Research Definition

Research isn’t simply gathering a group of facts. Research is much more complex than that. Research refers to the entire process used when discovering new ideas about a particular phenomenon. Research leads to an in depth understanding of that phenomenon through a question, a goal, a procedure and collection and interpretation of data.

            Students become more well rounded individuals through proper research techniques. Therefore, it is important that students have access to learning the research process. This will allow them to look at the world in new ways and discover new ideas. When done correctly, research can have a cycle that leads to new discoveries. The original question leads to the acquisition of data which then leads to meaningfulness. Meaningfulness is what prompts students to continue learning and building on ideas that they have discovered. This is the ultimate goal of the research process.

Leedy, Paul D.; Newby, Timothy J.; & Ertmer, Peggy A.  What is research? Retrieved on

            September 4, 2008 from http://www.geocities.com/Athens/3238/page3-15.htm.