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Descriptive Rese

Descriptive research is a research design focused on accurately describing the characteristics of a population or phenomenon as it exists, without manipulating variables. Its objectives include measuring trends and supporting decision-making, using methods like surveys and observations. While it is simple and cost-effective, it has limitations such as not explaining cause-effect relationships and limited depth of analysis.

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7 views1 page

Descriptive Rese

Descriptive research is a research design focused on accurately describing the characteristics of a population or phenomenon as it exists, without manipulating variables. Its objectives include measuring trends and supporting decision-making, using methods like surveys and observations. While it is simple and cost-effective, it has limitations such as not explaining cause-effect relationships and limited depth of analysis.

Uploaded by

karthigav89
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCH – NOTES

1. Meaning / Definition Descriptive research is a type of research design that


describes the characteristics of a population, situation, or phenomenon as it
exists at present. Definition (Exam-friendly): Descriptive research is
concerned with what is, not why it happens. It aims to provide an accurate
description of variables without manipulating them.
2. Objectives of Descriptive Research To describe characteristics of a
population or group To measure frequency, percentage, and trends To
understand who, what, when, where, and how To support decision-making
To provide a base for future causal research
3. Nature / Features Structured and systematic Mostly quantitative in nature
Uses large samples No control over variables Results are expressed in
numbers, tables, and charts
4. Types of Descriptive Research (a) Cross-Sectional Study Data collected at one
point in time Example: Customer satisfaction survey conducted once (b)
Longitudinal Study Data collected over a period of time Example: Studying
brand loyalty for 3 years
5. Methods Used in Descriptive Research Survey method Questionnaire
Observation Case study Secondary data analysis
6. Tools for Data Collection Structured questionnaires Rating scales (Likert
scale) Checklists Observation schedules
7. Variables in Descriptive Research Independent variables (age, income,
gender) Dependent variables (satisfaction, preference, usage) 👉 Variables
are measured, not manipulated.
8. Example A company conducts a survey to measure customer satisfaction
level regarding its product using a questionnaire. Population: Customers
Tool: Questionnaire Output: Percentage of satisfied customers
9. Advantages Simple and easy to conduct Cost-effective Useful for large
populations Provides clear statistical results Helps in planning and policy
formulation
[Link] Does not explain cause-effect relationship Possibility of response
bias Limited depth of analysis Cannot predict future behavior accurately
[Link] (Simple Exam Diagram) Copy code

Population ↓ Data Collection (Survey) ↓ Data Analysis ↓ Description of Results

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