1st Lecture - Scientific Research PDF

SCIENTIC RESEARCH 1ST lecture  Definitions of Research The main goal of research is the gathering and interpreting of information to answer questions (Hyllegard, Mood, and Morrow, 1996). Research is a systematic attempt to provide answers to questions (Tuckman...

SCIENTIC RESEARCH 1ST lecture  Definitions of Research The main goal of research is the gathering and interpreting of information to answer questions (Hyllegard, Mood, and Morrow, 1996). Research is a systematic attempt to provide answers to questions (Tuckman, 1999). Research may be defined as the systematic and objective analysis and recording of controlled observations that may lead to the development of generalizations, principles, or theories, resulting in prediction and possible control of events (Best and Kahn, 1998). Research is a logical and systematic search for new and useful information on a particular topic. It is an investigation of finding solutions to scientific and social problems through objective and systematic analysis. It is a search fo knowledge, that is, a discovery of hidden truths ( Rajasekar , Philominathan and Chinnathambi, 2013). Research is a systematic way of asking questions, a systematic method of inquiry (Drew, Hardman, and Hart, 1996). Research is finding or developing something new that changes the world (Paul Wagner , 2003)  Objectives Of Research? The prime objectives of research are: (1) to discover new facts (2) to verify and test important facts (3) to analyze an event or process or phenomenon to identify the cause and effect relationship (4) to develop new scientific tools, concepts and theories to solve and understand scientific and nonscientific problems (5) to find solutions to scientific, nonscientific and social problems (6) to overcome or solve the problems occurring in our every day life.  Motivations of Research Some of the motivation factors for some one to undertake research are: (1) to get a research degree (Master of science(M.Sc.) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)) along with its benefits like better employment, promotion, increment in salary, etc. (2) to get a research degree and then to get a teaching position in a college or university or become a scientist in a research institution (3) to get a research position in other countries like U.S.A., Canada, Germany, England, Japan, Australia, etc. and settle there (4) to solve the unsolved and challenging problems (5) to get joy of doing some creative work (6) to acquire respectability (7) to get recognition (8) curiosity to find out the unknown facts of an event (9) curiosity to find new things (10) to serve the society by solving social problems.  Importance of Research Some important avenues of research are: (1) A research problem refers to a difficulty which a researcher or a scientific community or an industry or a government organization or a society experiences. It may be a theoretical or a practical situation. It calls for a thorough understanding and possible solution. (2) Research on existing theories and concepts help us identify the range and application of them. (3) It is the fountain of knowledge and provide guidelines for solving problems. (4) Research provides basis for many government policies. For example, research on the needs and desires of the people and on the availability of revenues to meet the needs helps a government to prepare a budget. (5) It is important in industry and business for higher gain and productivity and to improve the quality of products.  Importance of Research, Contd. 6) Mathematical and logical research on business and industry optimizes the problems in them. (7) It leads to the identification and characterization of new materials, new living things, new stars, etc. (8) Only through research inventions can be made; for example, new and novel phenomena and processes such as superconductivity and cloning have been discovered only through research. (9) Social research helps find answers to social problems. They explain social phenomena and seek solution to social problems. (10) Research leads to a new style of life and makes it delightful and glorious.  Characteristics of Research When you say that you are undertaking a research study to find answers to a question, you are implying that the process; 1. is being undertaken within a framework of a set of philosophies (approaches); 2. uses procedures, methods and techniques that have been tested for their validity and reliability; 3. is designed to be unbiased and objective. Adherence to the three criteria mentioned above enables the process to be called ‘RESEARCH’.  Characteristics of Research Research must meet certain requirements to be called research. These requirements can be identified by examining some definitions of research. Research is a structured enquiry that utilizes acceptable scientific methodology to solve problems and create new knowledge that is generally applicable. Scientific methods consist of systematic observation, classification and interpretation of data.  Characteristics of Research Research is a process of collecting, analyzing and interpreting information to answer questions. But to qualify as research, the process must have certain characteristics: it must, as far as possible, be controlled, rigorous, systematic, valid and verifiable, empirical and critical. Controlled- in real life there are many factors that affect an outcome. The concept of control implies that, in exploring causality in relation to two variables (factors), you set up your study in a way that minimizes the effects of other factors affecting the relationship. Rigorous- Procedures followed to find answers to a problem must be relevant, appropriate and justifiable. Researcher needs to be very careful about this.  CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH “ Contd.” Systematic- this implies that the procedure adopted to undertake an investigation follow a certain logical sequence. The different steps cannot be taken in a haphazard way. Some procedures must follow others. Valid and verifiable- this concept implies that whatever you conclude on the basis of your findings is correct and can be verified by you and others. Empirical- this means that any conclusion drawn are based upon hard evidence gathered from information collected from real life experiences or observations. Critical- critical scrutiny of the procedures used and the methods employed is crucial to a research enquiry. The process of investigation must be foolproof and free from drawbacks. The process adopted and the procedures used must be able to withstand critical scrutiny. For a process to be called research, it is imperative that it has the above characteristics.