empirical in research methodology

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Introduction: What is Empirical Research?

Quantitative methods, qualitative methods.

• Quantitative vs. Qualitative
• Reference Works for Social Sciences Research
• What is Non-Empirical Research?
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Empirical research  is based on phenomena that can be observed and measured. Empirical research derives knowledge from actual experience rather than from theory or belief. 

Key characteristics of empirical research include:

• Specific research questions to be answered;
• Definitions of the population, behavior, or phenomena being studied;
• Description of the methodology or research design used to study this population or phenomena, including selection criteria, controls, and testing instruments (such as surveys);
• Two basic research processes or methods in empirical research: quantitative methods and qualitative methods (see the rest of the guide for more about these methods).

(based on the original from the Connelly LIbrary of LaSalle University)

Empirical Research: Qualitative vs. Quantitative

Learn about common types of journal articles that use APA Style, including empirical studies; meta-analyses; literature reviews; and replication, theoretical, and methodological articles.

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Quantitative Research

A quantitative research project is characterized by having a population about which the researcher wants to draw conclusions, but it is not possible to collect data on the entire population.

• For an observational study, it is necessary to select a proper, statistical random sample and to use methods of statistical inference to draw conclusions about the population. 
• For an experimental study, it is necessary to have a random assignment of subjects to experimental and control groups in order to use methods of statistical inference.

Statistical methods are used in all three stages of a quantitative research project.

For observational studies, the data are collected using statistical sampling theory. Then, the sample data are analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis. Finally, generalizations are made from the sample data to the entire population using statistical inference.

For experimental studies, the subjects are allocated to experimental and control group using randomizing methods. Then, the experimental data are analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis. Finally, just as for observational data, generalizations are made to a larger population.

Iversen, G. (2004). Quantitative research . In M. Lewis-Beck, A. Bryman, & T. Liao (Eds.), Encyclopedia of social science research methods . (pp. 897-898). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.

Qualitative Research

What makes a work deserving of the label qualitative research is the demonstrable effort to produce richly and relevantly detailed descriptions and particularized interpretations of people and the social, linguistic, material, and other practices and events that shape and are shaped by them.

Qualitative research typically includes, but is not limited to, discerning the perspectives of these people, or what is often referred to as the actor’s point of view. Although both philosophically and methodologically a highly diverse entity, qualitative research is marked by certain defining imperatives that include its case (as opposed to its variable) orientation, sensitivity to cultural and historical context, and reflexivity. 

In its many guises, qualitative research is a form of empirical inquiry that typically entails some form of purposive sampling for information-rich cases; in-depth interviews and open-ended interviews, lengthy participant/field observations, and/or document or artifact study; and techniques for analysis and interpretation of data that move beyond the data generated and their surface appearances. 

Sandelowski, M. (2004).  Qualitative research . In M. Lewis-Beck, A. Bryman, & T. Liao (Eds.),  Encyclopedia of social science research methods . (pp. 893-894). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.

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• Last Updated: Oct 4, 2024 12:10 PM
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Understanding the Empirical Method in Research Methodology

Have you ever wondered how scientists gather evidence to support their theories? Or what steps researchers take to ensure that their findings are reliable and not just based on speculation? The answer lies in a cornerstone of scientific investigation known as the empirical method . This approach to research is all about collecting data and observing the world to form solid, evidence-based conclusions. Let’s dive into the empirical method’s fascinating world and understand why it’s so critical in research methodology.

Table of Contents

• What is the empirical method?
• The role of observation in the empirical method
• Data collection: qualitative and quantitative
• Empirical vs. experimental methods
• Why the distinction matters
• The significance of experiential learning
• Developing theories from empirical research
• Applying the empirical method in various fields
• Challenges and limitations

What is the empirical method? 🔗

The empirical method is a way of gaining knowledge by means of direct and indirect observation or experience. It’s fundamentally based on the idea that knowledge comes from sensory experience and can be acquired through observation and experimentation. This method stands in contrast to approaches that rely solely on theoretical or logical means.

The role of observation in the empirical method 🔗

Observation is at the heart of the empirical method. It involves using your senses to gather information about the world. This could be as simple as noting the color of a flower or as complex as using advanced technology to observe the behavior of microscopic organisms. The key is that the observations must be systematic and replicable, providing reliable data that can be used to draw conclusions.

Data collection: qualitative and quantitative 🔗

Different types of data can be collected using the empirical method:

• Qualitative data – This data type is descriptive and conceptual, often collected through interviews, observations, and case studies.
• Quantitative data – This involves numerical data collected through methods like surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis.

Empirical vs. experimental methods 🔗

While the empirical method is often associated with experimentation, it’s important to distinguish between the two. Experimental methods involve controlled tests where the researcher manipulates one variable to observe the effect on another. In contrast, the empirical method doesn’t necessarily involve manipulation. Instead, it focuses on observing and collecting data in natural settings, offering a broader understanding of phenomena as they occur in real life.

Why the distinction matters 🔗

Understanding the difference between empirical and experimental methods is crucial because it affects how research is conducted and how results are interpreted. Empirical research can provide a more naturalistic view of the subject matter, whereas experimental research can offer more control over variables and potentially more precise outcomes.

The significance of experiential learning 🔗

The empirical method has deep roots in experiential learning, which emphasizes learning through experience. This connection is vital because it underlines the importance of engaging with the subject matter at a practical level, rather than just theoretically. It’s a hands-on approach to knowledge that has been valued since the time of Aristotle.

