By Dr Than Lwin Tun
RESEARCH is a systematic and organized investigation conducted to expand knowledge, gain a deeper understanding, and generate new insights in a specific field. It involves rigorous and organized data collection, analysis, and interpretation to address research questions or hypotheses. The pursuit of new information drives research, the validation of existing theories, or the exploration of new perspectives. It employs various methodologies to gather and analyze data, including empirical studies, experiments, surveys, interviews, or theoretical analyses. The ultimate goal of the research is to contribute to the existing body of knowledge, advance understanding, and inform decision-making processes across academic, scientific, and professional domains.
Kasi (2009) defines “Research as a method for investigating and collecting information aimed at the discovery of new facts or interpretation of existing information, to discover or revise facts, theories, and applications.” The research objectives can vary depending on the specific field of study, the nature of the research, and the researcher’s goals. The common purposes of the research include:
► Answer questions: Research aims to provide answers to specific questions or hypotheses. It seeks to investigate and uncover information, data, or insights about a particular topic or issue.
► Solve problems: Research is often conducted to address real-world issues or challenges. It aims to identify innovative solutions, strategies, or approaches that can help overcome obstacles and improve existing systems or practices.
► Generate new knowledge: Research endeavours to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by uncovering new information, theories, or perspectives. It involves exploring uncharted territory or expanding upon existing knowledge in various fields of study.
► Improve understanding: Research aims to deepen our understanding of complex phenomena, processes, or concepts. It seeks to clarify misconceptions, explore underlying mechanisms, or uncover relationships between variables, leading to a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of the subject.
► Add value: Research brings value by providing practical or theoretical benefits. It can lead to technological advancements, policies or practices, enhanced decision-making processes, or the development of new products, services, or theories.
Research plays a vital role in national development by driving innovation, improving public policy, and fostering economic growth. The following are key ways in which research contributes to a nation’s progress;
Economic Growth and Competitiveness: Research leads to the development of new technologies, products, and processes, which can increase productivity, open new markets, and enhance the competitiveness of industries. Countries that invest heavily in research and development (R&D) often experience higher rates of economic growth.
Improved Public Policy and Decision-Making: Research provides evidence-based insights that inform government policies. From health care to education, infrastructure to environmental conservation, effective research helps policymakers make informed decisions that address societal needs and challenges.
Sustainable Development: Research on environmental conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture helps nations tackle pressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and natural resource management. These efforts promote long-term sustainability and resilience.
Social and Human Capital Development: In fields such as health, education, and social sciences, research helps improve the quality of life by identifying effective interventions for public health, literacy, and social welfare programmes. So we need to strengthen human capital, which is a critical asset for national progress.
Innovation and Technological Advancement: Research fosters innovation, leading to the development of cutting-edge technologies in areas like information technology, biotechnology, and materials science. This can significantly improve infrastructure, communication, healthcare, and other critical sectors.
Cultural and Knowledge Preservation: In the humanities and social sciences, research helps preserve national history, languages, and cultural heritage. This contributes to a sense of national identity and pride, as well as international recognition and collaboration.
Global Collaboration and Competitiveness: Research encourages collaboration between nations, institutions, and industries, allowing countries to tackle global challenges together, share knowledge, and strengthen diplomatic and trade relations.
In summary, research is a cornerstone of national development, influencing every sector from the economy to health and the environment. Investing in research is essential to creating innovative solutions, promoting inclusive growth, and ensuring sustainable development.
Reference
https://www.lisedunetwork. com/what-is-research
