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.