Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Lecture-1( 02/11/08)
Research:
Find out new information based on previous information is research. It would be new information about
science or literature. Information may be positive or negative.
Research is the search or find out new information based on previous information.
Research is a scientific and systematic search for pertinent information on a specific topic.
Research is a careful investigation or inquiry especially through search for new facts in any
branch of knowledge.
Research comprises defining and redefining problems, formulating hypothesis or suggested
solutions: collecting, organizing and evaluating data; making deductions and reaching
conclusions; and last carefully testing the conclusions to determine whether they fit the
formulating hypothesis.
New information must be collected in a research work.
Research may be positive or negative. It would be new information of Literature, Science,
History, socioeconomic condition etc.
- For example: starch or some other components are found in rice, find out livelihood pattern of a
particular family or environment.
(II)
- For example: If we use fertilizer in agricultural field, we can grow more rice. We can control fire by
using CO2, if we use any sort of chemical with CO2 it would be more applicable.
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
(II)
Factors affecting the data collection method: Data collection method may depend on:
Title
Problem and Time period.
Types of data collection based on aim and study: There are mainly two types of data:
1) Primary data collection:
The primary data are those which are collected afresh and for the first time, and thus happen to
be original in character. Which data are not collected by anyone earlier.
2) Secondary data collection:
The secondary data are those which have already been collected by someone else and which
have already been passed through the statistical process.
The secondary data are those which already have been published earlier in Journal or Paper or
Thesis or Books or Report , newspaper etc i.e. any form of publication.
- Type of data collection will depend on aim / title.
Types of research based on data collection technique:
Research can be divided into two categories based on data collection technique:
(I)
(II)
Primary research:
Primary research is done by based on primary data and secondary data.
Review research or Secondary research:
Review research or Secondary research only can be done by the use of
secondary data.
Data: Data is information which gathered in different ways and which will give us new information.
Questions :
Lecture-2: (03/11/08)
Types of Secondary data: Secondary data are mainly two categories:
(I)
Observatory data:
The data which is gathered or collected by different or any kind of
observation is known as Observatory data.
There is no exact information.
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
For giving the qualitative data we need this kind of data. Example: Buying
(II)
Burro of Statistics.
Journals
Books
Library
Internet
Website hosting
News papers
Annual reports
Meteorological department
Geological department
Department of Environment (DOE)
Department of water resource planning and management
Department of forestry
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Agricultural department
Department of Human resource development
Department of Public Health
Department of Housing and Sanitation
Local Government Officials
Non Government Organizations (NGOs)
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
i)
Field data- area based data. This kind of data is mainly needed in social study. Agriculture
and forest research are done based on field data.
ii)
Laboratory data- remarkable area or restricted area data. Biochemical analysis, tissue
culture analysis are done based on laboratory data.
Laboratory data may be two typesa) Internal laboratory data- calculation of COD, BOD.
b) Field laboratory data- measuring of co2. It has both observatory and experimental data.
Types of Primary data:
Primary data are mainly four categories:
(I)
Observatory data
(II)
Experimental data
(a) Primary experimental data
o Field experiment
o Laboratory experiment
Field laboratory
Example: Agricultural research.
Internal laboratory
Example: Biochemical research.
(III)
(IV)
Photograph / Map:
- is a source of data.
-Supporting data of above observatory and experimental data.
Research is dependent on time period.
1) Under supervised research (For academic purpose all researcher should need a guide)
2) Independent research
As we are the students of environmental science we should aware about this i.e. considers all sorts of
factor. If we have neglect any factor then we will not get a good result and that will be invalid for the
betterment of our natural environment.
PRA (Participatory rural appraisal)
-group discussion
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Our country is an over populated one; on the other hand our natural resources are limited. For our own
need we over exploited these natural resources. Thus the environmental conditions are degrading day by
day. So we need to protect as well as conserve this natural resources. For this reason research is very
important.
Research is important in environmental science for the following reason:
Several scientific disciplines like biochemistry, physics, mathematics, biotechnology,
chemistry, botany, toxicology, remote sensing and engineering have an inter-face with
environmental science. i.e. Environmental science is a multidisciplinary subject and all
problems that are arising are related to this, so environmental science is research based.
Environmental science is primarily concerned with how humanity affects and in turn is
affected by other living organisms and the non-living physical environment.
Students get an exposure to varied subjects such as biodiversity, microbiology, pollution
control methods, disaster management, environment impact studies and conservation of
natural resources.
