Difference Between Basic Research vs Applied Research
Almost all our lives, we have been doing lots of research not only for scholarly or academic purposes but for personal reasons as well. Every time we look up an unfamiliar word in the dictionary, it is a type of research. We apply the scientific method of asking ourselves a query, gathering facts, developing a hypothesis and testing it, and arriving at a conclusion.
When we try to find out what battery type works best with solar panels, it is another kind of research. These two instances can describe what the two types of research are—basic and applied. Want to know the difference between basic research vs applied research? We will tell you more about it, so read on.
Definition of Basic Research
Basic research is a kind of exploration that aims to gain cognition on distinct topics or fields of study. We usually do this whenever we get curious about certain things and to help us reach a greater cognizance of what is going on in the world. We tend to make use of various resources like encyclopedias, the internet, and other types of materials.
Another term that this type of research is recognized for is fundamental or pure research. This pattern of examination is usually on a good-to-know basis, meaning it does not help in laying out solutions to common day-to-day issues that affect everyone. Instead, it aims to shed light on things that we have very little or no knowledge of.
One good example of this takes place when we check how an object like an electric fan works or how a phenomenon like thunder occurs. Between basic research vs applied research, the former is often very useful to the latter.
The information gathered through pure research can be utilized in applied investigation by providing an initial topic for fact finding. In conclusion, these two approaches in investigation are interconnected and are both employed in scientific and technology-related advancements.
Definition of Applied Research
Applied research is explained as a fact-finding strategy that prioritizes solving daily life problems or issues that people often encounter. Its main goal is not only to extract solutions but also to make advancements in technology as well, hoping to make our lives easier.
So, if we think about it and differentiate applied vs basic research, the dissimilarity is that the former targets practicality while the latter is theoretical.
What this means is that this approach zooms in on pragmatic experimentation. To elaborate, a great example of this strategy occurs when we research how we can lessen our carbon footprint on the atmosphere and what technology we can use to put this into action. There are three main components of this research: evaluation, development, and action.
Evaluation is used to study existing sets of data or information on a certain subject to come up with a decision. Development helps in creating products or services based on targeted needs. Finally, action aims to come up with real solutions to everyday issues.
Main Differences Between Basic Research vs Applied Research
If you are still confused about the difference between basic and applied research, this simple table of comparison should aid in finding the dissimilarities.
| Basis of Comparison | Basic Research | Applied Research |
| Definition | Emphasizes collecting basic and theoretical knowledge of concepts, phenomena, and other objects that exist in the universe | Intends to find practical remedies for day-to-day problems to make lives easier |
| Application | Conceptual | Pragmatic |
| Usage | General | Targeted |
| Objective | Pure and basic gathering of facts and figures | Focuses on scientific problem-solving to conceive or enhance technology |
Difference Between Basic Research vs Applied Research: Conclusion
Research has always been a big part of our lives. Without it, we would not be able to discover a lot of things in the universe. We may not have gained insights on the many things that we all know and take for granted now, and we probably would not have every single piece of technology that aids us in living normally.
What is even more important is that research has helped us obtain expertise on curing various diseases and illnesses that used to all be terminal. In conclusion, if you need a better understanding of the world and everything that is in it, why not do your own investigation and be amazed?
