Questions and Answers
What is the meaning of research?
Research refers to a scientific and systematic search for pertinent information on a specific topic.
Which of the following is NOT an objective of research?
What are the main purposes of descriptive research?
The main purpose is the description of the state of affairs as it exists.
Applied research is mainly concerned with generalizations and theory formulation.
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Fundamental research mainly concerns itself with __________.
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What distinguishes quantitative research from qualitative research?
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What type of research relies on experience or observation alone?
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Match the following types of research with their definitions:
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Longitudinal research is conducted over a single time-period.
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What is the primary focus of diagnostic research studies?
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Which type of research is characterized by the systematic collection and evaluation of data?
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What distinguishes exploratory research from other types of research?
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In hypothesis-testing research, what is primarily evaluated to confirm the hypothesis?
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Which research type relies heavily on subjective evaluation and understanding of social phenomena?
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Which type of research typically results in generalizations and theory formulation?
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What is a key characteristic of descriptive research?
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Which option best describes the purpose of analytical research?
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Which of the following is considered a characteristic of the scientific method?
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Which type of research primarily focuses on practical applications and real-world issues?
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What does qualitative research focus on that distinguishes it from quantitative research?
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What is a critical element in the methodology of scientific research?
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In research, what is the primary purpose of hypothesis testing?
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Which of the following statements about fundamental research is accurate?
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What is a common misconception about the outcomes of scientific research?
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What does diagnostic research primarily focus on?
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What distinguishes conceptual research from empirical research?
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Which type of research is primarily focused on testing hypotheses?
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What is a key characteristic of longitudinal research?
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Which type of research can be classified as clinical research?
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What is the objective of exploratory research?
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How is empirical research typically described?
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What differentiates applied research from fundamental research?
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What type of research utilizes historical sources like documents and remains?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Research
- Research is a systematic search for knowledge and involves scientific investigation.
- Redman and Mory define research as a “systematized effort to gain new knowledge.”
- Research involves defining problems, formulating hypotheses, collecting and evaluating data, and verifying conclusions.
- It contributes original knowledge to the existing body of work, focusing on the pursuit of truth through various methods.
Objectives of Research
- Gain familiarity and insights into phenomena through exploratory studies.
- Accurately portray characteristics of individuals, groups, or situations via descriptive research.
- Determine frequency and associations through diagnostic research.
- Test causal relationships between variables with hypothesis-testing studies.
Types of Research
Descriptive vs Analytical
- Descriptive research involves surveys and fact-finding to describe the current state of affairs.
- Analytical research uses existing facts to critically evaluate and analyze information.
Applied vs Fundamental
- Applied research seeks immediate solutions to practical problems in society or organizations.
- Fundamental research focuses on generalizations and theory formulation, e.g., investigating natural phenomena or pure mathematics.
Quantitative vs Qualitative
- Quantitative research measures quantities and amounts applicable to phenomena expressible in numerical terms.
- Qualitative research investigates reasons behind human behavior and involves exploring phenomena related to quality.
Conceptual vs Empirical
- Conceptual research revolves around abstract ideas or theories, often used by philosophers to develop or reinterpret concepts.
- Empirical research relies on observations or experiences, typically backed by data that can be verified through experimentation.
Other Types
- Research can be classified by time as one-time research, conducted over a single period, or longitudinal research, carried out over multiple time periods.
Types of Research
- Conceptual Research: Involves abstract ideas or theories; used to develop or reinterpret concepts.
- Empirical Research: Based on observation and experience; data-driven and verifiable through experiments.
- One-time vs Longitudinal Research: One-time research is confined to a single time period, while longitudinal research spans multiple time periods.
- Field-setting vs Laboratory Research: Research can be conducted in real-world settings or controlled laboratory environments.
- Clinical or Diagnostic Research: Employs case studies or in-depth approaches to uncover basic causal relationships.
- Exploratory vs Formalized Research: Exploratory research develops hypotheses, while formalized research tests specific hypotheses.
- Historical Research: Utilizes historical sources, such as documents and artifacts, to study past events.
Meaning of Research
- Research is a systematic search for knowledge; described as an art of scientific investigation.
- Defined as a “systematized effort to gain new knowledge” aimed at advancing existing knowledge.
- Involves defining problems, formulating hypotheses, collecting data, making deductions, and testing conclusions.
Objectives of Research
- Exploratory Research: Aims to gain familiarity or new insights into a phenomenon.
- Descriptive Research: Accurately portrays characteristics of individuals or groups.
- Diagnostic Research: Determines frequency and associations of occurrences.
- Hypothesis-testing Research: Tests causal relationships between variables.
Descriptive vs Analytical Research
- Descriptive Research: Includes surveys and fact-finding inquiries into various circumstances.
- Analytical Research: Uses facts and data to analyze and draw conclusions about specific questions.
Research and Scientific Method
- The scientific method is based on empirical evidence and relevant concepts.
- Committed to objectivity and ethical neutrality, aiming to make accurate statements about subjects.
- Results in probabilistic predictions and allows for the scrutiny and replication of methodology.
- Seeks to formulate general axioms or scientific theories.
Importance of Research in Psychology
- Career Preparation: Knowledge of research methodology is crucial for aspiring researchers to conduct effective research.
- Practical Application: Enables effective evaluation and application of research findings across various fields.
- Intellectual Tool: Provides perspectives for making informed decisions in daily life.
- Consumer Insight: Evaluating research results intelligently contributes to rational decision-making in a scientific context.
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Description
This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of research methodology as introduced in Unit 1 of the BSc/MSc Integrated 5th semester course. It aims to test your understanding of what constitutes research, its definitions, and its significance in scientific investigation. Prepare to explore various aspects of systematic inquiry and knowledge acquisition.