0

Acknowledgments:
This book has only become a success because of all the collective efforts of the editorial team,
technology team, the authors who contributed the chapters and of course the teachers who have
made this possible. Starting with Ritu ma’am, who willingly shared her knowledge and
experience with us and helped us till late nights in editing the content to perfection and Pooja
ma’am, for helping us with all technical difficulties encountered. Both of them have worked very
hard with us in order to make this book the best we could make it. Last but not the least, the
editorial team and the technical team who helped in writing the content and coming up with
amazing ideas for the cover pages and content style and formatting.

Considering the sheer scale of this project, the individual effort of each student who has authored
a chapter must be commended and thanked for sharing the task’s burden with all others. Their
individual contribution, their piece of the puzzle is what builds up the larger picture.

List of all students who contributed, and their roles:

Names Role

Avi Raj Kapila Designer and Editor

Harsh Ahuja Author and Editor

Sia Sehgal Author and Editor

Anandita Gupta Author and Editor

Mehak Batra Author and Editor

Shreya Lall Author

Erik Saini Designer

Harshman Sawhney Designer

1
Tvarita Khandelwal Designer and Author

Parnika Vaidya Author

Aggrith Srivastava Author and Designer

Ryan Grover Designer

Mihika Srikrishna Author

Priyavi Singh Author

Amaira Seth Author and Designer

Gehana Nag Author

Anika Bhatnagar Author and Editor

Trisha Gollapali Author

Amaya Chopra Author

Lehar Goenka Author

Anushka Prasanth Author

Sarthak ​Ahuja Author

Aarushi Poddar Author

Ishaan Jain Author Designer

Parth Jain Author

Signatures

2
3
 Editor’s Note:
This treasure trove of theory is what shall hopefully propel innovation into practicality. When
scanning through the document, it was found that overall comprehensiveness and coverage was
considerable, since each unit was done by an individual or a collection of the same. Large
quantities of information as shall be seen later on, are products of experience, which was gained
throughout the year. The topic is new to many, although an effective guide is all one needs to
navigate the seemingly perilous waters of the internet, or any other source of information. From
Source Analysis to Writing a report, content covered was divided into separate skills and further
subdivisions pertained to pointers. Quality of information has been scanned by many eyes and
verified by many minds, one of which was that of Dr Ritu Sharma-our very own teacher.
Therefore, it can be safely concluded that information within this textbook is a detailed how-to.

The editors were initially rather lost and a lack in direction worked to anything but our favour in
the beginning. The result of expert feedback and proper guidance as well as a great deal of effort
from their part was a full-fledged report. This textbook is therefore simply a source of validation
for one’s knowledge. Many of the concepts within were grey areas for many and therefore the
process of creation was an effective reminder.

Lastly, the process of creation was a period of introspection, where many may have compared
the new set of pointers for a certain skill to their completed submission and therefore
self-analysis would believably have been undertaken by all. This will now allow for increased
carefulness and mental capability in the future. For the grade to come, the editors sincerely hope
that it shall serve as a beacon, guiding the batch to greatness

4
 Contents:
1. Acknowledgements i
2. Editor’s Note iv
3. Introduction vi

Chapters
1. Skills:
​Topics:
1. Searching reliable information using different techniques 7
2. Source Analysis 9
3. Testing Strength of Argument 12
4. Testing Claims 17
5. Reading and Recording 21
6. Identifying Types of Information 23
7. Identifying Key Issues 25
8. Framing Global Question 27
9. Identifying Causes and Consequences 29

2. Research Methodology:
​Topics:
1. Research Questions 30
2. Research Population 32
3. Sample and Respondent 33
4. Sampling Method 34
5. Data Collection Methods 40
6. Operational and Theoretical Definitions 42
7. Types of Research 44
8. Field Work Ethics 46
9. Data compilation and Content Analysis 48

3. Individual Research Report (Component 2):

​ ​Topics:
1. Format- fonts, margin, line spacing, e.t.c 53
2. Introduction-Issue analysis 55
3. Identification and Evaluation of causes and consequences 57
4. Identification and Evaluation of probable solutions. 61
5. Source Analysis 64
6. Citation and Bibliography 65
7. Conclusion and personal perspective 68
8. Including different perspectives 69
9. How to make a research poster: Things to avoid and things to do 70

​ Conclusion 72
Bibliography 73

5
 Introduction:
Global Perspectives as a subject area is a skill related subject focusing on researching, analyzing
and evaluating the information on relevant topics from different perspectives. In Global
Perspectives, knowing about the content in detail in any topic is not as essential as the skill of
identifying reliable sources to research the content individually and independently.
Many have the misconception that research is one skill, whereas it is a collection of many skills ,
which when undertaken in a systematic manner can lead to the creation of a high-quality
research.

One of the most important skills in Global Perspectives is to be able to identify different
perspectives and reflect on how it shapes the way reality is perceived by different people.
Teamwork is another important aspect of Global perspectives where the solution to an issue has
to be implemented in an authentic community to resolve a real time problem.

Additionally, Reflection is another important aspect to research. To be able to complete a task

and critique oneself allows for forward growth and advancement. A student who has just
embarked on this journey has much to learn, and much to improve. In these times, Reflection
will indubitably be one’s greatest ally.

The textbook will set a context for increasingly complex research tasks which are to come later
in one’s academic journey. It is sincerely hoped that its purpose is achieved.

6
 Chapter1- Skills
Topic 1 - Searching for Reliable Information:
By Anandita Gupta and Shreya Lall

Why use the skill of searching reliable information using different techniques?
This skill helps produce the best quality results for the research. When the information is very
likely to be reliable and unbiased, then it adds to evidence that can be displayed as background
research done for the topic. Using keywords and phrases help when the research is being done
and precise information has to be found. Keywords will help find pages that give answers to the
specific research being conducted. It will help you find information specific to your topic and
from credible sources.
How to search for reliable information?
❖ Use more accurate and precise search terms/ keywords.
❖ Skim titles and first paragraphs to judge whether a result/source is relevant or not.
❖ Change search terms to find a large variety of sources.
❖ Search within sites belonging to specific reliable and valid organizations.
❖ Use advanced search options for better and precise
results. This will also help to find information from
different geographical areas.
❖ Compare and analyze results from different search
engines.
❖ Identify the types of information needed.
Reliable sites to visit when researching:
● UN official sites
● Government sites
● Research institute sites
● College and school research pages
● PDFs with sources
● Use Google Scholar to find research reports and facts

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Example:​ ​Shodhganga (A Reservoir of Indian Theses)

Important points to keep in mind while searching for information.

● Information searched should be Precise, Specific, and Relevant.
● Avoid using vague search terms, anonymous translation tools, and unreliable sources
such as Wikipedia (which can be edited by anyone).
● Whenever searching for information, always do a source analysis to find the credibility,
validity, and reliability of the source.
● For finding different perspectives and opinions of people, news and social media sources
can be used. These are used only for gaining understanding of peoples’ opinions, media
& journalism studies, impact of socio - cultural norm on media & literature and
vice-versa, etc. These sources are comparative points of socio-cultural differences but
information presented in News and Media sources has to be researched further to check
reliability and validity of data.

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Topic 2 - Source Analysis:
By Parnika Vaidya
What is source Analysis:
Source analysis is one of the first and most important things to be learned. However, lucky for
you, it is quite simple. By source analysis, we are able to evaluate the credibility of the source
which includes authenticity, reliability, and validity. Source analysis is carried out by the
acronym OPVL. It expands to origin, purpose, value, and limitation.

Origin​- Under origin, we identify where the source comes from.

Listed below are some factors to include under origin.
● Author’s name
● Date of publication
● Date of additional additions
● Location
● How will the time, place, and author affect the source?
● Primary, secondary, tertiary?
While analyzing a source on its origin, it is important to consider whether it gives recent
information or is the information outdated. If the information is outdated, what was the context
of publishing this information in that time period? It is also important to consider whether the
sources of the information are from a reliable origin like a government website, UN website, or a
research/ academic-based organization. If so, it makes the source reliable. But if the origin is
social media, a commercial website, etc, it may have questionable reliability, though it may still
be able to provide multiple perspectives.

Purpose​- ​Under purpose, we attempt to understand the reason for the publication of the source.
Listed below are some factors to include under purpose.
● Immediate historical context?
● Target audience?
● Is any information hidden?

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While analyzing the purpose of publishing the source, the focus should be on whether there is a
profit motive, political affiliation, or self-interest or spreading propaganda which may make the
information biased. if the purpose is academic and research, it makes the source more reliable.

Value ​- Under value, we identify the strengths of the source.

Listed below are some factors to include undervalue.
● What does it tell about the past?
● Relevant to your research?
● Facts, opinions, value judgment?
● Enough evidence?
● Recent?
● What is the author’s purpose and how does it affect your investigation?
● Primary or secondary?
● Strong Research Methods?
Value is the specific information and high quality a source provides to research. It can be in the
form of specific data, a unique perspective, a set of experimental or observational data generated
using strong research methods, etc.

Limitation-​ ​Under limitation, we identify the weaknesses of the source.

Listed below are some factors to keep in mind while evaluating for weaknesses.
● What does it not tell about the past?
● Is any information hidden?
● Bias/ potential bias?
● Primary or secondary? If primary, what viewpoint is conveyed? If secondary, is any
information hidden or not conveyed?
● Does it hinder your investigation?
● Type of information?
● Enough evidence?
● Weak Research Methods?
Every source has some limitations. It can be in the form of limited information, research methods
used not being strong enough, providing only one perspective, being biased, results not
generalized for your research area but specific to a small population, etc.

