Empirical research method is a core part of scientific research that laid the foundation of modern science. This method is used to gain knowledge and understanding of the world around us. It also plays pivotal role in addressing real world questions by the means of collecting data through direct or indirect experience and observation. Empirical research is a systematic research approach that begins with research and concludes with discussion of research findings. Through this piece of paper, I’m going to unravel all the aspects of empirical research.
Meaning of empirical research
The term “empirical” stems from the Greek word ’empeiria,’ meaning experience or observation. Therefore, empirical research often prioritizes direct, hands-on experiences and observations rather than relying solely on pre-existing literature or theoretical frameworks.
For instance, in the social sciences, researchers might conduct surveys or experiments to gather data about human behavior, while in the natural sciences, they might carry out laboratory tests or field studies to collect information about physical phenomena. Such diverse techniques underline the versatility of empirical methods across various research domains.
Characteristics of empirical research method
Empirical research method is data driven systematic research process. It focuses on collecting real world data to answer research question, support beliefs and understanding. It is called systematic because questions are answered by the means of collection of data or evidence through well defined criteria.
The end goal of empirical research is to test theories or models in the light of data or evidence collected through direct or indirect observations. So, it is conducted at the observational level.
Empirical research plays important role in testing theories, reject whether it will refine or reject theories all depends on gathered data. In other words, it is a last step in the scientific process.
Unlike other, empirical research can be qualitative, quantitative or mix of both. Simply, qualitative research relies on words and images to test hypothesis and theories. Whereas, quantitative focuses on documenting reality numbers.
Both reasoning: Deductive and Inductive are used in the empirical research method. Inductive reasoning helps researchers to identify potential patterns and generate new research questions. While, deductive reasoning is used in later stages of research, particularly when testing specific hypotheses derived from existing theories.
Moreover, findings or results in the empirical research can be recreated or reproduced. Therefore, it is more reliable than others. At the same time, you know that it is too difficult to conduct experiment on larger population or area. For that purpose, experiments are conducted with specific population and areas we call it sample. In empirical research, such findings or results could be applied in larger population or areas. This is called generalizable.
Empirical research Vs theoretical or Conceptual research
Theoretical research is a kind of research that aims to develop and refine theories, abstract ideas, concepts etc. based on the existing knowledge. On the other hand, empirical research which is purely depends on collecting real world data through various research processes like qualitative, quantitative or mix of both. It emphasis on answer specific research question to develop new insight or knowledge.
In short, empirical research is a means to generate knowledge, develop understanding and learning through direct observation. It doesn’t depends on existing theories or knowledge. However, empirical research and theoretical research are complementary in nature as the theoretical research provides framework to understand data that is provided by empirical research. For layman’s understanding, theoretical research laid the foundation for empirical research by providing ideas, theories or models to test through empirical research.
Steps in empirical research method
More or less, empirical research follows following research cycle that includes formation of research question, literature review, formulate hypothesis, research design, data collection, hypothesis testing and reporting fundings. Let’s see one by one in detailed manner.
Research topic and basic research question
The scope of research topic is too broad compare to research question. Suppose, impacts of genetically modified crops on agriculture is the research topic. It is not specific to answer. So, the research question would be look like: what would be the impact of genetically modified crops like cotton on the health of soil? This is more specific to answer. This is the first step to select research topic and research question.
Literature review
Before to proceed further, it is essential to know whether this question is answered before or not. By doing such literature review, according to linkedin.com we can build knowledge base of the research conducted in the area, review the existing theories, and identify the knowledge gap.
Refining research questions
Once you conduct the literature review, you become aware about the knowledge gap if there is. If yes you can refine you questions accordingly. Thereafter, you can start answering your questions through formulating hypotheses.
Writing good a hypothesis
Necessary steps in the answering research questions is to form hypotheses. It is nothing but expectations you eager to find out in data on the basis of literature you reviewed earlier.
Research methods
After hypotheses formation, the next step is to design research. It depends on the research questions as well as nature of study. Empirical research method uses both qualitative research as well as quantitative research approach.
Data collection
It involves the systematically gathering data through selected research methodology. In a quantitative study, data may be collected through surveys or experiments. While In a qualitative study, data might be collected through interviews or focus groups.
While collecting data, it is essential to take care of reliability which means it needs to be recreated Or reproduced to test results.
Data analysis and conclusions
Data analysis follows the data collection steps. Once the data collected by using relevant methodology, data is analysed by using specific techniques. And finally, conclusions are drawn about the hypothesis. Such conclusions should be supported by evidence. Lastly, the findings or results will be reported in the paper. These are important steps used to conduct empirical research.
https://libguides.memphis.edu/empirical-research/definition