Descriptive research is one of the classifications of scientific research, in which its objective is to describe the characteristics of a population, phenomenon or experience for the study carried out.
It is carried out taking into account the aspects of the formulation of the questions that guide the research, in addition to establishing a relationship between the variables proposed in the object of study under analysis.
In descriptive research, it is up to the researcher to study, analyze, record and interpret the facts of the physical world, without its manipulation or interference.. He must only find out how often the phenomenon occurs or how it is structured within a given system, method, process or operational reality.
Typically, descriptive research uses standardized data collection techniques to present the proposed variables. These can be linked to the socioeconomic characteristics of a group or other characteristics that may change during the process.
It can appear under different types of research, such as documentary, field studies, surveys, among others.
See also the meaning of Qualitative research and Scientific research.
Differences between descriptive, exploratory and explanatory research
Usually, there is some confusion between the classifications of scientific research, which causes doubts when choosing one of the types.
descriptive research
As stated, in descriptive research a detailed study is carried out, with data collection, analysis and interpretation. There is no interaction or involvement of the researcher in the analyzed subject.
explanatory research
Explanatory research, on the other hand, also conducts a study with data collection and analysis, but it has a tendency to relate theory and practice in the process of scientific research.
Unlike descriptive, in addition to observing and analyzing the facts, explanatory research aims to theorize the subject, explaining the reasons and processes behind the theme, for example.
Exploratory research
Exploratory research, unlike the others, aims, through methods and criteria, to provide information and guide the formulation of the study's hypotheses.
The proposal is to discover or elucidate something, mainly through experiments. The scientific area, for example, is one that most explores this research method.
| . | descriptive research | Exploratory research | explanatory research |
|---|---|---|---|
| objective | gather and analyze data. | discover phenomena or new explanations. | explain phenomena, causes and effects. |
| Methodology | collection of quantitative data. | theoretical research + practical experiments. | experimental methods. |
| Examples | case studies and opinion polls. | scientific discoveries. | deepening of descriptive research. |
Exploratory and descriptive research are the most used by researchers, as well as the most requested by educational organizations, commercial and political entities.
Learn more about the differences between Descriptive, exploratory and explanatory research.
Example of descriptive research
Market research and public opinion research are two examples that fit the descriptive model.
The proposal, in these cases, is just to observe, register and analyze the information collected, without the involvement or interference of the researcher.
Learn more about others Search types, what to write in the methodology, what is case study and how to make the methodology for the TCC.