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Example- ​(Source Analysis that was done for a women’s rights magazine):
This source talks about the gender inequalities between men and women in various parts of the
world. The source was published in a women’s rights magazine in 2013. However, the name of
the magazine, place of publication, and the author’s name is not mentioned. The source is a
secondary source as it is researched based data as it is not an eye witness or the author has not
written it from first-hand experience. The purpose of the source is to make masses aware of the
lack of women integration into political life, and the author has given statistics about various
regions of the world where this socio-political issue is existent. As it is published in a women’s
rights magazine, it might have a potential bias. As the author of the source has only given the
statistics about how women are being affected or treated and have not provided for the complete
story. It can also be published for the propaganda of women’s rights - the condition of these
countries in these terms might have been better than shown. Also as the source has been
published in a women’s rights magazine, it may have a self profit motive and the information
may not be completely reliable. However, there is a lot of factual information used for example:
In the UK government, there are 5 women and 27 women. In China only about 20% of political
leaders are women. Etc. The author has used statistics which makes the source stronger. There
are also several different types of evidence like opinions and facts. The author has also used
expert testimony which makes the argument believable: research by a worldwide sociologist Kan
shows that women still spend more time on housework than men in over 40 developed nations.
The information provided is valid and specific to the topic. It is clearly and explicitly related to
the agenda. The information used is also formal, convincing, and factual, there is no use of
emotional appeal or an informal tone. On the contrary research, the evidence is partially cited –
the source and authorship are not clear, the level of expertise of the author is also not clear – it
may have poor knowledge claims as a method of research. The evidence provided is not easy to
check and verify from the information. There is also too much reliance on opinion or use of
value judgment. The author should have given more facts and statistical data. As the author has
not provided the place of publication, his/her name, and name of the magazine- the information
may not be very authentic and reliable, and the year given is also 2013, so the evidence may be
out of date.

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Topic 3 - Testing Strength of Argument:
By Anandita Gupta and Sia Sehgal

What is the skill of ‘strength of argument?

The skill of strength of argument​ ​enables us to ​evaluate 2 or more arguments ​and reach a
well-supported conclusion about whose argument is stronger. A clear and distinct comparison
between multiple arguments gives us a broader perspective and helps us decide the most credible
& reliable information we require.

Criteria Explanation

Strong arguments have sufficient, valid evidence that is explicitly

related to the argument to support the reasoning. Multiple forms of
evidence are present, with not too much use or reliance on opinion,
value judgments, and generalizations. Data is more factual with
evidence fully cited, inclusive of statistics, graphs, and expert
Use of evidence and testimonies. The multitude of sources is considered for data collection
type of information for a wider range of validity and reliability. At last, the information has
a clear purpose (to inform, entertain, persuade, or describe) to make the
argument more comprehensible.
Higher-level skill​: ​Analyze the quality of evidence:
❏ Check for Mention of author and publication details.
❏ Identify the recency of evidence.
❏ Analyze the quality of the research methods used.
❏ Identify whether the evidence is research/opinion-based.

The use of expert testimony from an individual/renowned organization

holding strong expertise in the field makes an argument more
informative, credible, and reliable. An expert testimony does not
Mention of expert
necessarily have to be of an individual but can be of any
testimony
international/national organization or community that closely works in
the field and has useful, factual knowledge.

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 The claim made in a strong argument is clear and the author gives valid

Use of logical reasons to prove it. These reasons are from different perspectives;
personal, local, national, and global. They balance each other out by
reasoning
giving both sides of the argument. The reasons flow logically and
justify the side chosen without being biased. Logical fallacies like
slippery slope, hasty generalizations, post hoc ergo propter hoc, genetic
fallacy, begging the claim, ad hominem, circular arguments etc are
avoided in a strong argument.

Identification of Weak Arguments may have a chance of potential bias or in some cases,

self-interest, the the author may also be biased depending on whether he/she is an expert
or not. Unbiased arguments are less derogatory and more relatable to
profit motive or
the reader.
potential bias

Strong Arguments have precise language and a factual and convincing

Use of language tone to convey the purpose and idea of an argument clearly.
Exaggerated and emotive language makes the argument weak or
off-topic.

Important factors to keep in mind while attempting the answer:

1. While comparing:
- Arguments and sentences should be well articulated and should justify the side chosen.
2. While writing your answer:
- Compare at least 2 or more arguments when analyzing their strengths and weaknesses.
- Cite evidence with quotes.
- Don’t use any personal pronouns.
- Clearly cite which argument you think is the best.
- Use 2 or more well-developed points to argue on which argument is better
Flow:​ - ​Start with the argument you support and why in 1-2 lines.
- Evaluate the chosen criteria in the following paragraphs and quote the evidence clearly.

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 - Conclude by restating the argument you support.
Example - ​(Comparing 2-3 arguments):
The third argument of the former poachers who states that “poverty is the main cause of
poaching” is the best from all the 4 arguments.
The first video on the last two northern white rhinos has been published on April 8, 2019,
whereas the publishing date for the third video on the causes for poaching is April 4, 2016. On
the contrary, the second video on illegal ivory trade does not have any publishing date
mentioned. Also, The first video has been filmed by David Attenborough who has more than 70
years of experience and a great level of expertise, whereas the third video has been filmed by
James Walsh whose level of expertise is not clear. And the second video again does not mention
the name of the filmmaker. As analyzed from this information, the first video provides more
recent and valid evidence. However the publishing source for the first video is BBC earth, for the
other 2 videos, it is National geographic. Even though both are educational publishing sources,
national geographic is a non-profit organization whereas BBC earth is a commercial channel.
This suggests that national geography might have a lower level of bias or economic interest than
BBC earth. All the 3 videos have used primary data collection within the research area itself. As
primary data collection is a strong research method, it adds to the reliability of information each
video provides. However, apart from primary data collection, the third video also makes use of a
strong method: the blue-chip method to create conservation awareness in the film. As the third
video uses multiple research methods, it becomes more authentic and reliable. All the 3 videos
also show the research process followed however unlike the 1st and the 3rd video, the second
video does not show it clearly which thus makes the evidence less reliable. All 3 videos also use
expert testimonies and primary factual data to support the arguments and claims made in the
video, but apart from the information, the third video also captures live clippings to support the
perspectives. As more evidence has been provided in the third video, it also becomes the most
credible.
In terms of the type of perspectives provided, the third video also has the most balanced
reasoning to support the argument. The first and second videos lack many perspectives. Also, the
perspective of the scientists provided in the first video may involve some type of personal
interest and the perspective of the guard cannot be generalized. The second video only provides
one perspective of the expert whose name is also not mentioned. Due to the inclusion of fewer
perspectives, the first and the second video may be unbalanced and biased also. On the contrary,

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the third video provides multiple perspectives that cater to both sides of the argument and
analyzes the issue from different levels. This increases the strength of the reasoning of the third
video.
Also in terms of the type of information, all 3 videos provide more than 2 types of information.
However, the third video has the maximum variety making it more balanced. It provides facts,
predictions, opinions and value judgments from different experts, organizations, and individuals.
Both the first and second videos involve some organizations that work to combat the issue
researched. However, both videos do not provide any details of the organization whereas the
third video clearly states that the organization most prominently involved in the “wildlife act”
that works in the reserve itself. This also adds to the validity of the information. Lastly, in the use
of language, the first video involves the least amount of informal, emotive language as compared
to the other 2. However, the high quality of evidence, low chance of bias, and the inclusion of
multiple perspectives in the third video overweigh the use of language in the first and second
one.
The third video is the better one out of all the 3, however, it involves 2 arguments within that
have to be compared on evidence provided and type of perspectives. Both the arguments on
poverty and lack of community ownership are supported by information and primary data from
the same reserve. The argument on poverty is supported mainly by the perspective of former
poachers and the traditional leader. On the other hand, the argument on lack of community
ownership is supported by experts in the wildlife act. Even though an expert has detailed
knowledge of the issue, he/she is sharing their analysis from research-based data. Whereas
former poachers and the traditional leader share their individual struggles, life stories. In terms of
the reliability of the information, both the perspectives share first -hand information. However as
the poachers share their personal experiences, it might be more reliable than someone who shares
their analysis based on their observation and research. Also, one of the experts gives balanced
reasoning. Chris Kelly only speaks about one cause however the poachers on the other hand not
only speak about their basic insecurities but also share how some poachers hunt animals in greed
for money. As the poachers share a balanced perspective, it might have a lower chance of
potential bias or personal interest. Alongside the type of perspective, the argument on poverty is
also supported by clipping the insufficient living conditions of the people including the food and
water shortages. On the other hand, lack of community ownership is not supported by any further
clipping/pictures as evidence apart from the expert testimonies. In terms of the use of language,

15
the text provided with the video involves more exaggerated or emotive language. The text
involves the statements made by James Walsh who supports both perspectives, however, he uses
a greater amount of exaggerated and informal language for the cause of lack of community
ownership which again decreases its strength of argument.
To conclude, as analyzed from the above comparison, due to more balanced, unbiased
perspectives, greater use of reliable information and evidence and more convincing use of
language, the argument of “poverty being the main cause of poaching” might be better than lack
of community ownership and overall the best out of all the 4 arguments.

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 Topic 4 - Testing Claims:
By Anandita Gupta and Sia Sehgal

What is the claim?

A claim is any statement made by a person as a factual statement, though it may or may not be
factual in reality. To check to what extent the claim made is accurate, the process of testing
claims is followed.
Why test a claim?
Testing claims is a skill that allows us to critically understand the meaning of claims and search
for their accuracy using different techniques. It helps us analyze the accuracy and quality of a
wide range of claims to prove its reliability and credibility.
How to check the quality of a claim?
CRITERIA EXPLANATION

Source Analysis Where did the claim originate from? To prove the reliability of the claim, the
source analysis for the information can be conducted.

Types of A strong claim is not only supported by one type of information or evidence but

information + has multiple forms such as facts, opinions, statistical data, and prediction. Data is
always more reliable when it is factual and supported by expert testimony.
Evidence

Use of Language The use of language is strong, informative, formal, and convincing. Informal and
emotive words and phrases may make a claim exaggerating, unlikely, and/or
farfetched.

