What is Research?

Research is fundamentally defined as the systematic search for knowledge, which involves a
careful investigation or inquiry, particularly aimed at discovering new facts across various
branches of knowledge. According to The Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of Current English,
research is characterized as “a careful investigation or inquiry, especially through a search for
new facts in any branch of knowledge.” This definition underscores the importance of both the
methodology and the intent behind research: to contribute to the existing body of knowledge,
refine understanding, and provide insights that may lead to advancements in a specific field.

Prerequisites for Research

Research is predicated on several key prerequisites that facilitate a productive and meaningful
inquiry:

1. Interest in the Research Topic: A genuine curiosity about the subject matter is
essential, as it drives the researcher to explore and engage deeply with the topic.
2. Availability of Sources: Access to both primary and secondary sources is crucial.
Primary sources offer direct evidence or firsthand accounts relevant to the research question,
while secondary sources provide analysis or interpretation of primary data.
3. Sufficient Knowledge of the Subject: A foundational understanding of the relevant
literature and existing knowledge within the subject area enables researchers to formulate
effective inquiries and contextualize their findings.
4. Time Management: Effective research requires careful planning and realistic
goal-setting to ensure that objectives can be met within a reasonable timeframe.
5. Support from Supervisors/Guides: The interest and investment of a supervisor or
guide can significantly enhance the research experience, providing mentorship and direction.
6. Self-Satisfaction: Personal fulfillment and a sense of achievement are vital, as
they motivate researchers to persist through challenges and uncertainties.

Terms Related to Research

Understanding key terminology is essential for navigating the research process. Below are
several critical concepts:

• Variables: In research, variables are elements that can change or take on

different quantitative values. They play a crucial role in experiments and studies, as they help
establish relationships and influences within the research context.
• Hypothesis: A hypothesis is a predictive statement formulated based on
assumptions. It serves as a tentative explanation that researchers aim to test through their
investigations. A well-structured hypothesis provides direction for the research design and
methodology.
• Limitations: These refer to potential weaknesses or constraints within a study that
may affect the validity or reliability of the findings. Limitations can arise from various factors,
including sample size, research design, and external variables that are beyond the researcher’s
control.
• Outcomes: The expected results of the research inquiry are termed outcomes.
These represent the anticipated findings that emerge from testing the hypothesis and exploring
the research questions. Outcomes can validate, refute, or provide new insights into the topic
under study.

Research Gap

A research gap refers to unexplored topics or unanswered questions within the existing body of
research on a particular subject. Identifying these gaps is crucial for advancing knowledge and
understanding in any field. Researchers must pinpoint areas where previous studies may have
overlooked important issues, thereby creating opportunities for new inquiries that contribute to
the academic discourse.

How to Identify a Research Gap

Identifying a research gap involves a systematic process, including the following steps:

1. Review Relevant Literature: Conduct a comprehensive review of existing

literature related to the topic of interest. This helps in understanding the current state of
research and identifying areas that require further exploration.
2. Read Existing Research Works: Engage with published studies to gain insights
into the methodologies, findings, and conclusions drawn by other researchers.
3. Identify Unaddressed Issues: As you review the literature, pay attention to any
questions or problems that remain unresolved or inadequately addressed.
4. View from Different Perspectives: Consider the topic from various theoretical or
methodological perspectives. This may reveal alternative angles of inquiry that have not been
previously explored.
5. Arrive at the Research Gap: Synthesize your findings to clearly articulate the
specific gap in knowledge or understanding that your research aims to address.
6. Frame a Research Question: Formulate a precise research question that reflects
the identified gap and guides your investigation.

