The fundamental objective of research is to systematically explore, discover, interpret, and revise knowledge, thereby expanding understanding of the world. At its core, research seeks to answer questions and solve problems through rigorous inquiry.
According to a reference from July 12, 2021, "The main objective of fundamental research is to produce knowledge and understanding in relation to natural phenomena." While this specifically addresses fundamental research, the creation of new knowledge and understanding is a central theme across various forms of research.
The Core Goal: Expanding Knowledge and Understanding
Research isn't just about collecting facts; it's about building a coherent body of knowledge and deepening our understanding of processes, phenomena, and relationships. This involves:
- Discovery: Uncovering new facts, concepts, or principles.
- Interpretation: Explaining why things happen or how they work.
- Verification: Testing existing theories and confirming or refuting them.
- Application: Using knowledge to solve practical problems (especially in applied research).
Exploring Different Research Perspectives
While the underlying goal of knowledge creation remains constant, research can take different forms depending on its immediate aim:
Fundamental vs. Applied Research
The reference highlights fundamental research, also known as basic research. Its primary driver is curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake.
- Fundamental Research Examples: Studying the behavior of subatomic particles, understanding the evolutionary history of a species, or exploring the properties of a newly synthesized material. The objective here aligns directly with producing knowledge and understanding in relation to natural phenomena.
Applied research, on the other hand, uses existing knowledge (often generated by fundamental research) to solve specific, practical problems or develop new technologies.
- Applied Research Examples: Developing a new drug to treat a disease, designing a more efficient engine, or creating a new educational method.
Both types contribute to the overall advancement of knowledge, but applied research has a more immediate, practical objective rooted in using that knowledge.
Research Across Disciplines
The objective of creating knowledge and understanding applies across all fields:
- Sciences: Understanding natural laws (physics, biology, chemistry).
- Social Sciences: Understanding human behavior, societies, and cultures (sociology, psychology, economics).
- Humanities: Understanding human experience, history, and expression (literature, history, philosophy).
- Engineering & Technology: Developing solutions and systems based on scientific principles.
| Type of Research | Primary Objective | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fundamental (Basic) | Produce knowledge & understanding | Studying cell division mechanisms |
| Applied | Solve practical problems | Developing cancer therapies |
| Action Research | Solve problems in specific contexts | Improving teaching methods in a school |
| Evaluative Research | Assess effectiveness of programs/policies | Analyzing impact of a public health campaign |
Why is This Objective Important?
The relentless pursuit of knowledge through research is crucial for societal progress.
- Innovation: New understanding fuels the development of new technologies and solutions.
- Informed Decision-Making: Research provides evidence for better policies in government, business, and healthcare.
- Education: Research findings are integrated into curricula, advancing learning.
- Addressing Challenges: From climate change to disease outbreaks, research is essential for finding solutions.
- Intellectual Growth: Research expands our collective understanding and challenges assumptions.
In essence, research is the engine that drives progress, allowing us to navigate the complexities of the world and build a better future based on evidence and understanding.
For further reading on the importance of research objectives, you can explore resources on Research Methodology (Placeholder Link).
