“Research is a systematic investigation (i.e. the gathering and analysis of information) designed to develop or contribute to generalisable knowledge”
The purpose of research is a declarative sentence that summarizes the specific topic and goals of the research study. Which gives the reader an accurate, concrete understanding of the findings. The basic properties of the research purpose are given below:
- The research purpose should be Specific and precise – not general, broad or obscure
- It should be defined in a concise manner (within one or two sentences)
- The research goal should be very clear. Should not be vague, ambiguous or confusing to the readers.
- All the statements should be Goal-oriented. Also, stated in terms of desired outcomes.
Example of the Purpose of Research
Example: The effect of telling stories on children’s literacy skills.
1. The best way to start is stating the general purpose of the Study:
The overall purpose of this study is to examine the effect of telling stories on nursery children’s literacy skills.
2. Identify the specific purpose about every key variable:
Telling stories, reading fluency, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and interest in reading are the specific variables.
3. State the specific purposes for the research study:
- Identify how often nursery teachers tell stories in the classroom.
- Determine the effect of telling stories on nursery children’s reading fluency.
- Determine the effect of telling stories on nursery children’s reading comprehension.
- Determine the effect of telling stories on nursery children’s vocabulary.
- Determine the effect of telling stories on nursery children’s interest in reading.
8 Characteristics of Research
The investigation of the research topic can be classified into 8 ways:
1. Empirical Research
Empirical research is conducted based on proven scientific methods derived from real-life observations and experiments.
2. Logical Research
This research methodology follows sequential procedures based on valid principles.
3. Cyclic Research
As name suggests the cyclic research starts and ends with question.
Eg: A research process should lead to a new line of questioning.
4. Analytical Research
In analytical research, data is generated, recorded and analysed using proven techniques to ensure high accuracy and repeatability while minimising potential errors and anomalies.
5. Controlled Research
Controlled research investigate with vigorous measures by keeping all research variables constant, excluding the the varibles in under investigation.
6. Research-based on Objective
sound judgement is used by the researcher to ensure that the research findings are valid.
7. Research-based on statistical treatment
A mathematical treatment is applied in this case to turn the available data into something more meaningful from which information can be derived.
8. Hypothesis-based Research
The hypothesis-based research design produces evidence that satisfies the research objectives and can be used to prove or refute the hypothesis. It ensures that the analysis study can be replicated and that the findings are credible.
Hope, this article help you to know about the purpose of research and 8 important research characteristics.
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