Summary
Highlights
Dr. Padama introduces the topic of research instruments for quantitative and qualitative research, highlighting the importance of selecting instruments aligned with the research method. A research instrument is defined as a tool used to collect and gather data relevant to the study.
A good research instrument should be validated and reliable. Validation determines the relevance and appropriateness of the content to the research, often done by experts. Reliability refers to the consistency of the instrument's output or results across different uses.
There are three general classifications: standardized instruments, researcher-made instruments, and modified standardized instruments. Standardized instruments have been previously used and validated, requiring permission from the owner to use. Researcher-made instruments are created by the researcher and require validation. Modified standardized instruments are adapted from existing ones, requiring permission and subsequent validation after modifications.
Qualitative research gathers narrative data. Instruments include observation (narrating observed events), interviews (individual questioning, face-to-face or online), focus group discussions (group interviews), and document/artifact analysis (gathering data from printed materials or objects).
Quantitative research focuses on measurable numeric values. Common instruments are survey questionnaires (using tables and scales for measurable responses), checklists (simpler forms for ranking or ordering with direct options), and tests (used in experimental research, like pre-tests and post-tests, to measure learning gains).
The discussion concludes by reiterating the importance of understanding these research instruments for effective research paper writing and provides a call to action for viewers to subscribe and like the video for more content.