Glossary

A summary or final statement that is drawn from the evidence, analysis, and findings presented in a research study or argument.

Research that examines the relationship or association between two or more variables without establishing causality. Correlational research assesses the degree and direction of the relationship using statistical techniques, such as correlation coefficients.

Information collected through observation, measurement, or experimentation.

The variable that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable. It is expected to be influenced by the independent variable.

Research that aims to describe or depict a phenomenon, event, group, or situation as it naturally occurs. Descriptive research focuses on providing an accurate and detailed portrayal of the subject under investigation, often using qualitative or quantitative methods.

A controlled procedure performed to gather data and test a hypothesis.

Research that seeks to establish causal relationships, understand cause-and-effect dynamics, and provide explanations for observed phenomena. Explanatory research often involves quantitative methods and statistical analysis to identify relationships and test hypotheses.

A type of research conducted at the initial stage of a study or investigation to explore and gain a better understanding of a topic, phenomenon, or problem. Exploratory research aims to generate ideas, hypotheses, or initial insights and often involves qualitative methods like interviews or focus groups.

The principle that a scientific hypothesis or theory must be capable of being proven false.

An assumption based on sound evidence (educated guess) assumed for the sake of testing its soundness.

A measure used to assess the relative importance or influence of a scholarly journal within its field. It is often calculated and published by citation analysis organizations such as Clarivate Analytics (formerly Thomson Reuters) using a formula based on the number of citations received by articles published in the journal over a specific period.

The practical or theoretical consequences, effects, or significance of the findings. Implications explore the broader impact or relevance of the results and may suggest future actions or directions.

The variable that is intentionally manipulated or changed by the researcher in an experiment. It is hypothesized to have an effect on the dependent variable.

The most important or significant results or outcomes of the research study.

The specific area or aspect where existing knowledge, research, or understanding falls short or is incomplete.

The shortcomings, constraints, or restrictions of the research study that may have influenced the results or conclusions.

The originality or uniqueness of the research study in terms of its approach, methodology, findings, or contributions.

A specific and measurable goal or outcome that the problem statement seeks to achieve. Objective provide a clear direction for the research or problem-solving process.

The active acquisition of information from a primary source, either through our senses, or data recorded during an experiment using scientific tools and instruments

The evaluation of scientific work by experts in the same field to assess its quality, validity, and significance. Peer review helps maintain scientific integrity and ensures rigorous standards.

Original research conducted by the researcher or research team to gather new data or information firsthand. It involves collecting data directly from sources such as surveys, interviews, experiments, or observations.

A concise and clear description of an issue or challenge that needs to be addressed or solved through research or problem-solving efforts.

The tendency for scientific journals to publish studies with positive or significant results, while disregarding studies with neutral or negative findings.

Research that focuses on exploring and understanding phenomena through non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, or case studies.

Research that focuses on collecting and analyzing numerical data to draw conclusions and make predictions.

Systematic investigation and study of a particular topic or issue to discover new knowledge, validate existing knowledge, or solve problems.

A clear, concise, and specific question that guides the research process and defines the focus of the study.

A systematic and iterative approach used by scientists to investigate and understand the natural world. It involves making observations, formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.

Research based on existing data or information that has been collected and published by others. It involves analyzing and synthesizing data from sources such as books, articles, reports, databases, or previously conducted studies.

Individuals, groups, or organizations that have a vested interest or are affected by the problem being addressed. They can include individuals directly impacted by the problem, policymakers, industry representatives, or community members.

The use of statistical methods to analyze and interpret data collected from experiments or studies.