What is Research?

Basic
Definitions and Characteristics
What is Research?
 Research is the process of discovering new
knowledge.
 Research is a systematic investigation (i.e. the

gathering and analysis of information)

designed to develop or contribute to
knowledge
 Research is a process of systematic inquiry

that entails collection of data; documentation

of critical information; and analysis and
interpretation of that data/information
What is Research?
 Research is the organized and systematic
method of finding answers to questions.
 It is systematic because it is a process broken

up into clear steps that lead to conclusions.

 Research is organized because there is a

planned structure or method used to reach

the conclusion.
 Research is only successful if we find

answers, whether we like these answers or

not.
What is Social Research?
 Social Research is scientific Study of Social
Life
 Social research is an attempt to acquire

knowledge about any social phenomena.

 Social research is an approach adopted by

sociologists and researchers to learn about

people’s day to day lives and design the
products that best suit their needs.
Characteristics of Social Research
 It is directed towards the solution of
problems. The ultimate goal is to discover
cause-and-effect relationship between social
problems.
 It focuses on development of generalizations,

principles that will be helpful in predicting

future occurrences.
 It is based upon observable experience or

realistic evidence.
 It requires expertise. The researcher knows
what is already known about the problem and
how others have investigated.
 It demands accurate observations and

description.
 It involves gathering new data from primary

sources or using existencing data for new

purpose.
 It is characterized by patient and unhurried
activity. Researcher must expect
disappointment and discouragement as they
pursue the answer to difficult question.
 It is carefully recorded and reported. Each

important term is defined, limiting factors are

recognized, procedures are described in
detail, reference are carefully documented,
results are objectively recorded and
conclusions are presented with scholarly
caution and restraint.