Dec 5, 2023 |
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Zendy's Head of Technology, Rodrigo Pinto, presents at F.O.R.M 2023.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - 28 November 2023 - Our head of technology, Rodrigo Pinto Mendez, presented his paper titled: "Leveraging Big Data and Machine Learning to Enhance Open Data Quality: Insights for Developing Regions" at the Forum for Open Research panel that tackled "Open Data and Open Source: Benefits and Case Studies." The presentation addresses the need for accurate and reliable open data, focusing on developing regions that can accelerate their social and economic progress through data-driven insights. It explores the relationship between big data and machine learning in enhancing the quality of open data while also observing how open data can be extracted, transformed, and unified. The talk also assesses how machine learning can be used to detect anomalies within datasets. About F.O.R.M. 2023 The 2023 Annual Forum featured panels addressing key themes related to the advancement of Open Science policies and practices in research institutions and communities throughout the Arab world. This 2023 conference theme was:Democratizing Knowledge:The evolution of open science ecosystems and communities in the Arab World.
Discover and avoid these types of plagiarism in your next academic paper
Originality is crucial in academic research. The initial approval process to conduct research relies on the originality of the idea and the new contribution the paper would make to the area of study. Academic research papers should be varied but rather drive the development of an idea or concept. This acceleration of new knowledge is hindered when plagiarism takes place. What is plagiarism? Plagiarism is the practice of presenting another person’s work or idea as your own. In the world of academia, this is a serious offense that can negatively impact a researcher’s career as their papers are usually retracted and they lose their credibility. Educational institutions like universities and colleges can expel and bar students from being admitted to other institutions as this ethical offense is reflected on their record. Common types of plagiarism Type DefinitionHow to avoid Direct PlagiarismWord-for-word duplication of somebody else’s content- Acknowledge and cite the source.- Paraphrase the content by changing sentence voice (active to passive or vice versa) - Include quotation marks in direct qoutes.Paraphrasing PlagiarismOriginal author’s work is restructured very similarly without citing them and their research.- Use synonyms for non-generic words.- Paraphrase by changing sentence voice and change clauses to phrases.Mosaic PlagiarismOccurs when phrases are taken from the original author without quotation marks and citations.- Appropriately cite sources using quotation marks and footnotes.Self-plagiarismUtilising your own sentence structures and ideas from previously submitted work without citing the source.- Ensure there is sufficient material to justify the new paper. - Appropriately cite the original source.Patchwork PlagiarismOccurs when material is copied from several sources and rearranged to create their own flow on a new paper without crediting any new sources.- Paraphrase material into your own words.- Enclose verbatim content in quotation marks and cite.Accidental PlagiarismOccurs when the author inaccurately cites sources, misquotes information or unintentionally paraphrases too similarly without the intent to present ideas as their own.- Proofread research paper multiple times before submitting. - Cite everything that was not discovered by you, including widely-known information. How to avoid plagiarism When working on a research paper, you can try and apply the following strategies to avoid committing plagiarism: Cite your sources When stating an idea or presenting information that you have found through a different source, add the proper in-text citation to indicate that this material is “borrowed”. Include quotation marks When quoting a source verbatim, using quotation marks helps avoid plagiarism and indicates that these words are relevant but not yours. The quote should also include it’s source. Paraphrase Paraphrasing can be tricky as it is a thin line between itself and plagiarism, it involves restructuring ideas into your own words without changing their meaning and intent. This also needs to be appropriately cited. Present your ideas Your research paper should constructively explain your perspective on the information that is cited. Touch on how this is relevant to your findings or argument. Use plagiarism tracker Utilising plagiarism detection tools can help avoid accidental plagiarism. These tools highlight plagiarised content and provide an overall percentage to help users understand their paper’s problem areas. Ethical writing practices In academic writing, ethical guidelines demand authors to avoid weaknesses of bias and exclusive language, while encouraging authors to write on a range of perspectives that are relevant to the area of study and clearly indicate through citations where external material has been incorporated into the paper. The infographic below describes 3 strategies to make sure your academic writing skills are in line with ethical guidelines. Plagiarism detection tools These detection tools ensure that academic research papers are original. They compare the material to a vast database of existing information and highlight any duplicated material, this helps maintain the author’s credibility and authenticity while avoiding certain legal issues. Here are a few detectors that Zendy recommends: Copyscape Turnitin Grammarly iThenticate Scribbr In conclusion, plagiarism is a serious academic offense that taints a researcher or student’s career by taking away their credibility and authenticity. Which is why the approval process of academic research is a rigorous one, to ensure the author and researchers have sufficient new contributions and perspectives within a specific area of study. Furthermore, establishing a practice of scanning lengthy research papers against recommended detection tools benefits researchers in citing all content appropriately and even avoids accidental plagiarism. ul { margin: 0 !important; } li a { color: rgb(244 178 35); }
