YRM21306 - distinctions in scientific research

descriptive

describes something in the world

correlational

investigates the relationship between two things (impact of X on Y)

explainatory

explains why things are as they are (why does X cause Y)

primary data

data you collected yourself; acquired through desk research; not specifically aimed at answering your research question

secondary data

primary data that were collected by others; acquired through desk research; not specifically aimed at answering your research question

empirical research

knowledge acquired through measurements in the real world

non-empirical research

knowledge based on logic, definitions or authority

beta

natural and technical sciences

gamma

social sciences

alpha

arts, humanities (language, law, philosophy)

quantitative research

measure characteristics (variables) of the world in the form of numbers; identifying specifics in purposively selected cases (reductionist approach)

qualitative research

describe the world in terms of words; identifying specifics in purposively selected cases (holistic approach)

applied or practice-oriented research

gain knowledge for the purpose of helping to solve a practical problem.

fundamental or theory-oriented research

gain knowledge for the purpose of improving or expanding the existing knowledge about a specific topic.