BABEȘ-BOLYAI UNIVERSITY CLUJ-NAPOCA

FACULTY OF MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTER

SCIENCE

SPECIALIZATION SOFTWARE ENGINEERING IN

ENGLISH

THE PREZENTATION OF A RESEARCH

METHODOLOGY

DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCH METHOD

ETICĂ ȘI INTEGRITATE ACADEMICĂ.

METODOLOGIA CERCETĂRII ȘTIINȚIFICE.

CĂTĂLIN RĂZVAN BARTEȘ

2022
 Abstract

This paper is composed by reuniting different types of documentation regarding descriptive research. In
following paragraphs I will talk about why descriptive method is a great way of research. What does
descriptive method mean? What is it actually good for? I believe each one of us has used this method
without even knowing we did. Well, descriptive method takes part of one of the three major ways of
research: quantitative research method, qualitive research method and descriptive research method. For
example, descriptive research method involves the researcher observing and measuring the variables that
result after observing the path or behaviour of a various group of people. For creating some statistics,
researchers usually use cases of study, interviews, logical deductions, or simple observation. Why should
we use descriptive research method? Why is it good for? What is its purpose? Research Methodology is
the application of appropriate methods with the goal of determining solutions to research problems,
whereas Research Method aims to identify solutions to research problems. Research method is a part of
research methodology but there is a small boundary between those two that I will describe later in this
paper. The purpose of descriptive research is to accurately and methodically characterize the state of a
population or phenomenon; it can provide answers to the questions of "what," "where," "when," and
"how," but not "why."
Another good question would be “When should we use quantitative research method? Or qualitive
research method? Or descriptive research method?”. Well quantitative method is used for accumulating
relevant and quantifiable data by using mathematics, computer, surfing the internet etc. Qualitive research
data is used for obtaining a various type of data using interviews, case studies, focus groups. In
comparison with these two methods, descriptive research method is used as an excellent alternative when
the purpose of the research is to identify features, frequency, trends, and classifications. It is particularly
helpful when there is little known about the subject or issue since, in order to comprehend why something
occurs, you must first understand how and when it occurs.
 Contents

1.Research Method and Research Methodology ………………………………………………. 4

2. Descriptive Research Methods ……………………………………………………………… 5
3. When it would be great to use a descriptive research design ……………………………….. 6
4. Why to use descriptive research? …………………………………………………………… 6
5. Methods and examples ……………………………………………………………………… 6
6. Characteristics of descriptive research ……………………………………………………… 8
7. Pros and Cons of Descriptive Research ……………………………………………………... 9
8. Differences between descriptive and analytical method ……………………………………. 11
9. Procedures to Follow When Executing a Descriptive Research Design Examine …………. 11
10.Conclusion …………………………………………………………………………………. 13
11.Bibliography ………………………………………………………………………………. 14
1.Research Method and Research Methodology
Research is "creative and methodical work done to enhance the body of knowledge." It comprises
obtaining, organizing, and evaluating facts of knowledge to deepen understanding of a subject or
situation. Research is described as "work done to increase the body of knowledge creatively and
methodically." It is possible for a research endeavor to build on previous contributions that have been
made to the field.
What exactly is the Research Methods?
When addressing a question through the research process, a researcher will employ a variety of strategies
and procedures; they are collectively referred to as "research methods."
The discovery of a solution is the one and only purpose served by research methods.
There are three types of Research Method: Qualitative Research Methods and Quantitative Research
Methods and Descriptive Research Methods.
Qualitative Research Methods: There are a variety of approaches that can be utilized in qualitative
research, including record keeping, focus groups, one-on-one interviews, case study research,
ethnographic research, observation research, and ethnographic research.
Quantitative Research Methods: These methods constitute a methodical strategy that is put to use in the
process of accumulating quantifiable data through the utilization of computing, mathematical, and
statistical procedures. The information that is typically obtained using quantitative research methods is in
numerical form.
What is the Research methodology?
The research methodology provides a rational justification for each of the actions that were carried out
during the study. The methodology of the research explains the processes that were carried out in order to
get the results of the study. Research methodology acts as a compass to direct the research process. The
following factors are of the utmost importance when it comes to research methodology:
1. Methods of study that are suitable for the current topic of discussion.
2. Examine the reliability of the outcomes produced by the study methodologies you've selected.
3. Check to see that the methods you use for study are fruitful enough.
Many individuals are unable to differentiate between the terms "research technique" and "research
methodology," which are both terminology linked with the research process. Therefore, in the following
phrases, we will make a brief comparison between them in order to be able to comprehend them better
and to be able to detect the differences between them in a much more clear and straightforward manner.
To begin, let's examine what we mean when we talk about these two terms:

