Empirical research
Empirical research refers to a research approach whose basis is experience and observation; thus, it is reliable, testable, verifiable, replicable, and experimental. On the other hand, applied research refers to studies formulated for purposes of generating information that will be used to address practical questions. There are particular vital aspects of the research process that definitive in both empirical and applied research. These are research design, sampling, data collection, and internal and external validity.
Internal validity in a research problem refers to the authenticity of the research proposition regarding the relationship that exists between various formulated research constructs. The relationship between various variables that are used to test a research proposition is termed as causality. On the other hand, the external validity in a study refers to the applicability or generalizability of the observed outcomes in a survey, in the broader population that the research had targeted. Empirical study approaches are employed in applied research. However, when empirical research is done in the primary context, the internal validity in the study may be higher than in the context of applied research. However, since applied research may be targeting huge populations, the external validity of applied research is likely to be higher than that of an empirical study at a basic level.
Construct validity refers to the formulation of concepts that research intends to use to creates its research propositions and thus address the subject of the study. In empirical research at a basic level, the research constructs are simplistic and easily measurable with mathematical and statistical tools. On the other hand, applied research may employ complex and sophisticated research constructs. For instance, professionals and scholars in social sciences may carry out studies using behavioral constructs such as empathy and organizational commitment, which are not the only relative in their meaning, but also challenging to measure.
Empirical research and applied research can employ many research approaches such as experimental research, non-experimental research, case research, focus groups, and action research designs. However, for applied research, the specific context of the study is essential in informing the research design. For instance, for business research that involves examining consumer behavior in vast populations, non-experimental research designs such as field surveys are most appropriate. On the other hand, in scientific disciplines such as medicine and engineering, experimental research designs may be the most suitable research designs. Subsequently, the sampling techniques used in both empirical and applied research is dependent on the specific study context.