Course 8604

Assignment 1
Question 1: Discuss scientific method as a tool of acquiring knowledge. compare it with
various steps in research process.
Testing the hypothesis: Once the hypothesis is formulated, it must be tested scientifically.
Scientists test it by performing experiments. The purpose of these experiments is to see if the
hypothesis matches or conflicts with the observations in the real world. The confidence in the
hypothesis goes up or down depending on the outcome of the experiments. Analysis and
Conclusion: In this step, appropriate mathematical and other scientific methods are used to
find the outcome of the experiment. Depending on the analysis, the future action can be
decided. If the data obtained in the analysis matches the hypothesis, it is accepted. Otherwise,
it is rejected or altered and re-analyzed. It should be kept in mind that a hypothesis cannot be
proved or disproved by conducting a single experiment. It should be conducted time and
again until the data is free from discrepancies and the outcome. If there are no discrepancies
and the hypothesis is verified, it becomes a 'theory'. Scientific Method Examples Here is an
example of the scientific method:
Growing bean plants: What is the purpose: The primary purpose of this experiment is to
understand where the bean plant needs to be kept indoors or outdoors to monitor the growth
rate and also determine the time frame as four weeks. Construction of hypothesis: The
hypothesis employed is that the bean plant will grow anywhere if the scientific approach is
employed.
Carrying out the hypothesis and gathering the data: There are four bean plants planted in
identical pots with the same soil. Two plants are put inside, and the remaining two are placed
outside. Factors such as the level of sunlight exposure, and level of water all are equal. Once
the four weeks are over, all four plant measurements are taken. Interpret the data: In
interpreting the data, one should consider the average plant height from both locations to
decide on which place is best for growing the bean plants.
Research is scrupulous regard for investigation to a specific worry or issue via scientific
methods. Research is said to be by the American Sociologist Earl Robert Babbie, "systematic
inquiry in order to describe, explain, predict, and control the phenomenon under observation.
It is coupled with inductive and deductive methods." The inductive approaches investigate an
event under observation and the deductive approaches validate an event under observation.
Good research has a systematic process to collect correct data. Researchers must follow
ethics and a code of conduct while observing or concluding. The analysis depends on logical
reasoning and comprises both deductive and inductive approaches. Live data and information
are acquired through actual observation in natural environments. There is comprehensive
analysis of all gathered data so that there are no anomalies with the data. It provides a channel
for the development of new questions. Current data aids in generating more research
opportunities. It is analytical and employs all the data at hand so that there is no room for
ambiguity in inference. Accuracy is among the most essential features of research. The data
has to be accurate and correct. For instance, laboratories offer a controlled environment for
gathering data. Accuracy is quantified in the instruments utilized, the instrument or tool
calibrations, and the ultimate result of the experiment.
carry out the study. The three main functions of descriptive studies are describing, explaining,
and validating the results. For instance, a study done to learn whether leaders in the 21st
century at the topmost management have the moral right to get a sizable amount of money
from the company profit. Explanatory: Causal or explanatory research is done to learn about
the effect of certain changes in current standard procedures. Conducting experiments is the
most common type. For instance, a research that will be done to know the impact of
rebranding on customer loyalty. It starts with the right questions and selecting the right
approach to explore the issue. Once you have gathered responses to your queries, you can
now analyze the results or observations to make sense and come up with logical conclusions.
When dealing with customers and market research, the more detailed your questions, the
stronger your analysis. You achieve critical brand impression and product requirements
insights by conducting in-depth gathering of customer data through surveys and
questionnaires. You may utilize this data to make intelligent decisions regarding your
marketing strategies for positioning your company effectively. For making sense out of your