1.Meaning: The procedure or strategy that is utilized by the researcher in the course of carrying out
research is referred to as the research method. The term "research method" refers to the procedures that a
researcher does in order to gather information. On the other hand, research technique refers to the means
through which research issues can be effectively solved.
2.What is it: The research method can be thought of as both the behavior and the tool that is employed in
the process of selecting and building the research approach. On the other hand, research methodology
refers to the academic study of knowing how research is carried out and how it should be carried out in a
methodical fashion.
3.Encompasses: The Research Method includes activities such as conducting experiments, tests, surveys,
and interviews, among other activities. Learning different methods that can be applied in the course of
conducting research such as experiments, tests, surveys, interviews, and so on is what the field of research
methodology is all about.
4.Comprise of: In contrast to research methodology, which focuses on an organization's overall approach
to goal achievement, research method, refers to specific investigative methods.
5.Objective: Research Methodology is the application of appropriate methods with the goal of
determining solutions to research problems, whereas Research Method aims to identify solutions to
research problems.
6.Conclusion: Due to the fact that Research Method is a component of Research Methodology, the
former has a broader purview than the latter does. In order to have a complete comprehension of the
research problem, the researcher needs to be familiar with both the methodologies and the research
methodology. In a nutshell, the term "research method" refers to the method that can be used to
investigate the nature of the world that surrounds us, whereas the term "research methodology" refers to
the foundation that enables us to comprehend the factors that determine the efficacy of the methods that
are used.

2. Descriptive Research Methods

In contrast to experimental research, which involves the researcher actively influencing and influencing
all of the variables in the study, descriptive research just involves the researcher observing and measuring
the variables. For the purpose of investigating one or more variables, a descriptive research design may
make use of a large number of research methods. First, we need to clarify what descriptive research is.
The purpose of descriptive research is to accurately and methodically characterize the state of a
population or phenomenon; it can provide answers to the questions of "what," "where," "when," and
"how," but not "why." In contrast to the analytical method, the descriptive method focuses on observing
what occurs rather than attempting to explain why something occurs. In the realm of science, it is
considered to be one of the three categories of inquiry, alongside comparative and experimental models.
This method of research does not make use of hypotheses or predictions; rather, the researcher focuses on
identifying characteristics of the phenomenon under investigation that pique their curiosity. When
conducting a descriptive study, the researcher provides in-depth descriptions of the phenomenon under
investigation in the relevant research materials. This research is primarily theoretical in nature, and the
researcher will gather, organize, and then clearly provide the analysis of the data. It is the kind of research
plan that leaves the most room for interpretation.
3. When it would be great to use a descriptive research
design
Descriptive research is an excellent alternative when the purpose of the research is to identify features,
frequency, trends, and classifications. It is particularly helpful when there is little known about the subject
or issue since, in order to comprehend why something occurs, you must first understand how and when it
occurs. When there is little known about a subject or issue, it is especially helpful because there is less
information available. Descriptive research is often considered to be a type of quantitative research,
despite the fact that descriptive research can also be conducted using qualitative research methods. The
methodology of the research must be meticulously put together if one want for their findings to be
trustworthy and correct.

