Research Concepts

Applied Statistics · Level 6  ·  7 Chapters

Can I download Research Concepts notes as a PDF?

Yes. The notes download as a PDF too: every chapter has a Download PDF button above its notes. Sign in and click it. Each download comes from your plan's monthly allowance or from credits. To read before you sign in, the first topic of every chapter opens to anyone, and a Profplanet plan opens the remaining topics.

▣

What Research Concepts covers

In this unit, you will be able to confidently design and plan a research project from start to finish, clearly defining your area of interest and crafting precise objectives and questions that guide your work. You will master selecting the right population and sampling methods, and develop effective tools to gather the data you need. By the end, you’ll be equipped to turn complex problems into clear, actionable research plans that make a real impact in your field.

■

Careers after Research Concepts

Understanding and mastering research concepts opens doors to numerous opportunities across Kenya’s vibrant economy. Whether you dream of improving agribusiness yields, enhancing service delivery in county governments, or innovating within the jua kali sector, these skills empower you to gather and analyze information that drives real change.

  • In agribusiness hubs like KTDA or smallholder farms, conducting research helps optimize crop production and improve supply chains, making you valuable as an agronomist, extension officer, or business analyst.
  • County governments rely on research skills to design effective development projects, monitor public health initiatives, and improve infrastructure planning, creating roles for research assistants, planners, and policy advisors.
  • The dynamic matatu industry benefits from research to understand commuter patterns and improve safety measures, offering opportunities for transport planners and data analysts.
  • In the jua kali sector, entrepreneurs use research to identify customer needs and market gaps, enabling them to innovate and grow their businesses sustainably.
  • Large organizations like KenGen use research to assess environmental impact and improve energy efficiency, providing career paths in environmental research and project management.
  • Hospitality businesses in Kenya’s tourism hotspots depend on market research to enhance guest experiences and tailor services, opening doors for marketing researchers and business developers.

By mastering research concepts, you position yourself not just as a job seeker but as a problem solver and innovator who can contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s development. Your skills will help you earn a steady income through employment or empower you to start your own ventures, making a lasting impact in your community and beyond. Keep pushing forward—your future as a skilled researcher and leader starts here!

Chapters

What Research Concepts covers: 21 main topics in 7 chapters

1. Identify research problem

  1. 1.1 Research problem
  2. 1.2 Literature review
  3. 1.3 Research variables

2. Develop research objective/research questions

  1. 2.1 Characteristics of objectives
  2. 2.2 Formulate objectives/hypothesis
  3. 2.3 Develop Research questions Develop sampling statistical procedures

3. Develop sampling statistical procedures

  1. 3.1 Identify target population
  2. 3.2 Sampling design/frame
  3. 3.3 Sampling and sampling techniques
  4. 3.4 Sample size determination

4. Develop data collection tools

  1. 4.1 Data types

5. Develop data analysis framework

  1. 5.1 Code book development
  2. 5.2 Data analysis tools
  3. 5.3 Description of statistical methods/models

6. Develop research budget proposal & Time plan

  1. 6.1 Research activities
  2. 6.2 Budget and Costing Development
  3. 6.3 Budget proposal Prepare Pilot data collection tools

7. Pilot Data Collection Tools

  1. 7.1 Pilot study site
  2. 7.2 Pilot tools administration
  3. 7.3 Testing of pilot tools
  4. 7.4 Analysis of pilot data

Revise this unit

3 more for this unit

Beyond the syllabus

Other units in Module I