Introduction to Research

Concept of Research
Research can be defined as the search for knowledge, or as any systematic investigation, with an open mind to; establish novel facts, solve new or existing problems, prove new ideas, or develop new theories, usually using a scientific method

Contd
A journey from known to unknown A way of satisfying ones inquisitiveness.. Finding a way when unknown confronts us. A scientific investigation..

Contd
Research is the process of gathering the information needed to answer certain questions and thereby helping in solving problems faced by an individual, firm, organization or society.

Contd
Therefore, research is something which people undertake to find out something: in a systematic way, thereby increasing their knowledge.

It is a primary tool used in all areas to expand the knowledge.

Objectives of Research
To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it Exploratory or Formulative Research. To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, situation or a group Descriptive Research. To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which it is associated with something else Diagnostic Research. To test a hypothesis of a causal relationship between variables Hypothesis-Testing Research.

Characteristics of Research
Research is directed towards the solution of a problem. Research is based upon observable experience or empirical evidence. Research demands accurate observation and description. Research involves gathering new data from primary sources or using existing data for a new purpose. Research activities are characterized by carefully designed procedures. Research requires expertise i.e., skill necessary to carryout investigation, search the related literature and to understand and analyze the data gathered.

Contd.
Research is objective and logical applying every possible test to validate the data collected and conclusions reached. Research involves the quest for answers to unsolved problems. Research requires courage. Research is characterized by patient and unhurried activity. Research is carefully recorded and reported.

CRITERIA OF A GOOD RESEARCH

Purpose clearly defined. Research process detailed. Research design thoroughly planned. High ethical standards applied. Limitations frankly revealed.

Findings presented unambiguously.

Conclusions justified.

Qualitative research
Qualitative research or unstructured approach to research is concerned with qualitative phenomenon involving quality. It is non-numerical, descriptive, applies reasoning and uses words. Its aim is to get the meaning, and describe the situation

Explaining how digestion of food takes place in our body is a qualitative description

Quantitative research
Seeks to quantify a data and typically apply some statistical analysis. They put heavy emphasis on using formalised standard questions and predetermined responds in questionnaires or survey administered to large number of respondents.

Quantitative research
Due to large sample size and the statistical rigour, quantitative research provides advantages in terms of generalisability and validity however, it is time consuming and at times very costly