Reflection

Darvesh Karim

Assistant Instructor

Professional Development Center, North

University Road, Konodass, Gilgit.

Ph. No: (+92) 05811-454132-4 Ext: 3017

Fax No: (+92) 05811-454135

Cell No: (+92) 03465419307

Email (Official): darveshkarim@pdcn.edu.pk

Email (Private): dk_hunzai@yahoo.com, darvesh.karim@gmail.com

Online Blogs: www.dkhunza.blogspot.com; www.scribd.com/dk_hunzai

The Research Method course is where I gained an immense amount of knowledge and skills (absolutely new for me) about the quantitative research method and its proper usage. It provided me with an understanding of topics such as what is quantitative research, variables & measurement scales, research hypothesis (null hypothesis, alternative hypothesis), samples and sampling procedures, using SPSS and defining variables, types of quantitative research (Experimental Design & Survey Design), research questions, data analysis by using different methods in SPSS. It was of-course an introduction to the initial steps of Research Method II.

During the course I really enjoyed two major assignments i.e. Article summary and writing a field study report, because in article summary the pair work was an excellent experience to share two different ideas and concluding on third one by amalgamating those two into one, while for the field study report I got an excellent chance to practically administer a questionnaire in a natural setting. These were different approaches to have a grip on the basics of quantitative research. Each one of these approaches encompassing its own unique philosophy and learning theory. However, I discovered that before going to the practical field for study there must be a strong assessment and measurement system in place to ensure less challenges and issues on the ground. These assessment and measurement system help as a guide and make evident if we are going to the right direction or not.

Classroom short tests (quiz) were the exactly the effective testing tools to measure individuals’ understanding level not only for the facilitators but to all the CPs as the MCQs were designed covering all the aspects we study.

I understand that in this course all the assignments given to us had a direct correlation to the final project which we expect in our third and last semester as a dissertation. So, it was a reusable learning package that contains introductory information and basic contents of research.

In this course we discussed and analyzed with our facilitator about different methodologies that promote effective dynamics to conduct a research. Our facilitator provided a vast amount of experience in the design, development, and implementation of quantitative research with sharing practical experiences. Once again, the final project that I would be completing, I feel that I will take the learning of this class and will apply directly to my research, which I am intending as my final dissertation.