Research can be classified in several ways based on its purpose, approach, and nature of data. The main types include:
1. Descriptive Research
- Purpose: To describe characteristics, behaviors, or phenomena as they exist.
- Nature: Non-manipulative; observes and reports.
- Examples: Census studies, demographic surveys, market research.
2. Analytical Research
- Purpose: To understand and explain phenomena by analyzing existing information.
- Nature: Uses facts or data to make inferences; often theoretical.
- Examples: Statistical analysis of economic trends, historical research.
3. Applied Research
- Purpose: To solve practical problems in real-life situations.
- Nature: Goal-oriented; focuses on application rather than theory.
- Examples: Developing new drug formulations, improving manufacturing processes.
4. Fundamental (Basic) Research
- Purpose: To expand knowledge and understanding without immediate practical application.
- Nature: Theoretical; aims at discovering general principles or laws.
- Examples: Research in physics on quantum mechanics, genetic studies.
5. Quantitative Research
- Purpose: To measure and quantify variables; focuses on numerical data.
- Nature: Uses statistical, mathematical, or computational techniques.
- Examples: Opinion polls, statistical surveys, experiments with measurable outcomes.
6. Qualitative Research
- Purpose: To understand meanings, experiences, or concepts; focuses on non-numerical data.
- Nature: Exploratory and interpretive.
- Examples: Case studies, ethnographic research, interviews.
7. Conceptual Research
- Purpose: To develop new concepts or refine existing theories.
- Nature: Theoretical and abstract.
- Examples: Philosophical research, development of new economic models.
8. Empirical Research
- Purpose: Based on observation, experimentation, or experience.
- Nature: Relies on evidence and data rather than pure theory.
- Examples: Clinical trials, laboratory experiments, field surveys.
Difference Between Experiment and Survey
| Aspect | Experiment | Survey |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To study cause-effect relationships by manipulating variables. | To collect information about characteristics, opinions, or behavior without manipulation. |
| Nature | Controlled, often in laboratory or field setting; independent variable is manipulated. | Observational; records responses as they are. |
| Data Type | Usually quantitative; may involve measurements or observations under controlled conditions. | Mostly descriptive; can be quantitative or qualitative. |
| Outcome | Establishes causal relationships. | Provides descriptive insights, trends, or patterns. |
| Example | Testing effect of fertilizer on crop yield in a controlled plot. | Conducting a household survey to know consumer preferences. |
| Control | High; researcher controls variables. | Low; researcher observes naturally occurring phenomena. |
Conclusion
Research types vary depending on purpose, approach, and data used. While experiments are suitable for studying causal relationships under controlled conditions, surveys are ideal for collecting descriptive information from a large population. Both are essential but serve different research objectives.
