Research Fundamentals and Characteristics

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT considered research?

Gathering data on a scientific phenomenon

Comparing features of a gadget (correct)

Finding the best way to get rid of an illness (correct)

Testing a theory through experimentation

What distinguishes scientific research from casual inquiries?

It contributes to a body of science and follows the scientific method (correct)

It is always performed by a professional researcher

It focuses exclusively on applied research

It can only use qualitative data

Which of these characteristics is NOT associated with research?

Logical

Unsystematic (correct)

Cyclical

Replicable

Basic research aims to achieve what?

Test existing theories or generate new theories Signup and view all the answers

What is a key purpose of research in daily life?

To solve problems and make sound decisions Signup and view all the answers

Theory-testing research is primarily aimed at what?

Confirming or refuting existing theories Signup and view all the answers

What type of data includes information collected to validate research findings?

Qualitative and quantitative data Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following elements is NOT part of the IMRAD format in research?

Backstory of the research Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary goal of applied research?

To directly address specific practical problems Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of research emphasizes the replication of studies to verify findings?

Replicable Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes theory-building research from theory-testing research?

Theory-building generates new theories or concepts. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of scientific research is emphasized by the systematic nature of its process?

It uses a structured methodology to address questions. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of scientific inquiry, what does empirical mean?

Grounded in observable and collected data. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the IMRAD format significant in research communication?

It provides a structure for presenting research findings systematically. Signup and view all the answers

What type of data is essential for validating research findings?

Quantitative and qualitative data Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant benefit of conducting basic research?

It discovers new phenomena that advance knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Research Defined

Research is more than just "googling" or finding information online.
Research is not simply comparing features of a product or finding the best way to get rid of an illness.
Research is not just about getting the latest information on movies or series.

Scientific Research

Research becomes scientific when it contributes to a body of scientific knowledge.
Scientific research follows the scientific method.

Purposes of Research

Basic Research aims to test existing theories or generate new ones, advancing knowledge and understanding.
Applied Research uses acquired knowledge from research to address practical issues and contribute to solutions.
Basic research is also known as theoretical research.

Research Characteristics

Systematic: Research follows a structured and organized approach.
Empirical: Research relies on evidence and data gathered from observations or experiments.
Logical: Research uses a coherent and rational reasoning process.
Cyclical: Research builds on previous findings and often involves repeated cycles of investigation.
Replicable: Research should be conducted in a way that allows others to repeat the process and verify the results.

Importance of Research

Research helps solve problems by providing insights and solutions.
Research supports sound decision-making by providing evidence-based information.
Research uncovers truth and exposes hidden realities.
Research acquaints individuals with facts and current events.

Benefits of Research

The progress of human civilization is a direct result of research.

IMRAD Format

Background of the Study: Provides context and introduces the research problem.
Research Questions: Specifies the specific questions the research aims to answer.
Research Method: Describes the approach used to collect and analyze data, including quantitative or qualitative methods.
Research Design: Outlines the specific design used, such as descriptive, experimental, or phenomenological.
Findings: Presents the results of the research, supported by data and analysis.
Conclusions: Summarizes the key findings and their implications.
Recommendations: Suggests future research directions or practical applications based on the findings.

Research Paradigm

Refers to a set of beliefs, assumptions, and values that guide research.
Can be found on page 33 of the research book.

Data in Research

Data refers to any information observed and collected to validate research findings and draw conclusions.
Data can be qualitative (descriptive) or quantitative (numerical).

### Research Definition

Research is a process of systematic inquiry that aims to discover, interpret, and revise existing knowledge.
It involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information to answer questions or solve problems.

### Scientific Research

Scientific research adds to the body of scientific knowledge by adhering to scientific methods.

### Types of Research

Theory-testing research aims to validate or refute existing theories.
Theory-building research aims to develop new theories based on observations.

### Purposes of Research

#### Basic Research

Focuses on advancing knowledge and understanding through theoretical exploration.
Testing existing theories or generating new ones.
Known as theoretical research.

#### Applied Research

Aims to solve specific practical problems using existing knowledge.
Utilizes research findings to directly address real-world issues.

### Characteristics of Research

Systematic: Research follows a pre-defined process with logical steps.
Empirical: Research relies on observations and evidence from the real world.
Logical: Research uses reason and logic to draw conclusions from evidence.
Cyclical: Research often builds upon previous studies, creating a continuous cycle of inquiry.
Replicable: Research should be designed to be repeated by others to verify its findings.

### Importance of Research in Everyday Life

Solving problems: Research helps identify solutions to complex challenges faced by individuals and society.
Sound decision-making: Research provides evidence-based information to support informed decisions.
Uncovering the truth: Research helps uncover hidden truths and information.
Understanding the facts: Research provides knowledge and understanding of various happenings and facts.

### Benefits of Research

Research plays a crucial role in human progress and advancement.

### IMRAD Format

A common format for research reports:
- Introduction: Background, research problem, and research questions.
- Methods: Research design, methodology, and data collection techniques.
- Results: Presentation of findings and data analysis.
- Discussion: Interpretation of findings, implications, and limitations.
- Conclusion: Summary of key findings and recommendations for future research.

### Research Paradigm

A research paradigm encompasses a set of assumptions, beliefs, and perspectives that guide the research process.
It influences the research methods, data analysis techniques, and interpretation of findings.

### Data

Data is information collected and observed during research .
Qualitative data consists of non-numerical information like text, images, or audio recordings.
Quantitative data consists of numerical data that can be measured.

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Description

Explore the essential definitions and characteristics of research, including the distinction between scientific, basic, and applied research. This quiz will guide you through the systematic, empirical, and logical aspects that define effective research practices.