Research Types and Their Methods
Fabiha Arif
Course code: PSY – 506
Credit hours:
16 Feb, 2023
Department of Applied Psychology, Government Municipal Graduate
College, Faisalabad
, Classification and Types of Research
Basic vs Applied Research
Basic Research
Basic research, or fundamental research, is a type of investigation focused on
improving the understanding of a particular phenomenon, study or law of nature. This
type of research examines data to find the unknown and fulfill a sense of curiosity.
Usually, these involve “how,” “what” and “why” questions to explain occurrences.
Example
A study trying to find out what makes up a proton.
Applied Research
Applied research is a type of examination looking to find practical solutions for
existing problems. This research type uses empirical methodologies, such as experiments,
to collect further data in an area of study. Findings are applicable and usually
implemented upon completion of a study.
There are three types of applied research:
1. Action research: Action research helps businesses find practical solutions to
problems by guiding them.
2. Evaluation research: In evaluation research, researchers analyze existing
information to help clients make an informed decision.
3. Research and development: Research and development focus on creating new
products or services to meet a target market’s needs.
Example
A study on how to improve illiteracy in teenagers.
Differences
Basic Research Applied Research
Basic research is curiosity Applied Research is solution –
driven driven
Basic research expands Applied research finds new
existing knowledge knowledge
It is theoretical in nature It is practical in nature
Basic research helps society Applied research tends to
learn more about a particular have more of a commercial
field of study gain
Basic research tends to be a Applied research tends to
more universal research have a more specific utility
method
Fabiha Arif
Course code: PSY – 506
Credit hours:
16 Feb, 2023
Department of Applied Psychology, Government Municipal Graduate
College, Faisalabad
, Classification and Types of Research
Basic vs Applied Research
Basic Research
Basic research, or fundamental research, is a type of investigation focused on
improving the understanding of a particular phenomenon, study or law of nature. This
type of research examines data to find the unknown and fulfill a sense of curiosity.
Usually, these involve “how,” “what” and “why” questions to explain occurrences.
Example
A study trying to find out what makes up a proton.
Applied Research
Applied research is a type of examination looking to find practical solutions for
existing problems. This research type uses empirical methodologies, such as experiments,
to collect further data in an area of study. Findings are applicable and usually
implemented upon completion of a study.
There are three types of applied research:
1. Action research: Action research helps businesses find practical solutions to
problems by guiding them.
2. Evaluation research: In evaluation research, researchers analyze existing
information to help clients make an informed decision.
3. Research and development: Research and development focus on creating new
products or services to meet a target market’s needs.
Example
A study on how to improve illiteracy in teenagers.
Differences
Basic Research Applied Research
Basic research is curiosity Applied Research is solution –
driven driven
Basic research expands Applied research finds new
existing knowledge knowledge
It is theoretical in nature It is practical in nature
Basic research helps society Applied research tends to
learn more about a particular have more of a commercial
field of study gain
Basic research tends to be a Applied research tends to
more universal research have a more specific utility
method
