Types of Research

Summary

The video outlines two main types of research: basic (or fundamental) research, driven by curiosity to expand knowledge, and applied research, aimed at solving practical problems. Basic research is divided into pure and strategic types, while applied research seeks real-world applications. Research methods are also classified into quantitative, which uses statistical techniques; qualitative, focusing on non-quantifiable phenomena; and mixed methods, combining both for a holistic analysis. Each method has distinct purposes and applications, with mixed methods gaining popularity in social and health sciences for its comprehensive approach.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Basic research focuses on understanding fundamental principles and phenomena, driven by curiosity and knowledge expansion.
• 🧠 Basic research may not have immediate practical applications but is essential for enhancing our understanding of the world.
• 📚 Applied research aims to solve real-world problems by using established theories and principles.
• 💡 Pure research advances knowledge without a specific outcome in mind, while strategic research aims to address broader knowledge gaps.
• 📊 Quantitative research uses statistical, mathematical, and computational techniques to analyze observable phenomena, often represented in tables and graphs.
• 👩‍🔬 Qualitative research explores non-quantifiable phenomena, focusing on understanding human experiences and their dynamics.
• 🤔 Qualitative research is best suited for investigating the 'why' and 'how' of specific experiences or situations.
• ⚖️ Mixed research methods combine both quantitative and qualitative approaches, providing a more comprehensive interpretation of data.
• 📑 The mixed method approach has expanded from social sciences to fields like medicine, nursing, and community health.
• 🔄 Mixed method research supports findings through both numerical (quantitative) and narrative (qualitative) data analysis.

Q & A

What are the two main types of research based on the nature and purpose of the study?

The two main types of research are basic (or fundamental) research and applied research.

What is the primary goal of basic research?

The primary goal of basic research is to investigate the basic reasons and principles behind the occurrence of a particular phenomenon, driven by pure curiosity and the desire to expand knowledge.

What is an example of basic research?

An example of basic research is an investigation that looks at the factors that trigger depression, without directly addressing real-world issues.

How is applied research different from basic research?

Applied research aims at finding solutions to practical problems that society or organizations face, often by employing well-known theories and principles.

Can you give an example of applied research?

An example of applied research is a study that attempts to determine the impact of mining on the socio-economic life of indigenous peoples.

What are the three types of research methods?

The three types of research methods are quantitative research, qualitative research, and mixed research method.

What is the quantitative research method?

Quantitative research is a systematic investigation of observable phenomena through computational, mathematical, or statistical techniques. It aims to develop models, hypotheses, and theories about quantifiable phenomena.

In what areas is quantitative research commonly employed?

Quantitative research is commonly used in the social sciences, such as sociology, psychology, gender studies, economics, and political science, as well as in education.

What is the qualitative research method?

Qualitative research is a scientific investigation of non-quantifiable phenomena, focusing on understanding experiences through holistic descriptions, often used to explore the 'why' and 'how' questions of human behavior.

What is the mixed research method?

The mixed research method involves the systematic integration of both quantitative and qualitative research methods, providing a more holistic and meaningful interpretation of data.