Empirical research is based on observed and measured phenomena and derives knowledge from actual experience rather than from theory or belief.
How do you know if a study is empirical? Read the subheadings within the article, book, or report and look for a description of the research "methodology." Ask yourself: Could I recreate this study and test these results?
Key characteristics to look for:
- Specific research questions to be answered
- Definition of the population, behavior, or phenomena being studied
- Description of the process used to study this population or phenomena, including selection criteria, controls, and testing instruments (such as surveys)
These articles typically have 4 components:
- Introduction: sometimes called "literature review" -- what is currently known about the topic -- usually includes a theoretical framework and/or discussion of previous studies
- Methodology: sometimes called "research design" -- how to recreate the study -- usually describes the population, research process, and analytical tools
- Results: sometimes called "findings" -- what was learned through the study -- usually appears as statistical data or as substantial quotations from research participants
- Discussion: sometimes called "conclusion" or "implications" -- why the study is important -- usually describes how the research results influence professional practices or future studies
Characteristics of an Empirical Article:
- Empirical articles will include charts, graphs, or statistical analysis.
- Empirical research articles are usually substantial, maybe from 8-30 pages long.
- There is always a bibliography found at the end of the article.
Databases that contain empirical research: (selected list only)
- Sociological Abstracts 1963 - present
- Academic Search Premier add these words to your search terms:
method* or research or research design or survey* or data or result*
- JSTOR (Multidisciplinary)
- PsycINFO limit your searches by Form/Content Type to Empirical Study
- ERIC (Education)
To further focus your search, try adding one of the following terms to your search (try different combinations):
- study
- methodology (or method)
- empirical
- research
- results
- participants
- qualitative or quantitative
- observation
- interview
- case study
- survey
- longitudinal study
