NATURE AND

CHARACTERISTICS OF
RESEARCH
Meaning of Research
Research is a scientific investigation of
phenomena, which includes collection,
presentation, analysis and interpretation
of facts that link man’s speculations
with reality. (Calmorin)
 Research is the continuous discovery
and exploration of the unknown, an
investigation of new facts leading to
the discovery of new ideas, new
methods or improvement.
( Sanches )
Research is a systematic study or
investigation of something for the
purpose of answering questions
posed by the researcher. ( Parel )
Research is searching for a
theory, testing for a theory and
for solving a problem. (Sevilla)
 Research is a systematic, controlled,
empirical and critical investigation of
hypothetical propositions about the
presumed relation among the natural
phenomena. (Kerlinger)
 Importance of Research

Research is a vehicle for

mobility, a contribution
towards the attainment of
national goals.
Research explains an issue
or controversy.
Research advances human
knowledge and satisfies
curiosity.
Research improves
instruction and student
achievements.
 Research improves quality of
life.
 Research satisfies man’s needs.
Research reduces the
burden of work
Research has deep-seated
psychological aspect.
Objectives of Research
 to seek new knowledge and
answer specific question

 provide useful information in

the form of verifiable data
Characteristics of a Researcher
Intellectual Curiosity

Prudence

Healthy Criticism

Intellectual Honesty
Qualities of a Good Researcher
R- esearcher oriented
E- fficient
S- cientific

E- ffective
A- ctive
R- esourceful
C- reative
H- onest
E- conomical
R- eligious
 Characteristics of Research
Empirical. Research is based on direct experience and observation
of the researcher.
Logical. Scientific investigation is done in an orderly manner.
Cyclical. Research starts with a problem and ends with a problem.
Analytical. Research utilizes proven analytical procedures
Replicable. The research design can be replicated for validation of
results.
Critical. Research exhibits careful and precise judgements
Methodical – it is conducted in methodical manner without bias
using systematic method and procedure.
 Types of Research
According to Use

 Pure Research
It is also called “basic research” or “fundamental
research” that aims to discover basic truth and principles
intended to add to the body of scientific knowledge
 Applied Research
It involves seeking new applications
of scientific knowledge to the solution
of a problem.
 Action Research
It is a decision-oriented research
involving the application of the steps
of scientific method in response to
immediate need to improve existing
practices.
According to Venue
• Library Research
Research done in the library where answer to
specific questions or problems of the study are available.
• Field Research
Research is conducted in a
natural setting where no changes
are made in the environment.
• Laboratory Research
Research is conducted in artificial or
controlled conditions by isolating the study
in rigorously specified and operationalized
area.
• The purposes are: 1. To test
hypothesis derived from a theory, 2.
To control variance under research
conditions, 3. To discover the
relations between the dependent and
independent variables.
According to Type of Data
Quantitative Research
Research that utilizes numerical method of
measuring or ascertaining the variable. It uses an
objective method of measuring the variable and data are
treated using statistical tools.
Qualitative Research
Research that do not utilize numerical data but instead data
are presented through elaborate word descriptions of what is
observed. Interpretation and analysis relies on the researcher’s
personal judgement and critical analysis of the event, condition, or
behavior observed under investigations. This is usually utilized
with case studies.
 According to Procedure and
Techniques

Historical Research
Research which is the accumulation of facts in relation
to a particular time sequence to determine whether or what
certain events in history actually happened.
Descriptive Research
It includes all studies that purport to present facts
concerning the nature and status of anything. It is concerned
with condition of relationships that exist, practices that prevail,
beliefs and processes that are going-on, felt influences and
developing trends.
Experimental Method
It is a problem-solving approach of research that
describes what will be when certain variables are
carefully controlled or manipulated. It is the technique
of discovering information by means of
experimentation.