Research and its Types with Reference to Data Analysis

Classification: Data Analysis

This is to extend the work about the types of the research with regards to the data analysis. However, the previous blog presented classification with regards to data collection and methods.

1. Inductive Research

According to Gay, Mills and Airasian (2012) declared that inductive research deals with the observation of limited number of events and data to reach some conclusion and then apply it on general level (p. 4). Same as, generating general principles or theories from investigation, research or events is inductive research (Nunan, 1992, p. 13). Therefore, we can say that moving towards generalization of the results got from specific observational specific information.

Table 1: Key Features of Inductive Research

Gay, Mills and Airasian (2012, p. 482)

Observation based on limited number of events or evidence.

Moving from specific to general

Investigation to general principles

2. Deductive Reseach

In contrast to inductive research, Gay, Mills and Airasian (2012) proposed the definition by stating that deductive research starts from general principles or observations to interpret a specific result to state conclusion (p. 4). Similarly, Nunan (1992) discussed it as the systematic approach in which researcher states a hypothesis and then search supporting or opposing evidence (p. 13).

Table 2: Key Features of Inductive Research

Gay, Mills and Airasian (2012, p. 482)

Stating hypothesis, then collecting evidence.

General to specific

References

Gay, L. R., Mills, G. E., & Airasian, P. W. (2012). Educational research: Competencies for analysis and applications. Pearson Higher Ed, p.16.

Nunan, D., & David, N. (1992). Research methods in language learning. Cambridge University Press, pp. 3-18.