Introduction to Research Methods

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary goal of applied research?

To test existing theories

To develop new theories

To find practical solutions to immediate problems (correct)

To explore abstract ideas and concepts

Which type of research relies heavily on observation and experience?

Qualitative

Fundamental

Empirical (correct)

Conceptual

What is the difference between quantitative and qualitative research?

Quantitative research uses statistical analysis, while qualitative research uses interviews and observations. (correct)

Quantitative research is objective, while qualitative research is subjective.

Quantitative research focuses on numbers, while qualitative research deals with opinions.

Quantitative research investigates relationships, while qualitative research examines causes and effects.

Which of the following is NOT a step in the research process?

Conducting an experiment Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between a research problem related to states of nature and one related to relationships between variables?

States of nature problems focus on observations, while relationships between variables problems focus on connections. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these best describes the purpose of an extensive literature survey in research?

To identify existing research on the topic and understand the gap in knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

Which step in the research process involves analyzing the collected data to identify patterns and trends?

Analysis of data Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to generalize and interpret the findings of a research study?

To apply the findings to a wider population or context. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important characteristic of a nominal scale?

It assigns numbers to categories for identification purposes only. Signup and view all the answers

Which measurement scale is characterized by having an absolute zero point?

Ratio scale Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic that differentiates an ordinal scale from an interval scale?

The lack of equal intervals between categories. Signup and view all the answers

Imagine a study ranking students based on their academic performance. This ranking system is an example of which measurement scale?

Ordinal scale Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following examples CANNOT be measured using a ratio scale?

The temperature of a room Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of measurement in research?

A process of assigning numbers to objects or observations based on defined rules. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good hypothesis?

It can be tested empirically Signup and view all the answers

What type of measurement scale is most appropriate for measuring a person's opinion on a specific policy?

Ordinal scale Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step a researcher must take when beginning a study?

Identifying the problem to study Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step involved in formulating a research problem?

Conducting a literature review Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes exploratory research studies?

They are used to formulate precise problems for investigation. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of good research design?

The skills of the researcher and their staff Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is NOT included in the decisions made for research design?

What conclusions will be drawn? Signup and view all the answers

What does a research design serve as for the researcher?

A blueprint for data collection and analysis Signup and view all the answers

Identifying the required data is part of which phase of research design?

Planning phase Signup and view all the answers

Why might a researcher consult with colleagues when defining a research problem?

To gain insights and expertise on the matter Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct format for lengthy quotations in a research report?

Single spaced and indented at least half an inch Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided to prevent a dull research report?

Incorporating abstract terminology and technical jargon Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is crucial for maintaining the length of a research report?

It must be short enough to maintain interest Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the tone of a well-written research report?

Objective and simple Signup and view all the answers

What should the layout of a research report reflect?

A thought-out structure according to the research problem Signup and view all the answers

What must documentation footnotes provide on first reference?

Complete facts about the edition used Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a critical technique in report writing?

Proper punctuation and use of abbreviations Signup and view all the answers

What do readers primarily seek from a research report?

A quick knowledge of main findings Signup and view all the answers

What is the main aim of research?

To uncover hidden truths and knowledge Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of research objective?

To develop a new research method Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates 'Research Methods' from 'Research Methodology'?

Methods are specific techniques used, while Methodology is the systematic approach to problem-solving. Signup and view all the answers

Which research approach involves the collection of quantifiable data?

Quantitative approach Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research focuses on describing the current state of affairs?

Descriptive research Signup and view all the answers

Which research approach is employed when analyzing existing information to make a critical evaluation?

Analytical research Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between applied and fundamental research?

Applied research aims to solve real-world problems, while fundamental research seeks to advance knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research aims to understand the relationship between two variables?

Hypothesis-testing research Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the bibliography in a research report?

To credit the sources used in the research. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following elements are included in the 'Main Text' section of a research report?

Introduction, Results, and Recommendations Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, what is the importance of presenting the research report in a well-organized manner?

To facilitate clarity and understanding for readers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of including appendices in a research report?

To provide supplementary materials that support the findings. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a bibliography and an index?

A bibliography lists all sources consulted, while an index lists concepts and terms discussed in the report. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about the importance of the 'Main Text' section of a research report by comparing it to a 'marble arch' and a 'wall of mouldering cement and loose brick'?

The 'Main Text' should be constructed with a clear and coherent structure. Signup and view all the answers

In terms of the research report, what is the main idea conveyed by the author's statement: 'Anybody, who is reading the research report, must necessarily be conveyed enough about the study so that he can place it in its general scientific context, judge the adequacy of its methods and thus form an opinion of how seriously the findings are to be taken.'?

