UNIT 1 INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH
Meaning of research
Research is an activity that leads us to finding new facts, information, assisting us in verifying
the available knowledge and in making us question things that are difficult to understand as
per existing data. To be successful manager it is important for you toknow how to go about
making the right decisions by being knowledgeable about the various steps involved in finding
solutions to problematic issues.It may be understood in following terms also: Research is a
continuous activity in majority of disciplines and professions. It is helpful in critical
assessment of the way we work, execute policies, and give instructions in our professions. It is
systematic observation of processes to find better ways to do things and to reduce the effort
being put in to achieve an objective and identifying the validity of the targets. In fact research
is a subconscious activity that we are involved in at all times whether it is purchase of daily use
articles , a car, an electronic good or planning a holiday.
Research is a systematic and organized process of investigating a specific topic or question in
order to gain new knowledge, insights, and understanding. It involves collecting and analyzing
information, data, and evidence, often leading to the discovery of new facts, theories, or
solutions. Research is conducted across various fields and disciplines to expand our
understanding of the world and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
Research is the careful consideration of study regarding a particular concern or research
problem using scientific methods. According to the American sociologist Earl Robert Babbie,
“research is a systematic inquiry to describe, explain, predict, and control the observed
phenomenon. .”
Research is a search for knowledge which is a scientific and systematic process or often
termed as an ' art of scientific investigation'.
According to Rocco " Research is a careful investigation or inquiry specially through search for
new facts in any branch of knowledge.'"
Acc. to Redman and Mory " Research is a systematised efforts to gain knowledge"
Clifford Woody - " research Comprises defining and redefining problems, formulating
hypothesis or suggested solutions, collecting/ organising/ and analysing data and reaching
conclusions"
Slesinger and M. Stephenson in the Encyclopedia of Social Sciences Research define research
as "The manipulation of things, concepts or symbols for the purpose of generalizing to extend,
correct or verify knowledge, whether that knowledge aids in construction of theory or in the
practice of an art."
Research is a movement, a movement from the known to the unknown (Redman and
Mory,2010).
Research may have certain other qualities such as:
a) It is a prearranged / structured enquiry (a formal step by step method or sequence to
take up research activity is developed to ensure correctness of data and validity of
processes). Scientific methods consist of systematic observation, classification
andinterpretation of data. The degree of formality, rigorousness, verifiability and
general validity of scientific methods establish the results obtained
b) It utilizes acceptable scientific methodology to solve problems (the method used
should be able to give repetitive results under similar conditions)
c) It should create new knowledge that is generally applicable. (The outcomes should be
such that they are not specific to particular issue or a situation but need to begeneralized for
application to comparable issues).
d) It is creative process to develop better understanding of mankind, social and cultural and
economical issues.
e) It should be useful to others who wish to apply the findings in developing new policies or
applications of findings of a research in the benefit of public.
Objectives of research
1. To Gain Familiarity of a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it
2. To Portray accurately the state of affairs of a situation, phenomenon, people or groups.
3. To examine the real cause of such situation or phenomenon.
4. To predict future outcomes in some cases based on the current trends of the situation
5. To evaluate and assess the effectiveness of the current measures being adopted.
6. To provide possible solutions that can support efficient decision making.
Characterstrics of research
Research has several key characteristics, including:
1. **Systematic Inquiry:** Research follows a structured and organized approach to
investigate a specific question or problem.
2. **Empirical Basis:** It relies on gathering and analyzing empirical evidence, which is based
on observation or experience, rather than speculation.
3. **Objectivity:** Research aims to maintain objectivity and impartiality in its methods,
analysis, and conclusions, avoiding personal bias.
4. **Critical Analysis:** It involves critical evaluation of existing knowledge, theories, and
literature related to the topic, contributing to the advancement of understanding.
5. **Goal-Oriented:** Research is conducted with a clear purpose, whether it's to discover new
knowledge, validate existing theories, solve a problem, or develop practical applications.
6. **Replicability:** The methods and procedures used in research should be described in
detail so that others can replicate the study to verify results.
7. **Rigorous Methodology:** Research employs a well-defined and structured methodology,
including data collection, analysis, and interpretation, to ensure validity and reliability.
8. **Logical Reasoning:** It involves logical and systematic reasoning to draw valid
conclusions from the collected data and information.
9. **Contribution to Knowledge:** Research aims to contribute to the body of knowledge by
generating new insights, theories, or solutions in a particular field.
10. **Openness to Revision:** Research findings are subject to peer review and can be revised
or updated based on new evidence or interpretations.
These characteristics collectively define the nature of research and guide the process of
acquiring reliable and meaningful information.
