Research Methodology: An Introduction
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Define research as per the Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of Current English.

A careful investigation or inquiry specially through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge.

What are the broad groupings of research objectives?

  • Hypothesis-testing research studies (correct)
  • Diagnostic research studies (correct)
  • Exploratory research studies (correct)
  • Descriptive research studies (correct)

    • Descriptive research allows the researcher to control variables.

    False

    The purpose of __________ is to discover answers to questions through the application of scientific procedures.

    <p>research</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the type of research with its description:

    <p>Applied research = Finding a solution for an immediate problem facing a society or organization Fundamental research = Concerned with generalisations and formulation of a theory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary objective of the book 'Research Methodology'?

    <p>Both (a) and (b)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the importance of research?

    <p>The significance of research lies in its quality and not in quantity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The book is primarily intended to serve as a textbook for graduate and M.Phil.students of Research Methodology in all disciplines of various universities.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the meaning of research?

    <p>Research is a systematic and scientific approach to finding answers to a problem or question.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The need for _______________ in research is to improve the quality of research.

    <p>methodology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the chapter on 'The Computer: Its role in Research'?

    <p>To highlight the importance of computers in research</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the central aim of applied research?

    <p>To discover a solution for practical problems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Quantitative research is concerned with qualitative phenomena.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some examples of projective techniques used in qualitative research?

    <p>word association tests, sentence completion tests, story completion tests</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Conceptual research is related to abstract idea(s) or theory, while empirical research relies on ________ alone.

    <p>experience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following research types to their descriptions:

    <p>Inferential Research = Forms a data base to infer characteristics or relationships of a population Experimental Research = Involves greater control over the research environment and manipulation of variables Qualitative Research = Subjective assessment of attitudes, opinions, and behavior Historical Research = Utilizes historical sources to study events or ideas of the past</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main focus of market research?

    <p>Structural investigation and development of a market</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Operations research involves the application of artistic techniques in business problem-solving.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of motivational research?

    <p>Determining why people behave as they do</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Market analysis has become an integral tool of business policy, leading to __________ decisions.

    <p>logical and scientific</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their definitions:

    <p>Research methods = Methods/techniques used for conducting research Research methodology = Systematic approach to solving research problems Scientific method = Common philosophy guiding research methods and techniques</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Karl Pearson, what is the unity of all sciences based on?

    <p>Methods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The scientific method relies solely on empirical evidence.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the seven basic postulates on which the scientific method is based?

    <ol> <li>Relies on empirical evidence; 2. Utilizes relevant concepts; 3. Committed to only objective considerations; 4. Presupposes ethical neutrality; 5. Results into probabilistic predictions; 6. Methodology is made known for critical scrutiny and testing conclusions through replication; 7. Aims at formulating most general axioms or scientific theories.</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

    The purpose of survey investigations is to provide scientifically gathered information to work as a basis for __________.

    <p>conclusions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following steps in the research process with their descriptions:

    <p>Formulating the research problem = Single out the problem to study Extensive literature survey = Review literature related to the problem Developing the hypothesis = Prepare a proposed solution based on research problem Collecting the data = Gather information relevant to the research Analysis of data = Examine gathered data for patterns or insights</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is systematic sampling?

    <p>Selecting every nth element after a random starting point</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In stratified random sampling, items are selected from each stratum using simple random sampling.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is quota sampling?

    <p>Quota sampling is when interviewers are given a quota to be filled from different strata.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cluster sampling involves selecting ____ or clusters instead of individual elements for inclusion in the sample.

    <p>groups</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in the research process highlighted in the content?

    <p>Formulating or defining a research problem</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the statement of the objective considered of basic importance in research?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Deliberate sampling is another term for simple random sampling.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    _____ is a tentative assumption made to draw out and test logical or empirical consequences.

    <p>Working hypothesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of statistical tests according to the text?

    <p>To determine significance of differences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Hypothesis-testing is done before analyzing collected data.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be included in the preliminary pages of a research report?

    <p>title, date, acknowledgements, foreword, table of contents, list of tables, list of graphs and charts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Good research should be ___ and ___ in a simple language.

    <p>systematic, objective</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following qualities of good research with their descriptions:

    <p>Systematic = Structured with specified steps Logical = Guided by rules of reasoning Empirical = Related to real situations with concrete data Replicable = Results can be verified by repeating the study</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Briefly describe the different steps involved in a research process.

    <p>The different steps involved in a research process typically include defining the research problem, conducting a literature review, formulating a hypothesis, designing the research, collecting data, analyzing data, interpreting results, and drawing conclusions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do you mean by research? Explain its significance in modern times.

