Different Research Methodologies

Research methods can be broadly categorized into two main types: qualitative and quantitative. Each type has its own set of techniques and approaches, and researchers often use a combination of both methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a research question.

Here’s an overview of each type:

  1. Quantitative Research Methods:

    • Experimental Research: Involves manipulating one or more independent variables to observe their effect on a dependent variable while controlling for other factors.
    • Survey Research: Uses questionnaires or interviews to gather data from a sample of participants, aiming to generalize findings to a larger population.
    • Observational Research: Involves systematically observing and recording behavior in its natural context without interference. Researchers may use structured or unstructured observations.
  2. Qualitative Research Methods:

    • Interviews: Conducting in-depth, semi-structured or unstructured interviews with participants to gather rich, detailed information about their experiences, opinions, and perspectives.
    • Focus Groups: Involves a group discussion led by a facilitator to explore a specific set of issues. It helps researchers understand group dynamics and diverse perspectives.
    • Case Study Research: In-depth investigation of a single individual, group, event, or situation to gain a holistic understanding and generate detailed, context-specific knowledge.
    • Ethnographic Research: Involves immersing the researcher in the culture or community being studied to gain a deep understanding of social phenomena in their natural context.
  3. Mixed-Methods Research:

    • Combines both quantitative and qualitative research methods within a single study to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the research question.
  4. Action Research:

    • Involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners to solve real-world problems. The process is iterative, with researchers and participants working together to implement and evaluate solutions.
  5. Meta-Analysis:

    • Involves the statistical analysis of existing research findings from multiple studies on a particular topic to draw generalizable conclusions.
  6. Longitudinal Research:

    • Conducts observations or measurements over an extended period to track changes or developments over time.

These research methods can be applied in various fields and disciplines, depending on the nature of the research question and the goals of the study. Researchers select the most appropriate method based on factors such as the research question, available resources, and the type of data needed.

Support for Student Research and Internships in Africa

Grant opportunities of up to $3,000 are available to support research projects or internships related to Africa through the ASC. The ASC is dedicated to assisting students, regardless of their citizenship or academic level, in pursuing research, internships, or training activities in or on the continent. Project durations are flexible, and they should commence between May 1 in the calendar year of application submission and April 30 of the following year.

Given the challenges posed by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, physical travel to Africa may or may not be feasible. In response to this, the ASC encourages alternative approaches, such as virtual internships. Grant funds can also be utilized for hiring local research assistants, scanning archival materials, or supporting internet-based or app-based research plans.

Applicants seeking research grants may be at varying stages of their research, from preliminary to advanced. Internship applicants should specify a particular venue for their internship, such as a governmental agency, business, or non-governmental institution engaged in Africa-focused work. It’s important to note that students graduating in the current Winter Term will not be considered for grants. Additionally, preference will be given to applicants who have not previously received ASC Summer Research and Internship funding. This initiative aims to foster a diverse range of projects and experiences contributing to a deeper understanding of Africa.

Deadline: The application deadline is 11:59 pm on February 15.

Applications are to be submitted using the II Student Fellowships (IISF) common application. Applicants are encouraged to visit the II Student Fellowships Resource Page prior to beginning the application process.

Note: All travel must follow current guidelines, which are detailed in the International Institute Travel Policy.  Please note that additional travel restrictions are in place because of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Applicants must also meet all of the requirements of the Institutional Review Board and provide documentation of IRB approval or exemption should funding be awarded.

A written project report will be required at the conclusion of the grant.

Questions should be directed to iifellowships@umich.edu.

The LSA African Study Centre (ASC) stands as a beacon for academic exploration and cultural understanding, focusing on the diverse and rich tapestry of Africa. At the heart of its mission is the commitment to supporting students across all academic levels and fields, irrespective of their citizenship, in pursuing research, internships, or other training activities related to Africa.

One noteworthy avenue for students to engage with the ASC is through its scholarship opportunities. Generous grants, with amounts reaching up to $3,000, are made available to assist students in funding their research projects or internships. These grants are not only a financial boost but also a testament to the ASC’s dedication to fostering educational experiences that contribute to a broader and nuanced understanding of the African continent.

The ASC recognizes the dynamic challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, and in response, it encourages flexibility in project execution. Acknowledging potential limitations on physical travel, the ASC welcomes alternative approaches, such as virtual internships. This adaptability showcases the center’s commitment to ensuring that students can still engage meaningfully with African-focused projects despite external constraints.