See the Top Reads of October 2023
Welcome to Zendy’s top read highlights — the top five research papers of the month. In the evolving landscape of academic scholarship, we bring you a selection of noteworthy contributions to research. From the depths of science and humanities to the forefront of technology and law, these papers exemplify academic excellence. Law of the Sea and Democracy This journal article discusses how the laws that govern oceans are democratic however they are not directly related to democracy. The paper goes on to emphasize the complex framework of sea law recognizing that most democratic countries abide by it and how it has presented conflict in sea usage which escalates issues in international law. It also touches on how certain nations are divided on various sea matters such as coastal countries versus those that rely on open sea or developing versus developed countries. Read more here: Law of the Sea and Democracy Graphic Design and Button Placement This journal article is an analysis of user preferences regarding button placements on map applications, the study focuses on 6 map applications and analysed them based on the graphic diversity of buttons. The research concluded that to achieve effective map application design, the process needs to start considering the smallest possible device the application would be used on. Read more here: Graphic Design and Button Placement for Mobile Map Applications Flipped Micro-modules for Teaching Sustainable Engineering Practices This journal article explores a teaching method known as “flipped micro-module pedagogy” wherein students utlise AR and VR technology to engage in immersive learning, use social media platforms to disseminate course materials, and the method encourages project-basec learning where students apply their learnings to real-world issues. The goal of the study is to assess whether engineering students find this approach effective compared to their existing curriculum. Read more here: Flipped Micro-Modules for Teaching Sustainable Engineering Practices Evaluation of Carbon Farming Strategies This journal article places emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in organic vegetable growth. It proposes carbon farming as an alternative because the method improves soil health, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and supports biodiversity, however, the how effective carbon farming is, is unclear. The study also highlights the importance of measuring and estimating changes in soil carbon stock and potential environmental and economic impact on farmers. The findings suggest that carbon farming can be beneficial in various aspects however further research is required to optimise implementation. Read more here: The Evaluation of Carbon Farming Strategies in Organic Vegetable Cultivation The Science of Judicial Psychology This paper claims that crime in Romania has seen an increase due to severe economic and social challenges and the crisis of authority within institutions, emphasising that in this context crime is driven by needs, tendencies, motives and goals. The article goes on to dissect the complexity of criminal behaviour while highlighting all relevant motivators and factors that lead to a crime being committed. Read more here: The Science of Judicial Psychology Discover millions of e-books, journal articles, proceedings and more on Zendy now.
What is research design? A comprehensive guide to design types, components and challenges
Research design is the strategy that tackles collection, interpretation and discussion of data, it determines how research will be carried out. A well-planned research design ensures that the methods correspond with research objectives, quality data is collected and analysis is done appropriately. Research design is essentially the blueprint that guides the research writing process, shaping the questions, methods, and conclusions. In this blog, we explore the key components of research design, discuss different approaches and methodologies, and provide insights into how to create a robust design that yields valuable insights. Types of Research Design Before beginning the research process, it is imperative to determine the type of research design that will comprehensively answer or prove the research question or statement. Research DesignDefinitionExploratoryExplores the gaps in research, which are areas that have not been explored in depth.DescriptiveFocuses on everything besides the “why”. Descriptive research aims to obtain sufficient information to describe a phenomenon.ExplanatorySpecifically investigates the “why”. Sets out to equip reader with further knowledge on the subject area and predict developmental trajectory.ExperimentalThis is the process of carrying out research in a controlled and objective manner to produce credible results that align with a thesis statement.Cross-sectionalThis is an observational study that measures both the outcome and exposure of certain stimuliLongitudinalThese are repetitive cross-sectional studies where participants are observed over a long period of time.Case studyThis is an in-depth study conducted over a period of time to observe the development of a situation or a person. Components of Research Design Design components are the building blocks of constructing an effective research design. To yield objective findings, the research design should be set up in a way that every relevant contributing factor is either a variable or a control to influence the experiment appropriately. Design ComponentRelevance and DefinitionResearch questionThe research question is what the research or project is designed to answer, formulating and phrasing the research question dictates the data collection and analysis methods.HypothesisThis is a proposed explanation that is based off of the limited research and evidence, it is the starting point of further research and investigation.VariablesThese are measurable factors. There are 2 kinds of variables; independent and dependent and they are used to observe cause and effect relationships.Data collection methodsThese are the ways in which primary research can be conducted and the most common ones are surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations