What type of research includes systematic observations often used to formulate hypotheses?

Basic research is designed to advance foundational knowledge without immediate practical application. It often involves systematic observations that help researchers understand underlying principles and formulate hypotheses for further investigation. By focusing on fundamental concepts, basic research lays the groundwork for eventual applied research. It is not aimed at solving specific, practical problems, but rather at expanding our understanding of phenomena through careful observation and analysis. This contrasts with other research types, such as qualitative research, which emphasizes exploring complex phenomena through subjective insights, or applied research, which seeks to solve specific problems using existing theories. Mixed methods research combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches, but it does not specifically focus on the systematic observation aspect tied to hypothesis formulation like basic research does.