Developing theories from empirical research 🔗

One of the most significant aspects of the empirical method is its role in theory development . Researchers collect and analyze data, and from these findings, they can formulate or refine theories. Theories that are supported by empirical evidence tend to be more robust and widely accepted in the scientific community.

Applying the empirical method in various fields 🔗

The empirical method is not limited to the natural sciences. It’s used across a range of disciplines, from social sciences to humanities, to understand different aspects of the world. For instance:

• In psychology , researchers might use the empirical method to observe and record behaviors to understand the underlying mental processes.
• In sociology , it could involve studying social interactions to draw conclusions about societal structures.
• In economics , empirical data might be used to test the validity of economic theories or to measure market trends.

Challenges and limitations 🔗

Despite its importance, the empirical method has its challenges and limitations. One major challenge is ensuring that observations and data collection are unbiased. Additionally, not all phenomena are easily observable, and some may require more complex or abstract approaches.

Conclusion 🔗

The empirical method is a fundamental aspect of research methodology that has stood the test of time. By relying on observation and data collection, it allows researchers to ground their theories in reality, providing a solid foundation for knowledge. Whether it’s used in the hard sciences, social sciences, or humanities, the empirical method continues to be a critical tool for understanding our complex world.

How do you think the empirical method affects the credibility of research findings? And can you think of a situation where empirical methods might be difficult to apply but still necessary for advancing knowledge? Let’s discuss these thought-provoking questions and consider the breadth of the empirical method’s impact on the pursuit of understanding.

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Research Methodology

1 Introduction to Research in General

• Research in General
• Research Circle
• Tools of Research
• Methods: Quantitative or Qualitative
• The Product: Research Report or Papers

2 Original Unity of Philosophy and Science

• Myth Philosophy and Science: Original Unity
• The Myth: A Spiritual Metaphor
• Myth Philosophy and Science
• The Greek Quest for Unity
• The Ionian School
• Towards a Grand Unification Theory or Theory of Everything
• Einstein’s Perennial Quest for Unity

3 Evolution of the Distinct Methods of Science

• Definition of Scientific Method
• The Evolution of Scientific Methods
• Theory-Dependence of Observation
• Scope of Science and Scientific Methods
• Prevalent Mistakes in Applying the Scientific Method

4 Relation of Scientific and Philosophical Methods

• Definitions of Scientific and Philosophical method
• Philosophical method
• Scientific method
• The relation
• The Importance of Philosophical and scientific methods

5 Dialectical Method

• Introduction and a Brief Survey of the Method
• Types of Dialectics
• Dialectics in Classical Philosophy
• Dialectics in Modern Philosophy
• Critique of Dialectical Method

6 Rational Method

• Understanding Rationalism
• Rational Method of Investigation
• Descartes’ Rational Method
• Leibniz’ Aim of Philosophy
• Spinoza’ Aim of Philosophy

7 Empirical Method

• Common Features of Philosophical Method
• Empirical Method
• Exposition of Empiricism
• Locke’s Empirical Method
• Berkeley’s Empirical Method
• David Hume’s Empirical Method

8 Critical Method

• Basic Features of Critical Theory
• On Instrumental Reason
• Conception of Society
• Human History as Dialectic of Enlightenment
• Substantive Reason
• Habermasian Critical Theory
• Habermas’ Theory of Society
• Habermas’ Critique of Scientism
• Theory of Communicative Action
• Discourse Ethics of Habermas

9 Phenomenological Method (Western and Indian)

• Phenomenology in Philosophy
• Phenomenology as a Method
• Phenomenological Analysis of Knowledge
• Phenomenological Reduction
• Husserl’s Triad: Ego Cogito Cogitata
• Intentionality
• Understanding ‘Consciousness’
• Phenomenological Method in Indian Tradition
• Phenomenological Method in Religion

10 Analytical Method (Western and Indian)

• Analysis in History of Philosophy
• Conceptual Analysis
• Analysis as a Method
• Analysis in Logical Atomism and Logical Positivism
• Analytic Method in Ethics
• Language Analysis
• Quine’s Analytical Method
• Analysis in Indian Traditions

11 Hermeneutical Method (Western and Indian)

• The Power (Sakti) to Convey Meaning
• Three Meanings
• Pre-understanding
• The Semantic Autonomy of the Text
• Towards a Fusion of Horizons
• The Hermeneutical Circle
• The True Scandal of the Text
• Literary Forms

12 Deconstructive Method

• The Seminal Idea of Deconstruction in Heidegger
• Deconstruction in Derrida
• Structuralism and Post-structuralism
• Sign Signifier and Signified
• Writing and Trace
• Deconstruction as a Strategic Reading
• The Logic of Supplement
• No Outside-text

13 Method of Bibliography

• Preparing to Write
• Writing a Paper
• The Main Divisions of a Paper
• Writing Bibliography in Turabian and APA
• Sample Bibliography

14 Method of Footnotes

• Citations and Notes
• General Hints for Footnotes
• Writing Footnotes
• Examples of Footnote or Endnote
• Example of a Research Article

15 Method of Notes Taking

• Methods of Note-taking
• Note Book Style
• Note taking in a Computer
• Types of Note-taking
• Notes from Field Research
• Errors to be Avoided

16 Method of Thesis Proposal and Presentation

• Preliminary Section
• Presenting the Problem of the Thesis
• Design of the Study
• Main Body of the Thesis
• Conclusion Summary and Recommendations
• Reference Material

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