Correlation Research proposal

http://www.slideshare.net/patricklamhc/correlation-research-3-b-20070621
Research topic: The use of forum in Social Studies learning

Background: Forum becomes popular in the field of educational. In Social Studies, in particularly, discussion forum is blended in the learning process in order to replace the traditional didactic way of teaching. However, the correlation between the use of forum and learning outcomes is unsure.

Research question: The use of forum can improve the academic achievement in Social Studies

Hypothesis: The level of participation in forum is positively related to the academic achievement in Social Studies

Research sub-questions:
1. The number of note read positively related to the academic achievement in Social Studies
2. The number of note contributed positively related to the academic achievement in Social Studies

Independent/ predictor variable: the level of participation in forum (notes read and notes contributed)
Dependent/ criterion variable: the academic achievement in Social Studies (test score)

Population: Grade 5 (a total of 3 mixed-ability classes, 30 students at each class)
Sample: 1 class
Measuring scale: interval (test score)

Data collection
2 units of inquiry will be conducted. They are also the two research cycles. Each unit lasts 4 weeks. At each unit, discussion forum (Knowledge Forum) is integrated into the pedagogy. After each unit, a test is given to all students. The test score measured in this research is the average of the 2 tests. The notes read and contributed measured in this research is the average of the 2 cycles.

Constant:
1. gender of student (mixed gender in the class)
2. age (P.5 is selected, generally aged 10-11)

Statistical measures:
Mean, median, mode, standard deviation
Pearson's r (correlation coefficient)