etc.Sampling techniquesThese are strategies to select participants based on relevant factors. The most common techniques are snowball, cluster, stratified, systematic, randomised, quota and convenience.Data analysisThis is the most crucial stage of research as it summarises the data in an analytical manner to establish patterns, trends or relations. Creating Effective Research Design For a research design to be effective, all the components must align with one another. To ensure this alignment, the researcher should determine whether the data needs to be qualitative or quantitative while also considering the scope of the research question and the answer the study derives. To avoid misalignment of components, refer to the order below: • Your research objectives must be consistent with the “gap” that your research is addressing. • Your research questions must be aligned with research objectives. • Your hypotheses must be aligned with your research questions. • Your research method must be appropriate to research objectives and research questions. • Your research design must be consistent with your research method. • Your research methodology must be consistent with research design. Common Challenges & Tackling Them Participant and sample collection The most efficient way to attract participants is to have incentives and learn to “sell” your research project to potential participants, this would make them more willing to partake in the study. Finding research collaborators The first place to look for collaborators is within your own professional network. However, if you’ve struggled to find them, then you can look into expanding your network by attending academic conferences. Another tip is to look for collaborators that challenge you to see your research through different aspects. Finding research funding To find research funding, try to branch out to international sources as well. Look for online sources and apply, this can help put you in touch with international researchers which also fosters collaboration and inclusivity within your research. In conclusion, research design is the compass that guides the expedition into the realm of knowledge. It is a meticulous process that, when executed effectively, paves the way for discovery, innovation, and progress. As we highlighted the key components of research design, this blog uncovered its multifaceted nature. From the types of research design, each with its unique purpose and methodology, to the essential components that form the building blocks of an effective design, it is clear that a well-planned approach is essential. FAQs What is the role of research design in research study? The purpose of research design is to dictate the effective plan to carry out the study. It is the approach with which a study is executed, it ensures that all variables within the study are carefully planned for and accurately measured. How does the choice of design impact data collection? The chosen research design ensures that all relevant factors within the research study can be analyzed to provide clear insights. The design determines whether the data collected will be qualitative, quantitative or a mix of both. What are the key differences between exploratory and experimental research designs? The main difference is that experimental research is done in a controlled environment and exploratory research seeks to answer a question or address a phenomenon or statement. How can a strong research design enhance the validity of study results? The strongest research designs avoid far-fetched correlations, rigorously test the hypothesis, and ensure that the results are generalisable. table, th, td { border: 1px solid; } td { padding: 8px; } td a { color: rgb(234 170 0); } table { margin: 20px 0 } ul li, ol li { margin: 0 0 0 40px; } ul li a{ --tw-text-opacity: 1; color: rgb(234 170 0); } ol { list-style: auto; } ul { list-style: disc; }
Zendy Announces a New Global Subscription Plan at Frankfurt Book Fair 2023
Frankfurt, Germany – October 19 2023 - Zendy, the AI-powered research library, announced the launch of its global subscription plan at the 75th annual Frankfurt Book Fair event in Germany. This launch enables students, researchers, and professionals around the world to access leading journals, e-books, and research papers on one intuitive platform. Founded in 2019, Zendy has introduced an ‘affordable access’ model and is committed to fostering a more affordable and inclusive ecosystem for individuals to read and download scholarly material. Despite progress with open science initiatives, the majority of published scientific findings — and the vast majority of prestigious new research is hidden behind paywalls. Given the global disparity in current access models, affordable and accessible solutions are required to facilitate the future of research. This global subscription plan gives individuals unlimited access to paywalled research for the monthly price of a single research paper. Zendy also offers a free Open Access plan. Both plans come with a host of features including AI summarisation and keyphrase highlighting and more. “Research should be accessible to everyone and it must be affordable. The only way we can address these issues is to shift our perspective on the economics of the publishing industry. Our affordable access solution with Zendy Plus helps publishers increase visibility and proceeds in emerging markets, and most importantly, gives individuals an affordable alternative. It’s taken us years of conversations and collaboration to reach this milestone so we thank our community for their unwavering support,” said Zendy co-founder Kamran Kardan. Zendy partners with leading providers and publishers including Bristol University Press, De Gruyter, EBSCO, Emerald Publishing, IEEE, Taylor & Francis, Wiley, and more. To find out more, visit: www.zendy.io. About Zendy Zendy is a product of Knowledge E. Since its inception in 2019, Zendy has introduced over 350,000 users to a better way to research. Zendy’s intuitive AI-powered research library features millions of journals, articles, e-books, and more; allowing users to access unlimited content for an affordable monthly subscription. Zendy also offers a free open access plan. Press contact:Monica ChinsamiHead of Marketing