On

Meaning, Definition & Types of

“

Research”

Submitted to – Dr. Nirmal Kumar

swain
Submitted by – Rishi
( Mlib.Sc. 4nd sem)
Roll No. --- 2513

* INTRODUCTION:-
Research is defined as careful consideration of study regarding a
particular concern or problem using scientific methods. According to
the American sociologist Earl Robert Babbie, “research is a systematic
inquiry to describe, explain, predict, and control the observed
phenomenon. It involves inductive and deductive methods.”

The word “research” is derived from the French word ‘recherche’

which means to seek again. The word research is composed of two
syllables ”Re” and “Search”. “Re” is the prefix meaning “Again or over
again or a new” and “Search” is the latter meaning “to examine
closely and carefully” or “to test and try”.

* Overall we can say that Research is a systematic, exhaustive, and

intensive investigation and study of a topic.

*Research is conducted with a purpose to:

 Identify potential and new customers.
 Research is conducted to evaluate the validity of a hypothesis
or an interpretive framework
 to assemble a body of substantive knowledge and findings for
sharing them in appropriate manners  
 to generate questions for further inquiries.

*DEFINITION:-
Research has been defined in a number of different ways, and
while there are similarities, there does not appear to be a
single, all-encompassing definition that is embraced by all
who engage in it.
*According to   John W. Creswell "research is a process of
steps used to collect and analyze information to increase our
understanding of a topic or issue". It consists of three steps:
 pose a question, collect data to answer the question, and
present an answer to the question

*Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines research as

"studious inquiry or examination; especially : investigation or
experimentation aimed at the discovery and interpretation of
facts, revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new
facts, or practical application of such new or revised theories
or laws"

*According to clifford woody:- Research comprises of

defining and redefinition problems, Formulating hypothesis,
collecting , organizing, Evaluating data’s , making decisions,
suggesting solution, reaching conclusion & Finally, carefully
testing the conclusion.

*One definition of research is used by the  OECD, "Any

creative systematic activity undertaken in order to increase
the stock of knowledge, including knowledge of man, culture and
society, and the use of this knowledge to devise new applications.

*Types of Research:

Research can be classified from the view point or perspective

as, from the view point

1.Pure Research
2.Applied Research

 Pure Research: (basic or fundamental research)

Gathering, knowledge is termed as ‘pure’ or ‘basic’
research. Just to gather knowledge in order to formulate
or generalized theories or policies. e.g. Research on
mathematics. This type of research adds knowledge to
the existing organized body.
 • Applied Research:- To find an immediate solution for a
pressing problem. e.g. social , economic and political trend
prevailing in a country. Examples of applied research can be
seen in medicine, education, business, engineering,
psychology and health
It is always done according to the basic research and can be
carried out by academic or industrial institutions

*Scientific research 
is a systematic way of gathering data and harnessing curiosity.
This research provides scientific information and theories for
the explanation of the nature and the properties of the world.
It makes practical applications possible. Scientific research is
funded by public authorities, by charitable organizations and
by private groups, including many companies. 

*Qualitative research
This involves understanding human behavior and the reasons
that govern such behavior, by asking a broad question,
collecting data in the form of words, images, video etc. that is
analyzed, and searching for themes. This type of research aims
to investigate a question without attempting to quantifiably
measure variables or look to potential relationships between
variables.

*Quantitative research
This involves systematic empirical investigation of quantitative
properties and phenomena and their relationships, by asking a
narrow question and collecting numerical data to analyze it
utilizing statistical methods. The quantitative research designs
are experimental, correlational, and survey.
 *What are the characteristics of research?
1. Good research follows a systematic approach to capture
accurate data. Researchers need to practice ethics and a code of
conduct while making observations or drawing conclusions.
2. The analysis is based on logical reasoning and involves both
inductive and deductive methods.
3. Real-time data and knowledge is derived from actual
observations in natural settings.
4. There is an in-depth analysis of all data collected so that there
are no anomalies associated with it.
5. It creates a path for generating new questions. Existing data
helps create more research opportunities.

References:
 Glossary of statistical terms by OECD
 The Cambridge Dictionaries online
 WIKIPEDIA