Educational Research is carried out to find new methods of teaching and learning process, it is an example of which type of research?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (4):
Descriptive Research is primarily focused on systematically gathering information to describe the current status, nature, and characteristics of a phenomenon, or to establish the frequency with which something occurs. In the context of finding new methods of teaching and learning, Descriptive Research serves as the foundational first step. Before researchers can effectively design or implement truly new methods, they must first systematically describe, analyze, and diagnose the existing or traditional methods and processes in depth. This involves surveying current practices, documenting the effectiveness of prevailing methods, and describing the learner and teacher characteristics (e.g., their needs, opinions, current performance levels, and challenges). This comprehensive description of the present reality is essential to identify gaps, weaknesses, and potential areas for innovation, thereby directly supporting the subsequent development of improved methods. The research is descriptive because its primary goal is to map out 'what is' in the teaching and learning landscape before intervening.

The incorrect option is (1):
Action Research is a very specific type of applied research. It is a cyclical process conducted by practitioners, such as teachers or administrators, within their immediate working environment to solve a specific, localized, and practical problem they are currently facing. Its scope is narrow and immediate, focused on finding a rapid, context-specific solution rather than a generalizable new method. The question asks about finding new methods for the teaching and learning process in general, which suggests a broader, more systematic study across various settings, not an on-the-spot solution implemented by a single practitioner. Therefore, while it involves change, its localized nature makes it different from the broad goal described.

The incorrect option is (2):
Applied Research is conducted to find solutions for an immediate, practical problem or to develop practical applications for existing knowledge. Applied Research generally tests and evaluates the effectiveness of an already developed intervention or model (e.g., Does method X improve reading scores more than method Y?). While finding new methods is a practical goal, the research to *identify* the need and scope for those new methods through surveying and describing the current educational reality is the preceding and fundamentally Descriptive step. Applied research comes *after* the descriptive phase has established the problem and context.

The incorrect option is (3):
Pure Research, also known as Basic or Fundamental Research, is carried out solely to enhance theoretical knowledge, understanding, and to develop new theories or general principles without any immediate concern for practical application. It is knowledge for knowledge's sake. Finding new methods of teaching and learning is an explicitly practical goal, directly related to improving educational outcomes in a classroom setting. Since the purpose of the research is intended for direct implementation and practical improvement in the real world, it is not correctly classified as purely theoretical or fundamental research.