4. Why to use descriptive research?

To measure data trends: The descriptive technique of research can be utilized to assess changes in
variables over the course of a certain amount of time, which enables trends to be detected and examined.
To compare variables: Comparing the responses of various demographic groups to a variety of
variables, as well as the outcomes of comparative descriptive studies, are both possible applications of
descriptive research.
To define the characteristics of subjects: It is also possible to utilize it to determine the various qualities
of the individuals. These characteristics can include things like opinions, traits, behaviors, and so on.
To verify or validate existing conditions: Since descriptive research requires doing an in-depth
investigation of every variable before coming to any conclusions, it can be an effective instrument to
utilize while attempting to determine whether or not an actual condition is valid.

5. Methods and examples

You may collect large amounts of data through the use of surveys, which can then be examined to find
patterns, averages, and frequency distributions. The demographics of a nation or region, public opinion on
social and political issues, and the level of consumer satisfaction with a company's or organization's
goods and services are all frequent reasons for conducting surveys. Other popular reasons for conducting
surveys include: You can collect information about behaviors and events through observations, rather
than having to rely on the sincerity and accuracy of interview participants. Data collection can be
accomplished through the use of observations. The observation of real-world events and phenomena is
not only an essential part of research in the natural sciences, but it is also frequently used by researchers
in the fields of psychology, sociology, and marketing in an effort to gain a better understanding of how
people behave in everyday settings. This is done in the hopes of gaining a better understanding of how
people behave in everyday settings. Before developing any hypotheses, models, or theories that are
capable of being tested, it is necessary to first carefully examine and characterize the problem that is
being investigated. This must be done before moving on to the next step of the process, which is to
develop any hypotheses, models, or theories. A case study can be used to describe the characteristics of a
particular subject, such as an event or group of people, as opposed to collecting a huge amount of data in
order to identify patterns that span time or location. This is because a case study does not collect as much
data. In contrast to the conventional approach of conducting research, which entails compiling a
significant amount of data, this approach does not involve collecting any information. Case studies are
used to collect a substantial amount of data in order to zero in on the complexities of an issue that has
been narrowly defined.

