TIMELINE / THESIS PROGRESS DEADLINES

A BROAD BASED RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

AR – 501: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN IV

By

RAVINDAR KUMAR

Assistant Professor

Department of Architecture and Planning

NED University of Engineering and Technology

Karachi

TOPIC: A BROAD BASED RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

1. WRITING A RESEARCH PROPOSAL:

The first and foremost step of any research initiative is writing a research proposal. In this regard a researcher is required to have some theoretical knowledge regarding contents of the research study undertaken. After carrying out the basic preparatory work i.e. identification of the area of interest and an initial literature review for the research the researcher put together all the contents of proposed research. It includes the topic on which research would be conducted, the objectives and methodology of work and the expected outcomes of the research. This can also be termed as an overall plan which tells the reader regarding research problem and how the researcher has planned to investigate it? Or “It is the detailed practical plan of obtaining the answers to research questions in which the reader would be assured about the validity of the methodology to obtain accurate answers. It is necessary to mention that each institution, discipline & supervisor has different requirements regarding the contents of a research proposal however majority of the institutions or supervisors requires checking three items within a research proposal.

i) First what the researcher has proposed to do?

ii) Second how the researcher has planned to proceed?

iii) Third why the researcher has selected his / her proposed strategy?

Therefore for every researcher it is highly recommended that the research proposal must contain ten basic ingredients.

I. First, what are the objectives of proposed study?

II. Second, the statements of hypothesis if the researcher intends to test any.

III. Third research design or study design proposed for research.

IV. Fourth the study area physical setting or the context of study.

V. Fifth the research instrument to be used i.e. questionnaire, interview or any other.

VI. Sixth the selected sample size or sampling design.

VII. Seventh the method of analysis or data processing procedures.

VIII. Eighth table of contents or proposed chapters for the report.

IX. Ninth scope & parameters or the problems & limitations of the study.

X. Tenth the work schedule or time table or time frames for the research.

If any research proposal contains all these contents there is a better chance for approval of the research project because this information would satisfy an evaluator or supervisor of the research regarding the research whereas for a researcher this proposal would be a detailed guide line for proceeding on his / her research endeavor.

 

2. A BROAD BASED RESEARCH METHODOLOGY:

It is a grave reality that research is taught as a supporting subject in many academic disciplines and in each discipline there are specific spheres of influence on which research is conducted. These specific spheres of influence give birth to different paradigms of research. However; there are quite similar activities in each research process. For instance the substance & contents of each research would be different however the broad approach of researcher in making inquiries about the research and incorporating his or her opinion in a research are the commonalities of all researches. Thus there is a need to understand a broad research methodology followed by each researcher in his or her research. This generic process of research can be outlined as a broad based research methodology.

2.1: RESEARCH PROBLEM FORMULATION:

The initial thought behind every research process is to know that, what the problem is? Why this research? What is the issue on which research is to be done? Thus formulating a research problem is based on the intensions of an author & prevailing situation. Basically the research problem develops with two basic determinants. One is the area of interest of researcher & other is the initiator of research or client of researcher. For the formulation of research problem of any research the basic issue is the understanding of the subject matter & that emerges from the review of the literature or physical observation of any context. Then there are various constrains which compel the researcher to formulate the research problem for instance, financial resources, availability of time, expertise of the supervisor, and knowledge of the allied subjects, i.e. computer, statistics etc. Basically formulating a research problem means to answer the question what?

