Studies - Foreign - Local

Chapter 3: MethodologyChapter 3: Methodology

a. Research Methodb. Research Designc. Research Procedure

d. Research Localee. Research Instrumentsf. Respondents of the Study/ Subject of the Studyg. Statistical Treatment

Chapter 4: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of DataChapter 4: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data

Chapter 5: Summary, Conclusions, and RecommendationsChapter 5: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations

a. Summaryb. Conclusionsc. Recommendations

FORMAT B:Chapter 1: The Problem and Its SettingChapter 1: The Problem and Its Setting

a. Introductionb. Theoretical/Conceptual Frameworkc. Statement of the Problemd. Review of Related Literature and Studies e. Significance of the Studyf. Scope and Delimitationg. Definition of Terms

Chapter 2: MethodologyChapter 2: Methodologya. Research Methodb. Research Procedurec. Research Instrumentsd. Respondents of the Studye. Statistical Treatmentf. Procedure in project Experimentationg. Procedure in project Implementationh. Financial Plani. Gantt Chart

Chapter 3: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of DataChapter 3: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data

Chapter 4: Summary, Conclusion, and RecommendationChapter 4: Summary, Conclusion, and Recommendation

a. Summaryb. Conclusionc. Recommendation

Other Important Parts of a Thesis ReportOther Important Parts of a Thesis Report

a. Title Pageb. Approval Sheetc. Abstractd. Acknowledgmente. Dedicationf. Table of Contentsg. Appendix/Schematic Diagramh. Pictorialsi. Curriculum Vitae

CHAPTER 1: The Problem and Its Setting

Chapter 1 should start with an INTRODUCTION - Global - National - Local

The research process begins with a PROBLEM which is “ a perceived difficulty, a feeling of discomfort with the way things are, or a discrepancy between….what should be and what is.”

Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

Theoretical FrameworkTheoretical Framework

Presents the theory/theories in which the study is anchored at. This helps the research reportcredible since it is based on established scientific theories.

Conceptual FrameworkConceptual Framework

This part presents the block diagram and the discussion of each block. It includes the discussion of the relationship of each block from others.

Statement of the Problem

This part of the thesis report defines clearly the objectives and purpose of the study. It must indicate specific questions that need to be answered at the end of the study.

Example:Example:

Statement of the Problem

This research aims to develop a device to control appliances in the homes through a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) mobile phone. This device will be interfaced to a computer system for recording and control purposes. Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following questions.

1. Is there a possibility of controlling any home appliance through a mobile phone?

2. Can the home appliances be automatically activated or deactivated at a preprogrammed time of the day through a computer system?

3. Is it possible to record the events that occur on a particular home appliance at a particular day?

Related Literature and StudiesRelated Literature and Studies

The Webster dictionary defines literature as “all the writings of a particular time, etc., especially those of an imaginative or critical character valued for excellence of form and expression.

Any written material, may it be a book or an article,which meets the required character, form and expression, qualifies to be called literature.

RELATED implies that the literature reviewed are connected to or have bearing or relation to the subject or problem under investigation. In effect, it narrows down the materials to be reviewed.

Significance of the StudySignificance of the Study

Significance of the study is required in theses and dissertations.It is in this section where the researcher expresses his persuasionsabout the value of the study so as to get the approval of the screening and approving committee.Example:

The output of this study will benefit the following sectorsin the academe in particular and the community in general.

Homeowners/CommunityThe output of this project can be installed in every home,

for remote management of their home appliances. It is said, that managing systems in ones home provides him and his family theultimate convenience, safety, security, and peace of mind.

Business SectorThe device will help the business sector to open new

avenues for……

Scope and DelimitationScope and Delimitation

Scope and delimitations is one important section of a thesis. The SCOPE defines the coverage or boundaries of the study in terms of the area or locality and subjects or population covered, the duration or period of the study, and the research issues or concerns to which the investigation is focused.

The DELIMITATIONS are statements which alert the reader of the research report to certain constraints over which the researcher has no control. Such factors or constraints have direct bearings on the result of the study. Stating the limitations provides the reader caution not to expect beyond what the study can and promises to deliver.

Definition of TermsDefinition of Terms

This section of the thesis report facilitates understanding of the problem investigated for here the key concepts are defined according to how thay are used for particular study.

According to Fisher (2003), the definition of terms provides unambiguous meaning to terms that otherwise can be interpreted in different ways.

Two types of definitions1. Conceptual2. Operational

Note: The researcher has the option to use both types or just the operational type.

CHAPTER 2: MethodologyCHAPTER 2: Methodology

Research DesignThis refers to a scheme or plan of action for

meeting the objectives of the study. The appropriateness of a research design then depends largely on which method will help the investigator attain his research objectives.

Example of Research Design

- Exploratory- Experimental- Quasi-Experimental- Descriptive- and Others

Research InstrumentsResearch Instruments

Instruments are tools used in the conduct of the study. This may include the device itself, questionnaire for evaluators, and others which are useful for the study. There are however exploratory research with no research instruments.

Research LocaleResearch Locale

This part of the research report presents the area or location where the study is to be conducted. A brief description of the locale is preferable.

Example:

Research LocaleThe study will be conducted and evaluated at the University of the

Immaculate Conception (UIC). UIC is a pioneering tertiary school in Davao that offers Engineering, Art and Sciences, Business, Religious and Post Graduate Studies. The College of Engineering has three programs namely, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Communications Engineering, and Computer Engineering. It is a PAASCU accredited university which was granted an Autonomous Status by CHED in 2005. The experimentation and implementation of the device will be conducted at the fifth floor Communications Laboratory. The succeeding evaluation of the device will also take place at the abovementioned room.

