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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Research and Problem Solving?

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Research and problem-solving are two distinct processes that can sometimes be confused, although they share a common factor: the problem. The key difference between research and problem-solving lies in their objectives and approaches.

Research:

  • Aims to expand knowledge or understanding.
  • Involves gathering data and analyzing it to answer a research problem.
  • Conducted in both natural and social sciences.
  • The research problem is more rigorous and broader in scope.
  • The first step is to identify a proper research problem.

Problem-Solving:

  • Aims to address specific issues or obstacles.
  • Focuses on finding a solution to an already identified problem.
  • Involves identifying the root cause of a problem, generating possible solutions, evaluating those solutions, and implementing the best course of action.
  • The problem to be solved is less rigorous and less broad.

In summary, while both research and problem-solving involve solving problems, research is focused on expanding knowledge or understanding, whereas problem-solving is centered on addressing specific issues or obstacles. The processes and objectives of each approach are different, with research being more focused on data gathering and analysis, and problem-solving being more focused on identifying and implementing solutions to identified problems.

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  • What is the Difference Between Research and Problem Solving?
  • Comparative Table: Research vs Problem Solving

    • Comparative Table: Research vs Problem Solving

    Research and problem-solving are two distinct processes that can be easily confused, but they have key differences. Here is a table comparing the two:

    Aspect Research Problem Solving
    Definition Systematic investigation or study to establish facts, principles, or generalizable knowledge Process of finding solutions to specific problems or issues
    Nature Scientific May not always be scientific
    Process Begins with identifying the research problem and ends with analyzing data to answer the research problem Begins with defining the problem and implementing the identified strategy or solution
    Sampling Requires a sample for data collection May or may not require a sample
    Focus Gathering information to answer the research problem Identifying and evaluating possible solutions to a specific problem
    Methodology Develops methods and techniques based on research questions and objectives Creates strategies or solutions tailored to the specific problem
    Data Gathers data to test hypotheses and answer research questions Analyzes and evaluates data to determine the most effective solution
    Outcome Presents research findings in a report or publication Implements the identified solution and evaluates its effectiveness

    In summary, research is a systematic investigation or study that aims to establish facts, principles, or generalizable knowledge, while problem-solving is a process focused on finding solutions to specific problems or issues.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.