2.2: CONCEPTUALIZING A RESEARCH DESIGN:

The research design is again a very significant issue which develops on the basic of chosen research method. Therefore conceptualizing a research design means develop the concept that how the research would be conducted. The research design would describe that, what are the parameters of research, what its indicators are? And how the process of data collection & analysis would be comprehended & practically applied? It is the detailed method of research variable analysis and conducting the practical steps of research. The research design is again based on some ground realities of the researcher. For example, what type of research method is intended by a researcher? How this research method would be valued? What is the level of knowledge & skills of analysis possessed by a researcher? It again requires a literature review and number of measurement procedures known, by a researcher on the basis of which analysis & evaluation would be done & conclusions would be drawn. Or more appropriately it can be said that, research design permits a researcher to predict accurate outcomes of research in any given set of conditions. Secondly it identifies all the gaps in knowledge of a researcher. Another important aspect in research is that, the validity of “what” one finds out as an answer of research question is mainly based upon “how” it was found. Therefore basically a research design defines about this how of all the findings or answers of research questions.
Conclusively a research design consists of six basic ingredients, i.e.

a) Study design per se

b) Logistical arrangements

c) Measurement procedures

d) Sampling strategy

e) Framework of analysis

f) Timeframe

2.3: CONSTRUCTING A DATA COLLECT INSTRUMENT:

The third operational step of any research is the construction of an instrument for data collection. At this step the required theoretical knowledge is about methods & tools of data collection where as the required intermediary knowledge is about the validity and reliability of the research tool. Thus the basic issue which needs explanation here is that, what is meant by a research tool or research instrument. The research tool or instrument can be anything which becomes the means of collecting information for the study undertaken by a researcher.

These include:

i) Note Book

ii) Sketch Book

iii) Camera / Audio Visual Recorder

iv) Observation Form

v) Map of the Area

vi) Plans of the Building

vii) Interview Schedules

viii) Questionnaires

ix) Interview guides

x) Checklist of issues

Thus constructing a data collection instrument is the first practical step of carrying out a research / study. However before constructing a data collecting instrument a researcher needs to decide about the process of collecting data for proposed study and then construct that tool. Basically there are various methods of data collection. Broadly they are categorized as primary and secondary data collection process. For primary data collection a researcher either construct an instrument or select from already constructed tool. However if the researcher wants use secondary data which is already obtained for other purposes; then an analytical form is developed to extract the required data from secondary data. One of the integral parts of constructing an instrument for data collection is the Field Testing which is a prerequisite for constructing an appropriate data collection tool. However if the researcher is using computer for data analysis then the coding space is provided on the research instrument.

2.4: SELECTING A SAMPLE:

Another significant aspect of any research is selecting a sample. Because; it in not possible to study a whole universe due to constraints of time and money. For selecting and designing a sample the required intermediary knowledge is of sampling theory and sampling designs. Basically the selection of sample determines the accuracy of the estimates made by a researcher. The main reason of sampling design is to minimize the limitation of cost and obtain those values which are prevalent in the larger population. The good sampling design is that which reduces the gap between the value obtained through sample and actual characteristics of total population. Secondly the basic premise of sampling is to select those minor units of community which can provide a sufficiently high degree of probability or a true reflection of complete community. As discussed earlier that, a researcher must have intermediary knowledge about sampling theory and sampling design. So what does it mean? Basically sampling theory gives us two basic principles i.e. avoid any bias in sample selection and attain the maximum precision in given layout of resources or in other words the researcher must clearly think about his / her available resources and select sample without any preconceived assumption. As far as sample design is concerned there are various options of sampling design available to a researcher. However, there are three basic categories of sampling design i.e. Random probability sampling designs, or random sampling, Non random probability sampling design or non random sampling and Mixed sampling design. The details of sampling shall be discussed later however it is necessary to mansion here that, a researcher must acquaint him / herself with maximum no. of sampling designs, the strengths & weaknesses of sampling and selection of most appropriate sampling design for the research study undertaken. Because the type of sampling strategy that a researcher use in a research and the type of statistical tests performed on the data determines the ability of researcher regarding generalizing from a sample to total population.

2.5: DATA COLLECTION:
The sixth operational step of any research is the collection of data. Once a research proposal is approved the next step for researcher is data collection through designed research instrument. At this operational step the researcher requires five types of intermediary knowledge.
I. First the field test of the research tool.
II. Second the process of editing the data.
III. Third, the development of a code book.
IV. Fourth, the process of encoding.
V. Fifth the ethical issues in data collection.
At this operational step the researcher actually collect the data from the context through his / her devised data collection tool i.e. mail survey, questionnaire, interview, focus group discussion, physical observation, photographic visual survey, map making etc.

