Key Concepts in Research: Terminologies Explained

Research Terminologies: An Explanation of Key Concepts

In the field of research, there are various terminologies that researchers use to describe concepts and processes. Understanding these terminologies can help in conducting research effectively. Here's an overview of some important research terminologies:

Qualitative Research

Qualitative research is a research approach that emphasizes non-numerical data and aims to understand descriptive theories grounded in the data. It includes techniques like ethnography, ethnography of communication, ethnomethodology, phenomenology, unobtrusive research, and participant observation.

Research Design

Research design refers to the overall plan for conducting a research study. It includes the research type, methodology, sampling methods, and data analysis techniques. The design should be tailored to the research question and the type of data being collected.

Data Analysis

Data analysis is the process of examining and interpreting data to draw meaningful conclusions. It can involve both quantitative and qualitative methods, depending on the nature of the data and the research question.

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research is a research approach that focuses on numerical data. It uses statistical methods to analyze data and answer specific research questions. Quantitative research can be either experimental, in which one variable is manipulated to see its effects on other variables, or descriptive, which describes a group or situation.

Sampling Methods

Sampling methods are techniques used to select a subset of participants from the larger population of interest. These methods can be probability, where all individuals in a sampling frame have an equal chance of being selected, or non-probability, where researchers select participants based on certain criteria.

Abstract

An abstract is a brief summary of an article, book, or document. It provides an overview of the study, including the research question, methodology, findings, and conclusions.

Researcher

A researcher is an individual who conducts research to gain new knowledge or insights. They design and implement research studies, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions based on their findings.

Subjects

Subjects are the participants in a research study. They may be human or non-human (e.g., animals or objects) and are chosen based on the research question and methodology.

Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a predicted relationship between two or more variables. It is a testable statement about a relationship or phenomenon that can be supported or refuted by evidence.

Population

A population is the entire group of individuals, objects, or events that a researcher is interested in studying. The population can be defined by various criteria, such as age, gender, location, or other characteristics.

By understanding these research terminologies, researchers can navigate the complexities of research and effectively communicate their findings to others in their field.