Research/Experi A claim based on research or experimental data is a strong claim. Experimental

mental Data data as part of primary data collection is always more authentic than some
secondary sources such as online websites, books, or magazine articles. To test a
claim, different research methods like experiments, simulation, census, surveys
etc can be conducted. These research methods should be suitable for the claim to
be tested and should be able to provide relevant data to test it.

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Generalization Claims which are accurate, specific, and not meaningless or vague statements are
a strong claim. It has the mention of a specific year or time period, a discussed
fact, and a number to increase the credibility of the claims and make it more
sensible.

Personal Personal perspectives from first-hand experiences, if included give the reader a

perspective vivid sense of what is being described.

How to test a claim?

To test a claim, we should consider the following:
● Sources of information​ -​ What sources can be found to check whether the claim is
stating the facts or is it just a biased opinion of the speaker/author? Reliable sources such
as the reports from the UN, government data, experienced research organizations on the
topic are some examples of secondary sources of information to check whether the claim
is stating facts or not. Sources of information can also come from primary sources like
people who are immediately impacted by the topic ( research population), people who are
involved in the policy/decision making on the topic(stakeholders), etc.
Such sources of information can be used to cross-check the credibility of information
provided in a claim.
● Type of information​ -​ What kind of information should be searched to check
whether the claim is providing accurate data? Most factual data consisting of graphs,
statistics, trends, data, etc can be found to check if the claim is providing the correct
information or not. The facts should be related to the topic of the claim. Other types of
primary information can also be collected like opinions or data from people, government,
stakeholders, etc who are closely impacted by the topic of the claim.
● Methods of research​ ​- ​What methods of collecting data can be used to test the
claim? Data can be collected from secondary sources as specified above, or data can be
collected from respondents who are closely impacted by the issue. This can be done
through questionnaires, interviews, schedules, observations for primary data or using
different search techniques and reliable sources for secondary data. Other research

18
 methods like experiments, simulation etc can be used as per appropriateness to the claim
being tested.
It is important to explain the sources of information, types of information and methods
used to test a claim in detail with explicit connection to the claim .

How is a claim made?

❖ Gather information about the world and the environment around us.
❖ Conduct experiments and make observations.
❖ Draw conclusions or make predictions out of the data collected.
❖ Frame a claim as a statement of something as a fact.

Example:​ ​“Women are paid less than men in many jobs.” How could you test this claim?
You may consider the types of information, sources of information, and methods of
collecting information.
For a claim to be valid and impactful, the type of information it should include are statistics/
information on the different levels of pay between men and women. It should also have statistics
or factual information on the types of work and level of promotion for both men and women. The
data can be represented either in terms of a graph that can show the progress or decrease or
normal figures with the source mentioned for reliability. As this is a discriminatory act, there
should also be a personal perspective included for both genders. There could also be added a
questionnaire and interview data from men and women and their views on this topic or issue.
This is also a worldwide issue and thus there should be a mention of expert testimony from
researchers or organizations associated with the same field. This gives a wider perspective of the
problem. There are also a number of sources which should be referred to for reliable, authentic
and valid information. The sources could be national and local governments and their
departments which have salary data, though there can be made a clear comparison of the wage
gap between the 2 genders. Research reports and pay experts should also be added, the pay
experts can give a detailed vision and research reports give a lot of factual and opinionated
information. Media, world webs, and International organizations like UNESCO and UN sites can
also be referred to as they are worldwide sites and the most reliable ones. Individual men and
women case studies can also be added which gives a personal perspective and their takes and
views on this issue. Non-government organizations that work under women’s rights and social

19
development can be talked with to learn the complete story of the problem and get a detailed
analysis. There are also certain possible methods of research which can be used to test the
strength of a claim.- review of secondary sources and internet research using specific and reliable
websites using advanced search options and finding different perspectives in different groups.
Another method is the interview of organizations like men and women working in organizations
and various other surveys. Other HR- experts of HR heads and economists and questionnaires
filled by hr department for salary sale. These types of information, sources, and methods should
be used to test the strength of a claim as well as make it strong and believable.

20
Topic 5 - Reading and Recording :
By Anushka Prasanth:

1. How to read and record information?

While searching for relevant and reliable information, it is important to use different
techniques like using different keywords, using different search engines, advanced search
options ect. Once the information is found, it is not possible to read the whole document and
all the links on a search page to identify the most relevant information. Which is why below
mentioned techniques are helpful in saving time and recording the most relevant
information.

➢ Identifying KEY words. {skim reading for key words}

➢ Read the sentences that have key words. {reading for relevance}
➢ Writing the Gist. {what is the article about}
➢ Using keywords, one should always paraphrase, or restate the information in their own
words. Copying might imply that the researcher does not understand the information. This
can also count towards plagiarism(which is where in-text citations come to the rescue!)

2. Making notes after or during reading.

Once the relevant information or link has been identified, it is important to note main points
and paraphrase it as and when it is read. For this, it becomes essential that the objective of
research is clear- ie. What do we intend to find from the document?

➢ Using the help of diagrams show causes, consequences and perspectives.

➢ Highlight different perspectives, causes and consequences.
➢ Try to spot patterns and copy 1 or 3 significant sentences to quote.{DO NOT COPY AND
PASTE}
➢ To verify how reliable a piece of information is, see if it is repeated on different reliable
sites and research reports. If this is an observation made, then the piece of information can
be stated to be very reliable.
➢ During research, one may encounter different statistics and facts which all point to one
direction. It would be useful to only note down important pieces of data. Repetition of the
same point should be avoided, even when noting down.
➢ Always note down the information as you read. Doing so after reading will not allow you to
write down everything important, since gaps may develop in memory over time.

21
3. How to reference/cite?
While paraphrasing the information, it is important to cite it accurately to give credit where
it is due and to note down all details required for references in bibliography.

➢ Paste the website url with the date of access.

➢ Author of the book/ article, last name followed by comma then first name.
➢ Write down the title of the source
➢ Container of the article
➢ Publisher information.

4. MLA format for bibliography is as follows:

❏ Left hanging indent
❏ In alphabetical order, last name of author comma first name.
❏ Title.
❏ Container,
❏ Year of publication,
❏ Website url.
❏ Accessed on date.
Some exceptions can be
❏ Using No Author. If author’s name is absent
❏ Starting the reference with the container name if title and author are not present.

The punctuation after each component is also of great importance and is to be followed
strictly while compiling a bibliography.

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Topic 6 - Identifying Types of Information:
By Amaira Seth

4 types of Information:
★ Facts
★ Opinions
★ Value judgments
★ Predictions

Firstly, ​Facts​ ​are statements that can be verified with data and/ or evidence. They are usually
universally known. Facts can be in the form of data, graphs, statistics, etc.
- Example:​ ​“The Earth revolves around the sun.”

Secondly, ​Opinions​ are statements that express an individual’s personal view or judgment which
can be disagreed with by others. In order to be valid, most are supported by proven facts,
statistics, and data. Counter-arguments must also provide reasoning and data.
- Example:​ ​“The ​United States of America was right to get involved in the Vietnam War”

Thirdly, ​Value Judgments​ are opinions that are closely related to the moral values of an
individual. Value judgments, as the name suggests, are judgmental statements pertaining to
something being categorized as right, wrong, good, or bad by an individual. These can not be
verified, however, they can be tested using logical reasoning to see whether it is reasonable or
not.
- Example:​ ​“Eating cow meat/ beef is wrong”

Lastly, ​Predictions​ are attempts to say what will happen in the future, they cannot be verified
until they follow through. Predictions can be supported by past trends, cause and consequence,
and logical reasoning.
- Example:​ ​“A bright elementary student will do well in high school”

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Importance of Types of Information:
❏ While conducting research, it is important to focus on facts rather than value judgments.
While searching reliable sources, the foremost thing to be checked is whether the source
has facts that are scientifically proven and tested, or does the source contain value
judgments based on an individual’s isolated experience.
❏ The use of facts strengthens the source and makes the information reliable, whereas the
use of value judgment weakens the source.
❏ Predictions and opinions when used with well-researched facts and logic, usually help in
framing arguments for the research.
❏ Sometimes, when different perspectives have to be searched on an issue, value judgments
made by people, news channels or magazines, etc play an important role in highlighting a
certain group’s perspective, biased or unbiased, towards the issue.

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Topic 7 - Identifying Key Issues:
By Harsh Ahuja

What are the key issues:

Issues can be differentiated from facts by a simple process. When a question is asked, if the answer is
easily available form a quick google search, then the question is a factual one and is not an issue.
But when a question is asked and the answer is different from different perspectives, for different
groups of people or for different countries/areas, this question is an issue.
Issues are problems to which there is no one right answer. Issues have an ethical dimension which
makes it difficult to find one correct answer which suits all the stakeholders or which is correct from
all viewpoints. Usually, issues are consequences to a factual occurrence.

Example​:- ​What is the extent of Migration in India?

This is a factual question as the answer is a set of numbers or data and can be easily found using
search tools from reliable sources. So, this is a factual question and not an issue.
But the consequences of migration faced by different groups of people in different countries are very
diverse. Some consequences may be negative and some positive. Some consequences may also be
more important than others. This is where it has to be analyzed which consequence is more severe and
urgent and hence is a key issue over all others.
There are many issues which are existent at this point in time, each with its own seriousness and
importance. To address these, the aforementioned need to be compared so as to provide one central
issue of focus for further research. For this purpose, Issue Analysis is a decisive skill. It covers 4 broad
areas for analysis​ ​(CUSP) ​:

- Consequences:​ What results due to the issue. This will branch out to different perspectives, and
how they are impacted. These have to be mapped from all viewpoints for all stakeholders.
- Urgency:​ When is the issue occurring? If the consequences are short term, then the issue is very
urgent, and if not so, then it is not as urgent.
- Severity:​ ​This looks towards Scale and Depth of Impact. How many people are affected and how
much, as well as when and for how long the consequences appear.

