Research Methodology

BBA Core B

Name Roll no.

Ayesha Khan 110
Marmik Goradia 67
Dhruv Jalan 86
Nishant Kumar 119
Ismail Khan 107
Nikunj Kothari 114

LIVE PROJECT ATTENDANCE DATE: 30th August 2017

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Definition of research
John W. Creswell, who states that "research is a process of steps used to collect and analyse
information to increase our understanding of a topic or issue". It consists of three steps: pose a
question, collect data to answer the question, and present an answer to the question.
Research is a careful investigation or inquiry specifically through search for new facts in any branch
of knowledge.
 Meaning of research
Research is a systematic investigation and study of materials and sources to establish facts and reach
new conclusions, so it shapes peoples understanding of the world around them. Research comprises
of creative work undertaken on a systematic basis in order to increase knowledge of humans, culture
and society at large, and the use of this stock of knowledge to devise new applications. Research can
simply be defined a task of searching from available data to modify a certain result or theory.

Characteristics of research
1. It originates with a Question or Problem.
2. Research is empirical i.e. based on observations and experimentation on theories
3. It follows orderly and sequential procedure; therefore, it is systematic.
4. Research process controls no variables except those that are tested/experimented upon are kept
constant.
5. The investigation process is guided by hypothesis.
6. There is critical analysis of all data used so that there is no error in their interpretation.
7. The research is Objective, Unbiased, & Logical - all findings are logical, systematic and empirical.
8. Employs quantitative or statistical methods - data are transformed into numerical measures and are
treated statistically

Objective of research
The main aim of research is to discover answers to questions through the application of scientific
procedures. Though each research study has its own specific purpose, we may think of research
objectives as falling into a number of following broad groupings:
1. Systematic methods to find solution to a problem.
2. To discover truth and facts.
3. To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it.
4. To portray accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, situation or a group.
5. To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which it is associated with
something
6. To test a hypothesis of a causal relationship between variables
7. To gain familiarity or achieve a new insight towards a certain topic.
8. To identify the cause and effect relationship
9. To find solutions to scientific, non-scientific and social problems.

Types of research
The basic types of research are as follows:
1. Descriptive or Analytical
2. Applied or Fundamental
3. Quantitative or Qualitative
4. Conceptual or Empirical
5. Some other types of research

(i) Descriptive vs. Analytical:

 Descriptive research includes surveys and fact-finding enquiries of different kinds. The major
purpose of descriptive research is description of the state of affairs as it exists at present. The main
characteristic of this method is that the researcher has no control over the variables; he can only
report what has happened or what is happening. For example, frequency of shopping, preferences of
people, or similar data. It also include attempts by researchers to discover causes even when they
cannot control the variables.
In analytical research, on the other hand, the researcher has to use facts or information already
available, and analyse these to make a critical evaluation of the material.

(ii) Applied vs. Fundamental:

Research can either be applied (or action) research or fundamental (to basic or pure) research.
Applied research aims at finding a solution for an immediate problem facing a society or an
industrial/business organisation, whereas fundamental research is mainly concerned with
generalisations and with the formulation of a theory. Gathering knowledge for knowledges sake is
termed pure or basic research. Research concerning some natural phenomenon or relating to
pure mathematics are examples of fundamental research. But research aimed at certain conclusions
(solution) facing a concrete social or business problem is an example of applied research. Thus, the
central aim of applied research is to discover a solution for some pressing practical problem,
whereas fundamental (basic) research is directed towards finding information that has a broad base
of applications and thus, adds to the already existing organized body of scientific knowledge.

(iii) Quantitative vs. Qualitative:

Quantitative research is based on the measurement of quantity or amount. It is applicable to
phenomena that can be expressed in terms of quantity.
Qualitative research, on the other hand, is concerned with qualitative phenomenon, i.e., phenomena
relating to or involving quality or kind. For instance, when we are interested in investigating the
reasons for human behaviour (i.e., why people think or do certain things), we quite often talk of
Motivation Research, an important type of qualitative research. This type of research aims at
discovering the underlying motives and desires. Attitude or opinion research i.e., research designed
to find out how people feel or what they think about a particular subject or institution is also
qualitative research.

(iv) Conceptual vs. Empirical:

Conceptual research is that related to some abstract idea or theory. It is generally used by
philosophers and thinkers to develop new concepts or to reinterpret existing ones. On the other hand,
empirical research relies on experience or observation alone, often without due regard for system
and theory. It is data-based research, coming up with conclusions which are capable of being
verified by observation or experiment. We can also call it as experimental type of research. In such a
research it is necessary to get at facts firsthand, at their source (primary information). Such research
is characterised by the experimenters control over the variables under study and his deliberate
manipulation of one of them to study its effects.
Empirical research is appropriate when proof is sought that certain variables affect other variables in
some way. Evidence gathered through experiments or empirical studies is today considered to be the
most powerful support possible for a given hypothesis.