Data Collection Methods in Descriptive Research

1. CASE STUDY METHOD: A case study can consist of a sample group of persons, groups of people,
companies, events, individuals, etc. This group is a representation of the characteristics held by a larger
group. Case studies are conducted within this group's subgroup. A more comprehensive audience is
catered to by the generalized examination of the data obtained from the case study.
2. METHOD OF SURVEY RESEARCH: Survey research is a common methodology for the collection
of many types of information. After developing a questionnaire or conducting a survey, one distributes it
to respondents and awaits their responses. In most cases, this is done in order to get data more quickly and
directly from the primary source. Parallel research of both the qualitative and quantitative varieties is
carried out in great detail.
What Are the Different Types of Descriptive Research Designs Used in Surveys?
The following is a list of the several kinds of descriptive survey studies:
1. Taking the Census: One type of survey is known as a census survey, which is a type of survey in which
information is obtained from all units that make up a population. Since all or the vast majority of units of
the population are sampled in a census survey, the data that is acquired can be easily generalized to the
entire population.
2. An Example of a Survey: The purpose of a sample survey is to collect data from a representative cross-
section of the entire population. When selecting a sample, the goal is to select a group of individuals who
can represent the target population so that the data acquired may be generalized to the wider population.
This allows the sample to be representative of the larger population. Research can be carried out in a
time- and cost-efficient manner through the use of sample groups.
3. Survey with Multiple Cross-Sections: One type of survey is known as a cross-sectional survey, and it is
the form of survey in which standardized data is gathered from a cross-section of a previously established
population at a specific point in time. Cross-sectional surveys can be broken down into two primary
categories: those that only look at one variable, and those that look at two or more variables.
4. Longitudinal Survey: In studies that follow the same variables for a significant amount of time, known
as longitudinal studies, researchers collect data through the use of longitudinal questionnaires.
Researchers are given the opportunity to explore the status of variables at various times in time thanks to
this. There are primarily three distinct varieties of longitudinal research: trend studies, panel studies, and
cohort studies.
5. Analysis and Comparison: Comparative surveys are conducted in order to evaluate the similarities and
differences between the state of two or more variables. The variables are compared using certain criteria,
which need to be defined as criterion variables before the comparison can take place.
6. Evaluative Survey: In most cases, the evaluation of a program, policy, or curriculum is accomplished
through the use of an evaluation survey. It entails obtaining information that can be used to appraise the
success and worthwhileness of a program, policy, or institution. This can be done in either an individual
or group setting.
7. Investigative Documentary: To conduct a documentary survey requires collecting and analyzing
information using data that has previously been gathered and is readily available. These pieces of
information can be found in a variety of formats, such as research papers, review articles, books, official
records, and so on. In documentary studies, the researcher analyzes the previous written work that has
been done on the subject of the study.
3. OBSERVATIONAL METHOD: The observational method is a methodology that allows researchers
to collect information based on their perspective of the features and behavior of the respondent. There is
no way for the respondents to directly influence this. This methodology is utilized quite frequently in a
variety of study subfields within the social sciences, most notably psychology and market research.
Quantitative observation is characterized by the objective collection of statistical data. When conducting
qualitative observation, one records the qualities rather than the quantities being observed. Indirect and
direct observation are both valid approaches to the same phenomenon. When a researcher analyzes a
phenomenon by looking through written or audiovisual records, such as documents, books, photographs,
or videos, they are participating in an activity known as indirect observation. The researcher might not be
able to find as many records of the occurrence as she or he would want, which is one of the constraints of
this method. In most cases, this data collection method is utilized when direct observation of the event in
question poses a risk, when doing so would require additional funding that is not currently available, or
when the phenomenon in question existed in the past but is no longer present. On the other hand, direct
observation is when the researcher goes into the environment where the phenomenon is taking place, or
when the researcher goes into the environment where the phenomenon is taking place. Because of this,
the researcher does not have to rely on secondary sources; rather, he or she can witness the subject of the
study themselves. Direct observation is the method of choice for researchers whenever it is possible to do
so because it depends more on data acquired from the researchers' own personal experiences. When using
this kind of instrument, one needs to be extremely careful to ensure that the mere presence of the observer
does not cause a change in the way the phenomena behaves. If something like this were to occur, the data
wouldn't be reliable.
A clothing company, for instance, that is conducting descriptive research on a demographic will
undertake a demographic survey of the area in order to acquire information about the people who live
there in order to learn more about the population being researched. This company is interested in learning
more about the buying patterns of residents in a certain city so that it can better serve them. The research
was conducted to learn and then evaluate specifics about "what customers in that city or area buy," but it
did not cover any information or look into "why" these patterns or trends emerge. The research was
conducted to learn and then evaluate specifics about "what customers in that city or area buy." The key
objective of the research for the clothing company that is attempting to break into this market is to have
an awareness of the peculiarities of the market. The research was intended to discover and then analyze
information about "what buyers in that city or area buy."
Additional illustrations that were created during the process of descriptive research:
i. How and why has the real estate market in London altered and developed over the past twenty years?
What are the key changes that have occurred?
ii. Which of products C and D does the company A's clientele prefer, and how can I find out which it is?
iii. How do wild Indian cows and hybrid cows differ from one another in terms of the features that are
passed down genetically as well as the way that they look?
iv. How many persons, as a percentage of population Z, are afflicted with sickness 1?
v. Which informational sites present the most recent information appropriate for adolescents younger than
18 years old?
Other possible examples include the shift that has taken place in Japanese tourism over the past quarter of
a century, the significant differences that exist between the food preferences of Asians and those of the
British, the type of music that is most popular among senior citizens, and the prevalence of cardiovascular
diseases among adolescents.

