Application Of Computer –based Examination System
[A CASE STUDY OF ABIA STATE POLYTECHNIC, ABA]

CHAPTER THREE
3.0.    RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The concept research methodology is simply referred to the specification of the relevant procedures for collection and analysis of information (data) which would help solve the research problem at hand (Agburu, 2001). The main reason for the analysis is to find out what information the system should manage, what to find in the search and how to execute those objectives. For the researcher to achieve all these stated above, I made use of the internationally accepted software engineering model, which Structured System Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM). Structured System Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM) is a system approach to the analysis and design information system. SSADM methods involves the application of a sequence of analysis, documentation and Design tasks concerned with analysis of the current system, logical data design and local process design etc.
3.1.    SYSTEM INVESTIGATION
Investigation is defined as an act of trying to discover facts, information etc, by study or research. Hence, the system investigation is the in depth and through custody of the strength and weakness of an existing system regarding its procedures in working. To introduce a system that will help to improve the already existing one, its inputs and outputs with the objective of maximizing it efficiency through an organized transformation process. Basically two phases are involved in system investigation. They are:
1.    The System Definition Phases: This is the first phase of system investigation.
It is at this stage the researcher defines the problem of the old system as identified by the department. The purpose of the study is to establish the need for a new system and specify the objectives.
It is usually the initial study carried out to identify the problem of the old system and the causes of such problems the objectives is to conduct as preliminary analysis, prose alternatives solution.
2.    Feasibility Study: it involves the study of existing system from which the
researcher was able to develop a model for the new system. This aids investigating the project in sufficient depth to be able to provide information that justifies the development of the new system and show why the old system should not continue. However, this stage help to examine sand determine the validity, workability and acceptability of the new system.
3.2.    SOURCES OF DATA
PRIMARY SOURCE OF DATA COLLECTION: Primary source of data collection for this project were obtained directly from first hand information, through interview, observation and questionnaires. The major reason for collecting data through first hand information for this projects work is to gain an insight into the problems under study. In other word, it makes the project to be original and also provide firsthand information about all, the related key issues involved in the study.