2.6: DATA PROCESSING (ANALYSIS, EVALUATION & CONCLUSIONS):
The seventh operational step of any research is the processing of data. At this step a researcher requires a theoretical knowledge of data processing methods computer application and statistics. The process of data analysis or data processing in a research mainly depends upon two basic premises.
I. One the type of collected information
II. Two the way a researcher intends to write his / her research report.
As far as the type of collected information is concerned it may be descriptive, qualitative or attitudinal and quantitative. Whereas the way of writing a report varies as per researcher’s writing skills and intellect. Another skill which is required in the processing of data is displaying techniques or presentation skills. Because the best presented data is also necessary for the audience to understand the research. This presentation & display of data is the final step for data processing. Thus for a researcher it is necessary to make data analysis with qualitative & quantitative distinction i.e. manual or computer analysis. For example in order to analyse qualitative data a researcher review his / her field notes and manually analyse his / her observations. Whereas for quantitative analysis use of computer is must. Where, a researcher decides about required type of statistical analysis. Such as: frequency distribution, cross tabulations or statistical procedures such as regression analysis, factor analysis or analysis of variance.


2.7: REPORT WRITING:
The final & most difficult aspect of any research is the writing of a research report. At this step the required theoretical knowledge is of scientific writing principles. The basic considerations for report writing are those, where a researcher inform the world what is being done? What is discovered and what conclusions are drawn from the research findings. If a researcher is clear about the whole research process he / she will also be clear about the way of writing a report. It’s like a buffet party with eight tables each with different dishes but the dishes are made with similar ingredients and the researcher would select the dish which he / she like the most from each table. And fill his / her plate & present it to others. As mentioned earlier that a researcher must have the theoretical knowledge of scientific writing so what is that scientific writing? Basically science depends upon logical hierarchy. Similarly a research report follows a logical sequence with different sections & chapters based upon different themes of study. Where chapter to chapter, topic to topic, paragraph to paragraph and sentence to sentence there shall be complete hierarchy or logical sequence.
Conclusively a research report consist six basic chapters i.e.
I. Introduction
II. Literature review,
III. Research design,
IV. Data Presentation and Analysis i.e. Contextual realities / Case Studies
V. Research Findings i.e. Design Brief or Problem Statement
VI. Conclusions and Recommendations
VII. Research Appraisal.


PERSONAL NOTE:
THIS GENERIC PROCESS OF RESEARCH OUTLINED ABOVE IS INTENDED TO ENHANCE THE UNDERSTANDING OF MY DEAR STUDENTS CONCERNING RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE STUDENTS WHO ARE BEGINNERS AND ATTEMPTING THE RESEARCH FOR THE FIRST TIME. THIS BRIEF WOULD CLARIFY THEIR CONFUSIONS REGARDING RESEARCH.

ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH REPORT WRITING FORMAT

AR-501: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN IV

by

RAVINDAR KUMAR

Assistant Professor

Department of Architecture and Planning

NED University of Engineering and Technology

Karachi

Topic: ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH REPORT WRITING FORMAT

i. Abstract
ii. Acknowledgements
iii. Table of Contents
iv.List of Maps, Charts, Graphs & Tables
v. List of Abbreviations and Acronyms

Chapter # 1 - Introduction
1.1: Background – Problem statement; Research questions
1.2: Objective – Sub-objectives
1.3: Methodology
1.4: Scope and Parameters
1.5: Rationale and Justification
1.6: Expected results
1.7: Use of Study

Chapter # 2 – Literature Review
2.1: Definitions and descriptions (background of literature review)
2.2: Different Authors and their books, articles etc. (Summary of whatever literature reviewed)
2.3: Architect’s perspective
2.4: Research Arguments ( view points of different authors both for and against)
2.5: Theoretical Framework (Identification of the gaps in arguments where you want to work)
2.6: Conceptual Framework (Hypothesis development)

