Discuss the different types of engineering research. Clearly point out the differences between all of them with examples.
Answer:-
The different types of research are
(i) Descriptive versus Analytical: Descriptive research includes comparative and correlational methods, and fact-finding inquiries, to effectively describe the present state of art. The researcher holds no control over the variables; rather only reports as it is. Descriptive research also includes attempts to determine causes even though the variables cannot be controlled. On the contrary, in analytical research, already available facts for analysis and critical evaluation are utilized. Some research studies can be both descriptive and analytical.
(ii) Applied versus Fundamental: Research can either be applied research or funda- mental (basic or pure) research. Applied research seeks to solve an immediate problem facing the organization, whereas fundamental research is concerned with generalizations and formulation of a theory. Research concerning natural phenomena or relating to pure mathematics are examples of fundamental research. Research to identify social or economic trends, or those that find out whether certain communications will be read and understood are examples of applied research. The primary objective of applied research is to determine a solution for compelling problems in actual practice, while basic research is aimed at seeking information which could have a broad base of applications in the medium to long term.
(iii) Quantitative versus Qualitative: Quantitative research uses statistical observations of a sufficiently large number of representative cases to draw any conclusions, while qualitative researchers rely on a few nonrepresentative cases or verbal narrative in behavioral studies such as clustering effect in intersections in Transportation engineering to make a proposition.