What is research?

Simplest definition:
Research is looking for an
answer to a query using the
most logical and valid
methods.
Defined in two words:
Re + search

Implies that the object of

research has been done before,
and the function of the present
researcher is to concur or
improve, or negate the findings
of the previous work.
Technical definition:
Research is a process of
using relevant data with the
best methods of analysis that
can help the user develop
new knowledge or new
insight into a problem.
Working definition:
Research is a systematic way
of looking at a problem with all
the potential tools used to arrive
at the most valid conclusions
and generalizations usually from
empirical (measurable) data.
Research must give new
knowledge for what is known
in the past, may not be
applicable to situations that are
current/ contemporary at this
time.
Past researches do not become
passé or lose importance.

They become part of related

literature, thus, still hold an
important function and place in
research activity.
Kinds research

1. Basic research
2. Applied research
3. Empirical research
4. Pure research
Basic Research

Those that deal with the

process of objects and things,
information about different
topics with no concern for a
direct pay-off (gain).
Basic research

Consists of studies on:

1. Relationships,
2. Comparative Analyses
3. Trends
4. Projections
Examples of basic research
- Relationship between emotional
quotient and leadership skills
- Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation
factors of students to enroll in BSHRM
- The interaction or age and gender on
Mental Ability Test
- Cost benefit analysis of contractual
workers in manufacturing of cars
Applied research

Those that probe into the

unknown using directly the
results to a current problem.
Examples of applied research
- Studies on rice substitutes
- Modern methods for gall bladder
operation
- Different contraceptives for birth
control
- Use of native plants to serve as
gasoline
Empirical research

Are more specific than basic

research, but imply their nature
from the use of data, whether
quantitative or qualitative.
Characteristics of Empirical Research

1. based on observations and

experiences
2. derived from direct data
3. deal with population samples
4. generally use estimations and
hypothesis testing
Empirical research

generally are about problems

that involve differences and
relationships of behavior or
measurable characteristics
Pure research
- do not use empirical (direct) data
- researches where the lab is the
human mind
- geared towards the resolution/
simplification of a problem or
derivation of a concept, a theory
or a formula.
Example of pure research

Thesis and dissertation of students

for a Master of Science degree in:

1. Mathematics
2. Statistics, or
3. Physics
Sources of a Research Problem
1. Experiences – personal
experiences that impact on
researcher’s daily life
2. Work environment – interpersonal
relationships, communication
processes, conflicts
3. School environment – classroom
discussions, relationships
Sources of a Research Problem
4. Technological and scientific
advancement – pollution, energy
5. Offshoots of other researches –
recommendations for further research
from previous researches
6. Suggestions from friends/others –
topic may come from:
a. Specialization – field of expertise
Sources of a Research Problem
6. Suggestions from friends/others –
b. Programs – tour/OJT programs
c. Instructional Programs – focus
on curriculum/ school mgt.
d. Management Practices of
organizations – regulations,
assessments or improvements in
public or private organizations
Characteristics of a Good Problem
1. Should be of interest to the
researcher.
2. Should have practical value to you,
your school, and the community.
3. It is a current and novel issue.
4. It should be within your capability
or experience.
5. It can be finished within the allotted

time given.
Characteristics of a Good Problem
6. It should not carry any moral or
legal impediments nor be
controversial.
7. Its data are available.
8. The variables are clear and
separable.
9. It shall incur expenses affordable to
the researcher.
Factors that Influence Selection of a Problem
1. Availability of data
2. Time constraint
3. Funds
4. Capability of the researcher
5. Attitudes & interest of the researcher
6. Interest of the sponsor
7. Importance of the issues involved
8. Currency/ recentness of issues
9. Cooperation of others
10. Facilities and equipment
Requirements for Writing the Research Title

1. Should be clear and specifically stated

2. Should include the variables in the study
3. Should not exceed 20 words
4. Summarizes the content of the study
5. Serves as frame of reference for the
study
6. Enables the researcher to claim the
study as his own
Hypothesis
Two Kinds:
1. Null hypothesis (Ho) – is the state of
affairs that is accepted as true in the
absence of any other information. Lack of a
relationship as a starting point is a hallmark
until a systematic difference has been
established by the researcher.
– always stated in the negative form
Ex. There is no significant relationship
between age and academic performance.
Hypothesis

2. Alternative/ research hypothesis (Ha)

– is a prediction of some sort regarding
the possible outcomes of a study.
– always stated in the positive form
Ex. There is a significant relationship
between shampoo usage and hair fall.