Meaning of Research
Research – is defined as the scientific investigation of phenomena which includes the collection, presentation,
analysis, and interpretation of facts that link an individual’s speculation with reality.
Characteristics of Research
1. Empirical – research is based on direct experience or observation by the researcher. The collection of
the data relies on practical experience without considering scientific knowledge or theory.
2. Logical – research is based on valid procedures and principles.
3. Cyclical – research is a cyclical process because it starts with a problem and ends with a problem. For
instance, an investigator who completes his study states his findings and draws conclusions and
recommendations. In his recommendations, several studies may be conducted, hence research is
cyclical.
4. Analytical – research utilizes proven analytical procedures in gathering the data, whether historical,
descriptive, experimental, or case study. In historical research, the data gathered focuses in the past;
in descriptive research, the study focuses on the present situation; experimental, future; and case
study, past, present, and future.
5. Critical – research exhibits careful and precise judgment. A higher level of confidence must be
established.
6. Methodical – research is conducted in a methodical manner without bias using scientific method and
procedures.
7. Replicability – the research design and procedures are replicated or repeated to enable the researcher
to arrive at valid and conclusive results. Similarities and differences of replicated researches can be
compared. The more replications of researches, the more valid and conclusive results would be.
Qualities of a Good Researcher
1. R – research-oriented 6. R – resourceful
2. E – efficient 7. C – creative
3. S – scientific 8. H – honest
4. E – effective 9. E – economical
5. A – Active 10. R – religious
Characteristics of the Researcher
1. Intellectual curiosity – a researcher undertakes deep thinking and inquiry into the things, problems, and
situations around him. He is keen to get information on these problems and situations often due to
unusualness and newness.
2. Prudence – the researcher is careful to conduct his research study at the right time and place wisely,
efficiently, and economically. In other words, he does the right thing at the right time.
3. Healthy Criticism – the researcher is always doubtful as to the truthfulness of the results. Normally, the
investigator always doubts the authenticity or validity of his findings even if the data are gathered
honestly.
4. Intellectual honesty – an intelligent researcher is honest in collecting or gathering data or facts in order
to arrive at honest results.
5. Intellectual creativity – a productive and resourceful investigator always creates new researches. He
enjoys inventing unique, novel, and original researches, and considers research as his hobby.
Values of Research to Man
1. Research improves quality of life.
2. Research improves instruction.
3. Research improves students’ achievement.
4. Research improves teacher’s competence.
5. Research satisfies man’s needs.
6. Research reduces the burden of work.
7. Research has deep-seated psychological aspects.
8. Research improves the exportation of food products.
9. Research responds to the economic recovery and austerity measures of the country.
10. Research trains graduates to become responsive to the economic development of the country and
compete globally.
Types of Research
1. Basic Research – this is also called as “fundamental research” or “pure research”. It seeks to discover
basic truths or principles. It is intended to add to the body of scientific knowledge by exploring the
unknown to extend the boundaries of knowledge as well as to discover new facts and learn more
accurately the immediate practical utility.
2. Applied Research – this type of research involves seeking new applications of scientific knowledge to
the solution of a problem, such as the development of a new system or procedure, new device, or new
method to solve the problem. In other words, applied research produces knowledge of practical use to
man.
3. Developmental research – this is decision-oriented research involving the application of the steps of the
scientific method in response to an immediate need to improve existing practices. The researcher
continues to find practical applications from theoretical knowledge and use this existing knowledge to
produce useful products.
The Variable of the Research
Variable – is defined as a quantity susceptible of fluctuation or change in value or magnitude under different
conditions.
Types of Variable
1. Independent variable – this is the stimulus variable that is chosen by the researcher to determine its
relationship to an observed phenomenon.
2. Dependent variable – this is the response variable which is observed and measured to determine the
effect of the independent variable. It changes when the independent variable varies.
3. Moderator variable – this is a secondary or special type of independent variable chosen by the
researcher to determine if it changes or modifies the relationships between the independent and
dependent variables.
4. Control variable – this is a variable that is controlled by the investigator in which the effects can be
neutralized by eliminating or removing the variable.
5. Intervening variable – this is a variable that interferes with the independent and dependent variables,
but its effects can be either strengthen or weaken the independent and dependent variables.
Research Problem and Objectives
The Research Problem
Five factors to consider in determining whether the problem is researchable.
1. The problem exists in the locality or country but no known solution to the problem.
2. The solution can be answered by using statistical methods and techniques.
3. There are probable solutions, but they are not yet tested.
4. The occurrence of phenomena requires scientific investigation to arrive at a precise solution.
5. Serious needs/ problems of the people where it demands research.
Characteristics of a Research Problem
SMART – specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bounded
Sources of Research Problem
1. Specialization of the researcher.
2. Current and Past research.
3. Recommendations from theses, dissertations, and research journals.
4. Original and creative ideas of the researcher based on the problems met in the locality and country.
Criteria of a Good Research Problem
1. Interesting
2. Innovative
3. Cost-effective
4. Relevant to the needs and problems of the people.
5. Relevant to government’s thrusts.
6. Measurable and time-bound.
