Types of Research: Classification, Methods & Applications

TAKEAWAYS:

• Research is classified into six types based on purpose, scope, and methodology, each suited to different problems (e.g., exploratory for Daraz’s customer behavior, evaluative for NTC’s network performance).
• Qualitative vs. quantitative methods differ in data type (text vs. numbers), tools (interviews vs. surveys), and analysis (themes vs. statistics).
• Mixed-methods research combines both approaches for deeper insights (e.g., studying Pathao driver satisfaction with surveys and interviews).
• Real-world ties: eSewa uses applied research to improve digital payment security; Ncell applies descriptive research to track call-drop rates; Daraz employs explanatory research to analyze order delays.
• Exam focus: Expect classification tables, methodology comparisons, and case-study applications (e.g., "How would you design research for Kathmandu’s traffic congestion?").

1. Definitions and Classification of Research Types

Research is systematically conducted to answer questions, solve problems, or contribute to knowledge. The six primary types are categorized based on:

• Purpose (why the research is done),
• Scope (breadth of investigation),
• Methodology (how data is collected/analyzed).

Worked Example: Research Types in Nepal

2. Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research: Key Differences

The methodology (how data is collected/analyzed) defines whether research is qualitative (text-based, exploratory) or quantitative (numeric, confirmatory).

IMAGE: Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data Collection Tools

Caption: Qualitative methods (left) rely on open-ended data, while quantitative (right) uses structured metrics.

Worked Example: Mixed-Methods in Action

Problem: Why do Daraz customers abandon carts?

• Quantitative: Survey 1,000 users → 60% cite "high shipping costs."
• Qualitative: Interview 10 abandoned-cart users → Reveal hidden frustration with unclear delivery timelines.
• Insight: Shipping cost and transparency are critical → Daraz redesigns its checkout page.

3. Real-World Applications: How Companies Use Research Types

A. eSewa: Applied + Evaluative Research

Problem: Fraudulent transactions increased by 25% in 2023. Research Design:

1. Descriptive: Analyzed transaction logs to identify fraud patterns (quantitative).
2. Explanatory: Conducted interviews with fraudsters (qualitative) to understand motives.
3. Evaluative: Tested a new OTP verification system → Fraud dropped by 40%.

Caption: eSewa’s applied research directly improves security.

B. NTC: Descriptive + Applied Research

Problem: Internet speeds fluctuate unpredictably in Pokhara. Methods:

• Descriptive: Mapped speed tests across neighborhoods (quantitative).
• Applied: Partnered with universities to test signal interference from power lines (qualitative). Outcome: NTC rerouted fiber cables → 30% speed improvement.

C. Pathao: Exploratory + Explanatory Research

Problem: Driver retention rate is 50% annually. Methods:

• Exploratory: Held focus groups with drivers to uncover pain points (qualitative).
• Explanatory: Analyzed ride data to correlate low earnings with traffic zones (quantitative). Insight: Drivers in Thapathali earn 30% less due to congestion → Pathao introduced "traffic bonuses."

4. When to Use Which Type? Decision Flowchart

Example Trace:

• Goal: Improve Kathmandu’s traffic flow.
  • Not theoretical → Not basic.
  • Practical → Applied.
  • Explains root causes → Explanatory.
  • Method: GPS tracking (quantitative) + driver interviews (qualitative).

5. Advantages and Limitations

6. Mixed-Methods Research: Combining Strengths

Definition: Using both qualitative and quantitative methods in a single study to triangulate findings. Why Use It?

• Complements weaknesses: Qualitative explains why; quantitative confirms how much.
• Rich data: e.g., Survey (quant) + interviews (qual) on NEPSE investor sentiment.

Example: Problem: Why do small traders avoid NEPSE’s online platform?

1. Quantitative: Survey 200 traders → 70% cite "lack of digital literacy."
2. Qualitative: Interview 10 traders → Reveal fear of scams as the real barrier.
3. Solution: NEPSE launches a trusted-partner referral program.

Exam Tip

1. Classification Tables: Memorize the six types and their real-world examples (e.g., eSewa = applied, NTC = descriptive). Examiners often ask:

   • "Classify the research conducted by Daraz to improve delivery times."
   • Answer: Exploratory (initial testing) + Explanatory (analyzing route data).

2. Methodology Comparisons: Be ready to contrast qualitative vs. quantitative with:

   • Tools (interviews vs. surveys),
   • Analysis (themes vs. statistics),
   • Example: "How would you study Pathao driver satisfaction?"
     • Qualitative: Focus groups → Themes like "low pay," "unpredictable routes."
     • Quantitative: Survey → 65% rate pay as "poor" (Likert scale).

3. Case-Study Applications: Always tie answers to Nepali contexts. For instance:

   • Question: "Design research for reducing Kathmandu traffic congestion."
   • Answer:
     • Type: Explanatory + Applied.
     • Methods:
       • Quantitative: GPS data to identify bottlenecks.
       • Qualitative: Interviews with drivers/commuters.
     • Outcome: Propose dynamic traffic light systems (like Singapore).

4. Avoid Common Mistakes:

   • ❌ Confusing descriptive (what) with explanatory (why).
   • ❌ Ignoring mixed-methods—many real-world problems require both approaches.
   • ❌ Overlooking ethics (e.g., Ncell’s data collection must comply with privacy laws).

Final Visual Summary:

mindmap
  root((Research Types))
    Basic
    Applied
      eSewa Fraud Detection
      NTC Network Optimization
    Exploratory
      Daraz AI Chatbot Testing
    Descriptive
      NEPSE Market Trends
    Explanatory
      Pathao Surge Pricing
    Evaluative
      Ncell 5G Impact Study
    Qualitative
      Interviews/Focus Groups
    Quantitative
      Surveys/Experiments
    Mixed-Methods
      Daraz Cart Abandonment Study