Research Process
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According to science, elements work together to compose reality. Science believes it is capable of isolating, defining, explaining, and predicting the elements that compose reality. In essence, science believes it “holds the key to unlocking the mysteries of the ages” (Hagan, 2010, p. 15). In assuming laws and casual principles underlie reality, scientific investigation strives to discover such elements. Scientists believe that discovering the elements of reality will enable the prediction and control of reality. This process begins by naming operations and elements necessary to conducting scientific research (Hagan, 2010).
“What Is Research?”
Research is a “studious inquiry or examination” (Merriam-Webster, Inc., 2011, para 1). Research involves investigating or experimenting to discover and interpret facts, revise accepted theories or laws using new facts, or in applying new or revised theories or laws (Merriam-Webster, Inc., 2011). Pure research and applied research are the two types of research. Pure or basic research works to acquire new knowledge in an effort to further develop a field of study, or to add substance to science. Applied research works to solve immediate issues in policy. Both types of research are practical and necessary for managing and developing areas of any field (Hagan, 2010).
Discipline is an important aspect of any research effort. Appropriately employing “scientific methodology and procedure qualifies a discipline to claim scientific status” (Hagan, 2010, p. 6). Scientific procedure provides discipline to the research process. Research requires both interdisciplinary efforts and tackling “field-oriented, practical problems” (Hagan, 2010, p. 7). This discipline is important to the research process; without following scientific procedures, research discoveries will be inaccurate (Hagan, 2010).