Kinds of Research across Fields
There are different kinds of research that are being used in different fields or disciplines. If you decide to
use the quantitative method, you also have options to choose from: you can use the descriptive method, the
correlational study, a combination of descriptive and correlational, the experimental method, the historical research,
market research and many more. These kinds of research will be discussed in detail when you reach your Practical
Research 2.
However, here is a brief overview of what these RESEARCH METHODS are:
The Descriptive Method
Descriptive research describes the phenomena being studied. It addresses the “what” question. Data are
gathered and descriptive statistics are then used to analyze such data. Thus, descriptive research considers one
variable at a time (i.e., univariate analysis), and is typically the entry-level type of research in a new area of inquiry.
It typically describes what appears to be happening and what the important variables seem to be.
The Correlational Research
Correlational research determines the relations among two or more variables. Data are gathered from
multiple variables and correlational statistical techniques are then applied to the data. Thus, correlational research
is a bit more complicated than descriptive research; after the important variable have been identified, the relations
among those variables are investigated.
Correlational research investigates a range of factors, including the nature of the relationship between two
or more variables and the theoretical model that might be developed and tested to explain these resulting
correlations.
Correlation does not imply causation. Thus, correlational research can only enable the researcher to make
weak causal inferences at best. Correlational research can be bivariate, meaning two variables in which one variable
is known as an independent variable (or input variable) and the second variable as a dependent variable (or
outcome variable). Bivariate correlations provide information about the strength of the relationship, from no
correlation to perfectly correlated.
The regression analysis may be used in predicting a single dependent variable or outcome. The relations
among the variables or predictors are used to develop a prediction model. The multivariate correlation determines
the correlation between multiple independent variables and a single dependent variable.
The Experimental Method
In experimental research, the researcher manipulates one or more independent or grouping variables,
(e.g., by comparing treatment conditions, such as an intervention group vs. a control group) and then observes the
impact of that manipulation on one or more dependent or outcome variables (e.g., student achievement or
motivation). The statistical method of analysis is typically some form of the analysis of variance. Experimental
research includes:
(a) true experiments (in which individuals are randomly assigned to conditions or groups, such as method
of instruction or counseling) and
(b) quasi-experiments (in which individuals cannot be randomly assigned as they are already in a
condition or group, such as gender, socioeconomic status or classroom). The basic question to be posed in
experimental research concerns what extent a particular intervention causes a particular outcome. Thus,
experimental studies are those in which strong causal inferences are most likely to be drawn.
The Historical Research
The historical method is employed by researchers who are interested in reporting events and/or conditions
that occurred in the past. This is for the purpose of establishing facts in order to arrive at conclusions concerning
part events or predict future events.
The Market Research
Market research is any organized effort to gather information about target markets or customers. Market
research provides important information to identify and analyze customer satisfaction, the market need, market
size and competition.
Market research, which includes social and opinion research, is the systematic gathering and interpretation
of information about individuals or organizations using statistical and analytical methods and techniques of the
applied social sciences to gain insight or support decision making.
Feasibility Study
A feasibility study is an analysis of the ability to complete a project successfully, taking into account
legal, economic, technical, scheduling, marketing, environmental and other factors. Rather than just diving into
a project and hoping for the best, a feasibility study allows project managers to investigate the possible negative
and positive outcomes of a project before investing too much time and money.