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 - Perspectives:​ Who all are impacted. If many different aspects of a community/society are
impacted, then the issue needs to be addressed.
All four ( CUSP) have to be well researched instead of being based on researchers’ opinions.

Example:​ ​(Issue Analysis):

Issue:​ ​Internal Migration in Gurgaon
Consequences:
- For those lower down in social ladder: Economic problems, exploitation at work, poor living
conditions(water, electricity)
- Further Urbanization, yet again leading to Migration(Cycle)
- For Economy: possible rise(higher workforce)
- For Environment
Urgency:
- Most recent sources for this from last year to two years ago
- Is occurring now in Gurgaon
- Therefore: Very Urgent(growing slum population)
Severity:
- Affects mainly migrants in the short term
- Mild effects for the entire population in the long term(more workforce→rise in economy→better
living standards).
- Effects mainly permanent(the process is perpetual)
Perspectives:
- Internal Migrants
- The economy of underdeveloped area vs developed area or country
- Population of city
- Construction businesses(common profession for internal migrants in the lower class)

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Topic 8 - Framing a Global Question:
By Anandita Gupta and Sia Sehgal

What is a global question?

The global question is a problem in the form of a question. It is essentially the issue converted
into a question form, to which the researcher would find a solution after conducting research.
The research report concludes by answering the global question. The global question is explicitly
linked to the issue identified and is ethically charged. It may also provide a peek into the
different groups facing different consequences. A global question is different from a research
question.
What should global questions be like?
● Should be focused: not too narrow, not too broad and completely related to the issue
● Should give an opportunity to explore different perspectives: Global, National, Local and
Personal
● Should give the opportunity to explore different viewpoints within these perspectives
which can be done by identifying stakeholders for the issue.
● A global question can be evaluated from different perspectives and will have different
solutions from those different perspectives.
● A global question should have an ethical dimension, and should not be answerable with
facts and data as independent answers, for example:
○ Whose responsibility is it…….
○ Do the advantages of……outweigh the disadvantages of…….
○ What is more important………
How can the global question be evaluated and checked?
❖ Open​ - Are there several different or competing answers?
❖ Undermining​ ​- Does it make you question your basic assumptions?
❖ Rich​ ​- Can it be answered only with careful and lengthy research, usually by being
broken into subsidiary questions?
❖ Connected​ ​- Is it relevant to you?
❖ Charged​ ​- Does it have an ethical dimension?

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 ❖ Practical​ ​- Can you research it meaningfully given the available resources?

A good global question would score highly on all the six parameters.

Examples of Global Questions;

Weak GQ​:
Does the transportation of large amounts of oil cause a plummeting economy?
Strong GQ​:
Does the transportation of large amounts of oil to sustain an economy outweigh its consequences
on the aquatic ecosystem in the long term?

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Topic 9 - Identifying Causes and
Consequences:
By Mihika Srikrishna

A cause is when certain events lead to a specific outcome. A consequence is the effect that
happens due to another situation or cause. For example, a statement can be, that the sun is so hot
that my ice cream melted. Here the consequence would be the ice cream melting and that will
happen because of the sun being so hot on this particular day.

To identify causes, you can look out for words such as- because, as, or, since. To identify
consequences, you can look out for words and phrases such as- as a result of, therefore, so and
that's why. In case of any confusion, it is efficient to draw diagrams to help identify causes and
consequences. Consequences can have a negative impact or a positive impact.

On a surface level, you can see the immediate cause and the immediate consequence. However,
the specific causes may have many different root causes. The different consequences would also
lead to multiple further consequences that can be seen on a personal, local, national or global
perspective. There may be a cyclical effect also which makes a vicious circle and makes it
difficult to think about one root cause or one main consequence.

Example:

Excess in poaching leads to extinction of northern white rhinos.

● Here you can identify the cause as poaching and the consequence as extinction of certain
species. However, this may have many more causes and consequences that have to be
looked into. To see that you will have to see what leads to the increase in the demand of
poaching? One of the root causes could be the poverty that leads to so much poaching. To
identify further consequences you will have to see as a result of these rhinos going
extinct, what can be the further consequences on the environment. As the northern white
rhinos go extinct, the entire ecosystem of the forests could be disrupted on a local level.
Different guards that take care of the remaining species could face a positive
consequence since they are getting employment. Extinction of northern white rhinos
could also lead to tourism being decreased and that can impact the economy on a national
level.

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 Chapter 2-Research Methodology
Topic 1- Research Questions:
By Anandita Gupta and Sia Sehgal

What is the Research Objective?

● It is a statement of inquiry, something the researcher wishes to achieve
● Is clearly defined
● Helps to focus on the study
● Clearly identifies variables understudy
● Establishes limits of the study
● Avoids the collection of unnecessary data
A Research Objective is usually framed as:
● To study the impact of……….
● To explore the effect of……….
● To find out the relationship between……….
● To identify………
What are the Research Questions?
● Each research objective is broken down into multiple research questions
● RQs are essentially the questions which will be answered during the research
● As the research progresses towards fulfilling its objectives, the RQs are automatically
answered in this process

For Example:
Global Question:​ ​How do an increasing number of acts of gender-based violence and sexual
assault committed against women decrease the demographic dividend and cause a lack of social
development in our society?​
RO :
● To study the impact of sexual violence on women and their lives in particular.

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 ● To understand the role of society and family’s perspective in the increase of physical
violence crime rate.
● To study the impact of sexual violence on the nation and its development.
RQ:
● What is the demographic dividend?
● What is sexual violence?
● How does violence impact the demographic dividend of the country?
● What effect does violence have on the preparator and the victim?
● Is physical violence and crime rate increasing?
● What is the relation between society and family?
● Is the nation impacted by the extent of sexual violence in the country?

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Topic 2 - Research Population:
By Mehak Batra
To identify the research population for empirical research, we first identify the objective of the
study and area of study.. We then conduct a preliminary literature review or read some previous
research on the same or related topic. This will help to identify the group of people impacted by
this issue or involved/ related to this issue in different capacities. The research population is
delimited by the objectives and operational definitions depending on the time and resources
available with the researcher. It also depends on the type of research- whether the researcher is
looking to generalize the findings or to conduct in-depth qualitative research into one impacted
group or research on gaining insight into the role of all stakeholders involved.

Example: ​(Research population for the issue of “violence against women”)

The research population for qualitative research, is the target audience who have been greatly
impacted by the issue and its consequences, and groups related to this issue. It is primarily
targeted towards women who have been victims of such atrocities like rape, sexual assault,
physical abuse and various other forms of harrasment. A victimized woman will be able to give
an overview of how their life, physical and mental wellbeing has been impacted and transformed
after such tragic events. The research population also consists specifically of the families and
parents of those victims, which includes the perspective of different generations in the family. It
has proven that a generational gap shows diverse thinking which comes from the value systems
embedded in their minds. Thus a family's perspective shows whether they are supportive or not
of the victim. The last community is of the criminals/preparators or anyone who commits this
violence. So to focus on the identification of the main reasons behind such an act and the kind of
treatment or consequences the preparator may or may not have faced soon after. Various
organisations working in this field like NGOs, counsellors, doctors, psychiatrists etc are also part
of the research population.
This research is an in-depth qualitative study of the phenomenon of violence against women, and
as such, all stakeholders are part of the research population. The geographical area can be
decided based on the researcher’s justifications for the same.

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Topic 3 - Sample and Respondent:
By Lehar Goenka

Who is a respondent:
A respondent is an individual who is part of the sample which represents the whole research
population and responds to or replies to the questions asked by the researcher as part of the data
collection process.

The respondent characteristics are defined by the research objective to be fulfilled. For example,
if the research focuses on women’s rights and specifically on the experience of women having
undergone this experience, and the research objective is to study this phenomenon in Delhi NCR,
the respondent would be women living in Delhi NCR, who have experienced some issues in
women rights. On the other hand, if the research objective is to study the right to education and
its impact on females, respondents would be girls of school-going age, teachers, policymakers,
etc.
What is a sample:
❖ A sample is a small group of individuals/organizations/ things which is a true
representative of the research population.
❖ A survey of an entire population is called a census. When it is too difficult,
time-consuming, or expensive to conduct a census due to the large size of the research
population, information is gathered from a sample, or subset, of the population.
❖ The sample is chosen using scientific methods to avoid bias and to ensure that it is a true
representative of the research population.
❖ A sample statistic calculated on a sample with the appropriate size and chosen using
appropriate methods can be generalized to the whole research population and compared
to the population parameter to draw conclusions.

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Topic 4 - Sampling Methods:
By Harsh Ahuja

What is sampling and why is it done:

Sampling is a method of collecting data from a representative group/set of the research population.
When the research population is too large, it is impractical to collect data from each and every unit due
to time, money, and resource constraints. This is when sampling is used to select a representative
group or set to collect data. This data can be generalized to the whole research population if the
sampling method chosen is appropriate.
While choosing a sampling method for quantitative studies, it is imperative to use the correct method
and implement it in a manner so as to minimize bias and get reliable data.

Sampling methods:
Firstly, an adequate sample size for which the results can be generalized is 12% of the research
population or more. A smaller size would not yield generalizable results. Methods to select a sample
from the research population are several but are distributed into two main categories: Probability and
Non-probability Sampling, the former for Quantitative Research, and the latter for qualitative research.
When a list of all units within the research population which can be sampled is generated and is used
to select a sample, it is called a sampling frame.

