Defining Research

Research is a systematic and structured process of inquiry that seeks to discover, interpret, or revise facts, events, behaviours, or theories. It involves collecting and analysing data to answer specific questions or solve problems. Various experts and sources have provided different research definitions, highlighting its multifaceted nature. Here are some definitions from other experts and sources:

1. Creswell (2014)
• Definition: “Research is a process of collecting and analysing information to increase our understanding of a topic or issue.”
• Source: Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
2. Kerlinger (1973)
• Definition: “Research is a systematic, controlled, empirical, and critical investigation of hypothetical propositions about the presumed relations among natural phenomena.”
• Source: Kerlinger, F. N. (1973). Foundations of Behavioral Research. Holt, Rinehart and Winston.
3. Best and Kahn (1998)
• Definition: “Research is the systematic and objective analysis and recording of controlled observations that may lead to the development of generalisations, principles, or theories, resulting in prediction and possibly ultimate control of events.”
• Source: Best, J. W., & Kahn, J. V. (1998). Research in Education (8th ed.). Allyn and Bacon.
4. Saunders, Lewis, and Thornhill (2009)
• Definition: “Research is something that people undertake to find out things systematically, thereby increasing their knowledge.”
• Source: Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2009). Research Methods for Business Students (5th ed.). Pearson Education Limited.
5. Grinnell (1993)
• Definition: “Research is a structured inquiry that utilises acceptable scientific methodology to solve problems and create new knowledge that is generally applicable.”
• Source: Grinnell, R. M. (1993). Social Work Research and Evaluation. F.E. Peacock Publishers.
6. Babbie (2004)
• Definition: “Research is a systematic inquiry to describe, explain, predict, and control the observed phenomenon.”
• Source: Babbie, E. (2004). The Practice of Social Research (10th ed.). Wadsworth Publishing.
7. Denzin and Lincoln (2005)
• Definition: “Research involves a set of interpretive, material practices that make the world visible. These practices transform the world.”
• Source: Denzin, N. K., & Lincoln, Y. S. (2005). The Sage Handbook of Qualitative Research (3rd ed.). SAGE Publications.

8. Leedy and Ormrod (2015)
• Definition: “Research is a systematic process of collecting, analysing, and interpreting data— to increase our understanding of a phenomenon about which we are interested or concerned.”
• Source: Leedy, P. D., & Ormrod, J. E. (2015). Practical Research: Planning and Design (11th ed.). Pearson.
9. Kothari (2004)
• Definition: “Research is an art of scientific investigation. It is a careful investigation or inquiry, especially searching for new facts in any branch of knowledge.”
• Source: Kothari, C. R. (2004). Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques (2nd ed.). New Age International.
10. Burns (2000)
• Definition: “Research is a systematic investigation to find answers to a problem.”
• Source: Burns, R. B. (2000). Introduction to Research Methods (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
11. Walliman (2011)
• Definition: “Research is a way of finding out things you didn’t know, developing and testing new ideas, and providing solutions to problems.”
• Source: Walliman, N. (2011). Research Methods: The Basics. Routledge.
12. Neuman (2011)
• Definition: “Research is a collection of methods people use systematically to produce knowledge.”
• Source: Neuman, W. L. (2011). Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches (7th ed.). Pearson.
13. Fraenkel and Wallen (2009)
• Definition: “Research is a careful and systematic means of solving problems.”
• Source: Fraenkel, J. R., & Wallen, N. E. (2009). How to Design and Evaluate Research in Education (7th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
14. Graziano and Raulin (2004)
• Definition: “Research is a process of inquiry and investigation; it is systematic, methodical, and ethical; research can help solve practical problems and increase knowledge.”
• Source: Graziano, A. M., & Raulin, M. L. (2004). Research Methods: A Process of Inquiry (5th ed.). Pearson.
15. Mertens (2014)
• Definition: “Research is a systematic investigation involving the analysis of data to answer a question or contribute to a body of knowledge.”
• Source: Mertens, D. M. (2014). Research and Evaluation in Education and Psychology: Integrating Diversity with Quantitative, Qualitative, and Mixed Methods (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.

These definitions highlight the structured nature of research, emphasising its role in expanding knowledge, solving problems, and employing systematic methods to explore various phenomena.

 

My Own Definition:

Research is a dynamic and systematic pursuit of knowledge, driven by curiosity and guided by methodical inquiry. It is the art and science of exploring the unknown, challenging assumptions and seeking innovative solutions to complex problems. Research transforms ideas into insights through careful observation, rigorous analysis, and creative thinking. It contributes to the advancement of society by uncovering new possibilities and deepening our understanding of the world.

My Understanding

Research is a systematic and creative pursuit of knowledge that explores the unknown, challenges assumptions, and discovers innovative solutions to complex problems.