Research Methods vs Methodology

RESEARCH FORMULATION AND DESIGN Motivation and objectives – Research methods vs.
Methodology.

Research Formulation and Design: Motivation, Objectives, and Methodology

1. Motivation and Objectives

Research formulation begins with identifying a problem or gap in existing knowledge. The motivation
for research is the driving force behind the study, influenced by factors such as personal interest,
societal needs, or practical applications.
Objectives define what the research aims to achieve. They provide a clear direction and measurable
goals. Objectives can be classified into:

General Objective: The overall aim of the study.

Specific Objectives: Break down the general objective into smaller, actionable goals.

2. Research Methods vs. Methodology

Though often used interchangeably, research methods and methodology are distinct concepts in
research design:

Aspect Research Methods Methodology

The practical techniques and tools used to The philosophical framework guiding the choice
Definition
collect and analyze data. and use of research methods.

"How" the research is conducted (e.g., "Why" specific methods are chosen based on
Focus
experiments, surveys, interviews). research philosophy.

Case study, survey, experimental design, Positivism, interpretivism, pragmatism,

Examples
qualitative interviews. constructivism.

Specific procedures for data collection and Theoretical justification for using specific
Scope
analysis. methods.

Conclusion

A well-structured research design ensures that the research is aligned with its motivation and
objectives while maintaining consistency between methods and methodology.

Types of research – Descriptive vs. Analytical, Applied vs. Fundamental, Quantitative vs.
Qualitative, Conceptual vs. Empirical

Finished thinking.

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Types of Research

Research can be classified into different types based on its purpose, nature, and methodology. Below is
a comparison of major research types:

1. Descriptive vs. Analytical Research

Type Descriptive Research Analytical Research

Describes characteristics, patterns, or Examines data or existing information to

Definition
phenomena without analyzing causes. explain relationships and causes.

Evaluates and interprets information to draw

Purpose Provides an accurate representation of a subject.
conclusions.

Critical evaluation, statistical analysis,

Methods Surveys, case studies, observational studies.
comparison studies.

A study on customer satisfaction levels in a retail Analyzing why customer satisfaction is higher
Example
store. in certain stores than others.

2. Applied vs. Fundamental Research

Type Applied Research Fundamental (Basic) Research

Aims to solve specific real-world Focuses on expanding knowledge without immediate
Definition
problems. practical application.
Addresses practical issues and finds
Purpose Builds theories and enhances understanding of principles.
solutions.
Experimental research, case studies,
Methods Theoretical analysis, laboratory research.
fieldwork.
Example Developing a new drug for a disease. Studying how a virus mutates at the molecular level.

3. Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research

Type Quantitative Research Qualitative Research

Focuses on numerical data, statistics, and Explores meanings, experiences, and social
Definition
measurable variables. phenomena through non-numerical data.
Tests hypotheses, identifies patterns, and Understands deeper meanings, perspectives, and
Purpose
makes predictions. behaviors.
Methods Surveys, experiments, statistical analysis. Interviews, focus groups, ethnography.

A study measuring the impact of exercise

Example Analyzing people's experiences with fitness programs.
on weight loss.

4. Conceptual vs. Empirical Research

Type Conceptual Research Empirical Research

Based on theoretical concepts and ideas rather than Relies on actual data, observations, or
Definition
direct observation or experiments. experiments.
Tests hypotheses and validates theories
Purpose Develops theories, models, and frameworks.
through real-world data.

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 Type Conceptual Research Empirical Research

Methods Literature review, theoretical analysis. Experiments, surveys, field studies.

A psychological experiment on how sleep
Example A philosophical study on the nature of consciousness.
affects memory retention.

Conclusion

Each research type serves a different purpose depending on the study's goals. While some focus on
theory (e.g., fundamental and conceptual research), others emphasize practical application (e.g., applied
and empirical research). The choice of research type depends on the problem statement, objectives,
and available data.

concept of applied and basic research process, criteria of good research.

Concept of Applied and Basic Research Process

The research process, whether applied or basic (fundamental), follows a structured approach to
ensure systematic inquiry and reliable results.

1. Basic (Fundamental) Research Process

Basic research is conducted to expand knowledge without immediate practical application. The steps
typically include:

1. Identifying the Research Problem – Defining a theoretical issue or knowledge gap.

2. Literature Review – Reviewing existing theories and research.
3. Formulating a Hypothesis – Developing testable propositions.
4. Research Design and Methodology – Choosing an appropriate theoretical framework.
5. Data Collection – Conducting experiments or theoretical analysis.
6. Data Analysis and Interpretation – Evaluating findings in the context of existing knowledge.
7. Conclusion and Implications – Enhancing theoretical understanding and suggesting further
research.

Example: Studying how artificial intelligence impacts human cognition without developing a specific AI
tool.

