Want to predict what is going to happen in the future? If yes, then anticipatory research is the answer. It is a type of research that is based on a predictive model and predicts the future of things. In this research, the researcher formulates a predictive model and collects data to feed into that model. It looks simple to do, but in actuality, it is not. Conducting anticipatory research requires you to have knowledge of its rules and procedures. We know that you do not know those rules, and you are here to learn about them. Well, there is no need to worry because today’s topic is all about discussing those rules. Before that, let’s define this research first.
What is the definition of anticipatory research?
Anticipatory research is one that contains a research model, and all the information is based on that model. The model is called a predictive model, and it is that model which will anticipate future happenings. The present state of the model predicts the future state. It does not only predict the future but also gives information about the causes and consequences that humans may have to bear in the future.
Anticipatory research is mostly done in the field of environmental sciences. The researchers do this research and anticipate the severity of the future environments. They anticipate this by taking the present state of the environment and putting it into the predictive model. The predictive model takes the present state data and makes future anticipations.
10 rules to follow when doing anticipatory research
After reading the information above, you now have got an idea of what this research is and where it is applicable the most. However, only a few know that to conduct this research, you have to follow some rules. The top 10 rules to follow are as follows:
Drop the modesty
The first rule is that you must drop modesty. Do not think about people. If you have made up your mind about anticipating something, go for it. When doing this, always say to yourself, “Yes, I would like to do something different and significant in my field.”
Prepare your mind
Before conducting research, it is important that you make up your mind. The reason is that anticipatory research is a lengthy task. It can take years to anticipate something accurately. Therefore, it is important that you have your mind prepared for what is coming next.
Know what to anticipate
How can you conduct this research if you do not know what to anticipate? So, before moving forward, the 3rd rule is that you must know what to anticipate. For example, you want to anticipate the climate change that is going to happen in the next 10 years. You must know what aspect of climate change you will anticipate.
Work hard on the research phase
The next rule is that you must work hard on the research phase and select only the papers which are relevant to your research topic. It is necessary because relevant information provides you with more clarity on the topic.
Formulate the predictive model
After performing all the steps mentioned above, it is time to formulate the model. You must formulate the model based on the information that you have obtained by researching the topic. Also, use out-of-sample anticipations for more generalised results.
Run a test data
The golden rule of anticipatory research is that do not run the actual data in the predictive model. First, run the test data, whose results you know, and see if the model works in the right manner. This will also allow you to check the internal validity of the model.
Code and categories data
Before running the actual test, it is important to categories and code the data. The reason is that coding makes data analysis easy. However, if you do not know how to do this, you can get dissertation help online.
Believe and doubt your model
Great researchers tolerate ambiguity in their models. So, before anticipating something, believe in your model as well as doubt it for any malfunction. If you do find a flaw in your model, keep track of it.
Be committed
Researchers who are not committed to their research seldom make good anticipations. Therefore, being conscious every time is good for your anticipatory research. The more focused you are, the more good anticipation about the future you will make.
Keep the environment calm
Lastly, when you are anticipating something, you need a quiet and calm place. You just cannot work straight by keeping yourself in the noisy company. Hence, take it as a rule and always work in a calm and peaceful environment.
Conclusion
Conclusively, these are the 10 rules for anticipatory research. As a researcher, you must ensure that you follow these rules. Without following them, forget about anticipating something about your research topic. Hence, read the rules given above and work accordingly.