Probability Sampling:
Within this category, all units of the research population have an equal chance of being selected in the
sample. There are three main methods for probability sampling:
● Random
● Cluster
● Stratified
Random Sampling:
In this method, random numbers are assigned to all in the units of the research population. There are
three sub-methods to this as well:
● Fish Bowl Method

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 ● Random Number Table
● Computerized Random Selection

The Fish Bowl​ is one in which names of the units of research population are written on chits, put in a
common bowl, followed by a random selection till an adequate sample size is accumulated. This can
be done virtually also, where random names are picked from a pool of names. This method can be
implemented with a replacement or without replacement of chits/ names drawn earlier. An advantage
of this method is that it is easy to use and implement if the research population is small. On the
downside, if the research population is too large, it may become time-consuming and cumbersome to
implement.
The Random Number Table​ randomly orders numbers into groups, followed by selection in a
maintained order.

For Example:
4351 1920

2672 1590

1234 1934

4321 3932

The sequence of Choosing:

1. Horizontal
2. Diagonal
3. Vertical
(Sequence is maintained, choosing happens from place value to place value)
Random number tables ​like Tippet’s table can be found in books as well as online and units in the
research population can be assigned numbers. Depending on the sequences being followed in the table,
each number will then correspond to a unit.
For Example​ - If a horizontal sequence is being followed on the table, and the first digit is being
considered, the sequences generated would be -
4,1,2,1,1,1,4,3

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The digits which are repeated can be removed. Now we have:
4,1,2,3
In our sample frame, we will check the unit next to each of these digits to identify the respondent.
For Example -
Digit 4 corresponds to - Tom
Digit 1 corresponds to - John
Digit 2 corresponds to - Lucy
Digit 3 corresponds to - Emily
So we have Tom, John, Lucy, and Emily in our sample.
The computerized random number generator ​is closely related to the second, the only difference
being that a computer picks a random number thereby resulting in relatively unbiased selection and
formulation of numbers.

Cluster Sampling:
This method is used when the geographical research area is large. The research area is then divided
geographically into clusters and each cluster is then subdivided till a smaller area can be pinpointed.
Each cluster would have a mix of different kinds of people and would be heterogeneous in nature
within itself. When compared to each other, all clusters would have the same mix of people, so in
comparison, clusters would be homogenous between themselves.

For example​ -​ If research has to be conducted in Delhi, the geographical area is too large to cover and
pinpoint respondents, we can divide Delhi into 5 zones- North, East, South, West, and Central.
Suppose we pick up the south zone first and keep dividing it into smaller and equal parts, till we can
identify the localities within each cluster and are able to pinpoint Lajpat Nagar and South Extension in
one of the divisions/ clusters.

Suppose the sample size is 1000, which is equally divided into 200 per zone.
For the South zone, we have to identify 200 people and are able to narrow down the cluster to Lajpat
Nagar and South Ex - we can identify 50 people from each locality.
This can be further narrowed down to societies or shops in these localities, which can be easily
numbered and random sampling used to identify these 50 respondents.
This can be done for each of the clusters until all the clusters are covered.

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Stratified Sampling:
In this method, the research population is divided into subpopulations, named Strata. Each stratum is
based on a common variable being studied in the research.
For Example​: if the study is to analyze the impact of age and gender on career growth, the research
population would be divided on the basis of age and gender.
Each stratum has one kind of group, so it is homogeneous in nature, whereas, if compared to other
strata it is heterogeneous in nature.

For Example​- strata based on age divided into categories like below 30 years and above 30 years
would have people of similar ages in it. Likewise, strata based on gender- Male, Female, Others-
would have people from the same gender group in it. Male strata will have all males so it is
homogeneous, but when compared to the women strata it is heterogeneous.

Non-Probability Sampling:
Non Probability Sampling, as stated before, allows for the collection of qualitative data, or information
regarding opinion and emotion, or narratives. It is used for qualitative research, where in-depth
information is required from the respondent about a phenomenon. In non- probability sampling the
probability of selection of each unit from the research population is not equal.

These are ​five​ main methods of Non-Probability Sampling from amongst many more:
● Systematic
● Judgemental
● Purposive
● Convenient
● Snowball

Systematic:
There is some debate amongst researchers about whether this method is a probability sampling or a
non-probability sampling method. When we assign systematic numbers and decide to choose a given
multiple, the probability of all others in between becomes zero.

37
For Example-​ Every 4th number or name in the list will be selected in the sample. This means that
1,2,3 will have zero probability of being selected. Similarly, 5,6,7 will also have zero probability of
being selected in the sample.

Purposive:
Purposive sampling is based on the fulfillment of the objective of the research. The researcher decides
which respondent would be able to provide the most relevant in-depth information and is chosen
purposefully by the researcher.

Judgemental:
Within this method, a sample is chosen based on the advice of an expert who has sufficient experience
within the respective field. Data can also be collected from experts themselves, who have experience
with the phenomenon and whose judgment can be relied upon for fulfillment of the research objective.

Convenient:
Within this method, respondents are chosen by the researcher based on his/her convenience of time,
money, and resources. For eg- Posting an online survey on Facebook or collecting data from
classmates/school mates, is convenient sampling as it is easy to collect information from them.

Snowball:
This method of sampling is specific to when the Research Objectives pertain to sensitive topics(such as
domestic violence, human rights violations, child trafficking, drug abuse, mental health and relevant coping
mechanisms, etc). A point to note is that responses to the queries will not be given all the time, resulting in
a relatively low response rate. Firstly, a respondent is chosen who relates to the topic of research(of course
fieldwork ethics are also to be maintained). This respondent then leads you to the next respondent, although
the second has no knowledge of the first and their guidance. The benefit of this method is that respondents
interviewed will likely relate to the topic of research.

Multi-Stage Sampling:
Sampling procedures can consist of one stage or many stages. The latter is known as Multi-Stage
Sampling.

38
For example, one is conducting research on Internal Migration in India, with a special focus on Gurgaon.
They wish to find out information regarding reasons for migration, particularly in the lower economic strata.
There are many sampling methods that can be undertaken. Below is a self-explanatory example:

“​After a detailed introduction to all types, this topic was found to require multi-stage sampling. Judgemental
and Snowball were chosen as methods of sampling. Expert advice would prove to be very useful when
selecting areas in which migrants reside, as their experience in the issue would exceed the group by a long
shot. Snowball would allow one to locate relevant respondents, and that too with ease, as one leads to the
next. The issue is also of a somewhat sensitive nature(especially for causes such as domestic violence), for
which Snowball Sampling is an adequate fit.​”

Important Note- ​Probability sampling is used with Quantitative research, while non-probability sampling is
used with Qualitative research. Learn more about types of research in pages ahead.

39
Topic 5 - Data Collection Methods:
By Mehak Batra

Data collection can be done through primary and secondary methods. These can be used to
broaden the amount of research through different perspectives.
Secondary data collection methods:
● Online websites
● Books
● Magazines
● Articles
● Media
● Research reports
● Government reports

Primary data collection methods:

● Interviews-​ ​An interview is essentially a structured conversation where one participant
asks questions, and the other provides answers.
❖ Structured-​ all questions are prepared before the interview.
Eg- jobs, interviews with politicians or celebrities
❖ Semi-structured- ​most of the questions are prepared beforehand and some are
decided over the answer the interviewer receives
Eg- ​entertainment shows
❖ Unstructured-​ there are no pre decided questions. Every simultaneous question is
based on the previous answer.
● Observations​ ​– ​when data is recorded, observed, or monitored by participating in the
phenomenon or as a spectator
❖ Participative- ​when you are a witness of the event and interfere or participate in
the occurrence.
❖ Non- participative- ​when you witness an even without actually interfering in it.
● Questionnaires-​ ​are used for large sample sizes. A list of questions is sent to the
respondents to fill and return. They are used for quantitative research.

40
 ● Schedules-​ ​are pre-decided objective questions narrated by the researcher to the
respondent. They are used for quantitative research.

How are data collection tools framed?

1. Identify themes from literature review
2. Find a pre-tested tool from literature review or use the themes and variables identified
to frame your own tool/ questions.
3. Check reliability and validity of the tool framed.
4. Rephrase the questions and retest reliability till it reaches acceptable limits.
5. For language change, follow due process of contacting a language expert.
Language 1 tool 1 -----------------> given to target language expert for conversion
Converted tool 2 -------------------> given to language 1 expert for reconversion tool 3
Match the initial tool 1 with the converted tool 3 to check for discrepancies.
6. While administering the tool, follow research ethics of introduction, confidentiality,
anonymity.
7. Use appropriate tools for different types of research.

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Topic 6 - Operational and Theoretical
Definitions:
By Aarushi and Amaira Seth

Theoretical definition​, as the name suggests, is based on the ideas that relate to the theory,
based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained. It is the general definition
of that particular word or phrase. Theoretical definitions are usually found by conducting a
literature review and finding definitions given earlier by researchers or authors and citing them
when we state these in our research.

The operational definition ​is the definition in context to our research and applicable to the
particular topic that research is being conducted on. Moreover, it is the statement of procedures
the researcher is going to use in order to measure a specific variable in their particular research.
It is also used as a delimiting technique to specify the research population and respondent.

For Example​:​ Theoretically, women would be defined as a female over the age of 18, but for
the purpose of particular research, a woman is considered as any female residing in Delhi NCR
region. This helps us gain an understanding of the research population, which in this case is all
the females residing in Delhi NCR.

Example:
Term Theoretical definition Operational definition

Feminism The advocacy of women's rights on Promotion of women’s rights or

the grounds of the equality of the empowerment
sexes.

Woman Female from the age 18+ Female residents of the Delhi
worldwide NCR.

Women’s rights Rights​ and entitlements claimed for Sets of rights given to women and

42
 women​ and girls worldwide children in India.

Misuse of Exploitation or misuse of women’s Using ‘feminism’ to exploit the

feminism rights or entitlements rights of those around them

Exploitation The action or fact of treating Compromising, invasion of privacy

someone unfairly in order to benefit or rights
from their work.

