Research Terms

1. Qualitative Research - Qualitative research is a method of inquiry employed in many different academic disciplines,
traditionally in the social sciences, but also in market research.
Quantitative Research – Is the systematic empirical investigation of observable phenomena via statistical, mathematical or
computational techniques.
Primary Research - Primary research is new research, carried out to answer specific issues or questions. It can involve
questionnaires, surveys or interviews with individuals or small groups.
Secondary Research - Secondary research involves the summary, collation and/or synthesis of existing research.
Objective Research - Something that one's efforts or actions are intended to attain or accomplish; purpose; goal; target.
Subjective Research – Is based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.
Valid Research - Of an argument or point) having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable or cogent.
Reliable - Consistently good in quality or performance; able to be trusted. A reliable person or thing.
Denotation – The surface meaning of something
Connotation – The hidden or deeper meaning and associations
Signifier – A sign's physical form (such as a sound, printed word, or image) as distinct from its meaning.
Signified - the meaning or idea expressed by a sign, as distinct from the physical form in which it is expressed.
Analogue – A device that uses mechanisms to operate. (E.g. Cassette tapes).
Digital – This method of computing is referred to as the binary system and is the heart of all the digital technology.
Synergy – Two or more platforms/corporations promoting
Personalisation – Allows the consumer to select their preferences on their TV’s mobile or internet searches.
Convergence – When a project does the same thing as other devices. (E.g. a send messages and browse the internet).
Interactivity – When the audience can become involved with the media product they are consuming.