1. Characteristics of Research
Research is a careful and systematic way of finding answers to questions. It involves observing, reading, thinking, experimenting, and checking facts to discover new knowledge or understand something better. The goal of research is not guessing, but learning the truth using clear evidence and logical thinking.
The following are the characteristics of Research:
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Accuracy: Accuracy in research means all parts of a study work well together. The methods, tools, and data must match the research question. Each step should fit properly and be checked carefully. This helps the study produce correct and trustworthy results.
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Cyclical: Research is not a one-time process. The results of one study often raise new questions. And these questions lead to further research and better understanding.
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Generalised Outcomes: Research aims to produce results that apply beyond the studied sample. Therefore the findings should help explain or predict similar situations in a wider population.
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Replicable: A research study should be repeatable. If another researcher follows the same method, they should be able to get similar results. This shows that study is dependable.
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Logical: Research follows clear and sensible reasoning. Each step is linked to the previous one. The final conclusion should make sense when the whole process is reviewed.
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Systematic: Research is carried out in an orderly way. Steps like planning, data collection, analysis, and conclusion follow a fixed sequence. This ensures nothing important is missed.
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Objective: Research is based on facts and evidence. Personal opinions and feelings are avoided. The researcher remains neutral to reduce bias.
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Reductive: Research breaks a big, complex problem into smaller, manageable parts. Studying these parts carefully helps in understanding the whole problem more clearly.
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Credibility: Credible research is trustworthy. This comes from proper methods, honest reporting, and transparent data so others can examine and verify the work.
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Empirical: Empirical research depends on real-world observation and experience. Researchers collect data through experiments, measurements, or direct observation. They draw conclusions from facts, not assumptions.
2. Attributes of Research
Research is a careful and systematic way of finding answers to questions. It involves observing, reading, thinking, experimenting, and checking facts to discover new knowledge or understand something better. The goal of research is not guessing, but learning the truth using clear evidence and logical thinking.