DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCH R E S HMA . U M E d 1ˢᵗ yea r 

Definition “Descriptive research is defined as a research method that describes the characteristics of the population or phenomenon that is being studied. This methodology focuses more on the “What” of the research subject rather than the “Why” of the subject.” 

Characteristics of Descriptive Research 

Some distinctive characteristics of descriptive research are: 1.Quantitative research: Descriptive research is a quantitative research method that attempts to collect quantifiable information to be used for statistical analysis of the population sample. 

2.Uncontrolled variables: In descriptive research ,none of the variables are influenced in any way. This uses observational methods to conduct the research. 3.Cross-sectional studies :Descriptive research is generally a cross –sectional study where different sections belonging to the same group are studied. 4.Basis for further research: The data collected and analyzed from descriptive research can then be further using different research techniques. 

Applications of Descriptive Research with Examples 

Objectives of Descriptive Research 1.To describe the existing conditions or situations. 2.To study the characteristics of a population or group. 3.To identify patterns and trends. 4.To study attitudes, opinions, and behaviours. 5.To collect factual and systematic information. 6.To identify relationship among variables. 

Descriptive Research Methods There are 3 distinctive methods to conduct descriptive research . They are: Observational Method 1.Quantitative observation 2.Qualitative observation Case Study Method Survey Research 

No content

Observational Method The observational method is the most effective method to conduct descriptive research. Both quantitative observation and qualitative observation are used in this research method. 

Quantitative observation is the objective collection of data which is primarily focused on numbers and values. It suggests something “associated with, or depicted in terms of a quantity.” Qualitative observation doesn’t involve measurements or numbers but instead focuses on monitoring characteristics. 

Case Study Method Case studies involve in –depth research and study of individuals or groups . Case studies lead to a hypothesis and widen a further scope of studying a phenomenon. Survey Research In survey research ,respondents answer through surveys or questionnaires, or polls. They are a popular market research tool to collect feedback from respondents. 

Examples of Descriptive Research 

No content

No content

Advantages of Descriptive Research Easy data collection Studies real –life situations Uses a variety of methods and tools Helps in decision making Provides a clear picture of existing conditions Provides a basis for further research Disadvantages of Descriptive Research May involve confidentiality issues Cannot establish cause and effect Responses may be inaccurate Halo effect Results may depend on the research method 

No content

Purpose of Descriptive Research Descriptive research provides necessary information for making decisions to administrators. It provides necessary information and plan for improvement. It interprets , synthesizes and integrates data& points out their implications 

Survey Research “Survey research is the research strategy to study the relationships and characteristics” “ 

Types of Survey 1.CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY 2.LONGITUDINAL SURVEY 

No content

Cross-sectional Survey Collects information from a sample that has been drawn from a predetermined population. The information is collected at just one point in time. 

Longitudinal Survey A survey that collects data from the same people over time. 

No content