Learning Objectives
Define Concept
Define the concept of research in an academic context.
Differentiate
Distinguish between everyday inquiry and scientific research.
Understand Purpose
Grasp the core purposes and various types of research.
Key Characteristics
Recognize the benchmarks of high-quality research.
What Is Research?
Research is a systematic and organized process of inquiry undertaken to discover new knowledge, verify existing facts, or solve specific problems.
It is not simply gathering information. It builds upon prior knowledge to create new insights or validate theories.
Core Characteristics
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Systematic: Organized plan or method
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Logical: Valid reasoning and theory
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Empirical: Observable evidence
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Replicable: Verifiable results
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Ethical: Integrity & respect
Expert Definitions (Hover to reveal)
Kerlinger
(1973)"Scientific research is a systematic, controlled, empirical and critical investigation of hypothetical propositions about the presumed relations among natural phenomena."
Creswell
(2014)"Research is a process of steps used to collect and analyze information to increase our understanding of a topic or issue."
Leedy & Ormrod
(2013)"Research is the systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information (data) in order to increase our understanding of the phenomenon about which we are interested."
Purposes of Research
Exploratory
Investigate a problem not clearly defined.
Descriptive
Describe characteristics of a population.
Explanatory
Examine cause-and-effect relationships.
Evaluative
Assess effectiveness of programs/policies.
Predictive
Forecast outcomes based on data.
Methodology
Quantitative
Numerical data, stats (SPSS, surveys).
Qualitative
Meaning, experience (Interviews).
Mixed-Methods
Combines both approaches.
Everyday Inquiry vs Scientific Research
| Everyday Inquiry | Scientific Research |
|---|---|
| Based on personal experience or opinion | Based on systematic data collection |
| Often subjective | Aims to be objective and unbiased |
| May lack documentation | Requires evidence, references, transparency |
| Results not generalizable | Results reliable and replicable |
Reflection Zone
Apply Your Knowledge
Think about the methodology (Quant, Qual, or Mixed) that would best suit the problem you identified.