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Topic 7 - Types of Research:
By Mehak Batra

When Researching on an issue, one must decide what type of research to conduct. Do you want
to look at the bigger picture? Do you want to peer into the finer details of the topic? There is a
research type for each of these. The two main types are:
- Quantitative​(Bird’s Eye view of the Forest): Data present in numbers, and mainly
consisting of facts or predictions backed by data.
- Qualitative​(Ant’s Eye view of the Forest):Information given regarding emotion, and in
the form of opinions, or value judgements, narratives of respondents. Cannot be
quantified.
A Research study where both are used is called a ​Triangulation​. One would say: “My research
is a triangulation of qualitative and quantitative research”.

Qualitative Quantitative

Emphasis on Subjective Objective

objectivity/subjectivity

Nature of data collected Words Numbers

Richness of Data and context More Less

Depth/Generalizability Not Generalizable(few Generalizable

respondents taken, but question
delves deep into details)

Sample Size Small Large

Sampling Method Non Probability Probability

Data Collection Tools Un Structured, Semi Structured Structured

Data Analysis Techniques Content Analysis Appropriate Statistical

Analysis

Objective / Aim of Research To study a phenomena in-depth To test hypothesis based

for generating hypothesis or on already existing
theory theory

Reasoning Inductive Deductive

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Example​: ​Type of Research conducted for Internal Migration in India
The research being conducted is a Triangulation between Qualitative and Quantitative research.
Quantitative research was done prior to the NGO interaction, particularly in the Causes and
Consequences research. These were representative of a sufficiently large sector of the research
population which had already been researched upon in India. Post this research and formulation
of the data collection tool, the NGO-interaction took place, in which qualitative research was
conducted. A considerable amount of the information received was regarding specific cases of
migrants or the homeless, which were helped.

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Topic 8 - Field Work Ethics:
By Amaya Chopra and Gehana

What are fieldwork Ethics:

● Fieldwork encompasses primary data collection where the researcher goes into a
community or research area to collect primary data using different methods like
questionnaires, observation, interviews, etc.
● Fieldwork is a sensitive process as the researcher interacts with people from different
backgrounds and should be sensitive to the situation, culture, background of respondents.
● It is important for the researcher to understand that data collection is a requirement for
their research, whereas the respondent is doing them a favor by giving their time, energy,
and sharing their information. It is a two-way process and the researcher should be
mindful of some ethical issues in order to make the respondent comfortable.

Do’s during an interview:

● Introduce yourself.
● Seek permission, to begin with introducing yourself.
● Seek permission to begin and continue the interaction.
● Share your research objectives.
● Share information about the process (including the time needed etc.)
● Share that anonymity will be ensured if requested by a respondent.
● Plan interactions according to mutual comfort, convenience, and safety.
● Respect the person, their time, and their context.
● Follow ‘Phone’ etiquettes!
● Use appropriate language and words.
● Share that confidentiality will be ensured if requested by the respondent
● Fix time with flexibility.
● Be prepared for last-minute changes by the research participants.
● Dress up and carry things according to the context.

46
Don'ts during an interview:

● Force people to participate (guilt, threat, and other unhelpful strategies)

● Use jargons/language that is not relevant for the research participants

● Ask questions just out of curiosity if the topic is sensitive and may be emotionally
distressing for the respondent.

● Wish that everything would go exactly how you planned it!

● Take photos unnecessarily and without permission.

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Topic 9 - Qualitative Data compilation and
Content Analysis:
By Harsh Ahuja and Mehak Batra

Compilation:
When an interview has been conducted, there is an entire recording that needs to be deciphered. The
information in this recording first needs to be converted into a transcript- a word-to-word translation into
a written tabular format.
Before one starts writing the transcript, a paragraph about setting should be written before this. This
should be a vivid description of what was heard and seen and provides context to the conversation for the
reader. Include what you inferred regarding emotions of the interviewees(willingness to answer,
emotional context, state of mind), and physical characteristics/area( size, capacity, location, etc.) These
minor details can terraform the shape of the comment and how you may perceive it. Remember, your
interpretation of their words can not be deemed right or wrong, as long as you can justify its validity.

Once this paragraph has been completed, you are required to create a table with three columns, in which
you will be translating and analyzing the transcript. To do so, you need to separate parts of the transcript
into codes, which are minor topics of discussion which were taken up at a certain point of time during the
interview.

In-vivo Coding​ is a method used to label these sections, where a word from the transcript itself is made
to represent the entire section(a new word is not needed). These codes need to be clubbed into broader
umbrellas, referred to as Themes. The several different codes under a theme are to be highlighted/colored
identically, so as to imply their location under the same umbrella.

Example​:​ Transcript Document:

The interview location was one of the abundant shelters of Ashray Adhikar Abhiyan(AAA). Several
sounds surrounded us, such as those of small conversations every now and then between some people in
the background, general traffic(which overwhelmed most sounds), and the rather infrequent sound of a
plane passing by. Noise was fairly ambient when on the roads, but much of this sound was cancelled

48
 inside the shelter. The area itself was very dusty, and wrappers or bottles were common sightings. We
took to the inner alleys of the area, which eventually led us to a shelter. In fact, we passed through a
residence directly before reaching the shelter. The road was fairly uneven, but the alleys were generally
linear and followed an implied direction. The shelter itself was much quieter, compared to the road. The
first sight on the ground floor was a desk which held similarity to a reception desk. the desk had a glass
top, through which I could see several pictures and pieces of papers(I am not sure as to what they were
about).

Codes Transcript Interpretation

- [ ] But uh can we begin with uh one round of introduction it Frequent reference

will be good because I am not I mean able to connect you with to NGO, and what
name and all so can we start from here. Okay um my name is they do to address
harsh and you are studying in, again heritage Xperiential school the issue
in gurgoan ,class, class grade 8 grade 8 section B okay my name
is Avi uh I am also studying in heritage Xperiential learning
school grade 8 My name is Anhad and I am also actually we all
are from the heritage school grade 8 my section is B ,b,8b, uh
Iam Ryan and I am studying in the heritage Xperiential learning
school and I am in 8b.My name is Neel and as Anhad said we
are studying in heritage Xperiential learning school and I am in Understanding of
8b,B,My name is Aarav and I also study in the heritage topic is present,
Xperiential learning school grade 8 section A. Even UM my despite the slight
name is Akash and I study in the heritage Xperiential learning lack of clarity
school and I am in class grade 8, grade 8A (background noise) throughout(comm
My name is Anika I also study in the heritage Xperiential on inference)
learning school and I am in 8A. my name is Rohan and I study in
the heritage school as well and I am in 8A.Okay fine toh yeh
mere sath hi he apnea introduce kriye (Cant hear) yeah so
​I am sanjay and I am working with urban
migrants,poor,children,street children,disabled people and
majorly with the homeless people, homeless is our main theme

49
 of work for the last 2 decades we are working on this issue for Diction was not
the last 2 decades and apart from my practice apart from my very clear,
direct work with the homeless people so I used to teach at Delhi nonetheless, Mr
university at the department of social work and recently I have Sanjay is a very
Introduction finished my PHD on this similar issue that was that was related qualified person,
to Field of with identity’s citizenships and homelessness so this was my and one with
Study issue it’s very vibrant and most of the time it’s debating and extensive
talking in the media and different different wide open space​ so experience in this
glad I mean you all express your interest at least this issue field

After the Transcript Document has been completed, a new list needs to be made. Themes will be separate
sections, under which the different codes can be listed, and key points under each code along with a supporting
quote. This should all be in brief. Your RQs need to be placed at the top.

Example:​ ​Findings List Excerpt:

Research Questions:
● Are housing expectations met to some extent by modern infrastructure for migrants?
● Are real estate companies/governments paying much attention to migrant property?
● Do Migrants manage to settle when moving to Delhi and Gurgaon? If so, in what
way(maids, workers, or in companies, as trained professionals)?
● In what all ways do migrants achieve success, in their outcome of migrating?
● What is Migration?
● What are the main Push and Pull factors of Inter-state Migration?
Government and Migrants:
● Not under main agenda of bureaucracy “these are not very uh much discuss in our
bureaucracy in our political fields cause this is not under their main agenda”
● Certain fundings allocated to each state by central govt.:
1. Delhi, Maharashtra: more than sufficient funding: “Maharashtra has got lot many
funding”, “Delhi itself has got lot many funding”
2. Bihar, Jharkhand: insufficient funding: “Bihar is not getting”, “Jharkhand is not getting”

50
Themes Solutions, as Government Reasons for Crime and Work for Migrants
implemented by and Migrants migration Poverty
the NGO

Codes Introduction to the Importance of Reasons for Consideration of Housemaids in

field of study issue to the Migration poverty and Gurgaon(origins
political world. crime
Migration Ways to find work
Journey from street Fundings reason example Crime-poverty
to success relation based on Wages received by some
Media and Reason for unjust migrants/workers(referen
How children are government Migration to incrimination of ce to AAA)
helped perception of Delhi migrants
issue Wages in AAA
Particular case of a Crime, and
night out(Further Media occasional
The field) involvement of
migrants/people
in poverty
Need for persuading
rescuees Unorganized
crime

Analysis:
Now that the raw information is prepared, and all codes and themes have been mapped out in an
organized manner, the next step is to conduct a properly formatted analysis. One method of
doing so is SQC(Setup, Quote Comment). A context is first set, evidence is provided, and
observation regarding that quote, and other improvements are made.

Setup:
Describe the setting, and what led to the finding.
Example:-

51
In addition to the earlier cause, the interviewers had shared their previous knowledge to give the
experts an idea on what kind of data is wanted and what is already known so that they can
elaborate on the issue of violence against women. It was also researched of the cases where a
woman reported a false case because the man refused to get married to her. During the
interaction about this issue, expert Monica answered the question of how women are reporting
false allegations and misusing their rights.