research and gaining insights quicker, it is beneficial to utilize a repository of research as a
single point of truth in your company and store your research data in a single repository of
truth.
Types of research approaches and Examples
Research approaches are broadly categorized into Qualitative and Quantitative. Both
approaches have characteristic features and ways of gathering data. Qualitative approaches
Qualitative research is an approach which gathers data using chat-like means, typically open-
ended questions. Responses gathered are more or less non-numerical. The approach assists a
researcher in learning what participants feel and why they believe in a certain manner.
Identify the problem
The urge to know what is going on scientifically about whatever is occurring is the initial step
towards solving the problem. All that occurs in nature catches the reader's attention and they
are concerned about the cause behind it and its impact on the environment. The students are
astonished. When working with a scientific approach the greatest work of the teacher is to
introduce the concept as a problem and to ask students to seek common solutions.
Explain the problem
After the problem has been identified, it must be defined clearly so that the problem can be
solved. This is the second step in the Science Path. It is only after you have defined the
problem clearly, that one can come up with methods of solving the problem. Students
themselves can identify and write clear meanings in proper words with the assistance of the
teacher. The proper description can be chosen from them.
Problem analysis
This is the third step of the Science process that divides and categorizes the problem and its
elements. The reader ought to examine the problem into sections to obtain the information of
each section in order to comprehend the real size of the problem.
Collecting data/information
Techniques of Designing using problem-solving methods and techniques available and data
gathering appropriately is a crucial process in the scientific method. Problem data can be
gathered in the following manner:
Gathering of data by observing
Gathering of data by conducting experiments
Gathering of data by reading literature
Examining the information
Analysis of the Information gathered develops the scientific temperament among the learners.
The analysis of information can bring out the uniqueness and the diversity of the problem and
its dimensions. Analysis of information formulating the hypothesis can be done only on the
basis of analysis of information. The irrelevant data and information can be eliminated
through this method. The teacher should assist the learner in the analysis of information.
Through this classification and comparison skills can be developed among the learners.
Framing hypothesis
Speculation or conditional arrangements plan (Framing theory) is the important phase in the
logical plan. Speculative arrangements are derived by analyzing various information based on
becoming sorted out and collecting the information as suggested by their similarities and
differences. In this way, many temporary arrangements can be derived for the discussed
problem. They are referred to as speculations. All theories cannot be the solutions to a
problem. One of them will be the logical solution to the problem. Understudy can be
encouraged to determine speculation on the basis of collected information through perception
or through tests.
Confirming the hypothesis
Testing of the hypothesis or testing of the hypothesis is required to identify the suitable one
which will be most likely to be accurate. Based on hypotheses, more data obtained through
repeated experimentation are compared and the most suitable hypothesis must be chosen. The
preliminary solutions can be rejected in the absence of validity and experimental evidence.
Discovering the solution
A theory should be tried in an assortment of conditions and from the aftereffects of the tests
and examinations, a legitimate speculation is chosen. Chosen and affirmed speculation is
tried over and over. As per its consistency, it becomes the last answer for the issue and it
tends to be declared as the outcome.
Applying the solutions in life situations
The set outcomes should be added up. The added-up outcome may be utilized at whatever
time the circumstances occurred the same. The student may use similar or equivalent type of
techniques for critical thinking.
Question 2: Compare and the contrast the type of research by method. Why and where
we use these types (descriptive, historical and correlational) research to discuss the
educational phenomenon.
Research involves employing established techniques to explore a question or issue in depth in
the hope of creating new information on the topic.

