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Exploring the World of Research: A Library's Journey

Understanding Research and its Types

The word “research” is derived from the old French word “recercher” which means to search or investigate. Re, a prefix in French and Latin meaning “again” or “Back”, cercher originated from Latin which means “to wonder, traverse or go about”. In simple terms it means the systematic investigation and study of materials, sources, and subjects with the goal of establishing facts and arriving at novel conclusions.

The following are different types of research:

1. Basic Research

2. Applied Research

3. Descriptive Research

4. Analytical Research

5. Exploratory Research

6. Quantitative Research

7. Qualitative Research

8. Experimental Research

9. Correlation Research

10. Longitudinal Research

Explanation

1.Basic Research

Basic research generally carried out to enhance knowledge without any specific application in mind. For example, a technological firm studying quantum computing with no defined product in mind. The purpose is to better understanding of quantum algorithms, which may transform data processing in the future.

2. Applied Research

The purpose of applied research is to find solutions of real word issues and is often used to solve specific questions that have direct applications. For example, a pharmaceutical business is running tests to create a novel medicine to treat a specific health problem, such as diabetes.

3. Descriptive Research

This study is focused on describing the characteristics of a phenomenon or the relationship between variables without investigating cause-and-effect. For example, a retailer is conducting surveys to characterize customers demographics, purchasing habits, and preferences during the time of the holiday season in order to better personalize marketing campaigns.

4. Analytical Research

Analytical research is about using the using the existing facts or information, and analysing them to make a critical evaluation of the material. For example, an economist uses the already available data to analyse the impact of new fiscal Policy on middle class spending.

5. Exploratory Research

This type of research is used to explore an area where very little is known. For example, a startup is exploring needs and challenge before introducing new app-based service.

6. Quantitative Research

In this type of research, the data is in the form of numbers and is quantifiable. It uses statistical methods to examine the data and provide outcomes. For example, a company conducts consumer survey to quantify the level of satisfaction with its product and services

7. Qualitative Research

This type of research is used to comprehend thoughts, opinions or reasons. It gives insight into the problem or aids in the development of hypothesis for future quantitative study. For example, interviewing first time parents to gain thorough insights into their struggles and expectations.

8. Experimental Research

This form of study is based on testing a hypothesis under controlled conditions in order to find out the cause-effect relationship between variables. For example, a cosmetic brand is examining the effectiveness of a new anti-aging cream against existing market anti-aging cream, using controlled clinical tests to determine clear, causal results.

9. Correlation Research

This is type of study examines the relationship between two or more variables to see if a relationship exists. For example, an educational institute studying if there is a relationship between students’ time spent on study and their grades.

10. Longitudinal Research

This research study the same subjects over a period and repeatedly analyses them to identify changes. For example, a global firm has been measuring employee satisfaction and performance for a decade to study trends and the long-term impact of its human resource policy.