Article: Basic Research, Applied Research and Action Research

Applied, Basic, and Action Research

Applied, basic and action research are three different types of research methods used in various fields of study, each with its own unique goals, techniques, and outcomes.

Applied Research

Applied research is a type of research that is focused on finding practical solutions to real-world problems. It is often used in fields such as business, education, and psychology to solve specific problems or improve existing systems (Creswell, 2013). This type of research is characterized by its focus on practicality and its use of a systematic and empirical approach to problem solving. It is also often conducted in collaboration with organizations, government agencies, or other stakeholders who have a direct interest in the results of the research (Creswell, 2013).

Basic Research

Basic research, on the other hand, is a type of research that is focused on increasing our understanding of the world and the underlying principles that govern it (National Science Foundation, 2021). It is often conducted in fields such as physics, chemistry, and biology to explore new theories, hypotheses, and concepts (National Science Foundation, 2021). Basic research is characterized by its focus on scientific discovery and its goal of advancing knowledge for its own sake (National Science Foundation, 2021). Unlike applied research, the outcomes of basic research may not have immediate practical applications, but they often serve as a foundation for future applied research (National Science Foundation, 2021).

Action Research

Action research is a type of research that is focused on the active involvement of individuals or organizations in the research process (Kemmis & McTaggart, 2000). It is often used in fields such as education, sociology, and psychology to address specific social or organizational problems (Kemmis & McTaggart, 2000). Action research is characterized by its focus on participatory decision making and its goal of empowering individuals and organizations to effect change (Kemmis & McTaggart, 2000). In this type of research, the researcher works closely with the individuals or organizations involved in the study to identify problems, collect data, and develop solutions (Kemmis & McTaggart, 2000). The process of action research is often iterative, with researchers and participants working together to reflect on the results of the research and make improvements over time (Kemmis & McTaggart, 2000).

In conclusion, applied, basic, and action research are three different types of research methods that are used to address specific problems or increase our understanding of the world. Each type of research has its own unique goals, techniques, and outcomes, and they are used in various fields of study, such as business, education, psychology, physics, chemistry, and biology. Understanding the different types of research and their characteristics can help individuals and organizations to choose the most appropriate research method for their specific needs and goals.

References:
Creswell, J. W. (2013). Research design: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage publications.
Kemmis, S., & McTaggart, R. (2000). Participatory action research. Sage.
National Science Foundation. (2021). Basic Research. Retrieved from https://www.nsf.gov/od/oia/activities/basic/