Given below are two statements: Statement I: Fundamental research is directed at exploring the applicability of truths and principles already established. Statement II: Action research aims at ameliorating the ongoing conditions and practices. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:
Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
Understanding Different Types of Research
Research can be broadly classified into different types based on its purpose and methodology. Two important types are Fundamental Research and Action Research. The question asks us to evaluate statements about these two types of research.
Analyzing Statement I: Fundamental Research
Statement I says: Fundamental research is directed at exploring the applicability of truths and principles already established.
Let's define Fundamental Research. Fundamental Research, also known as Basic Research, is research conducted primarily to advance theoretical knowledge and understanding of basic principles. Its main goal is to expand the existing knowledge base, without any immediate concern for practical application.
Now, let's consider what research type *does* explore the applicability of established truths and principles. This description fits Applied Research. Applied Research is designed to solve specific, practical problems in the real world. It uses the knowledge gained from fundamental research to develop new technologies, methods, or understandings that can be directly applied.
Therefore, Statement I incorrectly describes Fundamental Research by attributing the goal of Applied Research to it.
- Fundamental Research: Aims to discover new knowledge, theories, and principles. Driven by curiosity.
- Applied Research: Aims to apply existing knowledge to solve practical problems. Driven by the need for solutions.
Based on these definitions, Statement I is incorrect.
Analyzing Statement II: Action Research
Statement II says: Action research aims at ameliorating the ongoing conditions and practices.
Let's define Action Research. Action Research is a reflective process of progressive problem-solving led by individuals working with others in teams or as part of a community of practice to improve the way they address issues and solve problems. It is typically conducted in real-world settings (like classrooms, organizations, or communities) with the aim of improving specific practices or conditions.
The term "ameliorating" means making something better or improving it. Action research is inherently focused on improving ongoing conditions, practices, or situations. It follows a cyclical process: identify a problem → plan action → implement action → evaluate results → reflect → plan next steps.
Therefore, Statement II accurately describes the primary goal of Action Research.
Based on this definition, Statement II is correct.
Conclusion Based on Statement Analysis
Based on our analysis:
- Statement I (Fundamental Research definition) is incorrect.
- Statement II (Action Research definition) is correct.
We are looking for the option that reflects this conclusion.
Comparing our findings with the options:
- Option 1: Both Statement I and Statement II are correct (Incorrect)
- Option 2: Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect (Incorrect)
- Option 3: Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect (Incorrect)
- Option 4: Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct (Correct)
Final Answer
Statement I is incorrect because it describes Applied Research, not Fundamental Research. Statement II is correct because Action Research is indeed aimed at improving ongoing conditions and practices.
Thus, Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct.
Revision Table: Types of Research
| Research Type | Primary Goal | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Fundamental (Basic) Research | To expand knowledge; discover new theories/principles | Theoretical, universal principles |
| Applied Research | To solve specific practical problems | Practical application of existing knowledge |
| Action Research | To solve problems and improve practices in a specific setting | Immediate, local context; cyclical improvement |
Additional Information on Research Purposes
Understanding the purpose of different types of research is crucial in research methodology. Here's a bit more detail:
- Fundamental Research Purpose: Often driven by intellectual curiosity. It forms the basis for future applied research. Examples include studying the properties of a new material or exploring the mechanisms of a biological process.
- Applied Research Purpose: Aims to find solutions to existing problems. Examples include developing a new drug to treat a disease or designing a new teaching method to improve student performance. Statement I in the question actually describes the purpose of Applied Research.
- Action Research Purpose: Specifically involves practitioners (like teachers, managers, community workers) researching their own practices to improve them. It is collaborative and context-specific. Its results are often immediately applicable to the situation being studied. Statement II correctly captures this purpose.
These research types are not mutually exclusive and often inform each other. Findings from fundamental research are used in applied research, and action research applies research findings to improve specific situations.
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
