Definition:
Exploratory research is used when the problem at hand is not defined. To be more precise, this research are used to better understand the subject (what, why, and how) and is not usually used for drawing conclusions. This type of research often starts with a general idea or theory and explores the issue by doing research. Such research usually produces qualitative data, but in certain cases, quantitative data can be obtained using surveys and experiments.
Types of exploratory research methods:
There are two general methods for conducting exploratory research: primary research and secondary research. The data collected from this research can be quantitative or qualitative.
Primary research: includes data collected directly from individuals or groups. Primary data collection is done through surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observation.
Secondary research: includes collecting data from primary research conducted in the past. Collecting secondary data is done through an online search, research literature (newspapers, magazines, books, documents of government organizations, etc.), and case studies.
Steps to conduct exploratory research:
Problem Identification: The problem and questions are identified.
Create the hypothesis: Based on the created questions, the hypothesis is formed.
Conducting further research: relevant data is collected to ensure the validity or rejection of the hypothesis.
Advantages:
- Flexibility (can adapt to changes in research.)
- low cost
- Help do more research
Limitations:
- If the research is secondary, there is a possibility that the data is old.
- It usually has a small sample and therefore. it is difficult to generalize the data to a larger population.
- Exploratory research is often qualitative., and data analysis can be associated with partiality and bias.
