The pure and applied research are two types of scientific research. Research is a process through which it is possible to acquire knowledge about any natural or human phenomenon.
Human phenomena multiply due to the rapid social, economic and technological changes of modern times. These phenomena are cause and effect of new inventions and discoveries in the different areas of man.
Research has two main roles. On the one hand, it contributes to the general foundation of knowledge. But also, it helps to solve many complex problems in society.
Taking into account its utility and objectives, there are certain distinctions between pure and applied research
Although pure and applied research tend to be carried out in isolation, they are not necessarily dichotomous. Pure research often leads to practical applications.
Likewise, applied research sometimes acts as a foundation for further theoretical research.
Pure research
Pure research is also known as basic or fundamental research. It is exploratory in nature and carried out with no practical end use in mind.
It is often driven by a scientist's interest, curiosity, or intuition in a scientific question.
Its objective is to advance knowledge and identify or explain the relationships between variables. That is, their main motivation is to expand the knowledge of man, not create or invent something.
For example, in this line are the studies concerning natural phenomena or those related to pure mathematics. His primary concern is generalizations and theory formulation.
Some examples of the questions posed from this modality can be:
- What is the origin of man?
- What is the specific genetic code of mosquitoes?
- When and why did the dinosaurs become extinct?
Pure research can provide a basis for other, sometimes applied research.
Many scientists argue that pure research should be done first, and from there comes the applied derivations.
Applied research
In general, applied research is carried out to solve specific and practical problems or questions.
This seeks to find a solution to a problem in society or an organization. That is, it is designed to solve practical problems in the modern world, rather than to acquire knowledge for knowledge alone.
It tends to be descriptive rather than exploratory, and is very often based on pure research. Even, on many occasions, the dividing line between these two modalities is not very clear.
For example, applied research can conduct studies to improve the production and performance of dairy products, treat or cure an epidemic, or improve the efficiency of certain industrial processes.
Since its purpose is to improve the human condition, many scientists believe that there should be more emphasis on this kind of research.
References
- Misra, RP (1989). Research Methodology: a handbook. New Delhi: Concept Publishing Company.
- Silipigni Connaway, L. and Powell, RR (2010). Basic Research Methods for Librarians. Westport: Greenwood Publishing Group.
- University of Southampton. (s / f). Types of research. Retrieved on December 20, 2017, from erm.ecs.soton.ac.uk
- San José State University. (s / f). Basic vs. Applied Research. Retrieved on December 20, 2017, from sjsu.edu
- Kothari, CR (2004). Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques. Delhi: New Age International.