The meaning of life and research
*Disclaimer: I was lying about the life bit*
Research begins with a theory (or lack of one) which is sometimes based on an assumption and explains phenomenons.
There are five ways in which we gain knowledge:
- Experience (although what works for one person may not work for another)
- Asking questions
- argument
- Consulting authority
- Research (Which actually may use all but experience)
Research is conducted for many different reasons and there are many different types, it will never give completely definite answers and over time some research will inevitably become void
We research to explain and understand things, to expand knowledge of subjects, to make or save money, for personal satisfaction or organisational research and development
Research is a process with a beginning, an end and some stuff in the middle.
Questions are refined
Data is collected
And most research opens up new questions and horizons
In order to conduct research to a standard it must be about:
The right questions
Honesty and accuracy
Record keeping
Accepting limitations
Over all
Attempt to seek answers
Draw conclusions from data
generalise conclusions
Add to existing knowledge and improve understanding of the world around us