Chapter # 3 – Research Design
3.1: Lessons learned through literature review
3.2: Breakup of Hypothesis in Parameters / Variables; Indicators/Values and Sources.
3.3: What data shall be collected (Based on Hypothesis breakup)
3.4: What shall be the method to collect the data
3.4.1: Observations
3.4.2: Interviews
3.4.3: More literature review
3.4.4: Questionnaire Survey
3.4.5: Photographic Survey
3.4.6: Map making (GIS/Remote Sensing)
3.4.7: Retrospective Prospective Study or Before and After study
3.4.8: Case studies method etc. Comparison of Local as well as International cases
3.4.9: Experimentation (Practical Modeling)
3.5: Method of data presentation
3.6: Method of analysis

Chapter # 4 – Architectural Research
4.1: Factual data presentation (Local and International Case Studies/Contextual Information)
4.2: Data analysis as per selected method of Analysis
4.3: Synthesis (Summary of Arguments)

CHAPTER # 5 – CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1: Summary of Research Findings
5.2: Interpretation of Research Findings into Design Brief
5.3: Justification of Design Brief
5.4: Site Selection Criteria; Site Selection and Analysis
5.5: Design Philosophy, Concepts and its Justification

Chapter # 6: Design Proposal
6.1: Design Development Process
6.2: Master Planning Process and Alternatives Development
6.3: Detailed Design Process and Alternative development
6.4: Proposed Master Plan
6.5: Proposed Detailed Design (Floor Plans, Elevations, Sections, Views, Details below ups, Block Models and Detailed Models

Chapter # 07 – Research Appraisal
7.1: Brief Presented to the Jury
7.2: Questions asked by Jury Members
7.3: Answers given to Jury Members
7.4: Jury’s Final Remarks (Unanswered questions)
7.5: Avenues for further research in future

8: REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY
9: ANNEXURES

HOW TO GIVE THE REFERENCES? BOTH IN FOOT NOTES AND IN BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Following is the style of references that may be followed in the thesis report.

Book (Elements of the citation) Author(s) of book – family name and initials Year of publication, Title of book – italicised, Edition, Publisher, Place of publication.

Chapter in a book (Elements of the citation)
Author(s) of chapter – family name and initials Year of publication, ‘Title of chapter – in single quotation marks’, in Editor(s) of book (eds), Title of book – italicised, Edition, Publisher, Place of publication, Page numbers.

Conference paper (Elements of the citation)
Author(s) of paper – family name and initials Year of publication, ‘Title of paper – in single quotation marks’, Title of published proceedings which may include place held and date(s) – italicised, Publisher, Place of Publication, Page number(s), (viewed date-in-full, URL – if accessed electronically).

Journal Article (Elements of the citation)
Author(s) of journal article – family name and initials Year of publication, ‘Title of journal article – in single quotation marks’, Title of journal – italicised, Volume, Issue or number, Page number(s), (viewed date-in-full, URL – if accessed electronically).

Thesis (Elements of the citation)
Author of thesis – family name and initials Year of preparation of thesis, ‘Title of thesis – in single quotation marks’, Award, Institution issuing degree, Location of institution.

Report (Elements of the citation)
Author(s) of report – (person or organisation) Year of Publication, Title of report - italicised, Report number (if available), Publisher/ Institution, Place of publication, (viewed date-in-full, URL - if accessed electronically).

Newspaper and magazine article (Elements of the citation)
Author(s) of article – family name and initials Year of publication, ‘Title of article – in single quotation marks’, Title of newspaper – italicised, Day month, Page number(s).

Web page (Elements of the citation)
Author(s) of page – (person or organisation) Year (page created or revised), Title of page - italicised, description of document (if applicable), name of the sponsor of the page (if applicable), viewed date-in-full, URL.

Patent (Elements of the citation)Author(s) of patent – family name and initials Year of issue, Title of patent- italicised, Number of patent including country of issue.

