Perceptions of E-Learning by Parents in Malaysia



TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY1

Introduction1

Conceptual Framework2

Theoretical Framework4

Pure research5

Planning5

Applied research5

Value judgments5

Level of Knowledge about Problem6

Personal Interest6

Research Methods6

Method of Inquiry7

Literature Search8

Difference9

Research Method and Appropriateness11

Secondary Research Nomenclature12

Literature Search12

Method12

Research Design13

Research Philosophy14

Research Approach17

Data Collection Method19

Research Instrument22

Calculation28

Sampling Method29

Participants and Sample Size30

Rationale for selection of sample31

Variables of the Study37

Reasons for Variable37

Data Analysis39

Reliability/Dependability44

Validity46

Measurement of Reliability50

Data Screening53

Data Analysis54

Transferability55

Quality and Verification55

Expression data57

Survey study57

Studies of interrelationships58

Causal comparative studies58

Correlation studies59

Development Studies60

Rating61

Ethical Consideration62

Justification64

Protection of Human Subjects66

REFERENCES69

Appendix74

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY

Introduction

This chapter explains the methodology that is applied in order to obtain material, information and data. It also describes how the researcher has analyzed the collected information. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the approach on the basis of which the findings are going to be analyzed. This research tends to be founded on a mix of Quantitative and Qualitative research approach. Moreover, it also tends to include any other source of information which helps to decode and inject the understanding of the subject in a more efficient manner. Keeping in view the approach taken in earlier studies the research began with a broad analysis of the existing literature. Moreover, it is essential to note the fact that the conclusions and the results tend to draw its roots from the analysis based on the understanding developed through scientific manner.

However, the main focus of this thesis is to examine the perception of E-learning by parents in tertiary education in Malaysia. This chapter presents the brief description of the research methodology which is selected to accomplish the proposed research aim. This chapter has been divided into three main sections. In this chapter, the first section presents a brief description about the selected research design. In the second section, the selected research approach, data collection methods, research instruments and data analysis techniques have been elaborated. In the final section of this chapter the reliability/dependability, validity and ethical considerations are discussed.

Conceptual Framework

The advent of technology has changed many things around us and the way we humans use to go about it. The world has now taken a shape of a global village, therefore, in this village the only concept which tends to stand and around which this village will move in the future is the survival of the fittest. So in order to survive and be counted among the fittest one need to have strong toolkit, which can maximize, an individual's performance and growth. The individual's performance and growth is linked to the fact that how he or she chooses to operate(Whyte, 1989). Today the world tends to stand at the ideas of time management and working beyond the borders. The advent of technology has helped diminish the borders if not fully than at least to a certain extent. Today, where the economic conditions are tough, and survival is much more difficult, technology has given a ray of hope in this context.

To survive in this world one needs to have a strong educational background and in today's context to acquire a quality education, it seems to be possible with the advent of e-learning. Since the people, today are bound by ...