Essential Research Questions

In his work, Research Methods in Anthropology: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches,

Russell Bernard emphasizes the importance of researchers asking several critical questions
before embarking on their inquiries:

• Does the subject of your research truly interest you? This personal investment is
vital for sustaining motivation throughout the research process.
 • Is it feasible to conduct a scientific inquiry on your chosen topic? Researchers
must assess the practicality of their investigation, including available methodologies and data
sources.
• Do you have sufficient resources to initiate and complete the research?
Consideration of funding, time, and access to necessary materials is essential for successful
research.
• Are there ethical or moral issues associated with your research questions or
methods? Researchers should be mindful of the ethical implications of their work and ensure
that their inquiry adheres to established ethical standards.
• Is the subject of your research theoretically significant and interesting? The topic
should not only fill a knowledge gap but also contribute to the broader theoretical landscape of
the field.

Research Methods vs. Methodology

The distinction between research methods and methodology is significant in the context of
conducting research. Gabriele Griffin articulates this difference effectively:

• Research Methods: These refer to the specific techniques and procedures

employed to collect and analyze data in a research project. Research methods encompass a
range of approaches, including qualitative and quantitative techniques, surveys, experiments,
interviews, and more.
• Methodology: In contrast, methodology pertains to the underlying framework and
philosophical perspectives that inform the research process. This includes the theoretical lens
through which the researcher views their work, such as feminist, postcolonialist, or other
theoretical perspectives. Methodology influences the choice of research methods and shapes
the interpretation of findings.

In summary, understanding the concept of a research gap and the process for identifying it is
fundamental for conducting meaningful research. Furthermore, recognizing the difference
between research methods and methodology enriches the researcher’s approach, enabling a
more nuanced and informed inquiry.

Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research is primarily concerned with the measurement of quantity or amount. It

applies to phenomena that can be expressed numerically, employing methods from the natural
sciences that yield numerical data and establish logical relationships between variables. Key
characteristics of quantitative research include:

• Utilization of mathematical, computational, and statistical techniques to analyze

data.
 • The ability to construct tables and graphs that visually represent raw data.
• A researcher’s neutral stance, with a focus on precise observations and
analyses.
• An objective nature, emphasizing replicability and statistical validity.

Example of Quantitative Research: Analyzing databases of published works to examine trends

in genre popularity over decades. Researchers could quantify the number of novels published in
various genres each year and apply statistical methods to identify patterns.

Qualitative Research

Qualitative research focuses on qualitative phenomena, relating to qualities or characteristics

rather than quantities. It is characterized by its unstructured and exploratory nature, allowing for
an in-depth understanding of complex phenomena that quantitative methods may not
adequately address. Key aspects include:

• Exploration of human behavior, experiences, motivations, and attitudes to gain

insights into how individuals feel and think.
• Reliance on observation and interpretation, with researchers deeply involved in
the research process.
• A subjective approach that facilitates a richer exploration of individual
perspectives, yielding detailed data that uncovers underlying motivations and meanings.
• Commonly employed in social sciences, psychology, anthropology, and fields
where nuanced understanding of human behavior is necessary.

Example of Qualitative Research: Studying the personal life stories of different authors to
understand how their experiences influenced their writing, such as analyzing how Sylvia Plath’s
mental health struggles are reflected in her poetry.

Fundamental vs. Applied Research

Fundamental Research

Fundamental research, also known as pure or basic research, is conducted to gather

knowledge for its own sake. This type of research is primarily concerned with generalizations
and the formulation of theories. Key features include:

• The aim to develop information with a broad range of applications, contributing to

the existing organized body of scientific knowledge.
• Establishment of concepts and technical terminology that may evolve into
practical applications in the future.

Example of Fundamental Research: Studying a group of students to discover cognitive

processes and build a theory based on the findings.
Applied Research

In contrast, applied research seeks to find solutions to immediate problems faced by society or
specific organizations. It focuses on practical applications and the resolution of pressing issues.
Key characteristics include:

• Aimed at discovering solutions for real-world challenges.

• Integration of theoretical frameworks into practical settings to enhance outcomes.

Example of Applied Research: Framing and testing new teaching methods to improve student
learning outcomes in mathematics, utilizing cognitive and educational theories in classroom
environments.

Ethnography

Ethnographic research centers on understanding the culture of a particular group of people,

examining shared attributes such as language, practices, values, norms, and material aspects
of life. This research method involves:

• Participant observation, allowing researchers to immerse themselves in the

cultural context.
• Data collection through interviews, observations, and document analysis.