Quote:
Quote what the respondents state and note their hand gestures.
Example:-
She said,
She talked about how women are claiming them to be
false due to various reasons like delays in the legal
system, threatened by the preparator and financial
lurement.

Comment:
Relate and support primary findings with secondary findings.
Example:-
Secondary research for violence against women not only included their perspective, but also
from men and other members of a diverse society. The second most important perspective for
our research was of men to keep the research unbiased and balanced. Secondary research showed
that only 1% of the reported allegations against men are genuine. However, after primary
research it was brought up that these cases aren’t false, there are a lot of reasons why they are
labelled false. Indian legal systems are very prolonging and require a lot of trips to the
designated places/ courts. Secondly, women are threatened by the preparator and for the sake of
family’s safety the women take their cases back and claim that it was a false allegation. Lastly,
the women from a backward class are lured financially by the preparator so that the women take
back the cases and the preparator is safe.

52
 Chapter 3-Individual Report​(Component 2)​:
Topic 1 - Formats:
By Ishaan Jain and Parth Jain

Why is the format important and a crucial part of a report?

The format and structure help maintain order and make the report match to the required standards.
The font of the report helps to maintain neatness and uniformity. A well structured report prepares
the reader for what to expect in the report. A good report should be presentable, easy to read,
comprehensive, should flow logically from one argument to the other and should focus on the
research objectives. Correct grammar and spelling should be used.

This is the structure of a research report based on primary data ( Empirical /

Descriptive Study):
- Title Page
- Content Page
- Introduction(A brief introduction of the issue)
- Research Methodology
- Research Population with explanation
- Global question
- Research Objectives
- Research Questions
- Operational Definitions
- Sampling Method with justification
- Data Collection Method and Tools with justification
- Data Analysis Methods
- Findings(SQC: pertaining to main stakeholders/ perspectives)
Try to identify themes around:
- Causes
- Consequences for different stakeholders/viewpoints/ perspectives
- Possible solutions
- If you have secondary research data which is not already part of the primary (SQC)
pattern, add another paragraph
- Conclusion
- Bibliography
- Appendix(Interview tool)

53
This is the structure of the individual research report - component 2 of GP

- Cover Page - Topic, Issue, Global Question, Candidate Name, Roll Number, Center number
- Content Page
- Introduction
- Evaluation of Causes ( Includes Global, National/Local Perspective)
- Evaluation of Consequences( Includes Global, National/Local Perspective)
- Evaluation of Probable Solutions
- Source Analysis
- Personal Perspective
- Conclusion
- Bibliography

Another format can be :

- Cover Page - Topic, Issue, Global Question, Candidate Name, Roll Number, Center number
- Content Page
- Introduction
- Global Perspective ( Includes causes and consequences)
- National perspective( Includes causes and consequences)
- Personal Perspective
- Source Analysis
- Conclusion

Font and Format to be used:-

➔ Time New Roman / Arial 16/14/12 for heading, subheading and content
➔ 1.5 line spacing
➔ Justified or left alignment
➔ Paragraphs should be linked together using connecting words like however, moreover, in
addition to etc
➔ Never Bold and underline together

All of these parts will be largely elaborated upon afterwards in this section of the textbook. The
journey of completion of a report will be a testing period of time, but all the more rewarding.

54
Topic 2 - Introduction- Issue Analysis:
By Harsh Ahuja

The individual report starts with an introduction paragraph, This introduction paragraph
encompases the issue analysis. Since an issue has already been identified and a Global question
framed around it, the report begins by analysing the issue to set the foundation and premise for
the research.
Within this analysis, the urgency and severity of the issue are discussed. If you remember from
previous chapters, a CUSP analysis is conducted when analysing an issue. Within this paragraph,
you will cover why the issue needs to be addressed now, and why it is severe(with data to
support this from different sources). Within severity, talk about Scale and Depth of Impact, the
former pertaining to how many people are affected, and the latter for when one is impacted. This
impact could be one which surfaces over time, and could be one which is seen instantly. These
points need to be discussed for different perspectives. Last but not least, always remember to use
in-text citations from ​Reliable Sources! ​These add credibility and validity to your claims. The
last paragraph should give a brief overview of what the report will cover. This provides a
structure to the report and prepares the reader about what to expect in the report.

Example:​ An introductory paragraph on Water Table Depletion.

Depletion of Water Table in India:
Water Table Depletion is an issue which has been in Gurgaon and India for many years. Gurgaon
has been listed as an overexploited region by CGWB(Central Ground Water Board).​ ​CGWB is a
governmental department monitoring the availability, exploitation and pollution of groundwater
resources, and aims to aid in the addressal of the issue of groundwater depletion by providing
data for derivation of solutions. Profit motive and selective provision of information are possible
due to its position in the government. Research Methods are largely scientific, and data is
provided to support inferences and decisions. According to a complaint by the RWA president
in Mayfield Gardens, Sector 51, faults in the pipeline system are causing long intervals of time
with no water supply. Additionally, it was observed that groundwater level in Gurgaon is
dropping at 0.77-1.2 metres per year. In an article by Youthkiawaaz, drying up ponds and lakes
cannot replenish underground aquifers from which water is extracted. According to a Hindustan

55
Times Article in 2019 named “Gurugram water level falls 3 meters in 5 years, extraction at
308%”, the water level has dropped from 26.3 metres below the ground in 2014, to 28.9 metres
below the surface in 2019. From the initial level of 6.6 meters below the surface(1974), the water
table has been dropping by 0.5m/annum for 45 years. Chakkarpur is suffering more, at 68 metres
below the surface.

Water table depletion will influence citizens of all societies and all others related to it, as well as
the ecosystem, as this shortage also applies to other coexisting animals. In terms of depth of
impact, this issue will remain for a long duration, till underground aquifers are replenished(this
will be very slow, as water will also evaporate at a certain rate, hindering the process). Lack of
water leads to severe health conditions, aggravating over time. This issue is urgent, as the rate at
which the water table is decreasing is rapid.

The report explores causes and consequences for water table depletion in India, along with
evaluation of different courses of action which can be implemented to address the issue in India,
ending with a reflection and conclusion.

56
Topic 3 - Identifying and Evaluating Causes and
Consequences:
By Mehak Batra

Causes and consequences can be identified through different perspectives. To do so, one needs to analyze
what is the factor that is affecting different communities and what is its impact. The causes and
consequences can be different or same for different communities or stakeholders and can have different
scales of impact in each case.
To evaluate the most important cause or consequence, to eradicate the problem or the one that needs to be
tackled first, causes and consequences can be evaluated on different parameters.
The parameters are:
❖ Scale of impact
❖ Depth of impact
❖ Cost effectiveness
❖ Barriers involved
❖ Time required for change
The most important cause and consequence is the one with the largest scale and depth of impact.
If the cause is highly cost effective to address, less barriers are involved and takes less time to
change, it would be the one to be solved easily, though it may or may not be the root / main
cause.
Comparison of different global and national perspectives is important. Citing reliable sources to
support identified information is of utmost importance.

Example:​(Comparing US and India)- ​A comparison on the basis of the frequency and

intensity of oil spills between US and India, US stands at a larger rate, while India has been able
to take appropriate measures to prevent such discharges. As per IOSR : from 1960-2019, the US
coast guard identified 250,000 oil spills, while India only experienced 1350 spills. The US
department of energy stated that vessels and pipelines contribute to 1.3 million gallons of
petroleum and 1.7 billion gallons from tankers annually. The US department of transportation
further proves that tanker accidents have accounted for most of the world’s largest oil spills

57
during Storage, Handling, transportation and routine maintenance activities. Even though less
frequent than pipeline breaks, involve much larger volumes of oil. The US department of IMMS
reported that tankers were responsible for 47% of the oil spills in US waters between 1971 -
2000. While pipelines only accounted for 16% of the same. Hence, accidental discharges from
tankers are the most important cause of the issue in the USA. On the contrary, as per a 2014
report by ITOPF which is a leading, non profit institution that might have a low level of bias.
And has advisers providing impartial advice worldwide on effective response to spills of oil &
chemicals making it relevant to the issue, addressing much of the recent environmental issues,
states: oil spills in india are due to sluggish preparedness, collision , lack of oil advisories, and
inefficient damage control. A survey conducted by IOSR which is an international organization
of scientific research and hence, caters to the perspective of multiple countries. And involves the
expert testimony of worldwide, renowned scientists and environmentalists for recent issues
which has provided perspective for in-depth analysis. However, There might be a profit motive
due to its commercial nature, reported that USA’s largest oil spills have released close to 205.8
million gallons of oil, while in India the largest oil spill was up to 7000 tonnes thus causing less
harm to marine life. In terms of the intensification of the spill, causes are similar for the USA and
India. ISOR stated that 53% of the major oil spills in the USA and India are due to tanker
accidents during loading and bunkering, while smaller ones are due to human error. India has
experienced less frequent oil spills as compared to the USA as it has very high contingency rates.
During the Chennai oil spill, an indian coast guard stated that “the spill would be contained in
less than 24 hours”. According to the U.S. IMM Department: in the USA, oil is not always
cleaned properly and only 40% is recovered mostly. A report by research gate shows that India
has among the highest contingency management rates of oil spills in the world- a score of 3.2,
almost double than other countries. The USA, on the other hand, still needs to improve in it’s
cleanup systems to reduce further risk of the issue.

Consequence comparison must be done between the country your research is centred on and a
country which is also facing the issue. Look for similarities and differences within the
consequences you identify. Criteria for comparison are common for both causes and
consequences, and should be discussed for different perspectives. Consequences should be
discussed for different stakeholders/ viewpoints within global and national perspectives.

