Given below are two statements: Statement I: Action Research is used primarily to improve a given situation by a practitioner. Statement II : Applied research is directed at exploring applicability of principles already established. In the light of the above statements, Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:
Analyzing Action Research and Applied Research
The question asks us to evaluate two statements regarding Action Research and Applied Research. Let's break down each statement and understand the nature of these research types.
Understanding Statement I: Action Research by a Practitioner
Statement I says: "Action Research is used primarily to improve a given situation by a practitioner."
Action Research is a methodology focused on solving immediate problems and improving practice in a specific setting. It is typically conducted by the practitioners themselves (like teachers, managers, or community workers) who are involved in that situation. The goal is not just to understand a problem but to take action to solve it and then reflect on the outcomes to inform future practice. The process is cyclical, involving planning, acting, observing, and reflecting.
Based on this understanding, Action Research is indeed primarily aimed at improving a specific situation, and it is usually driven and carried out by the practitioner experiencing that situation. Therefore, Statement I accurately describes a core characteristic of Action Research.
Understanding Statement II: Applied Research and Established Principles
Statement II says: "Applied research is directed at exploring applicability of principles already established."
Applied Research is a type of research that aims to solve practical problems in the real world. It uses established theories, principles, and knowledge to develop practical solutions or test their effectiveness in different contexts. While Basic (or Fundamental) Research focuses on generating new knowledge for knowledge's sake, Applied Research focuses on applying existing knowledge and principles to address specific, real-world issues or explore their applicability.
For example, principles established in psychological theories might be applied through Applied Research to develop therapies for specific mental health conditions. Or, principles of material science might be applied to develop stronger, lighter building materials. The focus is on how existing principles or theories can be used effectively in practice.
Based on this understanding, Applied Research is precisely about taking principles that are already known or established and exploring how they can be applied or used in practical situations to solve problems. Therefore, Statement II correctly describes a key aspect of Applied Research.
Conclusion on Both Statements
Based on our analysis:
- Statement I accurately describes Action Research as focused on improving a situation by a practitioner.
- Statement II accurately describes Applied Research as exploring the applicability of established principles.
Therefore, both statements correctly characterize the respective types of research.
Revision Table: Comparing Research Types
| Feature | Action Research | Applied Research |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Improve immediate practice/situation | Solve practical problems using existing knowledge |
| Conducted By | Often practitioners themselves | Researchers (can be academics or professionals) |
| Focus | Specific, local context and problem | Applying general principles to specific problems |
| Outcome | Improved practice, local solutions | Practical solutions, technologies, methods |
| Relationship to Theory | Informs and is informed by practice; less focused on generalizable theory building | Applies existing theories and principles |
Additional Information on Research Types
It's helpful to contrast Action Research and Applied Research with Basic (or Fundamental) Research. Basic Research is driven by curiosity and the desire to expand knowledge for its own sake. It doesn't necessarily aim to solve immediate practical problems. For example, studying the fundamental properties of a new particle is Basic Research, while developing a practical device using that particle's properties would be Applied Research.
Action Research is often seen as a form of Applied Research because it seeks to solve practical problems. However, it is distinct due to its specific context (the practitioner's own situation), its iterative cycle, and its primary goal of local improvement rather than developing solutions generalizable to all situations, although it can contribute to broader knowledge.
Understanding these different research types helps clarify their purposes and methodologies in the field of research.
Important Questions from Action Research - Teaching
Which of the following research is cyclic in nature?
Given below are two statements:
Statement I: The goal of inquiry in fundamental research is directed at bringing an increment in the fund of knowledge.
Statement II: Action research is research by the practitioner, for the practitioner, and of the practitioner.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:
The research form which will be an appropriate fit for improving efficacy of formative assessment would be:
Given below are two statements
Statement I: Action research is cyclic in so far as it involves the 'Plan-Act-Observe-Reflect' cycle.
Statement II: The purpose of Action research is to develop a theory to explain the causal relationship among variables.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below
Given below are two statements
Statement I: All research adds to the corpus of knowledge by advancing a theory
Statement II: The focus of action research is basically on the amelioration of prevalent practices
In light of the above statement, chosen the correct answer from the option given below
