Research : My Study Note

Research
Definition of Research
A four-part definition of research is given by Isaac Felipe Azofeifa: “Research is a
(1) Systematic Search for (2) adequate information to reach (3) objective knowledge of a (4) specific topic.” Each Element deserves individual analysis.

1. Systematic Search. This requires effort. It does not just happen. A researcher must develop and use a clear method and a logical system. Research is not easy; it requires time, energy, thought, and effort.
2. Adequate information. Research does not look for someone’s ideas about matters touching on the problem; it seeks precise answer to the questions being asked. The information presented must be from authoritative sources, speak to the problem, and be duly documented.
3. Objective knowledge. In order to reach objective knowledge, you must have prior knowledge of the topic. To this prior knowledge you will add facts, not suppositions or possibilities. Research is done with the head and not the heart. Research looks at facts, not conjectures, nor even possibilities, much less long-cherished pet ideas.
4. Specific topic. It is impossible to do adequate research on a large topic. The research paper is not an encyclopedia. A specific, clearly delineated problem is the only one that can be solved.