Research Methods: From “Why” to “Aha!”

Reported by:
Tan Ee Shieng Sr1ScB

Photo by:
Kuen Cheng Photo Album

The Inquiry-based Learning Project (IBL) is a collaboration between Kuen Cheng High School and University of Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) aimed to promote a sustainable future by encouraging students to take part in innovation and investigative projects. A seminar titled “Research Methods: From ‘Why’ to ‘Aha!’”, an IBL Talk Series 2025, was held after school on October 27th. Dr. Foo Chuan Chew from the UTAR Teh Hong Piow Faculty of Business and Finance was invited to share his expertise in research methodology to enhance the students’ understanding of research philosophy.

(Photo: Dr. Foo Chuan Chew from the UTAR Teh Hong Piow Faculty of Business and Finance sharing his expertise in research methodology with enthusiastic learners)

Dr. Foo explained the concept of research as the systematic investigation of study materials and sources to establish facts and reach new conclusions. Research has undoubtedly played a vital role in building the modernised and highly efficient world we live in today. While conducting research, we should keep in mind that research should not only be carried out through systematic and fact-based methods, but also be applied and used in real life. Other than using real-life examples for better comprehension, Dr. Foo urged us to treat every step of the research process with passion and excitement.

Dr. Foo then introduced us to various types of research. From a macro perspective, research can be categorised into basic research, which is more scientific and theoretical, and applied research, which is more practical and aims to solve specific, real-world problems. Furthermore, research can also be classified according to its way of expression. For example, quantitative research is mostly done through surveys and questionnaires to produce numerical results with clear statistics. On the other hand, qualitative research is often carried out through interviews to provide word explanations for certain data. Dr. Foo proceeded to explain other branches of research, such as exploratory research, descriptive research and explanatory research. All of the students listened intently and jotted down notes.

He emphasised that research methods should always follow a series of planned procedures, scientific methods, and remain value-neutral to attain accurate results. In data collection, there are two types of research methods: primary research which involves gathering data directly, and secondary research which analyses information collected by others through materials such as studies, reports or journals.

After providing a detailed explanation on research methods, Dr. Foo listed out the steps required in writing a report to conclude the research process. The first step in writing a report is to provide a general research background. We should describe relevant details such as the history or significant discoveries of our research topic to build a foundational understanding. Secondly, we should write a specific problem statement. We should contextualise the issue investigated in detail by applying the 5W1H Method (namely “who, what, when, where, why, how”). For instance, Dr. Foo showed us multiple problem statements that followed his recommended format. The third step in writing a report is to list out our research objectives and questions. These should create a specific framework and name the numerous variables to carry out an experiment. Flowcharts were presented to help us envision the effect of independent variables on dependent variables.

The seminar wrapped up swiftly, leaving students enriched with new knowledge and a clearer vision for their projects. We are excited to learn from Dr. Foo and are inspired to pursue further scientific research with determination!