Welcome to Pre-seeds (Research 101)!


  • This course is beginner-friendly and community-rooted.
  • You don’t need a research background to get started.
  • Learning is nonlinear, and that’s okay.

Episode 1.1: Introduction to research: What is research?


  • Research is a systematic, logical, and evidence-based process for asking and answering questions about the world.
  • It differs from opinion or belief because it relies on data, critical thinking, and clear methodology.
  • Good research is replicable, objective, and empirical—others should be able to follow your steps and understand your conclusions.
  • Research serves various purposes: it can explore new topics, describe conditions, explain relationships, or solve real-world problems.

Episode 1.2: The research process: Steps involved in conducting research


Episode 1.3: How is Research Classified?


  • Research can be classified by purpose, methodology, design, goal, focus, timeframe, and data source.
  • These labels guide methodological choices and clarify how findings should be interpreted.
  • Most real studies blend several categories; classifications are tools, not rigid boxes.
  • Recognising the map of research types prepares you to plan and communicate your own projects.

Episode 1.4: Types of Research I: Basic, Applied; Quantitative, Qualitative


  • Basic research builds theory; applied research solves problems.
  • Quantitative research answers “how much” with numbers.
  • Qualitative research answers “why” with stories and context.
  • Mixed methods combine the strengths of both.
  • Descriptive research tells you what’s happening without changing anything.
  • Experimental research tests cause and effect by manipulating variables.

Episode 1.5: Strengths, Limitations, and Applications of Research Types


  • Each type of research—basic, applied, descriptive, experimental, qualitative, and quantitative—has unique strengths and limitations.
  • Complex problems benefit from mixed methods that draw on multiple types.
  • Being intentional about research type improves clarity, coherence, and usefulness of findings.
  • Different disciplines apply research types in different ways, tailored to their questions and practices.