Research in public policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Research in public policy - Essay Example The first can be an assessment of the situation based on scientific method of investigation. The second method can be based on observation wherein the person does not make use of systematic process to make a generalization. In real life, there are other ways to find solutions to problems. Sometimes, even gut feel or intuition is used as a method in finding answers to queries. In some areas in the east, people rely on the wisdom of old people to answer most of the complex problems in life. To summarize the above definitions, research then is a method of inquiry for the purpose of obtaining facts in response to questions raised (Bautista, 1998). Bautista further added that research differs from other modes of knowing in the sensed that it is a systematic process of gaining information or knowledge. It is more that intuition, gut feel or tradition. 3) It is precise. Research usually aims at estimating the exact count of the event that has occurred or may yet occur. Statistics are helpful since the thrust is to quantify the incidence of the event being observed. However, there are instances when accuracy is not possible, especially if the objective of the research is mainly to characterize what is happening and not really to determine the frequency of the event. 6) Observations are usually undertaken under controlled conditions. ... 3) It is precise. Research usually aims at estimating the exact count of the event that has occurred or may yet occur. Statistics are helpful since the thrust is to quantify the incidence of the event being observed. However, there are instances when accuracy is not possible, especially if the objective of the research is mainly to characterize what is happening and not really to determine the frequency of the event. 4) Observations are recorded. Research necessitates the documentation of observations with the aid of instruments such as questionnaires, tape recorders for interviews, and many more. 5) Observation follows the rule of objectivity. Observations must not be influenced by personal preferences, prejudices, biases, attitudes, and feelings. 6) Observations are usually undertaken under controlled conditions. Researchers aspire to eliminate other factors or variables that might intrude into the observation of the major factors of variables that are being investigated. PURPOSES AND USES OF RESEARCH Any research, if correctly designed and undertaken, will build knowledge because it represents an objective investigation of facts about a certain subject (http://www.ryerson.ca/mjoppe/ResearchProcess/WhyConductResearch.htm). Research gathers facts that help people such as policy makers make decisions. A research becomes significant when it is used to show the interrelatedness of a variety of concepts and not simply describes how events take place. Research then is both fact-finding and theory building. According to Cresswell (994), "a theory is an interrelated set of constructs (or variables) formed into propositions or hypotheses that specify the relationship among variables (typically in terms of magnitude or direction). The