Descriptive vs. Analytical Research

Descriptive Research

Descriptive research involves detailing the current state of affairs as they exist, focusing on the
characteristics of variables under study. It typically answers questions that begin with “What,”
“Who,” “When,” “Where,” and “How.” Characteristics include:

• Lack of control over variables, with researchers reporting observations rather

than manipulating them.
• Common methodologies include surveys, comparative and correlational
methods, and ex post facto studies.

Example of Descriptive Research: Describing the features of Gothicism in Edgar Allan Poe’s
short stories.

Analytical Research

Analytical research requires the researcher to analyze existing facts or information to make
critical evaluations of the material. This type of research often involves:
 • Utilizing data to draw conclusions based on established evidence.
• Employing analytical methods to interpret findings and assess relationships.

Example of Analytical Research: Analyzing air and water quality data to assess the impact of
pollution on ecosystems, or examining the character arc of Mr. Darcy in Jane Austen’s Pride and
Prejudice and its influence on the narrative.

Conceptual vs. Empirical Research

Conceptual Research

Conceptual research deals with abstract ideas, aiming to propose new theories or reinterpret
existing ones. It often employs deductive reasoning and logical analysis to explore theoretical
frameworks within a subject area.

Example of Conceptual Research: Analyzing abstract concepts such as power, identity, social
norms, and cultural values to develop theories that elucidate complex social dynamics and
cultural phenomena, such as how gender identity determines power and control.

Empirical Research

Empirical research is based on data derived from direct observation or experimentation. It is

often referred to as experimental research and is characterized by:

• Reliance on evidence gathered through real-world data rather than purely

theoretical reasoning.
• The potential for verification through observation or experimentation, making it a
robust support for hypotheses.

Example of Empirical Research: Investigating the effects of different teaching methods on

student learning outcomes by comparing test scores from classrooms employing traditional
versus interactive technological methods.

Qualities of a Researcher

A proficient researcher embodies several essential qualities:

1. Systematic/Methodical: Follows a specified sequence and adheres to a

well-defined set of rules in the research process.
2. Organized: Maintains meticulous records of sources and references to ensure
academic integrity.
3. Analytical Mind: Possesses the ability to critically evaluate information and draw
meaningful conclusions.
 4. Curiosity: Exhibits a strong desire to learn and explore new concepts and ideas.
5. Foresight: Anticipates potential challenges and outcomes in the research
process.
6. Perseverance and Commitment: Demonstrates dedication to completing
research despite obstacles.
7. Knowledge: Maintains a solid understanding of the relevant field and
methodologies.
8. Objectivity: Upholds impartiality, avoiding biases and prejudices in research
findings.
9. Keen Observation: Pays careful attention to detail, which is crucial for accurate
data collection and interpretation.
10. Time Management: Efficiently allocates time to various research activities to meet
deadlines.
11. Conceptual Clarity: Ensures a clear understanding of concepts and theories
related to the research topic.
12. Writing Skills: Possesses the ability to articulate ideas clearly and concisely in
written form.
13. Presentation Skills: Capable of effectively communicating research findings to
various audiences.
14. Communication Skills: Engages in active listening and articulates thoughts clearly
in both verbal and written communication.
15. Honesty and Integrity: Acknowledges sources appropriately to avoid plagiarism.

Plagiarism

According to the Oxford University, plagiarism is defined as follows:

“Presenting work or ideas from another source as your own, with or without the consent of the
original author, by incorporating it into your work without full acknowledgement. All published
and unpublished material, whether in manuscript, printed, or electronic form, is covered under
this definition.”

