Choices in social science research design

Abstract

Social scientists have traditionally made distinctions between theoretical research, policy oriented and applied research. Broadly, the concern of theoretical or ‘pure’ research is with the advancement of knowledge, and tends to be unidisciplinary. It primarily seeks legitimation from the academic community. Policy oriented research is directed towards outcomes, and reflects organizational aims and objectives. Here, research is perceived as action, to assist informed decision-making, implementation and evaluation. Its main audience are the policy makers, those who take decisions at strategic levels and other similar groupings. Applied research is theoretically based, but oriented to specific problems which can be research driven or instigated by policy makers. It has the purpose of extending knowledge in one particular area of social problematic, and as a result appeals to both academics and policy makers.