Research is a systematic, logical, methodical and structured investigation about something, usually to either find something specific out or to find out what might explain some phenomenon.

It is important to understand that research does not provide an absolute truth, but rather an explanation and prediction of phenomena that is trustworthy and reliable.

What do we research?

Research can be done for people, their behaviours, attitudes, opinions, health and illnesses. There are different ways to conduct research, such as asking questions, watching, reading and counting. None of these methods of gathering data is “better” than the other and each is particularly well suited to answering specific questions. Therefore, before you can make a decision about what you are going to conduct research in, you must first understand what kind of question you want to ask.

What do we do with the research results?

The results from research may be used in several different ways, including:

1. Findings may give us information that we can use to make informed decisions.
2. We may be able to use the information change or persuade others.
3. We can use it to improve existing programmes or structures.

In general, there are four reasons for wanting to conduct research:

1. To observe and describe something.
2. To make a prediction about something.
3. To find out what causes something.
4. To explain something.

In simple terms, research is about asking a question and finding out the answer to it.

1. When one is looking into something.
2. When one is looking for something.
3. When one is contrasting and comparing items.

Types of research:

1. Basic research
2. Applied research or practical research
3. Operational research
4. Action research

The video clip below demonstrates the importance of research, highlighting the fact that, without research, we would not be where we are as a society.

When doing research, there is a process that one follows:

1. Formulate a research problem
2. Conduct an extensive review of the literature
3. Create a hypothesis (this is not always a necessary step)
4. Design the research project
5. Determine the sample characteristics
6. Collect the data
7. Analyse the data
8. Present and share the findings

Assignment

A. In groups of four discuss some examples of research ideas that might be suitable for a research project. After your discussion one member of each group presents the idea to the whole group.

B. In groups of five students discuss the benefits of research in health, and why people do research. After the discussion, each group should submit a short essay including all the information that was gathered.

Readings and references

• Rajasekar, S., Philominathan, P. & Chinnathambi, V. (2006). Research methodology.