Research: Introduction

RESEARCH

Research…

Inquisitiveness is mother of all knowledge

                       

           

Meaning

Derived from French Word   “Recherche”, to investigate or to seek for information

Dictionary meaning

§     Endeavor to discover facts by scientific study of a subject

§     Careful investigation or enquiry, specially through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge

 

Definition

n   “Research is a more systematic activity directed towards discovery and the development of an organized body of knowledge”

                                                            -John Best

n   “Research is a systematic investigation to find answer to a problem”

                                                            -Burns

n    “Research is a structured inquiry that utilizes acceptable scientific methodology to   solve problems and creates new knowledge that is generally applicable”

                                                                        -Grinnell

n    “Scientific methods consist of systematic observation, classification and interpretation of data. However the specificity lies in the degree of formality, rigorousness, verifiability, and general validity of the research activity”

                                                                        -Lundberg

 

Research is…

n    Research is a search for TRUTH

n    Research is a problem-solving activity

n    Research provides an analytical framework 

n    Research is systematic – accurate investigation

n    Research leads to policy formulations & programs

n    Research helps in theory-building

n    Research is a DIVERGENT EFFORT creating something unique, original into existence

 

Research questions???

What?                                                 Who?

When?                                                Why?

Where?                                               And How?

 

Characteristics of Research

n        Research is a systematic and critical investigation into a phenomenon.

n        It is not a mere compilation, but a purposive investigation; it aims at describing,     interpreting and explaining a phenomenon.

n        It adopts scientific method

n        It is objective and logical, applying possible tests to validate the measuring tools and the conclusions reached.

n        It is based upon observable experience or empirical evidence.

n        Research is directed toward finding answers to pertinent questions and solutions to problems.

n        It emphasizes the development of generalization, principles or theories.

n        The purpose of research is not to arrive at an answer, which is personally pleasing to the researcher, but rather one, which stand up the test of criticism.

 

NATURE OF RESEARCH  - Scientific

n       Reliance in empirical evidence

n       Verifiable

n       Cumulative

n       Self- correcting

n       Deterministic

n       Ethical neutrality

n       Statistical generality

n       Committed to objectivity

In other words,

1. Systematic – This implies that the procedures employed for investigation follow certain logical sequence. It is orderly and there is a pattern.
2. Valid and verifiable – This means that the conclusions drawn are correct and can be verified by you and others
3. Critical – In a research critical reviewing of the procedures and methods used are very important. The steps involved must be foolproof and free from any drawbacks.
4. Empirical – Conclusions arrived at are based on hard evidence gathered from information collected from real life experiences or observations.
5. Controlled – Establish causality in relation to two variables one sets up one’s study in a way that minimizes the effects of other factors affecting the relationship. It may be very difficult therefore attempt is made to quantify the impact.
6. Rigorous – One must take at most care to ensure that the procedures are followed to find answer to questions that are relevant, appropriate, and justified. It also may vary from discipline to discipline.