Descriptive, exploratory and explanatory research are classifications of scientific research that may vary according to the researcher's intended objective.
The three use different research methods to meet the research objectives and can be carried out in combination to obtain a better analysis of the collected data.
Exploratory research
Exploratory research consists of having a greater proximity to the universe of the studied object of study. It is the research that aims, through methods and criteria, to provide information and guide the formulation of the study's hypotheses.
It aims at discovering phenomena or explaining those that were not accepted, even with the evidence presented. A good example of exploratory research is the case studies, as they show the observation of phenomena that occurred in laboratory experiments.
Main characteristics of exploratory research
- Explore a little-known topic;
- Extensive work on data collection, bibliography, examples and observations;
- Widely used in scientific research and in laboratories, for example.
know more about Field research.
descriptive research
Descriptive research, on the other hand, carries out a detailed study, with information gathering through collection techniques (questionnaires, interviews, etc.).
After gathering these data, the researcher must analyze and interpret them to obtain the research result.
Remembering that the researcher must act only as an observer, without assuming any kind of interference with the object of study. This, in turn, must be analyzed in its natural environment, so that a greater veracity of the record is achieved.
Main characteristics of descriptive research
- Thoroughly analyze a specific object of study;
- Researcher-observer (without interference);
- Research theme is known, there is a lot of bibliographical reference available on the subject;
- The researcher's objective is to deepen knowledge on the subject.
Learn more about descriptive research.
explanatory research
The explanatory research intends to justify the factors that motivate the accomplishment of the studied object or phenomenon. It is the research that links theory and practice in the process of scientific research.
In the natural sciences, for example, the experimental method is used, while in the social sciences the observational method is used.
Descriptive research, combined with exploratory research, are the most carried out by social researchers.
Main characteristics of explanatory research
- Explain the reasons / causes of the topic addressed (its functioning);
- Deepening descriptive and exploratory research;
- Use of experimental research (more subjective analysis of the study on the subject).
Find out more about the different Search Types and see what to write in the methodology and examples of methodology.