Environmental science students can research on pollution control, public health, irrigation
and agriculture, chemical industries, Industrial Toxicology, Environment Protection and
Training.
Environmental Science has become an important part of urban planning including the
construction of houses, sanitation, water management and waste disposal.
Any course of development today requires the guidance of an environmental specialist who is
basically expert in research work.
For solving or minimizing any kind of problem we need research.
Livelihood pattern are decreasing today because of increasing population. For improving the
livelihood pattern and social environment we need research. Both of this two are related to
environment.
If we can make a good social environment, we would be able to make a good natural
environment also. Good social environment is also dependent on the natural resources like
forestry, fisheries, biodiversity etc. which all are related with environment.
For sustainable use of natural resources research is very much important.
To make a good environment we do research because research provides good idea to manage
natural resource in step by step.
Research provides some methodology to collect the data.
Social conflict, political environment, educational condition, health condition, natural
resources etc. are related to each other in the environment. so For improving our
environmental condition we should do research.
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
If we would be able to confirm people about food, cloths, residence, recreation etc. then
political environment will also be good. We can also be able to use our natural resources in a
sustainable way.
Questions :
Discuss the relationship between research methodology and environmental science ?
Discuss the relationship between research methodology and environmental science ?
lecture-3:(16/11/08)
Primary data:
-Impact of market prize on the family.
-Impact of salinity on the child health.
-Impact of water decreasing of Padma river.
-Impact of fish scarcity on the people.
Example of some experimental field of research:
Increasing the Market price of rice and its impact on livelihood pattern or Environment.
Environmental impact of salinity in livelihood pattern.
Impact of decreasing water flow during dry season in Padma floodplain.
Impact of Cyclone in chorlands.
Impact of fish scarcity in livelihood pattern of fisherman in coastal area.
Interview
2)
Questionnaire survey
3)
Case study
4)
5)
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
1) Interview:
- Short period of time, personally / indirectly by telephone.
- Method varies from person to person. It depends on our aim and objective.
- Based on some selective question. Ask a particular person about a particular subject.
- It gives us rational information.
- We get both positive and negative data.
- We should be a trained person and also have the idea about the locality.
- Interview language also considers.
(a) Personal interviews:
o Personal interview method requires a person known as the interviewer asking
o
o
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
It is more flexible,
It is faster than other methods.
It is cheaper than personal interviewing method.
Recall is easy, simple and economical.
There is higher rate of response.
Interviewer can explain requirements more easily.
No field stuff is required.
Representative and wider distribution of sample is possible.
Demerits:
The person should be a trained one
We would not be able to collect more data at a time.
The dignity of the interviewer should be knows.
Exact data cannot found. Gather of more data is not possible.
It is based on some selective question.
Time consuming
Expensive one
Have to spend more money and time.
Question:
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Discuss the data collection by interview method. Answer: Merits and demerits.
Discuss the different methods of primary data collection ?
lecture-4:(17/11/08)
2) Questionnaire survey:
This method of data collection is quite popular, particularly in case of big enquiries. It is being adopted by
private individuals, research workers, private and public organizations and even by governments.
- By developing some question based on our objective step by step.
In this method a questionnaire is sent to the persons concerned with a request to answer the questions and
return the questionnaire. A questionnaire consist of number of questions printed or typed in a definite
order on a form or set of forms. The respondents have to answer the questions on their own.
The following type of questions should generally be avoided as opening questions in a questionnaire:
Questions that put too great strain on the memory or intellect of the
respondent
Question of a personal character
Question related to personal wealth, etc.
- We can collect data from large area at a very short time.
- Here we can also collect the answer of the supplying question by post method.
- When we supply question into more people, we can get more significant data.
- We can get more than 80% significant data by this method.
- Manipulation is very poor here.
- Possibility of getting correct information here more.
Advantages of questionnaire survey method:
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
3) Case study:
The case study is a very popular form of qualitative analysis and involves a careful and complete
observation of a social unit, be that unit a person, a family, an institution, a cultural group or even
the entire community.
The case study places more emphasis on the full analysis of a limited number of events or
conditions and their interrelations.
This method is done particularly on affected person, family of the study area.
If we study on total life pattern of any family round the year or twelve month is case study.
Case study is essentially an intensive investigation of the particular unit under consideration.
The objective of the case study method is to locate the factors that account for the behaviorpatterns of the given unit as an integrated totality.
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Case study method has proved beneficial in determining the nature of units to be studied along
with the nature of the universe.