It is a key driver of scientific progress since it helps scientists test and invalidate hypotheses
in line with precisely specified parameters, settings and presuppositions. This makes it
possible for us to contribute knowledge with confidence because research can be checked and
replicated.
Having knowledge of the different types of research and what each of them entails will
enable you to better organize your project, employs the most suitable methodologies and
techniques and communicate your results to other researchers and supervisors in a better
manner.
There exist different kinds of research that are categorized based on their purpose, extent of
study, data that has been analyzed, time spent studying the phenomenon, and other aspects. It
should be appreciated that a research project will not consist of a single type of research, but
will incorporate several.

Based on its Purpose

Theoretical Research
Pure or theoretical research is characterized by its objective of producing knowledge,
irrespective of its applicability. In this case, data collection is employed to create new general
ideas for a deeper insight into a given field or to solve a theoretical research question.
Outcomes of this type are typically directed towards the creation of theories and are typically
documentary analysis, mathematical formula development, and high-level researcher
reflection.

For instance, a philosophical dissertation, as the focus is to create new methods from existing
information without contemplating how its results can be implemented or practiced.
Applied Research
Here, one is looking to identify strategies to be applied to solve a certain research problem.
Applied research employs theory to come up with utilitarian scientific knowledge, and it is
widely utilized in STEM areas like engineering, computer science and medicine.
Such research is divided into two forms:
Applied technological research: aims to enhance effectiveness in a specific productive
industry for the enhancement of processes or machinery connected to said productive
processes.
Scientific applied research: is for the purposes of prediction. Through this research design,
we are able to quantify some variables to forecast actions beneficial to the goods and services
market, e.g., consumption trends and feasibility of business ventures.
For instance, research on the marketplace, as with the analysis of consumption trends, plans
for planning new products and advertising campaigns can be devised, etc.
Reminder: Applied research is often carried out based on knowledge or outcomes derived
through theory-based research.
Actually, it is not uncommon for research studies to first determine the theoretical framework
both to scope out the area of study and to determine potential theories that could be
experimented or used to address the particular problem indicated in the study.
Exploratory Research
Exploratory research is employed for the initial investigation of a topic not yet well
established or adequately studied. It helps to create a frame of reference and a hypothesis
upon which a detailed study can be formulated that will allow final results to be produced.
Since exploratory research draws upon the research of little-known phenomena, it draws less
upon theory and more upon the data collection to see what patterns in the data reveal about
these phenomena.
For instance, a study of the position social media takes in the understanding of self-image.
The sole purpose of descriptive research is to define the traits of a certain phenomenon
without necessarily researching the causes that create it.
In such research, the researcher has to be very careful not to interfere with the object or
phenomenon being observed, since its behavior might be altered if an outside factor is
introduced.
For instance, studying how the public count of powerful government leaders varies between
urban and rural settings.
Explanatory research is the most usual kind of research method and is tasked with
determining cause-and-effect relationships that enable generalisations to be taken to similar
realities. It is very much associated with descriptive research, though it gives further
information about the thing being observed and its interactions within the environment.
For instance, examining the brittleness of a given material when subjected to compressive
load.
Correlational Research
The aim of this kind of scientific investigation is to determine the connection between two or
more variables. A correlational study is intended to identify if a variable varies, and to what
extent the other factors of the observed system vary.
Based on the Type of Data Used
Qualitative Research
Qualitative approaches are frequently applied in the social sciences to gather, contrast and
interpret data, has a linguistic-semiotic foundation and is employed in methods like discourse
analysis, interviews, questionnaires, documents and participant observations.
To apply statistical methods to test their findings, data gathered must be assessed
numerically. Qualitative research is naturally subjective, however, as the data cannot all be
controlled. Thus, the research design will be more ideal for deriving sense from an
occurrence or phenomenon (the 'why') rather than its cause (the 'how').
Illustration: investigation of the consequences of sleep loss on mood
Quantitative research study investigates a phenomena by using quantitative statistical data
collection and applying mathematical, statistical and computer-aided software to quantify
them. This enables generalized conclusions to be extrapolated over time.
For instance, performing a computer simulation of vehicle strike effects to quantify data.
Based on the Degree of Manipulation of Variables
Experimental Research
It is all about planning or mimicking a phenomenon whose variables are controlled under
tightly controlled conditions to find or determine its impact on some other independent
variable or object. The phenomenon to be researched is quantified using study and control
groups, and as per the principles of the scientific method.

For instance, randomised controlled trial research for quantifying the efficacy of new drug
molecules on human beings.
Non-Experimental Research
Also referred to as an observational study, it concerns the study of a phenomenon under its
natural circumstances. Accordingly, the researcher avoids direct intervention and only
involves themself in observing the variables involved in the research. Since it is an
observation, it becomes common in descriptive research.

