Research Methods and Characteristics

Nature of Inquiry and Research

• Research methods can be classified into two main categories: Qualitative and Quantitative.

Research

• Involves systematic investigation to establish facts or principles.
• Aims to generate new knowledge or validate existing knowledge.

What to Look For

• Identify objectives, methodology, findings, implications, and limitations.

Research Aims

• Advance understanding of a topic.
• Solve specific problems.
• Generate informed decisions.
• Contribute to theoretical frameworks.

Functions of Research

• a. Descriptive
  • Provides detailed accounts of phenomena.
• b. Explanatory
  • Explains relationships and causality.
• c. Predictive
  • Forecasts potential outcomes based on evidence.

Characteristics of Research

• a. Objective
  • Aims for neutrality and bias elimination.
• b. Systematic
  • Follows structured procedures and protocols.
• c. Empirical
  • Based on observation or experience rather than theory.
• d. Replicable
  • Findings can be reproduced in similar contexts.
• e. Progressive
  • Builds on past knowledge and discoveries.
• f. Ethical
  • Adheres to moral principles in research conduct.
• g. Dynamic
  • Adapts to new findings and perspectives.

Other Characteristics

• Research is iterative, allowing for refinement of questions and methods.

Roles of Research (Nieswiadomy, 2004)

• Aids in decision-making.
• Provides a foundation for practice.
• Stimulates innovation and improvement.
• Serves the community by addressing needs.
• Establishes guidelines for policies.
• Engages in critical thinking skills development.
• Expands the disciplinary knowledge base.

Types of Research

• A. Basic Research
  • Focuses on theoretical exploration and understanding.
• B. Applied Research
  • Aims to solve practical problems using knowledge gained.

Goals in Conducting Research

• Enhance knowledge.
• Provide solutions to specific challenges.
• Influence policy and practice.
• Foster scientific inquiry and curiosity.