Meaning and Characteristics of Research

Research is the systematic study of trend or event which involves

careful collection, presentation, analysis and interpretation of
quantitative data or facts that relates mans thinking with reality.
Characteristics of Research
1. Empirical. Research is based on direct experience or
observation by the researcher.
2. Logical. Research is based on valid procedures and principles.
3. Cyclical. Research is a cyclical process because it starts with a
problem and it ends with a problem.
4. Analytical. Research utilizes proven analytical procedures in
gathering the data, whether historical, descriptive, experimental
and case study.
a. Historical research. The data gathered focus in the past.
b. Descriptive research. The study focuses on the present
situation
c. Experimental. The study focuses on the future.
d. Case study. Focuses on past, present and future.
5. Critical. Research exhibits careful and precise judgment.
6. Methodical. Research is conducted in a methodical manner
without bias using systematic method and procedure.
7. Replicability.
The research design and procedures are
replicated or repeated to enable the researcher to arrive at valid
and conclusive results.
Qualities of a Good Researcher
There are 10 qualities of a good researcher. These qualities are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Research-oriented
Efficient
Scientific
Effective
Active
Resourceful
Creative
Honest
Economical
Religious

Characteristics of the Researcher

1. Intellectual curiosity. A researcher undertakes deep thinking
and inquiry of the things, problems, and situations around him.
2. Prudence. The researcher is careful to conduct his research
study at the right time at the right place wisely, efficiently and
economically.
3. Healthy criticism. The researcher is always doubtful as to the
truthfulness of the results.
4. Intellectual honesty. An intelligent researcher is honest to
collect or gather data or facts in order to arrive at honest result.
Honesty is the best policy of the researcher. The success or
failure of his research lies on his hands.
5. Intellectual creativity. A productive and resourceful
investigator always creates new researches.
1

Meaning and Characteristics of Research

Mans Major Needs and Problems Demand Research
Without research, there would be no way to find a solution to the
problem
Values of Research to Man
1.
Research improves the quality of life.
2.
Research improves instruction.
3.
Research improves students achievement.
4.
Research improves teachers competence.
5.
Research satisfies mans needs.
6.
Research reduces the burden of work.
7.
Research has deep-seated psychological aspects.
8.
Research improves the exportation of food products.
9.
Research responds to the economic recovery and austerity
measure of the country.
10. Research trains graduates to become responsive to the economic
development of the country and to compete globally.
Types of Research
1.
Basic Research. This is also called as fundamental research or
pure research. It seeks to discover basic truths or principles.
Examples:
Boyles Law
Charles Law
Archimedes Principle
Hookes Law
Newtons Law
2.
Applied Research. This type of research involves seeking new
applications of scientific knowledge to the solution of a problem, such
as a development of a new system or procedure, new device, or new
method in order to solve the problem.
3.
Developmental Research. This is a decision-oriented research
involving the application of the steps of the scientific method in
response to an immediate need to improve existing practices.
Classification of Research
1.
Library Research. This is done in the library where answers to
specific questions or problems of the study are available.
2.
Field Research. Here, research is conducted in a natural setting.

3.

Laboratory Research. The research is conducted in artificial or

controlled conditions by isolating the study in a thoroughly
specified and equipped area. The purposes are: (1) to test
hypotheses derived from theory, (2) to control variance under
research conditions, and (3) to discover the relations between
the dependent and the independent.

Meaning and Characteristics of Research

THE VARIABLE
A variable is defined as a quantity susceptible of fluctuation or change
in value or magnitude under different conditions.
Types of Variable
1.
Independent Variable. This is the stimulus variable which is
chosen by the researcher to determine the relationship to an observed
phenomenon.
2.
Dependent Variable. This is the response variable which is
observed and measured to determine the effect of the independent
variable.
3.
Moderator Variable. This is a secondary or special type of
independent variable chosen by the researcher to determine if it
changes or modifies the relationship between the independent and
dependent variables.
4.
Control Variable. This is the variable that is controlled by the
investigator in which the effects can be neutralized by eliminating or
removing the variable.
5.
Intervening Variable. This is a variable which interferes with the
independent and dependent variables, but its effects can either
strengthen or weaken the independent and dependent variables.
Components of the research process
1.
Problem/ Objectives
2.
Hypotheses
3.
Theoretical/ Conceptual Framework
4.
Assumptions
5.
Review of Related Literature
6.
Research Design
7.
Data Collection
8.
Data Processing and Statistical Treatment
9.
Analysis and Interpretation
10. Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations

/romanogarry