For instance, research into the impact of the use of some chemical agents in a given
population group can be thought of as a non-experimental study.
Quasi-Experimental Research
It manipulates only a few of the variables of the phenomenon to be studied and is thus not
purely experimental. In this situation, the study and the focus group cannot be randomly
chosen but are selected from populations or existing groups. This is to validate that the
gathered data is relevant and that knowledge, views, and opinions of the population are
included in the study.
For instance, determining whether an intervention measure is effective in minimizing the
spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Based on the Type of Inference
Deductive Research
Here, reality is accounted for by general principles that lead to definite conclusions;
conclusions are anticipated to be a part of the premise of the research issue and assumed to be
correct if the premise is valid and the inductive approach is utilized appropriately.
Inductive Research
In this kind of research, information is derived from an observation to get a generalisation. It
relies on the gathering of specific data to formulate new theories.
Hypothetical-Deductive Investigation
It relies on observing reality to form a hypothesis, then apply deduction to get a conclusion
and lastly test or refute it through experience.
According to The Sources of Information
Primary Research
This basic research type is characterized by the fact that the information is gathered directly
from the source, i.e., it is primary, first-hand data.
Secondary research
Unlike primary research, secondary research is constructed using information from secondary
sources, which are usually founded on scientific literature and other documents collated by
another researcher.
Question 3: Define the concept of history and historical research. What is the
importance of internal and external criticism in historical research? Also, distinguish
primary source of data from the secondary source of data with examples?
Historical research is a process of gathering and analyzing data regarding the past events or
ideas to discover how they influenced the current events and ideas. It examines potential
causes of specific events to provide reasons for their impact on subsequent events. Historical
research can perhaps not only aid in determining correlations between events past and present
but also give information to the researchers about potential events in the future. In his book
"Historical Research: A Guide" (2002), W.H.McDowell has this to say regarding historical
research:
"Historical research is a disciplined investigation of the past and an effort to distinguish fact
from mythologized accounts of what has happened, based on the study of a broad variety of
pertinent source material. It is a task of some significance since history is the origin of many
of our ideas, beliefs and ways.". Better knowledge of the past puts us in a better position to
value change today and to attempt to learn from previous errors.
Most research in history depends on primary sources of information that are firsthand such as
records, books, photos, letters, evidence that pertains to the period of research. In short, those
sources are authored by someone who was a participant or firsthand witness of the event.
Secondary source materials - books and articles are composed sometime after the events can
also assist in research to a certain extent. However, one must remember that secondary
sources of information can be more biased since they normally contain information that the
authors composed based on several sources. It should be noted that primary sources may also
be biased, and since the research is seeking the answers in the past, there cannot be an
assurance of information accuracy.
Research investigators must begin historical research without some impossible assumptions;
they must not seek something non-existent. Actually, it is a general principle for any types of
research but must be taken into account with special emphasis on historical research. Steps in
historical research process generally remain the same as other forms of research with the
beginning as identifying the issue, followed by defining data collecting methods, gathering
data, analysis and conclusion.
Advantages and disadvantages of historical research
Despite the many disadvantages of historical research, it is equipped with advantages that
cannot be imitated by any other form of research.
Advantages
No other approach allows us to search for knowledge regarding past occurrences.
Identifying key elements of past negative events can play a significant role in preventing
certain similar circumstances. In other words, it can teach a history lesson.
It can result in an important discovery on a global scale.
A researcher is not involved with the event.
Limitations
Sources can be unreliable and can reflect false information about the events.
All past events cannot be researched due to the absence of evidence and source material.
It becomes increasingly difficult to have research if the events occurred in the distant past.
Discovering a cause for some events does not imply that the same cause can cause similar
events. Because it might have occurred in a completely different situation in the past.
The study can take longer, depending on the historical event and availability of data.
Can involve travels between different destinations.
A researcher does not have control over the result.
Internal criticism entails an examination of the genuineness, credibility, and consistency of
historical sources. Historians need to judge the internal consistency of a source, pinpoint
possible biases or contradictions, and establish its credibility. Internal criticism assists
historians in making an assessment of the evidence's credibility and forming informed