This method makes possible the study of social changes.
Case study method enhances the experience of the researcher and this in turn increases his
analyzing ability and skill.
Limitations of the case study method:
lecture-5:(23/11/08)
4. PRA (Participatory Rural Appraisal):
-
common information.
To get all informations from a particular area PRA can be used. As for example- Collect the
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Advantages:
-
We can get real data. It is more applicable than questionnaire survey method.
All points which we are wanted to highlights can be found in addition to this we can get more
additional information through discussion.
Limitations:
It is more expensive for this it is not applicable for student to apply these methods.
Time consuming.
- Spend money.
- Students can choice a family in PRA. Here possibility of getting real information is less.
Social conflict is a problem.
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
resource.
Advantages:
It is the best way to find out problem.
To compare all the data of an area FGD is done.
Limitations:
It is expensive.
It is very much tuff.
Here emphasis on a particular group is given.
Monitory problem and Contradiction or conflict.
Another type of data collection method is spot interview. It is good for manipulation and development of
a problem. In spot interview method information of a spot is gathered. This type of study is applicable for
non stationary sources of pollution like air pollution. This type of study can be also done when time is
very much insufficient for a research.
Questions :
What is FGD and PRA ?
Discuss the advantages and limitations of FGD and PRA.
lecture-7:(12/01/09)
Data analysis:
Correlation two types-
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
1. Simple correlation or regression- between two parameters. The relation between X and
Y is simple correlation. Simple relation may be positively (+) significant or may be
negatively (-) significant.
2. Multiple correlations- more than two parameters The relation between X with X1, Y1,
Z1 is multiple correlations.
X
Y
Z
X1
Y1
Z1
Both relations may be or may not be significant relation and may be positive or may be negative relation.
Equation:
r=
............................................................... (I)
Where,
By using calculator (SD mode), correlation result can be calculated.
We always make the relation with rows to rows data.
r value will be always less than 1 ( r<1 ).
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
The relation is significant or non significant can be analyzed by T-test. It is the initiative of any
program.
ANOVA:
The full meaning of ANOVA is Analysis of Variance. By ANOVA table we can show the multiple
variance relationship between different variables. PH and CO2 show negative relationship. If any
water body contains CO2 then CO3 will not present. So there will be a negative relationship. P H
and CO3- alkalinity show positive relation.
Anoxia:
Total absent of O2 in a water body is called anoxia. BOD will be high in this water body. So the
relation will be a negative one.
Some other example:
If Ca increases in a water body then total hardness will be increase. So the relation will be
a positive one.
There is a positive relation between DO and transparency.
There is a negative relation between TSS and TDS.
Mean data, X = X/ N
Standard deviation, SD = (X1- X) 2/ n. If data variation is high then it will be high.
lecture-8:(18/01/09)
Spot analysis: Spot will become a column heading. Parameters will be co-related with spot
headings. After a basic primary table we have to draw a secondary table which will show the
relation between different parameters.
Secondary table will base on primary data which will show the relationship. For paper
publication comparative table is needed. In thesis paper both basic table and comparative table is
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
needed. There is also needed statistical table. Table should always present in result and
discussion.
Difference between observation and result:
Result
Observation
It is a mathematical process
It is an observation process
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
X axis showing the name of parameter and Y axis showing the time frame.
Graph are various types:
i) Bar graph:
Presentation of data in a bar or pillar mode is called bar graph. In a bar graph we can show more
than two parameters at a time.
Parameters
Legend
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Column graph
Area graph
Stock graph
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Doughnut graph
Bobble graph
Radar graph
XY (Scatter)
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
The parameters which can be showed in a similar graph depends on the results of the
parameters.
Graphical scaling is so important for representation of exact data.
lecture-9:(19/01/09)
Report:
Report may be different types. Such as1. Project report
2. project thesis
3. Thesis for M. Phil/M.S./PhD
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Project report:
Project report may be different kinds. This are1. Small project report- time limitation is < 1 years
2. 5 years project report- time limitation is 1-5 years
3. Long time project report( > 5 yrs )
four types of report. This are1. Primary report- based on primary survey
2. Intermittent or interim report- after 3or 4 months report based on project proposal.
3. Draft report- before final report we have to submit these report.
4. Final report- the final presentation of a report.
SEMP- Sustainable Environmental Management Program.
Project report is a development research.
Project thesis:
It is one kind of Academic research which is done in under graduate level for the fulfillment of the
degree. Time period is less than 1 years.
