1. How to Design a Research Project?

2. 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

3. 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

4. What are the Components of a Research Project? • Rationale • Objectives • Project description • Budget

5. Rationale • Underlying reasons or • Reasoning or principle that underlies or explains something, or • a statement setting out this reasoning or principle

6. Objectives • A goal or aim or • Expected end result

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

8. Methods • Practical • Laboratory • Field • Theoretical • Using published or written information • Using IT facilities

9. Materials • Equipment • Major • Minor • Consumables • Glassware • Chemicals • Stationary etc.

10. Activity Plan

11. Analyses of Data • Using statistical methods • Computer programmes etc.

12. How to report results? • Tables • Graphs • Flow charts • Photographs • Text • Film etc.

13. Budget • Equipment • Consumables • Salaries & Personnel allowances • Travelling & subsistence • Stationary • Unforeseen – 5-10% of the total cost for above items

14. Thank you