Lesson 3: Characteristics of Research

Characteristics of Research (Cristobal & Cristobal, 2017)  

1.     Research should be systematic. 

The researcher needs to carry out a series of interrelated steps in conducting the study. Such procedure must follow a well-planned, sequential and organized structure from beginning to end. 

The research paper is divided into macrosystem and microsystem. The former refers to different chapters labeled with main headings, while the latter consists of various elements detailing the contents of each part. 

2.     Research should be objective.  

The researcher needs to present information that are purely based on truths. It should always be anchored on the factual basis in which the research work is founded, thus being free from any bias or personal opinion. 

3.     Research should be feasible. 

The researcher needs to consider the possibility and practicality of conducting the proposed study. All significant factors like time, budget and access to resources must be analyzed to determine if the research can actually be done.

4.     Research should be empirical. 

The researcher needs to employ appropriate methods, either quantitatively or qualitatively, to produce evidence-based information. They can be drawn from concrete experimentation, direct or indirect observation, and verifiable experience. 

5.     Research should be clear. 

The researcher needs to use comprehensible language to present information and convey explanation throughout the research process. The factors to be manipulated, measured or described in the study, also known as variables, must be clarified using literature from published and unpublished materials. They should be explained well from the introductory part of the research paper to ensure a deeper understanding of the study to be conducted.