Definition, Importance, and Ethical Guidelines of Research

What is research?

1. A systematic controlled, empirical, and critical investigation of hypothetical

propositions about the presumed relations among natural phenomenon (Kerlinger, 1973)

2. Systematic collection and interpretation of data to illuminate describe or explain new

facts and relationships (Treece, 2002)

Why do ABM students have to conduct research? (Importance of research in daily life)

1. To enhance knowledge. When you do research on any topic, you get to know detailed
information about that topic. Data or information will be added improve life situations or
conditions about which little knowledge is available. Research also provides scientific
knowledge from which theories emerge and develop. Consequently, theories derived
from research findings serves as bases and guide to scientific practice and future
researches.

2. To clarify confusion. Knowledge is never absolute, and its value is either diminishing
or increasing depending on the extent of its use. Reading, learning and research is the
way to go if you wish to remove doubts about any subject, or to correct and validate
perceptions. When you read and research on any topic, complicated facts and figures
will be clarified. You will get the facts and statistics you will need to be enlightened and
informed, and you will understand any subject matter. However, this knowledge must be
continuously tested and validated through research

3. To help in decision-making. Research is the best and reliable way to understand and
act on the complexities of various issues which we as humans are facing. If we are
more informed on the pros and cons of every situation, we can make better decisions.

4. To develop a considerable degree of confidence. Professional undertakings are

intended to achieve desired behaviors. Adequate knowledge sustains self-confidence
that makes work easier and lighter, unburdened with uncertainties and doubtful
consequences of actions intended to restore men’s comfort and makes life easier.

5. To help in achieving business success. It is a known fact that companies that invest
a lot of money in Research and Development (R&D) are usually the most successful
ones. Knowing how to conduct proper research will be very beneficial to you as ABM
students and later as accountants and businessmen because it will give you an edge
over your business competitors. Through research, you will find out how to make things
happen and what could differentiate your business from others that offer similar products
 and services. Indeed, having relevant knowledge in what business strategies to adapt
can boost your profitability.

Ethical Principles and Guidelines for Researchers

1. Informed Consent
The participants must be fully informed about the nature of research, its purposes and
potential risk and benefits.

2. Beneficence and Nonmaleficence

This is a fundamental ethical principle in research, which means, “to do good” and “to do
no harm” to study participants.

3. Respect for Human Dignity

The rights of the study participants must be well protected and respected.

4. Justice and Fairness

Study participants deserve fair and equitable treatment before, during and after the study
period. The researcher should provide equal chances in the selection process, must
comply with agreements in regard to procedures, techniques or benefits due to
participants.

5. Intellectual honesty and respect

Giving acknowledgment/recognition or due respect to the original/previous work of art.

Samples of Research in Area of Interest

1. How do consumers search for and appraise health information on the world wide web?
2. Choices and Challenges: A Qualitative Exploration of Professional Women's Career
Patterns
3. What Does it Mean to Design? A Qualitative Investigation of Design Professionals'
Experiences

Sources:

(2011). Why research is important for students? Retrieved from https://content.wisestep.com

/research-important-students-humans-education/

BMJ 2002;324:573
Daly, Shanna. R. (2013) What Does it Mean to Design? A Qualitative Investigation of Design
Professionals' Experiences

Whitmarsh, Lona et. Al. (2011) Choices and Challenges: A Qualitative Exploration of
Professional Women's Career Patterns

Zarah, Leann. (2018). 7 Reasons Why Research Is Important. Retrieved from https://owlocation
.com/academia/Why-Research-is-Important-Within-and-Beyond-the-Academe