The basic purpose of research is to “observe” and to make sense of these “observations.” Research, the asking of questions and the seeking of understanding, is one of the most fundamental features of human activity throughout history. Scientific research is a more rigorous form of this basic activity: It involves posing questions, seeking understanding through evidence, and exploring new opportunities to resolve existing challenges. Scientific research asks questions and seeks answers (data collection, measurement, and observation) that contribute to scientific and social understanding (data analysis, interpretation, and results). Research is the basis of knowledge seeking, creation, and testing and is key to innovation.

Social science research is the systematic observation of social life for the purpose of finding and understanding patterns among what is observed. Social ...

  • Loading...
locked icon

Sign in to access this content

Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL

  • Watch videos from a variety of sources bringing classroom topics to life
  • Read modern, diverse business cases
  • Explore hundreds of books and reference titles