6. Characteristics of descriptive research

The methodology behind the study, the analysis of the data, and the research questions themselves are all
components of what is known as descriptive research. It is known as an observational research strategy
since the variables in the research study are not altered in any way, despite the fact that this is being done.
Research that is descriptive possesses a number of distinctive traits, including the following:
Quantitative Research in Nature: An example of quantitative research is descriptive research, which is
a sort of quantitative study that tries to collect measurable data for the statistical analysis of a population
sample. We are able to collect information on and provide an explanation of the characteristics of the
demographic group with the assistance of this widely used instrument for market research.
Uncontrolled Variables: In descriptive study, there is no influence of any type on any of the variables,
hence they are referred to as uncontrolled variables. Observational methods are utilized in the process of
carrying out the research. As a consequence of this, the researcher does not have any influence over the
characteristics or actions of the variables. In contrast to experimental research, where variables are
controlled and altered, the variables in observational research are only identified, observed, and
quantified.
Cross-sectional studies: Cross-sectional studies are a type of research that often falls under the umbrella
of descriptive research. These types of studies are known as studies that examine different parts of the
same group. The descriptive research method often makes use of these cross-sectional investigations,
which are a type of observational study that entail the collection of data on a number of individual-level
variables at a particular point in time.
Basis for Further Research: The data that was acquired during the descriptive research phase is used as
the foundation for continuing study since it assists in acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the
research issue in order to respond to it as appropriately as is possible. The material that was acquired
through descriptive research and its analysis was then further validated by the researchers by using a
variety of research methodologies. The information can also be used to help direct the types of research
methods that are utilized for subsequent investigations.
7. Pros and Cons of Descriptive Research
First, let's take a look at some of the positive aspects of descriptive research:

Multiple methods of data collection: When doing research using the descriptive approach, researchers
have access to a wide variety of data collection techniques, including the survey method, the case study
method, and the observational method.

Fast and Cost Effective: Because descriptive research designs frequently make use of questionnaires, it
is possible to collect data from a relatively large sample size in a timely and cost effective manner using
this method.

Comprehensive: Research that is descriptive will frequently combine qualitative and quantitative
methods in order to provide a more comprehensive grasp of the subject under investigation.

Have high external validity: The results that are acquired through the use of the descriptive method of
research frequently have a high level of external validity since the study is carried out in the natural
context of the respondent, and no variables are altered.

Other benefits of using the Descriptive Research Method include the following: first, it analyzes data
Trend; second, it determines the subject features who are being studied; third, it verifies existing
circumstances where the event takes place; fourth, it occurs over time; and fifth, it allows for some sort of
differentiation in comparison that can be done.

Now we will discuss the drawbacks of using the Descriptive Research Method, which are as follows:

Cannot test or verify the research question: Because the data acquired does not contribute to an
explanation of the source of the phenomenon that is being examined, the descriptive technique of research
cannot be utilized to test or validate the research problem.

Lack of reliability: If the research problem is not framed correctly, then the data that is acquired may not
be completely reliable. This not only makes it more difficult to carry out an inquiry that is credible, but it
also makes the investigation itself more laborious.

Risk of untrue responses: When conducting descriptive research, especially through the use of surveys,
it is necessary to rely on the responses of individuals. However, there is always the possibility that
individuals will give false responses, which will undermine the validity of the data collected and,
ultimately, the findings of the research.

Risk of sampling error: When selecting a sample group, the descriptive research method typically uses
random sampling. However, randomness can lead to sampling error, which can lead to unreliable and
inaccurate results. If the sample group isn't representative of the larger population, sampling error can
lead to inaccurate and unreliable results.
Other disadvantages in use of Descriptive Research Method could be the following: first there could be
incorrect sampling a sample or case study acquired from a big population is not the prototypical of the
entire population, next restricted scope, the scope of descriptive research is restricted since no light is
thrown on the reason as in the Y aspect of occurrences but is focused on what the phenomenon is and
finally the issue of response and non-response bias in cases where question seems to be confidential for
the subjects being studied they either answer incorrectly or do not answer at all personal biases of
researchers towards the subject being studied may affect the result of the study.

