CHAPTER# 02

CLASSIFICATION OF RESEARCH

RESEARCH BY METHOD

Research can be conducted using various methods depending on the nature of the study and the
research questions being addressed. Here are some common research methods:

1. Experimental Research: This method involves manipulating variables to observe the effect on
other variables. It's often conducted in controlled environments to establish cause-and-effect
relationships.
2. Survey Research: Surveys involve gathering information from a sample of individuals through
questionnaires or interviews. This method is useful for collecting data on attitudes, opinions,
behaviors, and characteristics of a population.
3. Observational Research: Researchers observe subjects in their natural environment without
intervening. This method is useful for studying behaviors, interactions, and phenomena as they
occur naturally.
4. Case Study Research: Case studies involve in-depth examination of a single entity or a small
group of subjects. This method is often used in psychology, sociology, and anthropology to gain
insights into specific situations or phenomena.
5. Qualitative Research: Qualitative methods focus on exploring and understanding complex
phenomena through open-ended questions, interviews, and observations. It's often used to
uncover underlying motivations, meanings, and patterns.
6. Quantitative Research: Quantitative methods involve collecting numerical data to quantify
relationships, trends, and patterns. This typically involves statistical analysis to test hypotheses
and make generalizations about a population.
7. Mixed-Methods Research: This approach combines qualitative and quantitative methods to
provide a more comprehensive understanding of a research problem. Researchers collect and
analyze both types of data to complement each other.
8. Action Research: Action research involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners
to address real-world problems and improve practices or processes. It's often used in education,
healthcare, and community development.
9. Historical Research: Historical research involves examining past events, trends, and documents
to understand their significance and impact on the present. This method relies on primary and
secondary sources to reconstruct narratives and analyze historical patterns.
10. Ethnographic Research: Ethnography involves immersing researchers in a particular culture or
social group to observe and understand their behaviors, beliefs, and practices. It often involves
prolonged engagement and participant observation.

These are just a few examples of research methods, and researchers may employ a combination
of methods depending on their research objectives and the nature of the phenomenon being
studied. Each method has its strengths and limitations, and researchers must carefully consider
which approach best suits their research questions and objectives.

RESEARCH BY PURPOSE

Research can also be classified based on its purpose or goal. Here are some common types of
research based on purpose:

1. Basic Research: Also known as pure or fundamental research, this type of research is conducted
to expand knowledge and understanding of fundamental principles and theories without any
immediate practical application in mind. Basic research aims to increase our understanding of a
subject or phenomenon.
2. Applied Research: Applied research aims to solve specific, practical problems or answer
practical questions. It focuses on the application of existing knowledge to address real-world
issues and improve practices or processes. Applied research is often conducted in fields such as
engineering, medicine, and technology.
3. Exploratory Research: Exploratory research is conducted when a researcher aims to explore a
new area or gain initial insights into a phenomenon where little information is available. It's
often used to identify research questions, define concepts, and generate hypotheses for further
investigation.
4. Descriptive Research: Descriptive research aims to describe characteristics, behaviors, or
phenomena as they exist in their natural environment. It focuses on providing a detailed and
accurate description of the subject of study without manipulating variables or attempting to
establish cause-and-effect relationships.
5. Explanatory Research: Explanatory research aims to understand the underlying reasons or
explanations behind a phenomenon. It seeks to identify causal relationships and explain why
certain events or behaviors occur. Explanatory research often builds on descriptive research by
exploring potential causal mechanisms.
6. Correlational Research: Correlational research examines the relationship between two or more
variables without manipulating them. It aims to determine whether changes in one variable are
 associated with changes in another variable. Correlational research does not establish causation
but identifies patterns of association.
7. Predictive Research: Predictive research aims to forecast future events or outcomes based on
current or past data. It uses statistical models and predictive analytics to identify patterns and
trends that can be used to make predictions about future occurrences.
8. Action Research: Action research is conducted in collaboration with stakeholders to address
specific problems or issues within a particular context. It aims to generate practical solutions and
improve practices or processes through iterative cycles of planning, action, observation, and
reflection.
9. Evaluation Research: Evaluation research assesses the effectiveness, efficiency, or impact of
programs, policies, interventions, or initiatives. It aims to determine whether objectives are being
met, identify strengths and weaknesses, and provide recommendations for improvement.
10. Longitudinal Research: Longitudinal research involves studying the same subjects or
phenomena over an extended period to observe changes or trends over time. It allows researchers
to track developments, identify patterns of change, and investigate causal relationships that
unfold over time.

These types of research can overlap, and researchers may combine multiple purposes depending
on the goals of their study and the nature of the phenomenon being investigated.