How to Design a Research Project?

Definitions for research:

Methodical investigation into a subject in order to discover facts, to establish or to develop a plan of action based on facts discovered

Attempt to find out information in a systematically and scientific manner

Human activity based on intellectual investigation and is aimed at discovering, interpreting, and revising human knowledge on different aspects of the world. Research can use the scientific method, but need not do so. Diligent and thorough inquiry and investigation into a subject. This includes using all appropriate print and electronic sources, asking the reference librarian for help, and making use of bibliographies given by other authors. The process of discovering new knowledge or of synthesis of existing knowledge into a form useful for a stated purpose

Why do we conduct Research Projects?

To invent new things
To solve a prevailing problem

To support development programmes of a country

To uplift living standards Because we are inquisitive about things happening around us

What are the Components of a Research Project?

Rationale
Objectives Project description Budget

Rationale
Underlying reasons
or

Reasoning or principle that underlies or explains something, or a statement setting out this reasoning or principle

Objectives

A goal or aim or Expected end result

Project description
Duration (short-term, medium term, Long-term) Methods Materials Activity plan Analyses of data How to report the results

Methods
Practical
Laboratory Field

Theoretical
Using published or written information Using IT facilities

Materials
Equipment
Major Minor

Consumables
Glassware Chemicals Stationary etc.

Activity Plan
Activity
1 2
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Month/ week/Days
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
X

1 2 3 4 5 6

Analyses of Data
Using statistical methods Computer programmes etc.

How to report results?

Tables Graphs Flow charts Photographs Text Film etc.

Budget
Equipment Consumables Salaries & Personnel allowances Travelling & subsistence Stationary

Unforeseen 5-10% of the total cost for above items

Thank you