The computers are indispensible throughout the research process. The role of computer becomes more important when the research is on a large sample. Data can be stored in computers for immediate use or can be stored in auxiliary memories like floppy discs, compact discs, universal serial buses (pen drives) or memory cards, so that the same can be retrieved later. The computers assist the researcher throughout different phases of the research process.
Phases of Research Process
There are five major phases of the research process. They are:
- Conceptual phase
- Design and planning phase
- Empirical phase
- Analytic phase and
- Dissemination phase
1) Role of Computer in Conceptual phase
The conceptual phase consists of formulation of research problem, review of literature, theoretical frame work and formulation of hypothesis.
Role of Computers in Literature Review: Computers help for searching the literatures (for review of literature) and bibliographic references stored in the electronic databases of the world wide webs. It can thus be used for storing relevant published articles to be retrieved whenever needed. This has the advantage over searching the literatures in the forms of books, journals and other newsletters at the libraries which consume considerable amount of time and effort.
2) Role of Computers in Design and planning phase
Design and planning phase consist of research design, population, research variables, sampling plan, reviewing research plan and pilot study.
Role of Computers for Sample Size Calculation: Several softwares are available to calculate the sample size required for a proposed study. NCSS-PASS-GESS is such software. The standard deviation of the data from the pilot study is required for the sample size calculation.