Research as Inquiry

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This Frame deals with using research to fill gaps in knowledge. To extend knowledge questions have to be asked and from those more complex questions arises. This process usually involve debates from various perspectives but it all helps to extend knowledge in that specific field. Students need to realise that the process is not straight forward and can become very frustrating. Data collection requires students to communicate and liaise with the community role players and the recognition of how issues affect the community.  Research methodologies need be employed that will suit the issues being researched.

Knowledge Practices

Students will learn how to formulate and refine research questions based on gaps in information, learn how to determine appropriate scope of investigation, breaking down complex questions and use various research methodologies. They will learn to monitor, organise and synthesize information gathered and then draw reasonable conclusions based on analysis.

Disposition

Students will recognise their own limitations and ask for help when needed. They will seek alternate views and compare it with mainstream views while following ethical and legal guidelines in using the information gathered.

This Frame seem very simple but the process is very important in doing research effectively and accurately. It teaches us that we are all just a link in the world of information gathering. Any information out there both supporting and contradicting our views influence our own knowledge.

Teaching Scenario

Research Question

Investigating  racism between first year students at UWC.

Learning Outcomes

·         Students should be able to formulate proper research questions

·         Students should be able to understand how research issues affect the greater community

·         Aquiring the ablility to handle data gathering on a sensitive topic from a diverse group of      people.

Activities

·         Indicate an additional question arising from the data gathered that you could further investigate as an independent topic.(Disposition :consider research as an open-ended exploration and engagement with information). (Knowledge Practice: formulate questions for research based on information gaps or reexamination of existing, possibly conflicting, information;

·         Design two questionnaires/surveys.: One for students and one for academic staff. Analyse and compare data gathered from the two groups. (Disposition: Seek multiple perspectives during information gathering)

·         Read the two articles provided on racism at other universities. Based on your research   analysis what additional steps could the universities have taken to address and eradicate the problem. ( Knowledge Practice: Use research appropriately to make decisions and take action)