Hallmarks of research
Posted by Rikki-Lee Schmitt on July 24th, 2007 at 12:02pm
Puposiveness – There must be a definite aim or purpose for the research, usually focuses on the decisions for which information from the study will be. It is very important to clearly define the research objectives.Â
Rigour – Carefulness, scrupulousness and the degree of exactitude in research investigations. This requires a good theoretical base and a sound methodology for research. Without rigour, the subsequent hallmarks cannot be achieved.Â
Testability – The ability to subject the data collected to appropriate statistical tests in order to substantiate or reject the hypotheses developed for the research study. Replicability – The repeatability of similar results when identical research is conducted at different times or in similar circumstances.Â
Accuracy – The degree of conformity of a sample statistic to the population – how close the findings, based on a sample, are to ‘reality’. Objectivity – Interpretation of results on the basis of data analysis, as opposed to subjective or emotional interpretations.Â
Generalisability – The applicability of research findings in one setting to others. Parsimony – Simplicity in explaining the phenomena or problems that occur, and in generating solutions for the problems.Â
Source – Cavana et al [2001], ‘Applied Business Research: Qualitative and Quantitative Methods’, John Wiley & Sons Australia, Qld. Â
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