    <p>Research is a systematic investigation to discover new knowledge or validate existing theories. Its significance in modern times lies in its role in driving innovation, solving problems, and advancing various fields of study.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Distinguish between Research methods and Research methodology.

    <p>Research methods refer to the techniques used to conduct research, while research methodology is the overall approach and framework that guides the research process.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the different types of research, clearly pointing out the difference between an experiment and a survey.

    <p>Research types include descriptive, analytical, applied, fundamental, quantitative, and qualitative research. An experiment involves manipulation to test hypotheses, while a survey gathers data through questionnaires or interviews without manipulation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Write short notes on: (1) Design of the research project; (2) Ex post facto research; (3) Motivation in research; (4) Objectives of research; (5) Criteria of good research; (6) Research and scientific method.

    <p>Sorry, the content provided does not contain specific information on these topics.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    State the problems that are usually faced by such researchers who conduct empirical research in India.

    <p>Researchers conducting empirical research in India often face challenges related to data availability, data quality, variability in published data, issues with conceptualization, problems with data collection, and interpretation difficulties.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Discuss the statement pointing out the objectives of research: 'A research scholar has to work as a judge and derive the truth and not as a pleader who is only eager to prove his case in favor of his plaintiff.'

    <p>The statement emphasizes the importance of objectivity, impartiality, and truth-seeking in research. Research objectives include uncovering facts, analyzing data objectively, interpreting results without bias, and contributing to knowledge without predetermined conclusions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Examine the significance of research in creative management in both public administration and private industry.

    <p>Research plays a vital role in creative management by providing methods that ensure objectivity, clarity, accuracy, and consistency in decision-making. It helps in generating innovative solutions, problem-solving, and strategic planning in both public administration and private industry.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Do you agree with the statement: 'Research is much concerned with proper fact finding, analysis, and evaluation.' Provide reasons in support of your answer.

    <p>Yes, I agree with the statement. Research involves meticulous fact-finding, thorough analysis of data, and rigorous evaluation of information to draw meaningful conclusions and make informed decisions. These processes are integral to maintaining the integrity and reliability of research outcomes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Account for the lack of a proper link between academic activities and business operations in the country. Provide suggestions for improvement.

    <p>The disconnect between academic activities and business operations may result from differing priorities, communication gaps, lack of collaborative initiatives, and inadequate understanding of industry needs within academia. To improve this situation, fostering closer academia-industry partnerships, encouraging interdisciplinary research, promoting knowledge exchange programs, and enhancing industry-relevant curricula can bridge the gap and align academic endeavors with business requirements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Research Methodology: An Introduction

    Meaning of Research

    • Research refers to a search for knowledge or a scientific and systematic search for pertinent information on a specific topic.
    • Research is an art of scientific investigation.
    • The Advanced Learner's Dictionary of Current English defines research as "a careful investigation or inquiry specially through search for new facts in any branch of knowledge."
    • Redman and Mory define research as a "systematized effort to gain new knowledge."

    Objectives of Research

    • The main purpose of research is to find out the truth which is hidden and which has not been discovered as yet.
    • Research objectives can be categorized into four broad groups:
      • To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it (exploratory or formulative research).
      • To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, situation, or a group (descriptive research).
      • To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which it is associated with something else (diagnostic research).
      • To test a hypothesis of a causal relationship between variables (hypothesis-testing research).

    Motivation in Research

    • The possible motives for doing research may be:
      • Curiosity: to discover new knowledge or to answer a question.
      • Desire to solve a problem: to find a solution to a practical issue.
      • Desire to contribute to the existing body of knowledge: to make an original contribution to the field.

    Types of Research

    • Research can be classified into two types:
      • Applied research: aimed at solving practical problems.
      • Basic research: aimed at gaining knowledge for its own sake.

    Importance of Research

    • Research is important for:
      • Advancing knowledge in various fields.
      • Solving practical problems.
      • Improving decision-making.
      • Enhancing critical thinking and analytical skills.

