Meaning And Definitions Of Research

Meaning And Definitions Of Research

Research = Re + Search. That is search after search and search. Why? The purpose of such repeated search is to thoroughly understand the problem or issue or phenomenon and find the apt and effective solution to the problem or strategy to deal with the issue or the phenomenon. Such solution or strategy adds to our stock of knowledge in dealing with the problem or the issue.

          In common parlance, research refers to a search for knowledge. Research simply put, is an endeavour to discover answers to problems (intellectual and practical) through the application of scientific method. The Webster’s International Dictionary gives a very inclusive definition of research as “as careful, critical inquiry or examination in seeking facts or principles, diligent investigation in order to ascertain something". The 20th Century Chamber Dictionary defines research as: a careful search or systematic investigation towards increasing the sum of knowledge.

Research is essentially a systematic enquiry seeking facts through objective, verifiable methods in order to discover the relationship among them and to deduce from them broad principles or laws. Research is really a method of critical thinking. It comprises defining and redefining problems, formulating hypothesis or suggested solutions, collecting, organizing and evaluating data, making deductions and making conclusions and at last, carefully testing the conclusions to determine whether they fit the formulated hypothesis. Thus the term 'Research* refers to a critical, careful and exhaustive investigation or inquiry or experimentation or examination having as its aim the revision of accepted conclusions, in the light of newly discovered facts.

          Research is the power of suspending judgment, with patience, of mediating with pleasures of assessing with caution, of correcting with readiness and of arranging thought with scrupulous pain, according to Francis Bacon.

          Francis G, Cornell defines research as, "the activity of collecting information in an orderly and systematic fashion".

          D. Slesinger and D. Stephenspn in the Encyclopedia of Social Sciences define research as "the manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the purpose of generalising to extend, correct or verify knowledge, whether that knowledge aids in construction of theory or in the practice of an art".

          John W. Best defines Research, "as the systematic and objective analysis and recording of controlled observations that may lead to the developments of generalisations, principles, or theories,, resulting in prediction and possibly ultimate control of events".

          Definitions of this sort are rather abstract. So a summary of some of the characteristics of research may help to clarify the spirit, meaning, and methodology of research. The summary of characteristic features of research follows:

• Research is directed toward the solution of a problem.
• Research is highly purposive,
• Research involves the quest for answers to unsolved problems.
• Research is characterised by patient and unhurried activity.
• Research is logical and objective.
• Research is carefully recorded and reported.
• Research emphasises the development of generalisation of principles or theories that will help in predicting future occurrences.
• Research is based upon observable experience or empirical evidence.
• Research generally involves a hypothesis or set of hypotheses concerning explanation of a phenomenon.
• Research demands accurate observation and description.
• Research involves gathering new data from primary or first hand sources, or using existing data for a new purpose.
• Research activities are more often characterised by carefully designed procedures, always applying rigorous analysis.
• Research requires expertise i.e. skill necessary to carry out investigation, search the related literature and to understand and analyse the data gathered.
• Research applies every possible test to validate the procedures employed, the data collected and the conclusions reached.
• Researchers are not only scholarly and imaginative, but also have highest integrity and patience.

          Research is thus the process of a systematic and in-depth study or search of any particular topic, subject or area of investigation, involving collection, compilation, presentation and interpretation of relevant details or data. It is a careful search or inquiry into any subject matter, which is an endeavour to discover to find out valuable facts which would be useful for solving problems or improving existing solutions to problems. The research that involves scientific analysis would result in the formulation of new theories, the discovery of new techniques, modification of old concepts or a knocking-off an existing theory, concept or technique.

          Madhavi Shah writes; Research is a word which frightens a lot of people. It need not. As a matter of fact, it is essentially a state of mind - a friendly, welcoming attitude towards change. Research for practical people as teachers, supervisors, etc should arise out of the desire to do things better.