Research is a careful investigation leading to the discovery and interpretation of information. There are many different types of research that discover or reinterpret information collected by experimentation or observation and suggest practical applications or theoretical implications of that information. Research is the corners tone of any science, including both the hard sciences such as chemistry or physics and the social or soft sciences such as psychology, management, or education. In scientific fields, researchers often conduct experiments to test a hypothesis. Researchers may also investigate and synthesize what other researchers have already learned. In the social sciences and humanities, research operates under the same principles of gathering, evaluating, and interpreting information. Every profession and professional activity has tools that help improve techniques and assure a quality product. Research is no exception. The research tools are often classified into three categories: hardware, software, and methods or knowledge. Hardware tools may include hammers, copy machines, trucks, computers, or cell phones. Software tools relate to computer programems such as word processing or date base programs, and changeable forms such as written tests, worksheets, or rubrics. The methods of a profession refer to knowledge and understanding of the procedures involved. Al three types of tools are typically necessary to every profession, with research being no exception. By utilizing the necessary hardware, mastering the use of selected software, and gathering forms, training observers, or mastering the scientific method, a researchers can develop a strong foundation on which to base his/her research. This book provides an authentic information on the development, advantages and disadvantages of various research tools. It is designed to serve as a quick reference for researchers, research guides, post graduate students and all those concerned.
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