Introduction to Research Methodology

1.
Meaning of Research
So, what is Research? Well, Research is a voyage for new knowledge, or looki
ng out for information on a specific topic. Its both scientific and systematic.
In general, Research as an academic activity can be defined as the technical
ity of defining and redefining problems, formulating hypothesis or suggested sol
utions, collecting, organising and evaluating data, making deductions and reachi
ng conclusions, and lastly testing the conclusions to determine whether they fit
the formulated hypothesis.
2.

Objectives of Research
a. To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it

.
b. To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, or
a situation or a group.
c. To determine the rate at which something happens.
d. To test a hypothesis of a casual relationship between variables.
3.

Types of Research
Research can be categorised in some of the following ways;

a. Descriptive Vs Analytical Research

Descriptive research involves stating the what and how of the state of affai
rs as it exists that very moment. In this method, the researcher has no control
over the variables; he can only report what is happening or what has happened.
Analytical research comprises of using the available variables to know t
he why. The researcher tweaks the existing variables and analyse them to make a cr
itical evaluation of the subject matter.
b. Applied (Action) Vs Fundamental (Basic, Pure) Research
Applied research is aimed at finding a solution for an immediate problem
facing a certain society, or organization.
Fundamental research aims at gaining knowledge for knowledges sake. Its ma
inly concerned with generalizations and formulation of a theory.
c. Quantitative Vs Qualitative Research
Quantitative is based on measurement of amount or quantity e.g. populati
on, demographics
Qualitative is concerned with qualitative phenomenon of motivational res
earch.
d. Conceptual Vs Empirical Research
Conceptual research is research that is related to some abstract ideas o
r theory.
On the other hand, empirical research relies on experience or experiment
al observations. Its data-based research, where conclusions are capable of being
verified by observation or experiment.
e. There are many other types of research based on their purpose or the tim
e required to accomplish it. All these other types are variations of the major t
ypes above.
4.

Research Process