STUDY NOTE NO.

1
MEANING OF RESEARCH
The word research is derived from the old French word “cerchier” meaning to seek or search. One seeks
exhaustively for three reasons:
1. For more explanations
2. For verifiable truth
3. To make discoveries
According to Thomas and Nelson (1996), “research is a careful and systematic means of solving problem.”
According to Parel, research is “a systematic study or investigation of something for the purpose of answering
questions posed by the researcher”.
From the root word “search” and the prefix “re,” research can be defined as a repetitive search for something
previously unknown. It is a never-ending attempt to discover the truth. The continuous pursuit of knowledge drives many
individuals in their research endeavours.

AIMS OF RESEARCH
1. Generating new knowledge or information
The new knowledge or information that researchers obtain in various disciplines contributes to the growth
of Science. The great amount of information we have today is a product of research conducted all these years.
2. Finding an application for the new knowledge
Applications of knowledge also constitute new information.
3. Verifying existing knowledge
The first two aims give rise to new information which is challenged after sometime. Researchers are also
conducted using more advanced detection and measuring devices to verify previous facts or findings. Scientific
principles become verified with time.
4. Developing the investigator
When you do research, your independent study provides an opportunity for creativity and for making
original contributions to scientific knowledge. The long hours you will spend in doing research, the failures and
frustrations you encounter, and your eventual success provide opportunities for growth.

STUDY NOTE NO. 1

MEANING OF RESEARCH
The word research is derived from the old French word “cerchier” meaning to seek or search. One seeks
exhaustively for three reasons:
1. For more explanations
2. For verifiable truth
3. To make discoveries
According to Thomas and Nelson (1996), “research is a careful and systematic means of solving problem.”
According to Parel, research is “a systematic study or investigation of something for the purpose of answering
questions posed by the researcher”.
From the root word “search” and the prefix “re,” research can be defined as a repetitive search for something
previously unknown. It is a never-ending attempt to discover the truth. The continuous pursuit of knowledge drives many
individuals in their research endeavours.

AIMS OF RESEARCH
1. Generating new knowledge or information
The new knowledge or information that researchers obtain in various disciplines contributes to the growth
of Science. The great amount of information we have today is a product of research conducted all these years.
2. Finding an application for the new knowledge
Applications of knowledge also constitute new information.
3. Verifying existing knowledge
The first two aims give rise to new information which is challenged after sometime. Researchers are also
conducted using more advanced detection and measuring devices to verify previous facts or findings. Scientific
principles become verified with time.
4. Developing the investigator
When you do research, your independent study provides an opportunity for creativity and for making
original contributions to scientific knowledge. The long hours you will spend in doing research, the failures and
frustrations you encounter, and your eventual success provide opportunities for growth.