Types of project thesis:
I.
Undergraduate thesis.
II.
MSc thesis
III.
PHD thesis
The designated part of a project thesis:
A project thesis must have the following designated parts1. Introduction
2. Materials and Methods
3. Observation and results
4. Discussion
5. References
1. Introduction:
Introduction should include the following things
Background or rationale of the study
Aims and objectives
Review of literature
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
1) Original reference
2) Not seen in original paper
Reference should be written in the following way:
Rahman, A. M. 1998. Impact of Environmental changes on the topdying of Sundary. Journal of
Environmental Science 16(2): 67-72.
-Writer name-Year of publication-Title-Journal name-page number.
-For example: Rahman, A. M. 1998. Impact of Environmental Changes on the Sundari tree. Journal of
Biological Science16 (2): 62-71.
-If more writer then in the following way:
Rahman. M. A, A. K. M Islam, M. Rahim and A. Z. M. Firoj.
Contents:
- List of map
- List of table
- List of figure/photograph
- List of abbreviation
Abstract:
Include following four things:
1) Title
2) Time period
3) Basic findings/Result
4) Basic conclusion
Academic research:
- Academic research is necessary for acquiring particular degree.
- Workshop, seminar, symposium, not necessary in academic research.
Format of a Academic Report:
Title
Dedication
Declaration
Certificate
Acknowledgement
Contents
List of Tables
List of Figures
List of Maps
List of Abbreviation
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Abstract
Title
Time period
Basic findings
Basic conclusion.
NGO project thesis:
Various parts of a NGO project thesis:
Introduction
Materials and Methods
Findings
Summary
Conclusion
Recommendation
References
Project report should give the:
Financial report
Establishment report
Time period
Experts
After completing workshop and submitting Inception report with modification and correction
of the research proposal, final report will made and then have to start the research or study.
Scientific paper report:
Parts of a scientific paper report:
Title
Authors name
Abstract
Title
Time period
Basic findings
Conclusion
Keywords
Introduction
In methodology references must be used such as APHA, 1998. If there is more than two
researcher is present than we have to use et al.
Result and observation: There should be no references. Only findings can be mentioned.
Questions :
Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Discuss the procedure of necessary components for preparing Academic research report or thesis.
lecture-10:(25/01/09)
Developmental research:
- This is held by NGO or Governmental organization.
- Introduction
- Materials and methods
- Findings of this thesis
- Summary
- Conclusion
- Recommendation
- In recommendation some suggestions and brief project finding are included which should follow for
solving the problem.
- Literature review is not necessary here.
- Points are included in results and discussion chapter.
- Photographs and activity chart are included in material and methods or findings.
- Emphasis on graphical representation.
- Preamble is necessary before starting every chapter in developmental research.
- They explain only the activities which are done within the given time.
- TOR refers Terms of References.
- Developmental Project report give the financial and establishment report.
- At first establishment report are necessary after introduction and it includes number of people engaged,
time duration, purpose of the result etc.
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
- At last financial cost and it includes travel expenses, printing cost, binding cost and paper cost and other
expenditure.
- Symposium, seminar and workshop are necessary for developmental research and on the basis of these
final reports are made.
- Project proposal by an organization or donor agency is also necessary.
- Organization or donor agency would give the budget step by step according to their quaternary activities
and would visit the project at any time also.
- For large money project especially greater than 20 lakh taka project researcher should arrange a work
shop before going to the field survey of the research. This is called inception work shop. Here researcher
submits his proposal, methods and methodology.
-Physeability study or base line survey should complete before this workshop.
Academic research
presentation
It should include the following topics-Introduction,
Discussion, References
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
necessary
Preamble are not necessary
Financial report:
Financial report should include the following things Travel cost
Primary cost
Different expenditure cost such as printing cost
Procedure of presenting a project report:
Budget presentation
Inception report
Final report
Budget can be changed before inception report. After inception report no change is made.
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
5) Introduction (Problem i.e. why we choose this tropic, similar study mention, importance of the
chosen topic)..
latitude, sampling procedure, collection of data, references for methods, for instrument
model no. country name are include)
7) Result and discussion (At first result and include table no. figure no. and references. Last Para
draw a conclusion)
8) Acknowledgement (Not all time necessary, if we take any help from any organization).
9) References
Question:
Research Methodology
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Research Methodology
Muhammad Mahadi
Environmental Science Discipline
Khulna University.
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