What is research Gap | What are the different types of Research Gaps in Literature

 

A research gap is a question or issue that has not been adequately addressed in the existing research on a particular topic. It is a gap in the current knowledge or understanding of a subject that needs to be filled through further research. Research gaps can be identified by reviewing the existing literature on a particular topic and identifying areas where there is a lack of information, understanding, or consensus.

Identifying research gaps is an important step in the research process because it helps researchers to focus their efforts and make a meaningful contribution to their field of study. By addressing research gaps, researchers can contribute new knowledge and understanding to their field and help to advance the state of knowledge on a particular topic.

According to Miles (2017) there may be seven different types of research gaps in Literature

Research gap,Different types of research gap,how to find research gap,

  

1. Evidence Gap 

    An evidence gap in research refers to a lack of research evidence on a particular topic or question. Evidence gaps can arise for a variety of reasons, such as a lack of research on the topic, a lack of attention to a particular aspect of the topic, or a lack of current, relevant research. Identifying evidence gaps is an important step in the research process because it helps researchers to focus their efforts and make a meaningful contribution to their field of study. By identifying and addressing evidence gaps, researchers can contribute new evidence and understanding to their field and help to advance the state of knowledge on a particular topic.

2. Knowledge gap

A knowledge gap in research refers to an area of study or topic where there is a lack of information or understanding. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including a lack of research on the topic, difficulty in accessing or collecting data, or a lack of funding for research. Knowledge gaps can be identified through a review of the existing literature on a topic, or by identifying areas where there are conflicting or contradictory findings.

 3. Empirical gap

An empirical research gap refers to a lack of research or studies on a particular topic or issue. It is a gap in the existing empirical evidence or data on a subject, and it may be identified by researchers when they are conducting a literature review of existing research in a field. Identifying an empirical research gap can be an important step in the research process, as it can help researchers to identify areas where more research is needed and to focus their efforts on filling that gap. Empirical research is research that is based on data or observations, rather than on theory or speculation, so an empirical research gap is a gap in the available data or evidence on a particular topic. 

4. Theoretical gap

A theoretical gap in research refers to a lack of a clear and well-established theoretical framework or understanding of a particular topic or issue within a field of study. It is a gap in the existing theoretical knowledge on a subject, and it may be identified by researchers when they are conducting a literature review of existing research in a field. Identifying a theoretical gap in research can be an important step in the research process, as it can help researchers to identify areas where more research is needed and to focus their efforts on developing a more robust and comprehensive theoretical understanding of the topic. Theoretical gaps in research can often be addressed through the development of new theories or the expansion or modification of existing theories to better understand and explain the phenomenon under study.  

5. Population gap

A population gap in research refers to a lack of research or studies on a particular group or population. It is a gap in the existing research or data on a particular group, and it may be identified by researchers when they are conducting a literature review of existing research in a field. Identifying a population gap in research can be an important step in the research process, as it can help researchers to identify areas where more research is needed and to focus their efforts on studying and understanding the experiences, needs, and characteristics of the underrepresented group. Population gaps in research can often arise due to a lack of representation of certain groups in research studies, which may be due to a variety of factors such as access to research opportunities, cultural or language barriers, or historical or systemic biases. 

6. Methodology gap

In research, a methodology gap refers to a difference or discrepancy between the methods that are used to collect data and the methods that are described or reported in the research study. This gap can occur for a variety of reasons, such as the researcher failing to fully explain or describe the methods used, or the researcher using methods that are not appropriate or valid for the research question being studied.

Methodology gaps can be problematic because they can lead to a lack of transparency and reproducibility in research. If the methods used in a study are not clearly described, it can be difficult for other researchers to understand how the data were collected and analyzed, and it may be difficult or impossible to replicate the study. This can undermine the credibility and reliability of the research findings.

To avoid methodology gaps in research, it is important for researchers to clearly and accurately describe the methods they used in their studies, including any sampling procedures, data collection instruments, and data analysis techniques. This helps to ensure that the research is transparent, reproducible, and can be critically evaluated by others. 

7. Practical knowledge Gap

A practical knowledge gap in research refers to a lack of understanding or expertise in the practical aspects of conducting research. This can include a lack of familiarity with research methods and techniques, a lack of experience with research design and data analysis, or a lack of knowledge about ethical considerations in research.

Practical knowledge gaps can have significant impacts on the quality and validity of research findings. If a researcher lacks the necessary practical skills or knowledge, they may make mistakes or use inappropriate methods that compromise the accuracy of the research. This can lead to incorrect or misleading conclusions being drawn from the data, which can have serious implications for the field of study and for decision-making based on the research.

To address practical knowledge gaps in research, researchers can seek training and education in research methods and techniques, work with experienced mentors or advisors, and seek feedback from colleagues on their research plans and methods. It is also important for researchers to stay up-to-date on best practices and developments in the field, and to be aware of ethical considerations in research.

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