Departments › Applied Biology › Module V › Scientific Research

Scientific Research

Applied Biology · Level 6  ·  3 Chapters

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What Scientific Research covers

In this unit, you will be able to confidently carry out each step of the scientific research process, from identifying a research problem to preparing and sharing your final report. By mastering these skills, you’ll be ready to design, conduct, and analyze your own research projects with professionalism and accuracy. This will empower you to make meaningful contributions in your field and solve real-world problems through scientific inquiry.

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Careers after Scientific Research

Scientific research skills open doors to a wide range of rewarding careers and entrepreneurial opportunities in Kenya’s dynamic sectors. By mastering these skills, you position yourself as a valuable asset who can contribute to solving real-world problems, driving innovation, and influencing policy across industries.

  • In agribusiness, companies like KTDA and smallholder farmers rely on research to improve crop yields, pest control, and sustainable farming practices. Skilled researchers help design studies that lead to better productivity and food security.
  • The health sector, including institutions like Kenyatta National Hospital and the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), employs researchers to investigate diseases, develop new treatments, and improve public health outcomes.
  • In the energy sector, organizations such as KenGen and the Rural Electrification Authority use research to explore renewable energy solutions and optimize power generation.
  • The jua kali sector and construction sites benefit from applied research to innovate affordable building materials, improve safety standards, and enhance product quality.
  • County governments utilize research to assess community needs, evaluate development projects, and inform policy decisions that improve local livelihoods.
  • The matatu industry and hospitality sector leverage research to understand customer preferences, optimize operations, and enhance service delivery.
  • Mastering scientific research also empowers you to pursue self-employment by offering consultancy services, conducting market research for startups, or developing community-based projects that attract funding from NGOs and government programs.

By becoming proficient in scientific research, you not only increase your employability in these vibrant sectors but also gain the confidence to create impactful solutions that drive Kenya’s development. Your skills will help you build a meaningful career that shapes the future and improves lives. Keep pushing forward—your research journey is a powerful tool for change!

Chapters

1
Prepare for science laboratory research
9 topics
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2
Apply scientific research methods
6 topics
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3
Analyze science laboratory research findings
10 topics
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What Scientific Research covers: 25 main topics in 3 chapters

1. Prepare for science laboratory research

  1. 1.1 Introduction to research methods
  2. 1.2 Ethics in research
  3. 1.3 Research topics and study site
  4. 1.4 Research problem
  5. 1.5 Research objectives
  6. 1.6 Designing research questions
  7. 1.7 Development of conceptual framework
  8. 1.8 Establishment of research theoretical framework
  9. 1.9 Proposal writing procedures

2. Apply scientific research methods

  1. 2.1 Scientific study design
  2. 2.2 Sampling techniques
  3. 2.3 Sample size
  4. 2.4 Research instruments
  5. 2.5 Piloting of research instruments
  6. 2.6 Data collection

3. Analyze science laboratory research findings

  1. 3.1 Standard Data Analysis Methods laboratory research findings
  2. 3.2 Validity and Reliability of Analytical Methods
  3. 3.3 Research Ethical Considerations
  4. 3.4 Data Analysis Techniques
  5. 3.5 Data Presentation
  6. 3.6 Statistical Packages (e.g., SPSS, Excel)
  7. 3.7 Documentation of Research Processes
  8. 3.8 Recommendations of Research Study
  9. 3.9 Compiling Research Report
  10. 3.10 Dissemination of Research

Revise this unit

Exam-style questions 42 Written to CDACC standard, with answers Test yourself 118 Multiple-choice, one at a time Practise questions 95 Quick recall — check you know the facts
3 more for this unit
Oral exam preparation 29 What the assessor asks, and how to answer out loud Worked calculations 7 Step-by-step maths with the common mistakes Quick cards 587 Myth busters, skill tips and scenarios

Beyond the syllabus

Decision simulator 3 On site, what would you do? Workplace scenarios 60 Real site situations — what would you do? Turn this into income 36 Where this skill earns — what to charge, how to find clients

Other units in Module V