What is research, Difference between Qualitative and Quantitative research, Salient features of a good researcher

Etymology:
The word research is derived from the Middle French "recherche", which means "to go about seeking", the term itself being derived from the Old French term "recerchier" a compound word from "re" & "cerchier", or "sercher", meaning 'search'. The earliest recorded use of the term was in 1577.

Famous Definitions:
Research has been defined in a number of different ways. A broad definition of research is given by Martyn Shuttleworth In the broadest sense of the word, the definition of research includes any gathering of data, information and facts for the advancement of knowledge. Another definition of research is given by Creswell who states Research is a process of steps used to collect and analyze information to increase our understanding of a topic or issue". It consists of three steps: Pose a question, collect data to answer the question, and present an answer to the question. Research and experimental development is formal work undertaken systematically to increase the stock of knowledge, including knowledge of humanity, culture and society, and the use of this stock of knowledge to devise new applications. According to L.R Gay Research is the formal, systematic application of the scientific method to the study of problems So according to my view point research can be defined as: Research means searching for the facts searching for the replies to the various queries investigation or experimentation aimed at the discovery and interpretation of facts, revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new facts, or practical application of such new or revised theories or laws and also for the solutions to the various problems. It is an inquiry or an investigation with a specific purpose to fulfill, it helps in clearing the various doubtful concepts and tries to solve or explain the various unexplained procedures.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research:

Objective / purpose Qualitative Research To gain an understanding of underlying reasons and motivations To provide insights into the setting of a problem, generating ideas and/or hypotheses for later quantitative research To uncover prevalent trends in thought and opinion Quantitative Research To quantify data and generalize results from a sample to the population of interest To measure the incidence of various views and opinions in a chosen sample Sometimes followed by qualitative research which is used to explore some findings further Usually a large number of cases representing the population of interest. Randomly selected respondents. Structured techniques such as online questionnaires, on-street or telephone interviews. Statistical data is usually in the form of tabulations (tabs). Findings are conclusive and usually descriptive in nature. Used to recommend a final course of action.

Sample

Usually a small number of non-representative cases. Respondents selected to fulfill a given quota. Unstructured or semistructured techniques e.g. individual depth interviews or group discussions. Non-statistical.

Data collection

Data analysis

Outcome

Exploratory and/or investigative. Findings are not conclusive and cannot be used to make generalizations about the population of interest. Develop an initial understanding and sound base for further decision making.

Salient features of a good researcher:

The researcher should be a creative and highly motivated individual, a good problem solver who sees problems as challenges to be overcome rather than avoided. They need to have a good appearance, since they will be representing the company with many outside agencies. They should be able to work as a member of a team and to take direction. An minimum educational qualification of a degree in a relevant field is often required. They should also possess excellent oral and written skills, being able to communicate easily, effectively, persuasively on the phone and in writing. Proven postgraduate research experience, a multidisciplinary academic background, good visual sense, demonstrable interest in interactive multimedia and basic wordprocessing skills are advantageous.

Qualities of a good researcher can be summarized as:

Method of approach The researcher should adopt correct procedure for identifying a problem and then for working on it, to find a solution for that problem. Knowledge The researcher should be well aware and should have complete knowledge and information of the field of investigation so that he can go in for correct planning and then implementation of the correct and effective methods for selection of the problem and then for solving it. Qualification The researcher should have a good back ground of study, which will enable the researcher to have a better knowledge and understanding of the subject. Attitude The researcher must have a vision of his own, an aim with some objectives to achieve something. Should have an open thinking Should be stable, having consistent thinking. Should be honest, sincere, brave and ambitious It is more interesting to note the good qualities needed by a researcher in the dynamic parts of doing research. We can call these qualities as the good qualities on the process. They are as follows: Diligence and persistence; Creativeness and innovativeness; Objectiveness; Open mindedness; Orderliness and cleanliness; Cautious, accuracy and precision; Quickness and responsiveness; Keenness; Systematic and reasonableness; and Cooperation and leadership.

REFERENCES: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Research www.researchresearch.com oxforddictionaries.com/definition/English/research www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/research www.thefreedictionary.com/research www.goodreads.com/author/show/974570.L_R_Gay Iqbal, Pervez. Basics of Educational Research, Majeed Book Urdu Bazar Lhr 8. Vaizey, J. (1967). Education in the Modern world. New York: McGrew Hill