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WHAT IS RESEARCH?
Research is a careful, reflective, systematic investigation of
phenomena undertaken to improve human understanding and knowledge.
This is reported in a form which allows the research methods and
the findings to be accessible to others. A structured investigation
is carried out within a system of ideas. A systematically trained
mind is likely to be aware of the possible significance of any chance
observation.
WHAT IS GOOD RESEARCH?
While individual abstract ideas (concepts) are not merely useful
but essential parts of thinking and understanding, it is the system
of thought by which they are linked which provides real power. These
links or systems or patterns come from explanation, understanding,
relationships, cause and effect, prediction and control.
Research is not concerned with the expression of your own beliefs,
opinions and views. Research is concerned with 'what is' and, sometimes,
with 'what might be' - it cannot determine 'what ought to be'.
THE SKILLS YOU NEED TO CONDUCT RESEARCH
One needs the following 'everyday' life skills:
Reading
Listening
Watching
Choosing
Questioning
Summarising
Organising
Presenting
Critical analytical skills
The ability to synthesise/analyse
Problem-solving skills
Information processing skills
Scanning
Separating the essential from the non-essential
· Use the Internet, computers, networking, as well as some research
to see what has been done on your subject as well as information
about the research in progress about your topic.
SUCCESSFUL RESEARCH DEVELOPS FROM THE
FOLLOWING:
Activity and involvement: Good and frequent contacts (both out
in the field and with colleagues) are essential for personal growth.
Convergence: Coming together of two or more activities or interests.
Intuition: Feeling that the work is important, timely, 'right',
relevant and a necessity to research.
Theory: Concern for theoretical understanding.
Real world value: Problem arising from the field and leading
to tangible and useful ideas for an ever changing society.
| Y Rama Mohan |
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