Miguel P.

Pamplona III January 22, 2019

BA 199 – Business Research

1. What is science?

Science was derived from the Latin word “scientia” which means knowledge (Merriam-Webster, 2019). It
is the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the natural and social world following a systematic
methodology based on evidence (Science Council, 2019). As defined, science is a systematic body of
knowledge, which involves collecting and analyzing data through statistical tools to generate information
which is meaningful (Chand, 2019). Another characteristic of science is that its principles are based on
experimentation and not mere hearsay or raw observation (toppr, 2019). These principles are tested in
different conditions and situations to draw out conclusions about certain hypotheses. Lastly, scientific
principles have universal validity meaning that it can be applied at every time and at every situation because
it is based on truth (Chand, 2019).
Scientists employ scientific methods to gather empirical evidence to develop, support, or disprove a theory
or hypothesis (Chand, 2019). The first step of this methodology is to make an observation or observations
and ask questions about the observations and gather information for the formulation of a hypothesis. After
the hypothesis is devised, scientists conduct tests for their predictions about the experiment in a systematic
method that can be reproduced for further verification. The data gathered through the experiments are then
analyzed to generate information of which a conclusion could be drawn (Bradford, 2017).

2. Is Management a Science?

Management is the process of coordinating work activities so that they are completed efficiently and
effectively (Robbins & Coulter, 2006). Management is a systematic body of knowledge which is a
characteristic present in science. Systematic and organized materials are also available to managers as well
as the development of such materials through time. Also, management can be related to different field of
studies such as Economics, Statistics, Math, etc. The principle based on experimentation of science is also
present in management although in contrast to the predictability and replicability of the former, the latter
has the element of uncertainty in it and cannot be replicated due to the complexity of human behavior.
Numerous studies and researches can be conducted but management principles are more situational rather
than the more accurate determination of cause and effect in science (Bradford, 2017). Lastly, unlike science,
management principles are not universally valid because these principles can be modified according to
different situations (Chand, 2019). All principles of science may not be present in management due to the
uncertainty and complexity of its subject – humans – management can still be considered a science although
it is considered inexact (Bradford, 2017).

3. What is Research?

Research is a systematic inquiry to describe, explain, predict and control the observed phenomenon through
inductive and deductive methods. It follows a systematic approach when conducting the research process
guided by rules and procedures which are practiced by researchers for ethical purposes. The basis of
research is logical reasoning which involves inductive and deductive methods in analyzing data or
knowledge derived in real time or actual observations in natural settings. The information gathered through
the analysis of data are then organized and assessed whether it supports the hypothesis or not. Judgement
whether to modify or reject the hypothesis is then considered. Conclusions are then drawn although further
questions can be formulated based on these conclusions for a more extensive research (Bhat, 2019).
Research can be divided into three types based on their purpose namely descriptive, correlational, and
experimental research (Fawcett & Downs, 1986). Descriptive research is directed into finding a clear
understanding about current issues through data collection. The purpose of descriptive research is to
describe, explain and validate findings (Bhat, 2019). Descriptive research may use empirical methods which
involves observation of phenomenon in its natural setting, or nonempirical methods such as philosophic
and historic inquiries and describes phenomena through critical discussions (Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
Correlational research is a type of research the develops relational theories and uses empirical method
wherein it is required to measure the dimensions or characteristics of phenomena in their natural states. It
is possible to classify relations between different aspects of individuals, groups, situations, or events.
(Fawcett & Downs, 1986)
Lastly is the experimental research or explanatory research that moves beyond the relative approach of
correlational research and determines specifically the cause and effect of the controlled phenomenon on
different dimensions or characteristic of another phenomenon. It requires quantifiable data like correlational
research to determine the difference between experiments and if so by how much. (Fawcett & Downs, 1986)

4. What is the relationship between theory and research?

There is a close connection between theory and research because research is needed to develop a theory
and theory is the basis for a research. Thus, research is no more or less than a tool to gather data needed for
a theory which is true whether one would generate a theory or assess another (Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
If a theory development is the purpose, then the fact of things suggests what data or information to seek
for. This is true if the theory of the different factors that affect studies of Bachelor of Science in
Accountancy students in University of the Philippines Visayas, then one source of data would be the
immediate infrastructures and facilities available to BS in Accountancy students. On the other hand, if the
purpose is assessing or testing theories, then the theory dictates the data to be collected as in the case if the
theory generated would be about the negative effect of social media to the studies of BS in Accountancy
students, then the source of data would be the different durations of on-screen time of students with their
social media accounts (Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
Further connection between theory and research could be made through different research designs which
are used to develop various types of theories. A descriptive theory is one that describes or classify specific
dimensions or characteristics within an individual, group or occurrence by summarizing the commonalities
found in discrete observations. This kind of theory is developed through a descriptive research which was
discussed earlier (Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
Relation theory is developed through correlation research. It is a theory the specify the relation between the
different aspects and characteristics of the individual, group or occurrence. Only when the basic
characteristics of an occurrence is known can a relation theory be formulated which means that it comes
after a descriptive theory has been generated and approved (Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
Beyond relational theories are explanatory theories which are generated and tested by experimental
research. These theories move beyond relational statements to prediction of cause and effect relationships
between different dimensions or characteristics of various phenomena (Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
References

Bhat, A. (2019). What is Research - Definition, Methods, Types & Examples. Retrieved from Question
Pro: https://www.questionpro.com/blog/what-is-research/
Bradford, A. (2017). What is Science? Retrieved from Live Science: https://www.livescience.com/20896-
science-scientific-method.html
Chand, S. (2019). Management: Management as a Science, Arts and Profession. Retrieved from Your
Article Library: http://www.yourarticlelibrary.com/management/management-management-as-a-
science-arts-and-profession/8604
Fawcett, J., & Downs, F. (1986). The Relationship Between Theory and Research. Appleton Century
Crofts.
Merriam-Webster. (2019). scientia. Retrieved from Merriam-Webster: https://www.merriam-
webster.com/dictionary/scientia
Robbins, S. P., & Coulter, M. (2006). Management 7th Edition. Prentice Halls.
Science Council. (2019). Our definition of science. Retrieved from Science Council:
https://sciencecouncil.org/about-science/our-definition-of-science/
toppr. (2019). Management as a Science. Retrieved from toppr: https://www.toppr.com/guides/business-
studies/nature-and-significance-of-management/management-as-science/