INRS 7311 Learning Unit 2 Research Topic Research Questions and Hypothesis Theme 2 The Aims of Research

Question 1

Distinguish between pure and applied research 6 marks

Answer 1

• Pure research has no practical application usually . It aims to only add to the body of knowledge . Can sometimes focus on the details of research methodology /procedure/techniques/tools , as well as formulate new theories .
• Applied research seeks to : investigate possible solutions , assess and describe social needs , assess existing policy and practice , recommend/implement change , ID new areas of research .

Question 2

Explain the aims of Exploratory research 3 - 4 marks

Answer 2

*This is research into an unknown area .

*Aims 
/Obtain new insights
/ID key concepts
/ID key stakeholders
/Prioritise social needs 
/ID consequences of research problems 
/Develop hypotheses
/Confirm assumptions
/Get familiar with an unknown situation , condition , policy , behaviour .

Question 3

Explain the aims of descriptive research 2 marks

Answer 3

• Describe the characteristics of a phenomena

* Can take either a statistical or narrative form

Question 4

Explain the aims of Correlative research 4 marks

Answer 4

• Determines whether or not there is a relationship between two or more variables/aspects/events .
• Probably quantitative in nature given there’s a potential causal link being investigated .

Question 5

Explain the aims of Explanatory research 6 marks

Answer 5

• Attempts to EXPLAIN the relationship between variables/aspects/concepts .
• This means then that it’s assumed or proven that such a relationship exists .
• This research will also show where this relationship is going .

Question 6

Explain the aims of Predictive research 4 mark

Answer 6

*Aims to predict an outcome .

• Looks to prevent undesirable outcomes
• Promote desired outcomes
• Anticipate all outcomes

Question 7

Explain the aims of Pragmatic research 2 marks

Answer 7

• Use mixed methods to find solutions to problems

* Values the inquiry process itself .