Meaning of Research
In general terms, research means an inquiry for knowledge or the process of finding or digging again and again. It may also be characterized as a scientific and systematic inquiry for relevant knowledge on a given subject; it represents the art of scientific study. Research can be defined as follows:
- Webster’s Dictionary: Research is a careful and critical investigation in the light of newly discovered facts.
- P.V Young: Research is a scientific method that aims to discover new facts or to verify old facts and to analyze their sequence, interrelationship, causal explanations and the natural law that governs them.
- Roger Bennet: Research is the discovery of facts through systematic and scientific processes.
Before going towards scope of research let’s understand what is meaning of research? Research is, in essence, an integral component of the scientific process. Research examines and validates occurrences and realities, establishing facts about social life and formulating rules.
Upon the formulation of laws, an inquiry is conducted to identify the link among various facts and laws. By following these processes, we get data and insights on the issue. It offers scientific understanding into the issue and assists the researcher in identifying remedies. Consequently, research possesses the following qualities.
Characteristics of Research
Here are the major characteristics of research;
1. Logical Process
In research, knowledge is based on clear evidence of facts. It does not believe in hear & say or second hand reports. The basic tenet of research is logic. The assumptions and analyses that are conducted are predicated on a specific logic. Research is a scientific, planned and systematic investigation that aims to understand the basic problem.
2. Objectivity
It means the willingness and ability to see things and situation as they really are. Objectivity in research is the capacity of the researcher to maintain a clear distinction between the results of their study and their personal beliefs and biases.
3. Verifiability
The conclusion drawn through means of research is subject the quality of verification. Verifiable research is research that can be independently confirmed. Not in the context of validating the scientific results, which often can only be accomplished several years later.
4. Comprehensive
It means complete study of a problematic situation. Research is a process that is iterative (repetitive). Occasionally, it is essential for the researcher to examine the work of earlier phases, which is a cyclical process. It should include every aspect of the subject you are researching: origins, type, quality, divergences, relationship of contents, viewpoints/criticism etc.
5. Measurability
Measurement is a procedure of observing and documenting the observations that are gathered as part of an investigation. In this regard, research guarantees the precise measurement of the facts. Every word is defined precisely, every step is explained in depth, and every detail is carefully documented.
6. Systematic
This indicates that the methods employed to conduct an inquiry adhere to a specific logical order. The various stages must not be undertaken randomly. Certain operations have to follow to a sequential order.
7. Critical
Thorough examination of the processes and approaches utilized is essential for a research inquiry. The investigative method must be reliable and without any deficiencies. The established approach and utilized processes are subject to strict examination.
8. Scientific Knowledge
It seeks to examine the correlation between diverse facts and phenomena of social existence. A research effort seeks to establish scientific knowledge. Therefore, the objective of study is to develop scientific, empirical information regarding human society. Consequently, the research focuses on employing the scientific method to establish scientific knowledge. The scientific method is defined by verifiability, ethical neutrality, validity, precision, objectivity, and a methodical approach, with its outcomes grounded on probability.
9. Based on Empirical Evidence
Research investigations are fundamentally empirical. Each phase of study is conducted utilizing diverse scientific instruments and methodologies. Each phase of study is scrutinized for precision and is grounded in observable phenomena or empirical facts. Consequently, quantitative research is more readily validated than qualitative research, which is inherently more conceptual.
10. Generalizability
The extent to which study findings may be applied to a larger population is referred to as generalizability. During study, the investigator picks a small sample from the target population. Thus, the sample and the study results reflect the target population. One quality of the research is that the obtained results may be generalized.
11. Social Life
Social research pertains to societal dynamics. Social Research examines and substantiates facts regarding society and social relationships. It establishes laws pertaining to various social phenomena and the principles that govern them. In social research, knowledge is founded on solid evidence of facts. It does not rely on rumour or secondhand accounts.
12. Social Planning
Social research encompasses social planning, as it informs the social planning process. Effective social planning relies on a thorough understanding of social resources and liabilities. Social planning needs a source of dependable factual knowledge upon which drafts may be developed. The dissemination of such scientific knowledge is solely within the area of social research.
13. Social Power
The regulation of social power also, however indirectly, pertains to the domain of social research. As knowledge is a distinct form of power, social study enhances the capacity to exert influence over social processes. Challenging the credibility of outdated stereotypes, superstitions, and assumptions through the dissemination of scientific and demonstrating knowledge is also encompassed within the realm of social research.
14. Social Welfare
Social research directly impacts societal wellbeing. By comprehensively comprehending the causal relationships inherent in many social issues. Social research establishes a solid foundation for implementing successful remedial strategies. Consequently, social welfare is encompassed under the domain of social research.
The objective of social research is to predict social events by establishing an order among facts. Consequently, social research serves to initiate and direct social development towards the desired objectives of society. These might be summarized as significant issues pertinent to social research.
Conclusion: Characteristics of Research
Research is an important tool that is used in many fields to carefully look into and gather information about a subject. It uses a methodical and logical technique to gather information and proof. Research is defined by its accuracy, verifiability, comprehensiveness, and ability to be measured. The research tries to build a strong base of scientific knowledge by following scientific methods and building its results on real-world proof.