8. Differences between descriptive and analytical method

The primary distinction between these two methods of investigation is that descriptive research focuses
solely on gaining an understanding of the event being investigated, rather than attempting to uncover the
reasons behind why this occurrence takes place. Analytical studies, on the other hand, are centered on the
goal of comprehending the factors that contribute to the occurrence of the phenomena.
When it comes to research methods, descriptive studies and analytical studies are radically different from
one another. We might say that in analytical studies, the researcher attempts to affect in some manner the
way he observes, but in exploratory investigations, the researcher does not attempt to influence the way
he observes. Both of these forms of study can be conducted in a variety of ways. In contrast, all that is
required of participants in descriptive research is to merely observe.
Research that is descriptive and research that is analytical both play vital roles. The first investigates the
appearance of the data, whereas the second investigates the relationship between cause and effect.
In a wide variety of academic disciplines, analytical research is helpful. These can include, but are not
limited to, the fields of psychology, marketing, medicine, and others. When addressing research
questions, it is frequently employed since it delivers information that is clearer and more decisive.
Currently the company I work for uses it both these types of research.

9. Procedures to Follow When Executing a Descriptive

Research Design Examine
When conducting an investigation with the descriptive research method, the stages that should be
followed are as follows:
Steps for descriptive research:
Step-1: Define the Research Problem
Descriptive research begins with a clear problem definition. In this phase, you must verify that the data
you need to solve your research challenge is available. You must also choose the survey type that best
answers your question. Including descriptive, comparative, and evaluative surveys.
Step 2: List Study Objectives
Next, define your research goals and turn them into criteria. You must clearly outline the issues and
questions to survey the situation's understanding. This needs goals. After stating your criteria and
objectives, identify the data to be collected.
Step-3: Choose Data Collection Methods
This step involves choosing data collection tools. Interviews, questionnaires, observation schedules,
reaction scales, etc. In this stage, you must determine which tools and methods are appropriate for your
study.
Step-4: Define Target Population and Sample Group
Targeting your audience is the fourth step. Your research study's target population is those people. Unless
you are doing a census study, you must additionally select a sample group. Sample groups can be selected
using several approaches. Our article covers sampling methods. Choose a sampling strategy that yields a
representative sample of your target population.
Step-5: Choose Data Collection Method
Data collection requires a plan. This includes specifying the type of data you need, the methods to acquire
it, the researchers' training, the time needed for data collection and fieldwork, and so on. Data collecting
can be done in several ways. Choose the method(s) that best answers your research topic. Keep your
research question and goals in mind as you collect data and try to avoid bias.
Step-6: Analyze Data
Once you’ve collected your data, you reach the sixth stage of descriptive research: data analysis. In this
stage, you will assess all your data from all sources, quantify and qualify them, and then categorize them
component-wise. Analyzing quantitative and qualitative data requires a variety of quantitative and
qualitative methods.
Step-7: Report Writing
Report writing concludes survey research. Survey research requires substantial data, so keep the
investigation's aim in mind. Reports must be precise and objective.

10. Conclusion
In conclusion, this paper has as purpose to answer many questions regarding what Descriptive Research
Method actually is and what is it good for. As a resume, this type of research is very different from
quantitative research method and qualitive research method. It has its own foundations, being based on
finding out how the research is actually done, what were the actual steps in order to complete the total
researching process. By examining different cases of study, interviews, behaviours, mentalities, paths of a
larger group of people we cand build and talk about the actual process of researching. These is just a
small conclusion of what Descriptive Research Method actually means. Have we used this type of
research method without realizing it? Probably yes. Do we understand what this method actually means
and what it has as purpose? I hope so. Hopefully, after presenting such a big mass of information
regarding descriptive research method we will have a better understanding of why knowing that the
process of researching is actually very important in order to make a study.
 11. Bibliography

[1] Descriptive and Analytical Research: What’s the Difference?

https://www.cogentica.com/descriptive-analytical-research/

[2] Helen L. Dulock, RN, DNS, Research Design: Descriptive Research, January 1, 1993
[3] Babbie, E. (2010), Practica cercetării sociale [The practice of social research], Polirom, Iași
[4] Leonard Bickman, Debra J. Rog, The SAGE Handbook of Applied Social Research Methods, 1998
[5] Leighton H. Johnson, Limitations of the Descriptive Method, Vol. 34, No. 6 (Mar., 1953)

[6] Descriptive Research: Definition, Characteristics, Methods, Examples and Advantages

https://www.questionpro.com/blog/descriptive-research/