Standard (Elements of the citation)
Corporate body issuing standard Year of publication, Title of standard- italicised, Number of standard including identifier of issuing country or body, Publisher of standard, Place of publication.

Map (Elements of the citation)
Issuing body Year of publication, Title of map – italicised, Series (if available), Publisher, Place of publication.

Personal communication (Elements of the citation)
Information obtained by interview, telephone call, letter or email should be documented in the text, but should NOT be included in the list of References.

 
PERSONAL NOTE:
 
DEAR STUDENTS KINDLY ATTEND THE LECTURE CONCERNING AFFOREMENTIONED CONTENTS OF THE THESIS REPORT. PLEASE PREPARE AS MANY QUESTIONS AS POSSIBLE SO AS A FRUITFUL ARGUMENTATION MAY ARISE THROUGH OUR DISCUSSION.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - IV COURSE CONTENTS

AR - 501: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - IV

BY

RAVINDAR KUMAR

Assistant Professor

Department of Architecture and Planning

NED University of Engineering and Technology

Karachi

COURSE CONTENTS:

In this studio, the students undertake a thesis project of their own choice in any domain of architectural studies.

They develop a thesis statement, work out a study methodology and undertake research towards a design solution.

Series of visual presentations and a thesis report on the prescribed format is done in the conclusion.

 

PERSONAL NOTE:

THE TENTATIVE DEADLINES ARE ALREADY POSTED FOR YOUR REFERENCE SO AS YOU MAY FEEL PRESSURE TO WORK HARD THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. REMEMBER ALWAYS: WORK HARD AND PARTY HARDER.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN THESIS: AN OVERVIEW OF THESIS PROGRESS DEADLINES

AR-501: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN IV

by

RAVINDAR KUMAR

Assistant Professor

Department of Architecture and Planning

NED University of Engineering and Technology

Karachi

TOPIC:

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN THESIS: AN OVERVIEW OF THESIS PROGRESS DEADLINES

TIMELINE OF THESIS PROGRESS

1. Field of interest 05 Jan – 09 Jan 2010
2. Selection of topic 11 Jan – 16 Jan 2010
3. Literature review 18 Jan – 30 Jan 2010
4. Thesis objective 31 Jan – 06 Feb 2010
5. First pinup 08 Feb – 13 Feb 2010
6. Chapter No. 01 (Introduction) 15 Feb – 20 Feb 2010
7. Research methodology 20 Feb – 27 Feb 2010
8. Second pinup 01 Mar – 06 Mar 2010
9. Chapter No. 02 (Literature Review) 08 Mar – 13 Mar 2010
10. Research work (Field data collection) 15 Mar – 17 Apr 2010
11. First research jury 19 Apr – 24 Apr 2010
12. Chapter No. 03 (Research Design) 26 Apr – 01 May 2010
13. Conceptual design (Design brief) 03 May – 29 May 2010
14. First design jury 31 May – 05 Jun 2010
15. Chapter No. 04 (Case studies) 07 Jun – 12 Jun 2010
16. Conceptual design (Master plan) 14 Jun – 03 Jul 2010
17. Second design jury 05 Jul – 10 Jul 2010
18. Chapter No. 05 (Research Conclusions) 12 Jul – 17 Jul 2010
19. Detailed design (Plans, elevations, sections) 19 Jul – 21 Aug 2010
20. Third design jury 23 Aug – 28 Aug 2010
21. Draft report submission 30 Aug – 04 Sep 2010
22. Detailed design (Complete in all respects) 06 Sep – 25 Sep 2010
23. Pre final jury 27 Sep – 02 Oct 2010
24. Final report submission 04 Oct – 09 Oct 2010
25. Final design submission 25 Oct – 30 Oct 2010
26. Final Jury 01 Nov – 06 Nov 2010

PERSONAL NOTE:

THE DETAILS OF EACH OF THESE STEPS SHALL BE POSTED SOON FOR YOUR REFERENCE SO AS YOU MAY APPROPRIATELY MAKE PROGRESS IN YOUR BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE THESIS DESIGN PROJECT.