Applied research focuses on solving practical problems and addressing real-world challenges through systematic investigation. Unlike basic research, which seeks to expand theoretical knowledge, applied research aims to develop actionable solutions and innovations. This type of research is widely used across industries, including healthcare, education, business, and technology. This article explores the types, methods, and examples of applied research, offering a comprehensive guide to its purpose and applications.
Applied Research
Applied research refers to a systematic approach aimed at addressing specific, practical problems or questions. It seeks to generate immediate and tangible benefits by applying scientific principles to real-world contexts. For instance, developing a new drug to treat a disease or designing a program to improve employee productivity are examples of applied research.
Importance of Applied Research
- Problem-Solving: Provides actionable solutions to address societal and organizational challenges.
- Innovation: Drives advancements in technology, medicine, and business practices.
- Decision-Making: Offers evidence-based insights to inform policies and strategies.
- Efficiency: Focuses resources on achieving measurable outcomes in real-world scenarios.
Types of Applied Research
Applied research is sometimes considered to be a non-systematic inquiry because of its direct approach in seeking a solution to a problem. It is typically a follow-up research design that further investigates the findings of pure or basic research in order to validate these findings and apply them to create innovative solutions.
1. Evaluation Research
Evaluation research assesses the effectiveness of programs, policies, or interventions.
- Example: Analyzing the impact of a training program on employee performance.
- Purpose: To determine whether an initiative achieves its intended goals.
2. Developmental Research
This type focuses on creating or improving products, systems, or processes.
- Example: Designing a new app to enhance online learning experiences.
- Purpose: To innovate and improve functionality or efficiency.
3. Action Research
Action research involves collaboration with stakeholders to solve immediate problems within a specific context.
- Example: A school implementing new teaching methods and evaluating their impact on student engagement.
- Purpose: To implement and refine solutions in real-time.
4. Policy-Oriented Research
Policy-oriented research investigates the implications of policies and provides recommendations for improvement.
- Example: Studying the effects of minimum wage increases on employment rates.
- Purpose: To guide decision-making in governance and public administration.
5. Clinical Research
Clinical research applies scientific methods to develop medical treatments, therapies, or healthcare practices.
- Example: Testing the efficacy of a new vaccine in preventing disease.
- Purpose: To improve health outcomes and patient care.
Methods of Applied Research
1. Experimental Methods
Experimental methods involve manipulating variables under controlled conditions to test hypotheses.
- Example: Testing the effectiveness of different marketing strategies on consumer behavior.
- Purpose: To identify cause-and-effect relationships.
2. Surveys and Questionnaires
Surveys collect data from target populations to understand attitudes, behaviors, or needs.
- Example: Conducting a survey to gauge customer satisfaction with a new product.
- Purpose: To gather insights directly from stakeholders.
3. Case Studies
Case studies offer in-depth exploration of specific entities, such as organizations or communities.
- Example: Analyzing how a startup achieved rapid growth through innovative business models.
- Purpose: To identify best practices and lessons learned.
4. Observational Methods
Observational methods involve systematically recording behaviors or events without intervention.
- Example: Monitoring patient behavior to assess the effectiveness of a therapy program.
- Purpose: To gain insights in natural settings.
5. Mixed Methods
Mixed methods combine qualitative and quantitative techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding.
- Example: Using surveys to collect numerical data and interviews for detailed narratives in a study on workplace diversity.
- Purpose: To capture multiple perspectives and dimensions of a problem.
Examples of Applied Research
1. Healthcare
Example: Developing a mobile app to track diabetes management and improve patient adherence to treatment plans.
Impact: Enhances patient outcomes by providing real-time monitoring and feedback.
2. Education
Example: Testing a gamified learning platform to increase student motivation and academic performance.
Impact: Provides educators with innovative tools to engage learners.
Characteristics of Applied Research in Education
- It clearly highlights generalizations and hypotheses that inform the research findings.
- It relies on empirical evidence.