(v) Some Other Types of Research:

All other types of research are variations of one or more of the above stated approaches, based on
either the purpose of research, or the time required to accomplish research, on the environment in
which research is done, or on the basis of some other similar factor.
1. One-time research cross sectional research. (single period or several time periods)
 2. Field setting research or laboratory research or simulation research. (Depends on environment to
be carried out.)
3. Clinical research or diagnostic research. (case study methods)
4. Conclusion oriented research.
5. Decision oriented research.
6. Operations research.

Research process.
1. Problem definition
2. Research design
3. Data collection
4. Data analysis
5. Interpretation of results
6. Report writing

1. STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
Initially the problem may be stated in a broad general way and then the ambiguities, if any, relating to
the problem be resolved. Then, the feasibility of a particular solution has to be considered before a
working formulation of the problem can be set up. The formulation of a general topic into a specific
research problem - scientific enquiry. Essentially two steps are involved in formulating the research
problem, viz., understanding the problem thoroughly, and rephrasing the same into meaningful terms
from an analytical point of view. The best way of understanding the problem is to discuss it.

A research problem is a definite or clear expression [statement] about an area of concern, a condition to
be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly
literature, in theory, or within existing practice that points to a need for meaningful understanding and
deliberate investigation. A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad
proposition, or present a value question.

The purpose of a problem statement is to:

1. Introduce the reader to the importance of the topic being studied. The reader is oriented to the
significance of the study and the research questions, hypothesis, or assumptions to follow.
2. Place the topic into a particular context that defines the parameters of what is to be investigated.
3. Provide the framework for reporting the results and indicates what is probably necessary to conduct
the study and explain how the findings will present this information.

The sources of research problems:

1. Observations
2. Literature review
3. Experts

Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction. It describes in concrete terms what you expect will
happen in a certain circumstance. A hypothesis is used in an experiment to define the relationship
 between two variables. The purpose of a hypothesis is to find the answer to a question. A formalized
hypothesis will force us to think about what results we should look for in an experiment.
Types of Hypothesis:
1. Research (substantive) hypothesis.
2. Statistical hypothesis.
3. Null hypothesis.
4. Alternative hypothesis.
5. Directional hypothesis.
6. Non-directional hypothesis.

Variables
A characteristic that takes on different values/conditions for different individuals.

2. RESEARCH DESIGN

A planned sequence of the entire process involved in conducting research. - Miller.

The research design refers to the overall strategy that you choose to integrate the different
components of the study in a coherent and logical way; it constitutes the blueprint for the collection,
measurement, and analysis of data. The function of a research design is to ensure that the evidence
obtained enables you to effectively address the research problem logically and as unambiguously as
possible. Note that your research problem determines the type of design you should use, not the
other way around!
While deciding the research design keep in mind the objectivity, validity, reliability and
generalization of research.

Types of research design:

1. Exploratory research design.

Exploratory research is a type of research conducted for a problem that has not been clearly
defined. It helps to prioritise and determine the best research design, data collection method and
selection of subjects. It should draw definitive conclusions only with extreme caution. Given its
fundamental nature, exploratory research often concludes that a perceived problem does not
actually exist. Also termed as formulative research studies that allowed a researcher to determine
whether an idea is reality or not. It provides ideas, hypothesis suggestions that might never occur to
researcher in an office. It is more flexible and used to define the problem more precisely. It
involves literature search, experience survey, analysis of selected cases.
In an exploratory approach, usually no standardized methods are used, as it is very "early"
research, so little or no knowledge on the topic exists. The focus of this method is
on exploring new knowledge.

2. Descriptive research design.

Descriptive research, also known as statistical research, describes data and characteristics about the
population or phenomenon being studied. Descriptive research answers the questions who, what,
where, when, "why" and how... Although the data description is factual, accurate and systematic,
the research cannot describe what caused a situation. It describes segment characteristics. Thus,
Descriptive research cannot be used to create a causal relationship, where one variable affects
another. In other words, descriptive research can be said to have a low requirement for internal
validity.
Features:
 1. Rigid design
2. Probability sampling design
3. Pre-planned research design
4. Structured instruments to collect data
5. Advanced decisions about operational procedure.

It aims to gather data to present a complete picture of given subject.

3. Casual research design.

Consists of emergence of a problem, a diagnosis of causes, formulation of avenues of remediation
and recommendation.
Causal research, also called explanatory research. is the investigation of (research into) cause-and-
effect relationship. This type of research is very complex and the researcher can never be
completely certain that there are no other factors influencing the causal relationship.
There could be only two objectives:
1. Understanding which variable is the cause and which is the effect.
2. Determining the nature of relationship between the causal variable and the effect predicted.

