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Understanding the Difference: Applied Research vs. Action Research
Understanding the Difference: Applied Research vs. Action Research
Introduction
In the realm of academic research, two commonly discussed methodologies are applied research and action research. While both are integral to solving real-world problems, they serve different purposes and are conducted in unique ways. Understanding these differences is crucial for researchers, students, and professionals who aim to make informed decisions about their research approaches. This blog post delves into the distinctions between applied research and action research, highlighting their unique characteristics, methodologies, and applications. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of which approach suits your academic or professional needs.
What is Applied Research?
Definition and Purpose
Applied research is a method of investigation that focuses on finding practical solutions to specific, real-world problems. Unlike basic research, which seeks to expand knowledge for the sake of knowledge, applied research aims to solve tangible issues. This type of research is commonly used in fields such as medicine, engineering, and social sciences, where the goal is to apply findings directly to improve processes, products, or practices.
Characteristics of Applied Research
Problem-Oriented: Applied research starts with a specific problem or question that needs addressing.
Practical Outcomes: The primary aim is to produce actionable results that can be implemented in real-world settings.
Context-Specific: This research is often tailored to the context in which the problem exists, considering the unique variables and conditions of that environment.
Methodologies Used in Applied Research
Applied research typically employs a variety of methodologies, including:
Experimental Studies: Conducting controlled experiments to test hypotheses.
Field Studies: Observing and collecting data in real-world settings.
Surveys and Questionnaires: Gathering quantitative data from large groups.
Case Studies: In-depth analysis of specific instances or cases related to the research question.
Examples of Applied Research
Medical Research: Developing new treatments or drugs to cure diseases.
Educational Research: Creating and testing new teaching methods to enhance learning outcomes.
Technological Research: Innovating new technologies or improving existing ones to solve practical issues.
What is Action Research?
Definition and Purpose
Action research is a participatory form of research that involves a cycle of reflection, planning, action, and observation. It is often used by practitioners such as teachers, community organizers, and social workers who seek to improve their practices through systematic inquiry. The primary goal of action research is to bring about change or improvement in specific settings through iterative cycles of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting.
Characteristics of Action Research
Participatory Nature: Action research involves collaboration with stakeholders who are affected by the issue being studied.
Iterative Process: It follows a cyclical process of planning, action, observation, and reflection.
Contextual Focus: This research is highly contextual and focuses on the specific environment or community involved.
Methodologies Used in Action Research
Action research methodologies are diverse and can include:
Participatory Observation: Engaging with the community or setting being studied.
Reflective Journals: Documenting reflections and observations throughout the research process.
Focus Groups: Gathering qualitative data through group discussions.
Workshops and Seminars: Facilitating interactive sessions to collect feedback and insights.
Examples of Action Research
Educational Settings: Teachers implementing new instructional strategies and assessing their effectiveness.
Community Development: Social workers collaborating with communities to address local issues.
Organizational Change: Businesses conducting action research to improve workplace practices and employee satisfaction.
Key Differences Between Applied Research and Action Research
Objective and Goals
Applied Research: The primary objective is to find practical solutions to specific problems. It aims to produce tangible results that can be implemented directly.
Action Research: The goal is to bring about change or improvement within a specific context. It focuses on the process of change through iterative cycles.
Methodological Approach
Applied Research: Often uses structured and quantitative methodologies such as experiments, surveys, and field studies.
Action Research: Employs qualitative and participatory methods, including observation, reflective journals, and focus groups.
Role of the Researcher
Applied Research: Researchers often remain objective and detached, focusing on producing unbiased results.
Action Research: Researchers are active participants in the process, collaborating with stakeholders and being directly involved in the setting.
Outcome and Application
Applied Research: Results are aimed at solving specific problems and are often generalizable to similar contexts.
Action Research: Outcomes are specific to the context studied and are intended to bring about practical change or improvement within that setting.
Integrating Both Approaches: When and How
Complementary Use
In some cases, researchers might find it beneficial to integrate both applied research and action research methodologies. For instance, a researcher might start with applied research to identify a practical solution and then use action research to implement and refine that solution within a specific context.
Practical Example
Consider an educational researcher who develops a new teaching method through applied research. They can then use action research to implement this method in various classrooms, iterating and refining the approach based on feedback and observations from teachers and students.
Additionally, here's a related YouTube video on Applied Research vs. Action Research. It could provide you a multi-faceted understanding of the topic.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between applied research and action research is crucial for selecting the appropriate methodology for your research goals. Applied research focuses on finding practical solutions to specific problems, using structured methodologies to produce actionable results. In contrast, action research emphasizes participatory and iterative processes to bring about change or improvement within a specific context. Both approaches have their unique strengths and can be integrated to complement each other, depending on the research objectives.
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