- It is set at providing solutions to a defined problem.
- It requires accurate observation and description.
3. Business
Example: Evaluating the impact of flexible work policies on employee satisfaction and productivity.
Impact: Helps organizations design better workplace strategies.
4. Environmental Studies
Example: Studying the effectiveness of renewable energy policies in reducing carbon emissions.
Impact: Guides policymakers in implementing sustainable practices.
5. Technology
Example: Developing algorithms to improve the accuracy of facial recognition software.
Impact: Enhances security and usability in various applications.
How is Applied Research Different from Basic Research?
Applied research and basic research are common methods of inquiry, based on purpose or utility. However, there are key differences between these 2 research approaches and these would be clearly outlined below:
Definition
Applied research is a type of research that is aimed at the practical application of science in order to solve practical problems. On the other hand, basic research is a type of research that is aimed at expanding knowledge rather than solving problems.
Approach
Basic research is theoretical in nature while applied research is practical and descriptive in nature. Basic research explores and generates theories that may be abstract while applied research tests these theories in order to solve a problem.
Scope
Basic research is universal while applied research is limited. Basic research can focus on diverse or multiple contexts while applied research focuses on specific contexts with the aim of providing a solution to an identified problem.
Focus
Applied research is focused on providing answers or solutions to a specific research question while basic research focuses on multiple concepts at the same time in its quest to expand knowledge.
Applied research pays attention to external validity while basic research is more focused on internal validity.
Steps to Conduct Applied Research
Conducting applied research involves several key steps. Below is a detailed guideline to help you navigate the process effectively.
1.Define the Problem:
Clearly identify the specific issue or challenge to be addressed.
2. Review Literature:
Analyze existing studies to build a foundation for your research.
3.Develop Research Questions:
Frame precise, actionable questions that guide the study.
4.Choose Methods:
Select the appropriate research methods based on the problem and available resources.
5.Collect Data:
Use tools like surveys, experiments, or case studies to gather information.
6.Analyze Results:
Apply statistical or qualitative techniques to interpret findings.
7.Develop Solutions:
Propose practical interventions or recommendations based on the data.
8.Implement and Evaluate:
Test the proposed solutions and assess their effectiveness.
Advantages of Applied Research
- Practical Relevance: Focuses on real-world applications, directly benefiting stakeholders.
- Customization: Tailored to address specific problems or contexts.
- Immediate Impact: Delivers actionable outcomes that can be implemented quickly.
- Collaboration: Often involves partnerships with industry, government, or communities.
Challenges of Applied Research
- Resource Constraints: Limited time or funding may restrict the scope of research.
- Complex Variables: Real-world settings often involve multiple interacting factors.
- Ethical Considerations: Balancing stakeholder needs and research integrity can be challenging.
- Generalizability: Findings may be context-specific and not broadly applicable.
Applied Research Example in Health
In health and medical sciences, applied research serves as the background to evidence-based and solution-oriented medicine. It effectively merges scientific knowledge and methods with health experiences in order to arrive at accurate and verifiable results; using empirical research data or evidence.
The adaptation of applied research to medicine is referred to as applied clinical research. Many health and medical practitioners use applied research to measure the extent to which the findings of basic or pure research can be adopted or modified into a solution-oriented approach.
Examples of applied research in health include:
- An investigation to identify the healing properties of a specific herb.
- An investigation to identify the side effects of using a particular drug.
REFERENCES
- Beginners’ Guide for Applied Research Process: What Is It, and Why and How to Do It? Retrieved from https://ucentralasia.org/publications/2018/may/beginners-guide-for-applied-research
- Applied Research Retrieved from https://www.appinio.com/en/blog/market-research/applied-research
- What is Applied Research? + [Types, Examples & Method], https://www.formpl.us/blog/applied-research
- Bella Williams, How to Conduct Applied Research: Methods and Examples, Retrieved from https://insight7.io/how-to-conduct-applied-research-methods-and-examples
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