The Role of Research in Solving Real-World Problems
Research has an important role to play in solving real-world problems. This is because it enables researchers to combine creativity and knowledge in order to find solutions for societal problems.
For example, it enables big firms to evolve new products and expand the scope of existing ones in their respective markets. This is important because it helps to increase profit and market share.
Applied Research
Applied research is the process of developing and implementing solutions for real-world problems. Examples of applied research include improving educational practices, creating new medical treatments, and finding innovative technology.
Unlike basic or fundamental research, applied research is designed to solve real-world problems. This helps researchers develop their creative and innovative skills.
For example, applied research can help business analysts determine if economic and financial trends might impact their company’s future. It also allows them to suggest new ways to collect customer data.
It is used by businesses to design products that match the needs and preferences of target market customers. It can also help them identify skill gaps in the workplace and create more efficient and effective hiring processes.
Applied research is typically less expensive than Basic Research and can be conducted more quickly. It is also more unbiased in that it relies on empirical evidence rather than theories to find valid research outcomes. It uses carefully mapped-out procedures to ensure that results are valid.
Basic Research
Basic research is a form of scientific research that is focused on the expansion and improvement of knowledge. It is often considered a key element in the advancement of scientific theories and technological innovations.
Applied research, on the other hand, is a form of research that seeks to apply scientific methods to solving specific problems. It also aims to deliver practical applications that can improve human well-being.
It is important to note that both types of research have similitudes, but they differ based on the reason, setting, nature, results and targets.
In the context of a military acquisition, basic research is part of Budget Activity (BA) 1 within an RDT&E appropriation account that funds scientific study and experimentation directed toward increasing fundamental knowledge and understanding in those fields of the physical, engineering, environmental, and life sciences related to long-term national security needs. It typically involves program elements (PE) that are pre-Milestone A efforts.
Multidisciplinary Research
Multidisciplinary research is a method of solving any problem by using the knowledge of various disciplines. It minimizes the chances of ‘biasness’ and’monotonous’ results because it includes all aspects of the problem.
The nature of today’s problems is such that a solution to them cannot be obtained in isolation. In this way, they are prone to overlap and therefore need the help of other disciplines.
The concept of interdisciplinary research has emerged as a result of the need for broader approaches to research, incorporating the knowledge of multiple disciplines. According to a National Academies report, Facilitating Interdisciplinary Research, interdisciplinary research “integrates information, data, techniques, tools, perspectives, concepts, and/or theories from two or more disciplines to advance fundamental understanding or to solve problems whose solutions are beyond the scope of a single discipline.”
Interdisciplinary Research
Interdisciplinary research is the practice of using multiple disciplinary perspectives to tackle complex problems. This approach can lead to new areas of inquiry and help researchers find solutions to real-world issues.
In the context of disasters and hazards, interdisciplinary research can be especially important because it allows researchers to better understand the nature of a problem or how to solve it. This is particularly important when the hazard or disaster is beyond the capabilities of one discipline alone, such as hurricanes.
However, interdisciplinary research is not without its challenges. It can require a great deal of time and effort for the individual researcher to translate his or her disciplinary perspective into simple concepts and be open to learning from other researchers. These obstacles can be overcome when a team is willing to engage in a collaborative process, which may involve a range of activities such as joint presentations and discussions, and face-to-face meetings.