Descriptive Research | Definition, Types, Methods & More

Descriptive research is a base element in social science, education, health care, and business studies. We see it collect and analyse data systematically to report on what is going on with characteristics, behaviours and phenomena as they play out in natural settings. It does not look at why or try to forecast results but instead answers the what. Also it is very much used for its objectivity, clarity and simple approach.

Understanding Descriptive Research: An Overview

Descriptive research is a research method which reports in detail on people, settings or events. Also it does not look at observational descriptive research cause and effect issues but instead reports on what is present. We see this approach used to collect in depth info which in turn supports better and more informed decisions. What is to be done is the reporting of what we see at a particular time.

What Is Descriptive Research? Definition & Purpose

Descriptive research is a research method which reports on and records the actions of a subject without changing them in any way. It reports at present time what is true or what the character of a group is out to help us understand what is descriptive research better. It answers questions which focus on “what is now or “what are the present traits of this group”. Also it is more into reporting facts as they are without putting in a great deal of theory.

Key Characteristics of Descriptive Research

Descriptive research is an important tool for the study and report of how things present in their natural setting. It does not manipulate variables as is the case in experimental research and descriptive research in psychology instead it is engaged in the observation and measurement in the field. Below are the key features which define descriptive research.

Non-Experimental Approach

Descriptive research does not include case study in descriptive research the manipulation of variables. Instead it reports what is seen in the natural setting and is best for looking at present conditions without which external factors are introduced.

Quantitative with Qualitative Elements

While usually a quantitative field, in descriptive research we also see the use of qualitative data which in turn gives us a better, more fully detailed picture of the issue at hand. This also gives it a greater scope of insight.

Types of Descriptive Research: Explained with Examples

Descriptive research comes in many descriptive research methodology forms which are based on the study’s objective and the type of data which is to be collected. We see three primary types of descriptive research observational, survey, and case study which each put forth different methods of data collection. Also included are examples of each type.

Observational Research

In natural settings is the setting in which we find observational research. For instance researchers may note down the actions of students in a classroom or how they interact with each other which in turn provides us with very useful information related to the real world.

Survey Research

Survey research which puts out structured questionnaires to large groups of people. This type of research is efficient at getting info from a wide population at a fast rate for instance in what public opinion on social issues we see.

Common Methods Used in Descriptive Research

Descriptive research includes a wide range of data collection methods. Surveys which are very common we use which include when to use descriptive research structured questionnaires with open and closed ended questions. We also do observations which is a method for researchers to note behaviours and actions without which they are not involved. For sure we do interviews what is descriptive research may be structured or unstructured which gives us more in depth personal perspectives.

When and How to Use Descriptive Research?

Descriptive research is best for when a researcher is looking to report on features, actions, or states as they exist advantages of descriptive research without changing them. It also is very useful for baseline studies, market research, or demographic research.

Advantages and Limitations of Descriptive Research

Descriptive research is a useful approach in which we collect and analyse data which in turn gives us insight into real world descriptive research examples issues without us changing around variables. It is also a fact that this method of research has its pros and cons.

Quick and Cost-Effective

Descriptive research is a low cost and fast option which in turn is seen in the online surveys or pre-existing data’s use. Also it is a very good choice for researchers working with a small budget or tight schedule.

Clear and Detailed Insights

It is a clear picture of a topic which in turn presents in depth details of a population or situation that is at hand. This also allows descriptive research design researchers to study issues as they present in the real world.

Descriptive vs. Exploratory vs. Experimental Research

Descriptive, exploratory, and experimental research are all very much a part of the research process, but they do so in very different ways. In fact, these types of research have different aims and methods. By understanding what each of these is about, you are better able to choose types of descriptive research to choose which the best fit for your research goals is.

Descriptive Research

Descriptive research reports on what is present and what characterizes a population or a phenomenon at the present time. It does not test descriptive vs exploratory research theories or put forth predictions, but instead it gives an in depth picture of the present state.

Exploratory Research

In the past we have used exploratory research for issues which had little known information at the time, also it is a way for researchers to put forth new ideas or hypotheses. It is a very flexible descriptive research methods approach which is open ended in nature, we use it to look into a topic in great detail without putting forth predetermined variables which in turn leads to more in depth study.

Experimental Research

In experiment design hypotheses are put to test by the manipulation of one or more variables which in turn we see to what degree they produce causation. Also as opposed to descriptive or exploratory characteristics of descriptive research which is put out to see what we are looking at, experimental research is to prove cause and effect through the control of variables and use of control groups.

Real-Life Applications of Descriptive Research

Descriptive research is a key element in many real life settings. In education we see it out in use in evaluation of student performance, instructional methods, or which the classroom environment is performing. In health care it is used for issues like disease prevalence, treatment results, or patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

Descriptive research is a very useful tool which reports as is the present state of variables without intervention. It gives out structured, factual, and at large clear insights which in turn support descriptive research definition better and more in depth understanding and which also play a key role in decision making.