2. Applied Research Process

Applied research aims to solve real-world problems using scientific methods. The process includes:

1. Identifying the Practical Problem – Addressing an issue in industries, healthcare, education, etc.
2. Review of Existing Solutions – Analyzing previous studies and their limitations.
3. Formulating Objectives – Setting specific goals to develop solutions.
4. Selecting Research Methods – Choosing surveys, experiments, or case studies.
5. Data Collection – Gathering empirical evidence from real-world scenarios.
6. Analysis and Interpretation – Evaluating the effectiveness of solutions.

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 7. Implementation and Recommendations – Applying findings to create practical solutions.

Example: Developing a new vaccine based on studies of disease mutations.

Criteria of Good Research

For research to be considered effective and valuable, it must meet specific criteria:

1. Clarity in Objectives – Well-defined aims and research questions.

2. Systematic Approach – Following a structured methodology.
3. Reliability and Validity – Consistent and accurate findings.
4. Empirical Evidence – Data-backed conclusions.
5. Logical Reasoning – Sound interpretation and critical analysis.
6. Ethical Considerations – Honesty, transparency, and confidentiality in research.
7. Generalizability – Applicability of findings beyond the specific study.
8. Replicability – The ability for others to reproduce results.

A well-conducted research study not only addresses the research problem effectively but also
contributes to the body of knowledge in a meaningful way.

Defining and formulating the research problem, selecting the problem, necessity of defining the
problem, importance of literature review in defining a problem, literature review-primary and
secondary sources, reviews, monograph, patents, research databases, web as a source, searching
the web, critical literature review, identifying gap areas from literature and research database,
development of working hypothesis.

Defining and Formulating the Research Problem

A research problem is the foundation of any study. It identifies what needs to be investigated and
provides direction for the research process.

1. Selecting the Research Problem

Choosing a research problem involves:

Personal Interest & Expertise – Selecting a topic within one’s knowledge area.
Significance & Relevance – The problem should contribute to knowledge or solve a practical issue.
Availability of Resources – Ensuring necessary data, funding, and time are available.
Feasibility & Ethics – The study should be doable and adhere to ethical guidelines.

2. Necessity of Defining the Research Problem

Clearly defining the research problem ensures:

Clarity and Focus – Helps avoid vague or broad topics.

Structured Research Design – Guides data collection and methodology.
Efficiency – Saves time and resources by avoiding irrelevant information.

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A well-defined problem answers:

1. What is to be studied?
2. Why is it important?
3. Who will benefit from the findings?
4. How will it be investigated?

Importance of Literature Review in Defining a Research Problem

A literature review helps researchers understand existing knowledge and identify research gaps. It:

Avoids Duplication – Prevents repeating previous research.

Identifies Gaps – Highlights unanswered questions.
Develops Theoretical Frameworks – Supports hypothesis formulation.
Improves Methodology – Shows best practices in similar studies.

Primary vs. Secondary Sources in Literature Review

Type Definition Examples

Primary Research papers, patents, government reports,
Original research with firsthand data.
Sources experimental data.
Secondary Summarized or analyzed information from Review articles, books, monographs, systematic
Sources primary sources. reviews.

Types of Literature Review Sources

1. Reviews

Summarized evaluations of multiple studies on a topic. Example: Systematic reviews provide

comprehensive overviews of existing research.

2. Monographs

Detailed written studies on a specific topic, usually authored by experts. Example: A book on "Quantum
Computing and its Applications."

3. Patents

Legal documents granting rights to new inventions, useful for applied research. Example: "Patent on a
new AI-based medical diagnosis system."

4. Research Databases

Repositories containing academic articles, books, and reports. Example:

Scopus – Citation and abstract database.

IEEE Xplore – Engineering and technology papers.
PubMed – Medical and life sciences database.

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5. Web as a Source

The internet provides vast research materials but requires careful evaluation for credibility.

6. Searching the Web for Literature

Use Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and institutional repositories.

Use advanced search techniques like Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT).

Critical Literature Review & Identifying Research Gaps

A critical review evaluates literature rather than just summarizing it. Steps include:

1. Analyzing Strengths & Weaknesses of existing studies.

2. Comparing Theories & Findings across multiple papers.
3. Identifying Research Gaps – Finding unanswered or underexplored areas.

Identifying Gaps from Literature & Research Databases

Look for conflicting results in previous studies.

Find understudied populations, industries, or regions.
Identify outdated theories needing revision.

Example: If previous studies focused on the effect of AI on healthcare in developed countries, a gap
could be studying its impact in developing nations.

Development of Working Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a testable statement that predicts relationships between variables.

Steps to Develop a Hypothesis

1. Analyze Literature Review Findings – What has been proven or debated?

2. Identify Variables – Independent (cause) & dependent (effect).
3. Formulate a Statement – Based on logical reasoning.
4. Ensure It’s Testable – Should be measurable and falsifiable.

Example of a Hypothesis

"Increased screen time negatively affects students' academic performance."

Conclusion

A well-defined research problem, supported by a strong literature review, helps in formulating a solid
hypothesis and developing a structured research approach.
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