INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH

Chapter 1 The Nature of Inquiry and Research

The Nature and Importance of Research

What is Research?
The word research was coined from two words: the prefix re, which means
“again”, and the word search, meaning “to look for something again.”

According to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, research is “ a 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.
The University of California San Diego defines research as “a systematic inquiry that
investigates hypotheses, suggests new interpretations of data or texts, and poses new
questions for future research.

John W. Creswell defines research as “ 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.”
(Creswell, 2008)

Jonathan O’ Donnell, many Australian universities define research as “the creation of new
knowledge and/ or the use of existing knowledge in a new and creative way so as to generate
new concepts, methodologies, and understandings. This could include synthesis and analysis
of previous research to the extent that it leads to new and creative outcomes.” (O’Donnell,
2012)

Research is a process of investigation. An examination of research a subject from different

points of view. (Online Library Learning Center, 2017)

In simplest terms, research is searching for and gathering information to answer a question or
problem. (College of San Mateo, 2017)
 Aims of Research

1. Verification of Existing Knowledge – verifying or proving the veracity of existing theories or

knowledge

2. Acquisition of New Knowledge – brings forth new ideas regarding a theory or even create a totally
new theory.

3. Application of New Knowledge – new ideas and innovations may be utilized and translated into
something useful to humankind once it was proven.

4. Advancement of the Researcher’s Expertise – researcher do not only verify theories or discover
new ideas and technologies but also gain relevant experiences that enhance and deepen their
knowledge and skills in the area of investigations.
Functions of Research

Exploration - Its purpose is to provide a foundation for future studies.

Description -the primary purpose of research is to give additional information on newly

discovered ideas.

Explanation – this type of research aims to explain relationships existing between variables,
quantitatively or qualitatively.

Characteristics of Research

Realistic – Research is a realistic undertaking that must result to empirical data.

Logical – Research follows valid, definite principles, frameworks, and procedures.

Cyclical – Research is cyclical. It starts with a problem and ends with another.
Analytical – Proper analysis of the data should be done before making final conclusions.

Objective – Analysis, and interpretation of data, and drawing out implications from research data
must be free from bias and alteration to favor a certain hypothesis, a personality, or an
organization.

Critical – The research is said to be critical when the researcher is careful and precise in
processing ideas and judgment.

Replicable – Research procedures must be written clearly and chronologically for it to be

replicable, such that other researchers can redo or repeat the investigation with the intent of
verifying the generated information.
Types of Research
Generally, research is classified into two types- basic or pure research and applied research.
If the research’s aim is to come up with new knowledge or contribute to the existing body of
knowledge, it is classified as basic or pure research. In contrast, if the aim is to find applications
for the theories or create a product employing the existing idea or theory, the research can be
categorized under applied research.

Example of Basic Research

 How did the Universe begin?

 How do slime molds reproduce?
 What is the specific genetic code of the fruit fly?

Example of Applied Research

 Improve agricultural crop production

 Treat or cure a specific disease
 Water as a substitute for gasoline