Fundamentals of Scientific Research Methods

Understanding Scientific Research

Scientific research is a systematic process that applies the scientific method to seek information relevant to understanding, verifying, correcting, or applying knowledge. It is the deliberate search for knowledge or solutions to scientific problems. The scientific method indicates the path to follow in this investigation and the techniques needed to traverse it. It is a process consisting of various steps, stages, or phases, interconnected in a logical, sequential, and dynamic manner to generate knowledge.

Key Types of Research

• Historical Research

  Describes what was. This method applies not only to history but also to natural sciences, law, medicine, or any other scientific discipline.

• Descriptive Research

  Interprets what is. It includes the description, registration, analysis, and correct interpretation of facts and realities based on their characteristics.

• Experimental Research

  Describes what will be. It involves the manipulation of an unproven experimental variable under controlled conditions to describe why a particular situation exists.

• Exploratory Research

  Performed when the goal is to examine a rarely studied issue or research problem, about which there are many doubts or which has not been addressed previously. It serves to familiarize researchers with relatively unknown phenomena.

• Correlational Research

  Evaluates the relationship between two or more concepts, categories, or variables in a particular context.

• Explanatory Research

  Seeks to establish the causes of events, occurrences, or phenomena being studied.

Quantitative Research Methods

Quantitative research aims to explain, predict, and/or control phenomena through the acquisition of numerical data. Key characteristics include:

• Structured and often inflexible design.
• Focuses on controlled and manipulated variables.
• Common types include descriptive, correlational, comparative, and experimental studies.
• Data collection methods often involve non-participant observation, formal interviews, tests, and questionnaires.
• Aims for the generalization of findings to larger populations.

Qualitative Research Methods

Qualitative research focuses on explaining and gaining deep insights into a phenomenon through extensive narrative data. Key characteristics include:

• Flexible design, often employing methods like historical research, ethnography, and case studies.
• Data collection methods include document review, participant observation, semi-formal and informal interviews, and detailed field notes.
• Conclusions are often tentative and valid for the specific reality studied, not typically for broad generalizations or predictions.