decisions regarding its employment in building historical accounts.
External criticism concerns the external context of historical sources, such as the conditions
under which they were produced, the purpose of the authors, and the general socio-political
context. External criticism entails examining the social, cultural, and political circumstances
that could have impacted the production of historical evidence. External criticism enables
historians to recognize the context within which sources were produced and how this context
might have influenced the content and outlook of the sources.
Both internal criticism and external criticism are important in historical research because they
allow historians to critically assess the sources they draw on, detect possible biases or
constraints, and build more precise and nuanced historical interpretations.
Primary Source of Data vs. Secondary Source of Data
Primary sources are primary materials that contain direct evidence or first-hand descriptions
of historical periods or events. Primary sources are made by individuals who experienced the
events directly or witnessed them. Diaries, letters, photographs, official documents, artifacts,
and oral histories are some of the examples of primary sources. A letter sent by a soldier
during war would be a primary source because it contains a first-hand description of what the
individual experienced.
Secondary sources, however, are analyses or interpretations of primary sources. They are
produced by scholars or historians who synthesized and assessed primary sources to create a
historical narrative or argument. Examples of secondary sources are history books, scholarly
articles, biographies, and documentaries. For instance, a history book that analyzes several
primary sources in order to create an overview of a certain historical period would be a
secondary source.
In conclusion, primary sources are direct evidence or first-hand accounts of what happened in
the past, whereas secondary sources are interpretations or analysis of primary sources, and
they give a wider insight into events or periods of the past. Both sources are crucial in
historical research because they supplement each other and help in having a deeper
understanding of the past.
Question 4: distinguish experimental research from non-experimental research. What
are different experimental designs that can be used to address educational issue.
Experimental research design is a system of protocols and procedures developed to execute
experimental research scientifically with the aid of two groups of variables. In this, the first
group of variables remains constant, which is employed for measuring the difference of the
second group. The most appropriate illustration of experimental research techniques is
quantitative research.
Experimental research assists a researcher in collecting data required for conducting
improved research decisions and establishing facts of a research study.
A researcher can carry out experimental research under the following circumstances —
When time is a crucial factor in establishing a relationship between the cause and effect.
When there is a never-changing or invariable behavior between the cause and effect.
Lastly, when the researcher wants to know how significant the cause and effect are.
Significance of Experimental Research Design
To publish valuable findings, selection of an excellent research design is the key to construct
the research study. Additionally, good research design determines quality decision-making
processes, organizes the research to result in simpler data analysis, and solves the central
research issue. Hence, one must provide equal attention and time to design an experimental
research design prior to starting the actual experiment.
By developing a research design, a researcher is also providing oneself with time to structure
the research, establish suitable boundaries for the study, and maximize the reliability of the
results. Through all this effort, one could also prevent inconclusive outcomes. In case any
component of the research design is defective, it will impact the quality of the results
obtained.
Types of Experimental Research Designs
Based on the methods used to collect data in experimental studies, the experimental research
designs are of three primary types:
1. Pre-experimental Research Design
A research study could conduct pre-experimental research design when a group or many
groups are under observation after implementing factors of cause and effect of the research.
The pre-experimental design will help researchers understand whether further investigation is
necessary for the groups under observation.
Pre-experimental research is of three types
One-shot Case Study Research Design
One-group Pretest-posttest Research Design
Static-group Comparison
2. True Experimental Research Design
A genuine experimental research design depends on statistical testing to confirm or refute a
researcher's hypothesis. It is the most precise type of research because it offers precise
scientific evidence. Additionally, among all experimental designs, only a genuine
experimental design can conclude a cause-and-effect relationship within a group.
Nonetheless, in a genuine experiment, a researcher needs to fulfill these three factors —
There is a control group that is not exposed to changes and an experimental group that will be
exposed to the changed variables
A variable that can be controlled by the researcher
Random distribution of the variables
This kind of experimental research is often seen in the physical sciences.
3. Quasi-experimental Research Design
The term "Quasi" refers to similarity. Quasi-experimental design resembles a real
experimental design. The only difference between the two is the allocation of the control
group. In this research design, an independent variable is being manipulated, but group