The research report should be meticulously crafted to ensure its scientific accuracy and credibility. Signup and view all the answers

What is the author's primary goal in discussing the 'Preliminary Pages' of a research report?

To emphasize the importance of establishing a strong foundation for the research report. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Meaning of Research

Research is a systematic search for knowledge.
It's a scientific investigation of a topic or issue.
Social scientists have various definitions of research.

Objectives of Research

The main aim of research is to uncover hidden truths.
Research objectives often focus on:
- Gaining understanding of a phenomenon
- Describing characteristics of an individual, group, or situation.
- Analysing the frequency of events
- Examining the causal relationship between variables.

Research Methods vs. Methodology

Research methods refers to the specific techniques used in research.
Research methodology is the systematic way to solve research problems.
It outlines how research is conducted scientifically.

Research Approaches

There are two main approaches:
- Quantitative: involves collecting and measuring numerical data, using experimental, inferential, and simulation methods.
- Qualitative: uses subjective assessment of opinions, behaviours, and attitudes.

Types of Research

Descriptive: describes the current state of affairs in a certain situation, using surveys and fact-finding.
Analytical: critically evaluates existing information and data.
Applied: aims to find a solution to a current problem in a particular field (industry, business, society).
Fundamental: focuses on generalizations and theory formulation.
Quantitative: involves measurements and numerical data.
Qualitative: focuses on quality or kind, rather than quantity.
Conceptual: based on abstract ideas or theories.
Empirical: relies on observation and experience.

Research Process

A series of steps for effectively conducting research:
- Formulating the research problem
- Literature survey
- Developing hypothesis
- Preparing research design
- Sample selection
- Data collection
- Data analysis
- Hypothesis testing
- Generalization, interpretation, and presentation of findings.

Research Problem

A research problem is a difficulty, which a researcher experiences, that needs a solution in a theoretical or practical situation.
It's an unanswered question in a specific area that the researcher aims to answer.

Formulating a Research Problem

Understanding a problem thoroughly.
Rephrasing the concern in a meaningful and analytical approach.

Research Design

The blueprint for research, outlining the structure for data collection and analysis.
A research design clarifies the procedure for conducting the research.
It needs to consider how decisions are made, the study's context, and the reasons for a situation.

Research Design: Different Types

Exploratory: Formulates specific research questions and develops hypotheses.
Descriptive: Characterizes situations, occurrences, and relationships.
Diagnostic: Determines the causes of specific events, circumstances, and occurrences.
Hypothesis-testing: Examines relationships between variables.

Features of a Good Research Design

Means of obtaining information, skills of the researcher and staff, objective of the problem, nature of the problem, and availability of time and resources.

Research Hypothesis

A predicative statement about the relationship between dependent and independent variables, tested scientifically.
It helps determine if findings support or reject an assumption.

Measurement in Research

Measurement involves assigning numbers to objects or events based on specific rules.
Scales commonly used include nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio scales.

Sources of Error in Measurement

Respondent issues (reluctance, misunderstanding).
Situational factors (environment, interviewer influence).
Measurer errors (rewording questions, biased decisions)
Errors in instruments (ambiguous questions, poor design).

Sampling (Unit 3)

A predetermined number of observations from a larger population.
Census: A complete count of all items
Sample survey: A representative subset of a population.
Steps in Sample Design:
- Identifying the universe of interest.
- Selecting appropriate sampling units.
- Creating a relevant source list.
- Determining sample size.

Characteristics of a Good Sample Design

Accuracy and Representativeness
Small Sampling Error
Viability within available resources
Control over bias
Generalizability

Processing and Analysis of Data

Data processing involves editing, coding, classifying, and tabulating collected data to prepare for analysis.
Data analysis involves computations and discovering relationships between different groups of data.

Interpretation and Report Writing

Interpretation involves drawing conclusions from analysed data.
Report writing involves communicating research findings to others clearly and effectively.
Techniques of interpretation often involve interpreting relations and consulting experts.
Precautions in Interpretation : Avoid False Generalizations.
Significance of writing a Research Report: A means of effectively transmitting findings.

Layout of the Research Report

Preliminary Pages: Acknowledgements, table of contents, lists of tables/figures
Main Text: Introduction, findings, recommendations, results, summary
End Matter: Appendices, bibliography, index
Writing Styles in Report : Technical reporting or popular reporting based on target audience and scope.

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Description

This quiz explores the fundamental concepts of research, including its definition, objectives, and the distinction between research methods and methodology. Additionally, it covers the primary research approaches: quantitative and qualitative. Test your understanding of these essential aspects of research.