Procedure of the StudyProcedure of the Study

This part of the thesis report enumerates the necessary steps to be followed in the conduct of the study.

Example:

Research Procedure

The following statements are the steps to be followed in this study.

1. Acquisition of necessary materials and electronic elements to be used in the development of the device.

2. Development of the Electronic Segregator DeviceThis involves the conceptualization, experimentation, implementation, and fabrication of the device.

3. Evaluation of the functional device.

At this stage, qualified evaluators will actually test and evaluate the device according to several criteria.

Procedure in Device ExperimentationProcedure in Device Experimentation

This provides the detailed steps in the experimentation procedure.

Example:

The following steps are to be followed upon experimentation of the device.

1. Using the breadboard, connect the oscillator circuit as shown in the schematic diagram. This circuit will drive the……..

2. After connecting the oscillator circuit, test the output by…..

3. Connect the ……..

Note: It is basically making an experiment procedure

Procedure in the Device ImplementationProcedure in the Device Implementation

This part of the thesis report presents the steps and procedure as guide for the testing and implementation of the device.

Example:

The following steps are to be followed in the implementation stage of the project.

1. Computer System to Mobile Phone CommunicationIn this step, the researcher will interface the device to

the computer.2. Test if the device functions according to its specifications.3. Test if the output recorded on the computer exhibits logical

sequence as it is expected. If not, disconnect the device from the computer and………

Gantt ChartGantt Chart

It is a graphical representation of the duration and progress of tasks against time

It allows the researcher to assess how long a project should take and lays out the order in which tasks need to be carried out. It monitors progress.

July Aug Sept Oct Nov DecProposal Defense

Acquisition of materials

Experimentation

Implementation

Fabrication

Evaluation

Final Defense

Gantt Chart

Statistical TreatmentStatistical Treatment

This presents statistical tools to be used in the study.Commonly used tools are Likert Scaling, Frequency, and Percentage.

Respondents/Evaluators of the StudyRespondents/Evaluators of the StudyThis section describes the possible evaluators of the output,

device, or work.

Example:

Evaluators of the StudyIn the evaluation phase of the study, technical expertise is

essential. The researcher will invite qualified engineers to evaluate the device. It is proposed that ten evaluators will be invited, five computer engineers and five ECE’s. Among the five CoE’s, two are working in the industry while three are from the academe. On the other hand, the two ECE’s will be from telecommunication companies, and three from the academe.

CHAPTER 3: Presentation, Analysis, and CHAPTER 3: Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of DataInterpretation of Data

Chapter 3 of a research report provides the presentation, analysis, and interpretation of the data, work, or project. The method of analysis will depend upon the statistical tool used.

The analysis is the examination of data in terms of characteristics, patterns, trends, and relationship so as to answer questions or to meet the objectives of the study.

After the data have been analyzed, it is the task of the researcher to interpret the results of the analysis. The purpose of the interpretation is to search for the broader meaning of the research findings.

CHAPTER 4: Summary, Conclusion, and CHAPTER 4: Summary, Conclusion, and RecommendationsRecommendations

The final section of a thesis report contains the summary, conclusions, and recommendations.

The summary restates, in as briefly as possible the important parts of the report which are the problem, the procedures and the major findings.

The conclusions are essentially abstractions of the summary of findings into what are the most important in relation to the purpose of the study.

Recommendations are suggestions which are based on the findings of the study. The researcher is free to make any recommendation as long as there is logical connection between his data, objectives, and conclusions.

BIBLIOGRAPHYBIBLIOGRAPHY

This is also a very significant part of a research report. This presents the list of sources used in the study such as books, journals, magazines, publications, tabloids, electronic publications, and others. Most importantly, its presentation must follow correctly the mechanics of bibliography writing.

APA ( American Psychological Association) Style for Bibliography WritingAPA ( American Psychological Association) Style for Bibliography Writing

Books: The entry for a book begins with the last name of the author, followed by a comma and the author’s initials followed by periods. The date of publication follows in parentheses, followed by a period. Only the first word of the book title, the first word of the subtitle, and the proper names within both are capitalized. The entire title is underlined and followed by a period. Facts of publication include the city of publication. The name of the location of publication is followed by a colon and the name of the publisher. The entry ends with a period.

Example:

Alvarez, A. (1970 ). The savage god: A study of suicide.New York: Random House.

Forsyth, A., & Thornhill, R. ( 1983 ). The evolution of insects. Cambridge: Harvard University Press.

Cochran, J.A. ( 1975). Money, banking, and the economy (3rd ed.).New York: Macmillan.

Electronic PublicationElectronic Publication

Author (same as books). “Title of the Article”Website (as much as possible with URL)Year of publicationDate Browsed

Example:

San Diego, Gregorio. “ The Electronic Coder: What Sense Does it Make?” www.gregory.edu.gregor.phJanuary 2000Accessed on June 20, 2006

Periodicals and Journals

Author (same as books). “ Title of Article” Name of Magazine. Volume, Number, Date of Publication.

Example:

Costello, Michael A. “ Look Before You Leap: Some Reflections on Hypotheses Formulation in the

Social Sciences” Social Science Information. Vol. 25, No.2, 1997.

END…..Thank You..