Research in any discipline or any level is progressive and productive in the sense that it results in the construction of new knowledge, testifying existing knowledge or filling-up gaps in the stream of knowledge. Though there are different types of research as; descriptive, analytical, historical, experimental which one is more valuable and credible?
Descriptive research describes a phenomenon or explains what causes a particular situation. It does not answer the why/how/when of the phenomenon, but the ‘what’ only. Analytical research attempts to establish the why of a phenomenon or how it came to be. It intends carrying out analysis of a phenomenon – mostly involves secondary data. Analytical research also describes of the state of affairs as it exists at present. But historical research is one which involves examining past events to draw conclusions and make predictions about the future.
Experimental type is systematic and scientific to research out something for which the researcher manipulates one or more variables, and observes and measures any change in other variables.
In a close examination it is clear that the first three types of research are aiming at to studying the existing phenomenon or existed phenomenon, while experimental type tries to manipulate changes in the existing knowledge or in the existing characteristics of a phenomenon.
Though all the four are generative for the development of knowledge, which one is most constructive, is the question. Experimental research can be justified on five counts;
a) Construction of new knowledge
b) Studies existing knowledge before manipulation
c) Changes could be measured and analysed
d) Quantitative and qualitative analysis are possible
e) Establishes the credibility of the knowledge constructed
Which type is more challenging to the researcher? No doubt, experimental type values much than any other type of research. Following are the challenges of experimental research.
a) Analysing the existing phenomenon
b) Manipulating variables
c) Controlling variables
d) Observing and measuring the changes
e) Collection of data, both quantitative and qualitative
f) Compiling and analyzing data
g) Reaching findings
Data collection is needed with all types of research. But in experimental research, data is collected from the manipulation of variables. Experimental research is superior among all other types of research. Go for experimental research.