Applicants for these scholarships may find a range of possibilities to explore. Whether at the preliminary stages or with more advanced research, the ASC provides a platform for students to pursue their academic interests. Internship applicants are encouraged to identify specific venues, be it governmental agencies, businesses, or non-governmental institutions, to enhance their practical experiences in the region or within the realm of Africa-focused work.

To maintain a diverse pool of participants, the ASC has set preferences in the selection process. Applicants who have not previously received ASC Summer Research and Internship funding are given priority. This prioritization aims to broaden the reach of opportunities, ensuring that a variety of students can benefit from the resources and support provided by the ASC.

In essence, the LSA African Study Centre and its scholarship opportunities serve as catalysts for academic growth, fostering a community of scholars and researchers dedicated to unraveling the complexities of Africa. Through these initiatives, the ASC plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of individuals passionate about contributing to a deeper and more informed global understanding of the African continent.

Mysteries of the Winderness Kindle by Apostle Dr Isaac Odoi Danquah

 he MYSTERIES OF THE WILDERNESS’ is a book intended for anyone willing to experience greatness, bumper rich harvest in life, jumbo wealth creation, rich successful life and not afraid to go through the hustles, torchers and agonies in life called wilderness to accomplish it. The book explores the various kinds of people on earth, the deep secrets and mysteries associated with greatness such as troubles and problems, test for and towards greatness and the mysteries about creation by the divine creator. How the divine creator created the Heaven and Earth and placed man in the Garden of Eden and asked him to have dominion and nurture the Garden. It explains how man lost control over the Garden and lost dominion to the enemy and found himself in the wilderness – sin. The torcher, hustles and problems he and his wife have to face on the other side of the beautiful garden in catering for their family. 

This is comparable to the problems and issues of life faced on daily basis on our persue towards greatness, wealth creation and enrichment in life. It explains all kinds of tools and opportunities made available unto us by divine creation as we seek divine encounter and daily walk with Christ and towards self – enrichment and wealth creation in life. It explains how to have dominion and total control over once creation towards a wealthy life and living to impact now and future generations. And finally, how the divine creator is willing to hold our hands and leads us through the wilderness in our persue of wealth creation and enrichment in life and carry us to a successful end. And to a place we love and dream to be most.

LINK to BUY Books on Amazon 


BJP President Ravinder Raina and BJYM President Arun Prabhat Commend and Honor Sahaj Sabharwal for His Third Published Book – ANECDOTE

 BJP President Ravinder Raina and BJYM President Arun Prabhat Commend and Honor Sahaj Sabharwal for His Third Published Book – ANECDOTE

JAMMU, January 9, 2024 – BJP President Ravinder Raina and BJYM President Arun Prabhat extended their heartfelt appreciation to the young budding writer and author Sahaj Sabharwal for his latest (third) published book, “ANECDOTE.”
In a special ceremony, both leaders had the opportunity to explore the diverse contents of Sahaj’s book, including titles such as “Maharaja Hari Singh – Personality of Jammu,” “The Man Who Carries Plate In Bag,” “Drug Destroyed Decent,” “Teacher-Our Future Maker,” “Ideal Positivity Prayer,” and several others. They were particularly impressed with Sahaj’s earlier works, “Poems by Sahaj Sabharwal” written at the age of 17, “Pedagogical Thoughts Made Facts” written at the age of 19, and “ANECDOTE” written at the age of 21, considering them informative and motivational for the youth and society.
BJP President Ravinder Raina and BJYM President Arun Prabhat were impressed that Sahaj is an Aeronautical Engineer, and along with studies, he excels in literary passion too. They highlighted Sahaj Sabharwal’s significant contributions to social awareness through his writings on various topics such as success, failure, motivation, affirmation, and positivity. The leaders expressed their support for Sahaj’s literary endeavors and recommended his books to a wider audience.
“ANECDOTE” marks Sahaj Sabharwal’s third literary endeavor, encapsulating a diverse range of content, including poems, thoughts, quotes, articles, stories, lyrics, non-fiction, scripts, and anecdotes. The book aims to combat stress, demotivation, negativity, and depression while addressing important social issues.
Both leaders emphasized that Sahaj Sabharwal is a source of inspiration for many and expressed hope for continued success in his future literary pursuits. The support from BJP President Ravinder Raina and BJYM President Arun Prabhat underscores the positive impact Sahaj’s writings aim to have on society.
BJP and BJYM leaders assured Sahaj Sabharwal of their ongoing support, acknowledging his efforts in creating valuable and meaningful literary works. They congratulated Sahaj Sabharwal’s parents and ensured that such a bright youth of Jammu and Kashmir will make the whole Nation proud in the future.