What type of research is described as loosely defined with a clear purpose?

Exploratory research is characterized by its loosely defined nature and is conducted with a clear purpose in mind. It is typically used to investigate a problem or a situation that is not clearly understood, allowing researchers to gather insights, identify issues, and generate hypotheses. This type of research is essential in the early stages of investigation, as it lays the groundwork for more structured forms of research by helping to clarify the objectives and refine the focus of further studies.

In exploratory research, the methodologies often include qualitative techniques such as interviews, focus groups, or open-ended surveys, which allow for a flexible approach to data collection. The objective is to gain a deeper understanding of a phenomenon rather than to quantify it, making it distinct from other research types that may rely on structured methodologies.

Overall, the loose definition of exploratory research enables it to adapt to various contexts while maintaining a clear purpose: to explore and gain insights into a specific area of interest.