CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH    

By - Vijayarajalakshmi, Asst. Prof.

Introduction

            The term research and scientific method are sometimes used synonymously in educational discussions. Although it is true that the terms have some common elements of meaning, a distinction is helpful. Research is considered to the more formal, systematic and intensive process of carrying on a scientific method of analysis. Scientific method in problem solving may be an informal application of problem identification, hypothesis formulation, observation, analysis, and conclusion. Research is more systematic activity that is directed toward discovery and the development of an organized body of knowledge. Research may be defined as the systematic and objective analysis and recording of controlled observations that may led to the development of generalizations , principles, or theories, resulting in prediction and possibly ultimate control of events.

Characteristics of research

            Research is directed toward the solution of a problem. The ultimate goal is to discover cause and effect relationships between variables, though researches often have to settle for the useful discovery of a systematic relationship  is insufficient.

            Research emphasizes the development of generalisations, principles or theories that will be helpful in predicting future occurrences. Research usually goes beyond the specific objects, groups, or situations investigated and infers characteristics of a target population from the sample observed.

            Research is based upon experiences or empirical evidence. Research rejects revelation and dogma as methods of establishing knowledge and accepts only what can be verified by observation.

            Research demands accurate observation and description. When quantitative measuring devices are not possible, researchers may choose variety of qualitative or no quantitative  descriptions for their research questions. Good research utilizes valid and reliable data gathering procedures.

            Research involves gathering new data from primary or first- hand sources or using existing data a for a new purpose. 

            Although research activity may at times be somewhat random and unsystematic, it is more often characterised by carefully designed procedures that apply rigorous analysis.

            Research requires expertise. The researcher knows what is already known about the problem and how others have investigated it. He or she has searched the related literature carefully and is also thoroughly grounded in the terminology, concepts, and technical skills necessary to understand and analyze the data gathered.

            Research strives to be objective and logical, applying every possible test to validate the procedures employed , the data collected and the conclusions researched.

            Research involves the quest for answers to unsolved problems. Pushing back the frontiers of ignorance is its goal, and originality is frequently the quality of a good research project. Previous important studies are deliberately repeated , using identical or similar procedures, with different subjects, different settings, and at a different time. This process  is replication, a fusion of  the words repetition and duplication. Replication is always desirable to conform or to raise questions about the conclusions of a previous study

Research is characterized by patient and unhurried activity. It is rarely spectacular, and researchers must expect disappointment and discouragement as they pursue the answers to difficult questions.

            Research is carefully recorded and reported. Each important term is defined, limiting factors are recognized, procedures are described in detail, references are carefully documented, results are objectively recorded and conclusions are presented with scholarly caution and restraint.

conclusion

In the field of education, we identify research with a better understanding of the individual and a better understanding of the teaching _ learning process and the conditions under which it is most successfully carried on.