members are not being randomly allocated. This form of research design is employed in field
settings in which random allocation is irrelevant or unnecessary.
The categorization of the research subjects, conditions, or groups specifies the form of
research design to be adopted.
Advantages of Experimental Research
Experimental research enables you to try out your idea in a controlled setting before going to
clinical trials. In addition, it offers the most effective way to test your theory due to the
following advantages:
Researchers have strong control over variables to achieve results.
The subject does not affect the efficacy of experimental research. Anyone can apply it for
research purposes.
The results are precise.
Post results analysis, research findings from the same dataset can be reused for similar
research ideas.
Researchers can determine the cause and effect of the hypothesis and further analyze this
relationship to ascertain in-depth ideas.
Experimental research provides an ideal starting point. The data gathered could be used as a
basis to develop new research ideas for further studies.
6 Mistakes to Avoid While Designing Your Research
There is no hierarchy to this list, and any of these issues can significantly impair the quality
of your research. You might refer to the list as a list of things not to do while developing your
research.
1. Invalid Theoretical Framework
Most importantly, most researchers forget to test whether their hypothesis is reasonable to
test. If your research design lacks fundamental assumptions or postulates, then it is inherently
unsound and you must redo your research framework.
2. Poor Literature Study
Without a review of the research literature, you cannot identify and bridge the knowledge and
information gaps. In addition, you must explicitly articulate how your research will make a
contribution to the field of research, either by providing value to the relevant literature or
contradicting prior findings and assumptions.
3. Inadequate or Wrong Statistical Analysis
Statistical findings are among the most reliable scientific evidence. The final aim of a
research experiment is to achieve valid and sustainable evidence. For this reason, incorrect
statistical analysis might influence the quality of any quantitative research.
4. Undefined Research Problem
This is amongst the most fundamental elements of research design. The statement of the
research problem has to be clear and to achieve this, you have to establish the groundwork for
developing the research questions that are targeted at the fundamental problems.
5. Research Limitations
Every study has some type of limitations. You should anticipate and incorporate those
limitations into your conclusion, as well as the basic research design. Include a statement in
your manuscript about any perceived limitations, and how you considered them while
designing your experiment and drawing the conclusion.
6. Ethical Implications
The most critical but less discussed subject is the ethical concern. Your research design
should incorporate measures to reduce any risk to your participants as well as solve the
research problem or question in question. If you are unable to handle the ethical standards in
addition to your research study, your research goals and validity may be questioned.
Experimental Research Design Example
In an experiment, a scientist collects samples of plants and then assigns the half of the
samples randomly to photosynthesize in sunlight and the other half to be placed in a dark box
without light, while holding all the other variables constant (nutrients, water, soil, etc.)
By comparing their results in biochemical tests, the scientist can ascertain that the difference
in the plants was caused by the sunlight and not the other variables.
Experimental research is usually the ultimate shape of a study carried out in the research
process that is thought to offer definitive and particular results. But it is not suitable for all
research. It requires a lot of resources, time, and money and is not simple to carry out, unless
a research foundation is laid. But it is extensively used in research institutes and commercial
enterprises, as its most definitive outcomes in the scientific method.
Question 5: Define a descriptive research, what are its forms. Strengthen your answer
with the example of different types of descriptive research studies.
Descriptive research
is a research approach that attempts to portray the features of a phenomenon or topic under
study. In scientific research, it is a starting point for researchers who want to observe, note, and
examine the complex nuances of a given topic. The method offers a comprehensive and in-
depth description that helps to understand, classify, and interpret the topic.
Descriptive research design is commonly used in various fields, and its main aim is to observe
and record all variables and conditions affecting the phenomenon in a systematic manner.
Following this descriptive research definition, let us examine this example. Suppose a
researcher is conducting research on climate change adaptation, and he wishes to know water
management trends in a dry village in a particular study area. She has to carry out a
demographic survey of the area, obtain population statistics, and then carry out descriptive
research on this demographic group. The research will then reveal information on "what are
the water management practices and trends in village X." Please note, however, that it will not
encompass any investigative data about "why" the trends are so.
In short, descriptive research is a type of exploratory research that assists a researcher in
describing a population, situation, or phenomenon. It can assist in answering what, where,
when and how questions but not why questions. That is, it does not entail altering the study
variables and does not attempt to determine cause-and-effect relationships.

