characteristics of research

• Systematic- this implies that the procedure adopted to undertake an investigation follows a certain logical sequence.
• Controlled- in real life there are many factors that affect an outcome. The concept of control implies that, in exploring causality in relation to two variables (factors), we set up our study in a way that minimizes the effects of other factors affecting the relationship. This can be achieved to a large extent in the physical and biological sciences as most of the research is done in a laboratory
• Rigorous- you must be careful in ensuring that the procedures followed to find answers to questions are relevant, appropriate, and justified.
• Valid and verifiable- this concept implies that whatever we conclude based on our findings is correct and can be verified by us and others.
• Empirical- this means that any conclusion drawn are based upon hard evidence gathered from information collected from real-life experiences or observations.
• Critical- critical scrutiny of the procedures used, and the methods employed is crucial to a research inquiry. The process of investigation must be foolproof and free from drawbacks. The process adopted and the procedures used must be able to withstand critical scrutiny.