3. DATA COLLECTION
It is the process by which the researcher collects the information needed to answer the research
problem. The methods to collect data depends upon the resources available their credibility and skill
of evaluator to analyse and report.
Essentially there are two types of data: Primary data and Secondary data.
Primary data is collected for the first time and is in original from. It can be collected by experiments,
surveys, interviews, observations or questionnaire.
Secondary data are those which have already been collected by other and have been through
statistical analysis. They are available in official publications, journals, newspaper, books, etc.

4. DATA ANALYSIS
Data analysis is a process of inspecting, cleansing, transforming, and modelling data with the goal of
discovering useful information, suggesting conclusions, and supporting decision-making. Data
initially obtained must be processed or organised for analysis. For instance, these may involve
placing data into rows and columns in a table format. Analysts may apply a variety of techniques
referred to as exploratory data analysis to begin understanding the messages contained in the data.
Analysis may be categorised as descriptive analysis and inferential analysis.
The data, after collection, has to be processed and analysed in accordance with the outline laid down
for the purpose at the time of developing the research plan. This is essential for a scientific study and
for ensuring that we have all relevant data for making contemplated comparisons and analysis.
Technically speaking, processing implies editing, coding, classification and tabulation of collected
data so that they are amenable to analysis.

5. INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS
 Interpretation refers to the task of drawing inferences from the collected facts after an analytical
and/or experimental study. In fact, it is a search for broader meaning of research findings. The task
of interpretation has two major aspects
1. The effort to establish continuity in research through linking the results of a given study with those
of another.
2. The establishment of some explanatory concepts.

Researcher must give reasonable explanations of the relations which he has found and he must
interpret the lines of relationship in terms of the underlying processes.
In fact, this is the technique of how generalization should be done and concepts be formulated.
Researcher must accomplish the task of interpretation only after considering all relevant factors
affecting the problem to avoid false generalization.

6. REPORT WRITING
Research report is considered a major component of the research study for the research task remains
incomplete till the report has been presented and/or written. Research reports are the product
accurate inductive work.
The usual steps involved in writing report are:
1. Logical analysis of the subject-matter.
2. Preparation of the final outline
3. Preparation of the rough draft
4. Rewriting and polishing
5. Preparation of the final bibliography
6. Writing the final draft.
Logical analysis of the subject matter: It is the first step which is primarily concerned with the
development of a subject.
Preparation of the final outline: It is the next step in writing the research report Outlines are the
framework upon which long written works are constructed. They are an aid to the logical
organisation of the material and a reminder of the points to be stressed in the report.
Preparation of the rough draft: This follows the logical analysis of the subject and the preparation of
the final outline. He will write down the procedure adopted by him in collecting the material for his
study along with various limitations faced by him, the technique of analysis adopted by him, the
broad findings and generalizations and the various suggestions he wants to offer regarding the
problem concerned.
Rewriting and polishing of the rough draft: The careful revision makes the difference between a
mediocre and a good piece of writing.
Preparation of the final bibliography:
Significance of research
Research provides the basis for nearly all government policies in our economic system.
Research has its special significance in solving various operational and planning problems of business
and industry.
To professionals in research methodology, research may mean a source of livelihood.
To philosophers and thinkers, research may mean the outlet for new ideas and insights
Research is equally important for social scientists in studying social relationships and in seeking
answers to various social problems.

Limitations of research
Problems of collection of data and conceptualization may occur.
Repetition problems.
Outdated and insufficient information system may cause problems.
 Sometimes lack of resources becomes an obstacle.
No availability of trained researchers.
Absence of code of conduct.

Research Design:
1. Meaning
A plan for collecting and utilizing data so that desired information can be obtained with precision or
so that a hypothesis can be tested properly.
Research design is the framework that has been created to find answers to research questions.
Decision regarding what, where, when, how much, by what means concerning an inquiry or research
study.
Research question dominates the design.

2. Steps in research design

3. Characteristics of research design.

Simplicity
Economical
Reliability
Workability
Flexibility
Accuracy

IN SHORT :
Research: process of steps used to collect and analyse information to increase our understanding of a topic or
issue.
It originates with a question. Systematic. Unbiased (unaffected by researchers views).
The basic types of research are as follows:
1. Descriptive or Analytical
2. Applied or Fundamental
3. Quantitative or Qualitative
4. Conceptual or Empirical
5. Some other types of research

Research design:

1. Define research problem

2. Formulation of objectives
3. Review of literature
4. Formulation of testable hypothesis
5. Identification of research variables
6. Construct research design
7. Design tools for data collection
8. Plan for data analysis
9. Draw conclusions and recommendations
10. Writing research report

Types of research design:

1. Exploratory research design.
2. Descriptive research design.
3. Causal research design.