CHAPTER 1: WHAT IS RESEARCH?

ABM/STEM DEPARTMENT

DEFINITION OF RESEARCH
1. Research follows a step-by-step process of investigation that uses a
standardized approach in answering questions or solving problems (Polit &
Beck, 2004).
2. Research plays an important role in tertiary education. Though there are
many problems confronted by higher education, developments are realized
through research. After all, its main purpose is to answer a question or to
solve an issue. (Palispis, 2004)
3. Research is a continuous undertaking of making known of the unknown
(Sanchez, 2002). It entails an investigation of new facts leading to the
discovery of new ideas, methods, or improvements. It is an attempt to widen
one’s outlook in life. It always proceeds from the known to the unknown.
Thus, the end of research is to arrive at a new truth.
4. Research is a careful examination of problems that is continuously
conducted. It is an examination that justifies and defines or redefines existing
facts in which new knowledge can be generated.
5. Research is an investigation following an ordered steps leading to a discovery
of new information or concepts (Sanchez, 1999).
6. Research is an very careful investigation of something that purports the
contribution of additional or new knowledge and wisdom (Bassey, as cited by
Coleman & Briggs, 2002)
7. Research is a tested approach of thinking and employing validated
instruments and steps in order to obtain a more adequate solution to a
problem that is otherwise impossible to address under ordinary means
(Crawford, as cited by Alcantara & Espina, 1995).

CHARACTERISTICS OF RESEARCH
1. The research should be systematic.
2. The research should be objective.
3. The research should be feasible.
4. The research should be empirical.
5. The research should be clear.

ROLES OF THE RESEARCHER

According to Nieswiadomy (2005), the research serves different roles in a study.
These are as follows:
1. Principal investigator
2. Member of a research team
3. Identifier of researchable problems
4. Evaluator of research findings
5. User of research findings
6. Patient or Client advocate during study
7. Subject/Respondent/Participant

IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH
1. Research provides a scientific basis for any practice or methodology in any
field or discipline.
2. Research is undertaken for the continuous development and for further
productivity of any field such as education, management, business,
engineering, etc.
CHAPTER 1: WHAT IS RESEARCH?
ABM/STEM DEPARTMENT

3. Research develops tools for assessing effectiveness of any practice and

operation.
4. Research provides solutions to problems concerning almost all issues
encountered in different areas of work.
5. Research impacts decision-making.
6. Research develops and evaluates alternative approaches to the educational
aspects of any discipline.
7. Research aims to advance the personal and professional qualifications of a
practitioner.

In addition, Lifestyle Lounge (n.d.) provides a list of the importance of research in

any field of study: (Copied verbatim, removed, since this is also redundant with the
list preceding this)
1. To Gather Necessary Information.
2. To Make Changes.
3. Improving Standard of Living.
4. For A Safer Life.
5. To Know The Truth.
6. Explore Our History.
7. Understanding Arts.

GOALS FOR CONDUCTING RESEARCH

Research is a scientific endeavor which serves many goals in different fields
(workplaces, organizations: profit or non-profit; governmental or non-
governmental), educational disciplines (medicine, engineering, sciences, arts,
humanities, and information technology), and the personal life of the researcher.
1. To produce evidence-based practice.
2. To establish credibility in the profession.
3. To observe accountability for the profession.
4. To promote cost-effective through documentation.