Introduction to Research 

 

Meaning

Research is a systematic process of collecting, recording, analyzing, and interpreting data in a scientific manner with the purpose of discovering new facts, verifying existing knowledge, and providing solutions to problems. It is not a random or casual activity but a carefully designed process guided by logical reasoning, empirical evidence, and methodological rigor. By following standardized procedures, research seeks to ensure validity, reliability, and objectivity in its findings.

 

The word research is derived from two parts: re, meaning repetition or iteration, and search, meaning the act of seeking. Its origin traces back to the Old French word cerchier, meaning “to seek.” This etymology reflects the essence of research: a repeated and exhaustive search undertaken for three major purposes: (i) to provide deeper explanations, (ii) to uncover verifiable truths, and (iii) to generate new discoveries. Researchers, motivated by unanswered questions, continuously engage in this process to expand the boundaries of knowledge.

 

The essence of research lies in its dual role: knowledge generation and problem-solving. On one hand, it contributes to theoretical advancement by filling gaps in existing literature and extending the boundaries of understanding; on the other, it has a practical orientation by offering evidence-based solutions to real-world challenges. For example, in the context of banking and finance, research might focus on analyzing monetary policy effectiveness, studying customer behavior toward digital banking, or evaluating financial literacy and inclusion programs.

 

Moreover, research is an iterative and continuous process, that is, one question often leads to another, and each investigation builds upon prior findings. This cumulative nature makes research a cornerstone of academic progress, organizational decision-making, and policy formulation. Whether exploratory, descriptive, or explanatory, research provides a structured pathway to uncover patterns, establish relationships, and predict outcomes.

 

In summary, research is more than the act of gathering information; it is a scientific and disciplined inquiry aimed at producing dependable knowledge, advancing theory, and addressing practical issues in society.

 

Definitions

Research refers to seeking through methodical processes to add to the body of knowledge by the discovery of nontrivial facts and insights – it is a foray into the philosophy of knowledge. – Cooper & Schindler (2007)

 

Research is a process of finding out things in a systematic way, thereby increasing knowledge”.  – Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill (2009)

 

Research is an organized, systematic, data-based, critical, and scientific inquiry or investigation into a specific problem, undertaken with the objective of finding answers or solutions to it. –  Uma Sekaran (2009)

 

 

Copyright: Biswakarma (2022), Research Methodology, Samjhana Publication.