    Research Approaches

    • Research approaches can be:
      • Quantitative: involves the collection and analysis of numerical data.
      • Qualitative: involves the collection and analysis of non-numerical data.
      • Mixed-method: combines both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

    Significance of Research

    • Research is significant because it:
      • Helps to identify problems and find solutions.
      • Enhances our understanding of the world.
      • Provides a basis for decision-making.
      • Contributes to the development of new theories and models.### Motivations for Research
    • Desire to obtain a research degree and its associated benefits
    • Desire to solve unsolved problems and tackle practical challenges
    • Desire to experience intellectual joy and do creative work
    • Desire to serve society
    • Desire for respectability

    Types of Research

    • Descriptive vs. Analytical Research:
      • Descriptive research: focuses on describing the current state of affairs, involves surveys and fact-finding enquiries, and has no control over variables
      • Analytical research: involves analyzing facts to make a critical evaluation, and uses survey methods and correlational methods
    • Applied vs. Fundamental Research:
      • Applied research: aims to find a solution to an immediate problem, concerned with practical applications
      • Fundamental research: aims to develop generalizations and theories, concerned with understanding natural phenomena
    • Quantitative vs. Qualitative Research:
      • Quantitative research: based on measurement of quantity, applicable to phenomena that can be expressed in terms of quantity
      • Qualitative research: concerned with qualitative phenomena, involves understanding human behavior and motivations
    • Conceptual vs. Empirical Research:
      • Conceptual research: related to abstract ideas and theories, used by philosophers and thinkers to develop new concepts
      • Empirical research: relies on experience and observation, involves data-based research and experimentation

    Other Types of Research

    • One-time vs. Longitudinal Research:
      • One-time research: confined to a single time period
      • Longitudinal research: carried out over several time periods
    • Field-setting vs. Laboratory Research:
      • Field-setting research: conducted in a natural environment
      • Laboratory research: conducted in a controlled environment
    • Simulation Research:
      • involves the construction of an artificial environment to generate data and observe dynamic behavior
    • Clinical or Diagnostic Research:
      • follows case-study methods to understand causal relationships
    • Exploratory vs. Formalized Research:
      • Exploratory research: aims to develop hypotheses
      • Formalized research: involves testing hypotheses

    Research Approaches

    • Quantitative Approach:
      • involves generating data in quantitative form
      • can be sub-classified into inferential, experimental, and simulation approaches
    • Qualitative Approach:
      • involves subjective assessment of attitudes, opinions, and behavior
      • generates results in non-quantitative form or non-rigorously quantitative analyzed form

    Significance of Research

    • In Government:
      • provides basis for economic policy
      • helps in allocating resources
      • necessary for understanding social and economic structure
    • In Business and Industry:
      • helps in solving operational and planning problems
      • provides basis for business decisions
      • necessary for market analysis and forecasting
    • In Social Sciences:
      • provides intellectual satisfaction of knowing for the sake of knowledge
      • has practical utility for social scientists to know for the sake of doing something better

    Research Methods vs. Methodology

    • Research Methods:

      • refer to the techniques used for conducting research
      • include methods of data collection, analysis, and interpretation

    • Research Methodology:

      • refers to the overall approach and strategy used to conduct research
      • includes the selection and construction of research techniques### Research Methodology

    • Research methods are more general and generate techniques, but in practice, the two terms are taken as interchangeable.

    Types of Research Methods

    • There are three groups of research methods:
      • First group: methods concerned with data collection (e.g., analysis of documents, observation, mail questionnaire)
      • Second group: statistical techniques used to establish relationships between data and unknowns (e.g., scoring, attitude scales)
      • Third group: methods used to evaluate the accuracy of results (e.g., case study, life history)

    Research Methodology vs. Research Methods

    • Research methodology is a way to systematically solve a research problem and is a science of studying how research is done scientifically.
    • Research methodology includes research methods, but is broader and includes the logic behind the methods, assumptions, and criteria for evaluating techniques.

    Scientific Method

    • Research and scientific method are closely related, and the scientific method is the philosophy common to all research methods and techniques.
    • Scientific method is the pursuit of truth as determined by logical considerations, and its ideal is to achieve a systematic interrelation of facts.
    • Scientific method involves experimentation, observation, logical arguments, and a combination of these three in varying proportions.

    Characteristics of Scientific Method

    • Relying on empirical evidence
    • Utilizing relevant concepts
    • Commitment to objective considerations
    • Ethical neutrality
    • Resulting in probabilistic predictions
    • Methodology is open to critical scrutiny and replication
    • Aiming to formulate most general axioms or scientific theories

    Importance of Knowing Research Methodology

    • Knowing research methodology is essential for researchers, policymakers, and consumers of research results.
    • It helps develop disciplined thinking, enables evaluation of research results, and provides a way of looking at the world objectively.

    Research Process

    • The research process consists of a series of actions or steps, including:
      • Formulating the research problem
      • Reviewing the literature
      • Developing the hypothesis
      • Preparing the research design
      • Determining sample design
      • Collecting data
      • Executing the project
      • Analyzing data
      • Hypothesis testing
      • Generalizations and interpretation
      • Preparation of the report or presentation of results

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