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SUMMER 2014

BBA201 - RESEARCH METHODS

Q1. Briefly describe the different steps involved in a research process. What are the
characteristics of good research?

Steps in Research process



Fig: Research Process

The formulation of hypothesis or propositions that may be possible answers to research
questions is an important step in the research process of formulating the research problem.
Keen observation, creative thinking, hunch, wit, imagination, vision, insight and sound
judgement are very important in setting up reasonable hypothesis, not to mention a thorough
knowledge of the phenomenon and related fields. The formulation of hypothesis plays an
important part in the growth of knowledge in every science. The second step is to define
concepts used in the hypothesis. Some concepts represent facts: others like attitude can
only be inferred. But the definition of concepts should be done in abstract terms to link the
results of the study to the existing body of knowledge. The third step is to establish working
definitions relating to the topic. This enables the researcher to translate the concepts into
observable events to carry out the enquiry.

The next step is the data collection and analysis of data. Once the topic has been decided
upon and working definitions established, the researcher has to choose his research tools
i.e., the appropriate methods of collecting data based on the requirements. The methods
may be observations, surveys, interviews or historical documentary methods. Finally, the

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results of the study have to be related to existing theories or concepts either to confirm them
or to demolish them in the light of the study undertaken in the form of conclusions.

Characteristics of Good Research

A good research should be systematic
This means that research should be ordered. A good research will follow the steps to be
engaged in an orderly series according to set defined rules. Researchers always use
scientific methods, and therefore it is called systematic.

A good research should be logical
There should be logical reasoning in any research. This logical process used could be
induction or deduction. Induction is a process of reasoning from the part to the whole.

A good research should be empirical

Empirical means that realistic study is possible. Its authority can be checked through
trustworthy sources and evidence. Research must be such that it can be validated, (i.e.) it
should be possible to interpret and explain the process.

A good research is replicable
It means the research conducted can be repeated by any amount of times. A research can
validate the results by repeating the study and thereby bringing a sound decision-making
framework.

The following characteristics are also necessary for a good research.

Purpose clearly exhaustive.
Research design thoroughly designed.
High moral standards applied.
Limitations openly revealed.
A complete and proper analysis made.
Finding presented without confusion.
Decision based conclusions.



Q2. a. Explain the different types of research designs.
b. Explain the Probability and Non-probability sampling methods.

a) Types of Research Design

Philosophical/discursive

This may cover a variety of approaches, but will draw primarily on existing literature, rather
than new empirical data. A discursive study could examine a particular issue, perhaps from

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an alternative perspective (e.g. feminist). Alternatively, it might put forward a particular
argument or examine a methodological issue.

Literature review

This may be an attempt to summarise or comment on what is already known about a
particular topic. By collecting different sources together, synthesising and analysing critically,
it essentially creates new knowledge or perspectives. There are a number of different forms
a literature review might take.

Case study

This will involve collecting empirical data, generally from only one or a small number of
cases. It usually provides rich detail about those cases, of a predominantly qualitative
nature. There are a number of different approaches to case study work (e.g. ethnographic,
hermeneutic, estrogenic, etc.) and the principles and methods followed should be made
clear.

b)

Probability sample

Here, each member of the universe has a known prospect of being selected and included in
the sample. Any personal bias is avoided. The associate cannot use his concern in selection
of sample items.

Example: Random sample and cluster sampling.

Probability sampling techniques:

1. Random sampling.
2. Stratified random sampling.
3. Systematic sampling.
4. Cluster sampling.
5. Multi-stage sampling and
6. Area Sampling.

Non-Probability Sampling Methods

In non-probability sampling, the probability of selecting population elements is unknown. But
in a situation when a sampling frame is absent, one can easily go for non-probability
sampling methods to serve the objectives of the study.


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However, a question may arise as to how closely these approximate for representativeness.
Additional reasons for choosing non-probability over probability sampling are cost and time
factors.

Example: quota sampling, judgment sampling.

Non-probability sampling techniques

1. Deliberate sampling
2. Shopping mall intercept sampling
3. Sequential sampling
4. Quota sampling
5. Panel sampling and
6. Snowball sampling.


Q3. The important task ahead of the researcher is to document the entire work done in
the form of a well-structured research report. Describe in brief the components of a
Research Report. What are the guidelines for writing the research report?



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