Plagiarism represents intellectual theft and signifies a lack of honesty and integrity. It comprises
two essential components:

1. Appropriating the work of someone else

2. Passing it off as one’s own without proper credit.

Types of Plagiarism

1. Complete or Clone Plagiarism: Submitting an entire work from another author

without acknowledgment. This is one of the most severe forms of plagiarism and can lead to
expulsion or criminal charges.
 • Example: Submitting a research paper that a senior wrote and submitted
previously.
2. Direct Plagiarism: Including specific sections or paragraphs from another work
without proper attribution.
3. Remix Plagiarism: Collecting information from various sources and merging them
into a single manuscript, presenting it as original work.
4. Paraphrasing Plagiarism: Altering a few words or phrases from another’s work
without proper citation. This is often unrecognized by students as academic dishonesty.
5. Recycle/Self-Plagiarism: Reusing one’s own previously published work or data in
a new publication without appropriate citation. This can mislead readers and violate ethical
standards.
• As noted by the American Psychological Association, self-plagiarism is
presenting one’s own previously published work as new.
6. Patchwork/Mosaic Plagiarism: Blending plagiarized content with original work.
This subtle form can often go unnoticed.
• Example: Incorporating phrases from a source into one’s own sentences without
proper attribution.
7. 404 Error Plagiarism: Citing non-existent or inaccurate sources to disguise a lack
of proper citation.
8. Inter-language/Translation Plagiarism: Copying text from another language by
translating it, potentially leading to misinterpretations.
9. Inter-format Plagiarism: Taking content from one medium and presenting it in
another without proper acknowledgment, such as copying from a lecture verbatim.

Consequences of Plagiarism

In accordance with UGC regulations, the penalties for plagiarism in thesis and dissertation
submissions are determined by the Institutional Academic Integrity Panel (IAIP), based on the
severity of the plagiarism:

1. Level 0: Similarities up to 10% - Minor similarities, no penalty.

2. Level 1: Similarities above 10% to 40% - The student must submit a revised
script within a stipulated time frame, not exceeding six months.
3. Level 2: Similarities above 40% to 60% - The student is barred from submitting a
revised script for one year.
4. Level 3: Similarities above 60% - The student’s registration for that program shall
be cancelled.

Copyright Infringement

Copyright infringement is illegal and punishable by law. If an individual is proven guilty of

copyright infringement, they may face severe consequences, including:

• Imprisonment
 • Significant monetary fines
• Suspension or expulsion from an educational institution

Avoiding Plagiarism

To maintain academic integrity and avoid plagiarism, researchers should adhere to the following
guidelines:

1. Keep Track of Sources: Document all sources consulted during the research
process to ensure accurate citations.
2. Crediting Original Authors: Include in-text citations and a comprehensive
reference list to credit original authors appropriately.
3. Quoting Sparingly: While quotations can enhance research, they should be used
judiciously. When quoting, ensure that the text is enclosed in quotation marks and correctly
attributed to the original author. Quotes are appropriate when:
• Utilizing an exact definition provided by the original author.
• It is impossible to rephrase the original text without losing its intended meaning.
• Analyzing the language used in the original text.
• Maintaining the authority and style of the author’s expression.
4. Acknowledging Paraphrasing: Paraphrased content must also be acknowledged
through in-text citations and inclusion in the works cited/reference list.
5. Utilizing Plagiarism Checkers: To ensure academic honesty and avoid
unintentional plagiarism, researchers should use reliable plagiarism detection tools:
• Urkund: Recommended by the UGC, this tool is accessible to academic
institutions.
• Turnitin: A widely used but expensive option for plagiarism detection.
• Avoid using unpaid plagiarism checkers, as they may lack reliability and
accuracy.
6. Avoiding Procrastination: Manage time effectively to ensure adequate research
and writing time.
7. Scrupulous Note-Taking: Be meticulous in documenting notes to maintain
accurate records of sources and ideas.
8. Skeptical Evaluation of Sources: Critically assess the reliability and credibility of
the sources being utilized.
9. Document Sources Promptly: Record source information immediately, especially
when utilizing online materials.
10. Commitment and Sincerity: Uphold a strong commitment to ethical research
practices and demonstrate sincerity in all academic endeavors.

By adhering to these principles, researchers can effectively avoid plagiarism and uphold the
standards of academic integrity.