Significance of descriptive research

Finally, let's take a look at the significance of descriptive research. Descriptive research serves
as the foundation of multiple academic and applied fields. Its first importance rests in its power
to present an extensive description of a phenomenon, allowing researchers to develop a detailed
understanding of the variables involved. Descriptive research facilitates hypothesis
development, creating ideas, and establishing foundation for more elaborate studies. The
following points also help highlight its significance:
Provides an understanding of a population or phenomenon: Descriptive research provides an
in-depth picture of the behavior and traits of a particular population or phenomenon, thus
informing and directing the research project.
Provides baseline data: The information obtained through this form of research serves as a basis
for future studies, setting the stage for other studies.
Facilitates verification of sampling procedures: Descriptive research verifies sampling
procedures, helping to choose the most efficient method for the research.
Reduces time and expenses: It is economical and saves time, and therefore this is an
inexpensive way of collecting information regarding a particular population or phenomenon.
Facilitates replicability: Descriptive research can be replicated easily, providing a consistent
method of gathering and comparing data from different sources.

Features of descriptive research

Arriving at the features of descriptive research, this research method is distinguished by its
nature of observing and recording the characteristics of an object. Certain features are as
follows.
Quantitative nature: Quantitative research techniques are employed in certain types of
descriptive research to collect measurable information for statistical analysis of the sample
population.
Qualitative nature: Descriptive research examples involving the use of the qualitative research
approach to describe or explain the research issue are some examples.
Observational nature: This is an observational and non-invasive method since the study
variables are not touched. Researchers only observe and document, without implementing
interventions that might affect the subject(s).
Cross-sectional nature: In descriptive research, various sections of the same group are
observed, and a "snapshot" of sorts is obtained.
Springboard for future research: The information gathered are again researched and analyzed
through various research methods. This is helpful in directing the appropriate research
methodologies to be used.

Types of descriptive research

There are several descriptive research types that are appropriate to various research aims. Look
at the various types below.
Surveys: Collecting data through questionnaires or interviews to gain qualitative and
quantitative data.
Observational studies: This involves watching and gathering data on a given population or
phenomenon without affecting the study variables or the experimental conditions. These can
be further categorized into cohort studies, case studies, and cross-sectional studies:
Cohort studies: Also referred to as longitudinal studies, these studies are carried out by the
collection of information over a long period, enabling researchers to monitor changes and
trends.
Case studies: These involve a single person, group, or occurrence, which may be uncommon
or unusual.
Cross-sectional studies: A researcher gathers data at one point in time, in an effort to get a
snapshot of a particular moment.
Focus groups: In this method, a few individuals are assembled and asked to discuss an issue.
The researcher guides the discussion and documents it. This is also a "participatory"
observational method.
Descriptive classification: Pertinent to the biological sciences, this kind of method may be
utilized to categorize living organisms.
Descriptive research methods
There are various methods of descriptive research that can be used, and these are relatively
similar to the kinds of methodologies discussed above.
Surveys: Surveys are the gathering of data either by means of questionnaires or interviews.
Online or offline surveys can be conducted, and hyper-local, regional, or international subjects
may be targeted.
Observational studies: These involve the direct observation of the subjects in their real
environment. These consist of case studies, handling a single case or individual, and cross-
sectional and longitudinal studies, for a snapshot of a population or changes over time in trends,
respectively. Participatory observational studies like focus group discussions can also fall
under this approach.
Researchers need to think thoroughly about descriptive research techniques, varieties, and
instances in order to capitalize on their potential for advancing scientific knowledge.

Examples of descriptive research

Now let us discuss some examples of descriptive research.
In social sciences, a sample might be a study of the demographics of a given community for its
socio-economic status.
In business, a survey for market research conducted to describe consumer preferences would
qualify as a descriptive study.
In ecology, one could conduct a survey of all the kinds of monocots occurring naturally in an
area and categorize them up to species level.
These instances reflect the versatility of descriptive research in various fields.

Advantages of descriptive research

There are a number of advantages of this method, which every researcher must understand.
These are given below:
Due to the various descriptive research techniques and types, primary data can be collected in
various ways and utilized for formulating a research hypothesis.
It is a flexible research technique and provides flexibility.
In-depth and detailed information can be collected since the data gathered can be qualitative or
quantitative.
It is conducted in the natural setting, which significantly reduces some forms of bias and ethical
issues.
It is an affordable and effective method, even with large populations
Disadvantages of descriptive research
On the contrary, this design possesses some disadvantages too:
It has a narrow focus since it fails to establish cause-and-effect connections.
The methodology does not provide new information but rather relies on available data.
Study variables are neither manipulated nor controlled, and this restricts the conclusions drawn.
Descriptive research findings may not be generalizable to other populations.
Finally, it offers a preliminary understanding rather than an in-depth understanding.
To reiterate, the advantages of descriptive research lie in its ability to provide a comprehensive
overview, aid hypothesis generation, and serve as a preliminary step in the research process.
However, its limitations include a potential lack of depth, inability to establish cause-and-effect
relationships, and susceptibility to bias.