58
Example:​ Comparison between India and Pakistan on the issue of Water Table Depletion:
Consequences of water table depletion:
India faces adverse consequences due to this. According to Shashank Shekhar, an assistant
professor at Delhi University, when soil becomes water deficient, it becomes susceptible to
erosion, carried away easily by wind, leading to air pollution. Probability of buildings collapsing
increasing, due to a weaker foundation. In North West India, low water efficiency causes food
insecurity(agriculture affected) (Gorton, 2). Companies which provide water will benefit from
this financially due to increased demand, although manpower would reduce in the long term due
to water deficiency, leading to a loss.

In Pakistan women have to care for themselves and their sick families. Soil erosion, denudation
and land degradation aggravate due to water table depletion. 60-65% of Pakistan’s population is
dependent on groundwater for irrigation, so it can be inferred that a large sect will suffer due to
water shortage. Table depletion affects sustainability of agriculture, as poor farmers do not have
access to wells. According to an article by Reuters in 2015: “Rapid groundwater depletion
threatens Pakistan food security: officials”, Pakistan is very dependent on agriculture(64% earn
from this, according to a 2010 report). According to ​Abid Qaiyum Suleri, executive director of
the Sustainable Development Policy Institute, 60% can suffer in the next 10 years if aquifers are
not recharged. Illegal groups are providing water to the citizens due to this, and will benefit
from it due to high demand

Decreased Agriculture sustainability is the most important consequence for both countries(as
seen in sources). Its effects are very adverse to human health in both the long and short term.
Restoration of aquifers is a logical solution to this, but is a slow process. Rainwater systems like
Ulta Chata need to be implemented everywhere to speed up the process. The issue is not very
adverse in the short term, but is very dangerous in the long term, due to which it is very
urgent(occurring now in Pakistan). Obstacles include speed of restoration, cost(likely not as large
for urban societies, but larger for rural areas), and frequency of rain. The economy will likely
drop due to drop in manpower and edible goods for trade. Children will suffer shortage of water
and disease. The entire population suffers from this. In the Short Term, water shortage is the

59
most important consequence due to difficulty of reversal and impact on the population. This will
lead to food insecurity in the long term due to ceased irrigation. The immediate impact would be
felt by the poor who do not have access to resources to save for future calamities. In the long run,
everyone will be impacted as food shortage prices will rise and the economy will suffer.

60
Topic 4 - Evaluation of Probable solutions:
By Tvarita Khandelwal and Trisha Gollapali

How to compare different probable solutions and reach one conclusion:

Probable solutions are an integral part of one's research report, and comparing one’s solutions
allows one to reach the most effective as well as an efficient solution.
Steps to find the most suitable and probable solution:
Step 1:​ ​The first step is to list down all your probable solutions.
Step 2:​ ​After listing the solutions one should identify and write down the level at which the
solutions will be implemented

Step 3:​ ​Explain further consequences of 2 -3 solutions– what would be further consequences
for different groups of people/ different cultural perspectives, if a solution is implemented. Will

61
it result in a domino effect or cyclical effect which will reduce the issue?

Step 4:​ ​Compare your solution on the basis of the following points:
a. Scale of impact​- How many people will be impacted/ benefitted by the solution
b. Depth of impact​- For how long will they be impacted/benefitted
c. Time taken​- How long will it take to implement the solution; can it be implemented in a
short time or will it take a long time
d. Cost of implementing the solution and Resources needed​- What are the resources
needed for implementation of the solution- Are these easily available or will these have to
be procured with difficulty. Will procurement of resources create new problems for some
other group of individuals? For example- If new reserves have to be made by the
government would require money. This means more tax would be collected from citizens
of the nation, even though they might not live in the affected area.
e. Self interest/ vested interest​- Does the organisation responsible for implementing the
solution have any self interest in doing so? For example if private company owners want
to set up factories in the area to generate employment would they worry more about
profit or would they give equal importance to the local issue of biodiversity loss or
pollution.
f. Political motive​- Does the government has any political motive to not act on an issue or
underplay its importance to save its own reputation
g. Cooperation​ – Is international cooperation required to implement the solution. If yes,
how long would it take and how easy/difficult would it be to cooperate with many
countries with their own individual agendas h. Cultural Barriers- Is it a deep-rooted issue
which will take a long time for people to adjust to as they are deeply attached to it as part
of their traditional and cultural practices

62
 h. Collective Action​- Is it an issue which can be resolved by collective action. How easy/
difficult would it be to raise collective awareness and bring people together to take
action. How long can this action be sustained?

Step 5:​ ​Reach a conclusion and identify one solution which would be the most effective one,
and why.

Points to be noted:
1. Discuss the weaknesses of the solution as well, as no solution is 100% perfect.
2. Answers can be structured in 4 paragraphs for the 4 points being compared. In each
paragraph 2 -3 solutions can be compared and further consequences explained. For
example- 1st para can discuss the scale of impact of 2 solutions, 2nd para can discuss cost
of implementation of these 2 solutions etc.
3. Use examples from real life situations or the source to support your logical reasoning.

63
Topic 5 - Source Analysis in an Individual
Report:
By Priyavi Singh

The purpose of source analysis is to show the credibility of a source from where information is
sourced for the research report.
An individual report must include at least 3 source analyses. All of these must be for different
sources to show the depth of your understanding of this skill.
Source analysis in Individual Reports is limited to 2-3 sentences in order to briefly state the
origin, purpose, value and limitation of the same. The values/strengths will be included in one
sentence, and the limitations/weaknesses will be included in another. The concluding sentence of
the source analysis will state whether the strengths outweigh the weaknesses or not.
This enables you to present evidence in a concise logical manner; it shows the level of research
present in your report.

Here is an​ example​ of a satisfactory source analysis:

It is important to remember that no source is fully credible and each source will have its own
disadvantages. A satisfactory source analysis helps the researcher in using the information
carefully, not generalising the results or making a less credible source the foundation of the
research. Source analysis has to explicitly state how the source is helpful for this research.

64
Topic 6 - Citation and Bibliography
By Anika Bhatnagar and Aggrith Srivasttava

References:
It is used as a common language across the world by academicians and researchers and helps
identify key elements of a research/ academic writing merely by the placement of this
information in a reference. References are required not only in academics but in all walks of life
as a means to show the use of credible sources The bibliography shows how much in-depth
knowledge has been gained by the writer to gain knowledge on a topic.
Citations:
Intext citations give credit to work where it is due. For this different formats can be used like the
name of the author in the sentence, brackets, or number system.

MLA Format
An ​example:
No Author. “Research Guides: Chicago Citation & Style Guide: Bibliography: Format &
Examples.” ​Libguides.cu​, April 27th 2020,
https://libguides.cu-portland.edu/Chicago_style/bibliography​. Accessed on 11th
June 2020.

Some of the steps given above may not be mentioned all the time like in this example; the
location and the version.
From the example, we found out that if there is no author given, we can put it as anonymous. It
can also be mentioned as No Author. The title of the source(Research Guides: Chicago Citation
& Style Guide: Bibliography: Format & Examples.), the container(libguides.cu), the date it was
created(April 27th 2020), The URL
(​https://libguides.cu-portland.edu/Chicago_style/bibliography​) and finally the access date(11th
June 2020). There is a left hanging indent as well.

65
Some rules to remember while citing:
1. MLA format always begins with the author's name : Last Name, First Name.
2. It is followed by the title in inverted commas : “Title.”
3. The Container of the source has to always be in ​italics.
4. The complete URL has to be mentioned all the time. Incomplete URL or missing tags
may lead to different pages.
5. URL is followed by the accessed on date.
6. Since the container name, url , date published, page number, publisher ect are part of the
container, each of these is divided using a comma.
7. Left Hanging Indent and alphabetical arrangement by last name of author in a
bibliography is a must in MLA format.

This is a picture of a reference list done by us for our research reports. These references
have one common problem. Can you find them?

In text citations are a way to cite your sources in a paragraph where the research is mentioned
and give credit where it is due, in your own words. For example,

As you can see in this example, the author has first described what Wordsworth felt in his or her
own words and then referenced the source.

66
Bibliography
A bibliography is a way to compile all your citations and other works read to gain knowledge
about the report. It goes in alphabetical order. Bibliography is usually found at the end of a
report, just before the appendix. It makes it easier for a reader to know where you have picked up
your sources from.
Here is an ​example ​of an alphabetically arranged, correct bibliography.

Akhtar, Sadia. “They fled violence in Myanmar but Rohingya refugees living in pathetic
conditions in Mewat refugee camps.” ​hindustantimes​, 20 June 2018,
https://www.hindustantimes.com/gurugram/they-fled-violence-in-myanmar-but-rohi
ngya-refugees-living-in-pathetic-conditions-in-mewat-refugee-camps/story-Q6q6oE
PKOhTyX0bH22refP.html​. Accessed on 18 September 2019.
D’souza, Renita. “Housing poverty in urban India: The failures of past and current strategies
and the need for a new blueprint.” ​ORF​, 1 March 2019,
https://www.orfonline​.org/research/housing-poverty-in-urban-india-the-failures-of-past
-and-current-strategies-and-the-need-for-a-new-blueprint-48665/​. Accessed on 25
September 2019.
Gupta, Das, Moushami. “Delhi, Gurgaon, Gautam Buddh Nagar favourite with migrants:
Economic Survey.” ​hindustantimes,​ 6 February 2019,
https://www.hindust​antimes.com/india-news/delhi-gurgaon-gautam-buddh-nagar-
favourite-with-migrants-economic-survey/story-d1i4C0zMJfA8HMjDfptyyK.htm
l​. Accessed on 24 September 2019.

67
Topic 7 - Reflection and Conclusion:
By Harsh Ahuja

After all the dedicated analysis that has been conducted and elaborated upon, there are certain
realizations and moments of enlightenment. There was a start and end point to your perception of
the issue, and therefore that is what needs to be introduced. Explain what you felt about the issue
before you started the report, and how you saw the issue after research was conducted and the
numbers were before you. This perspective was either changed during the research, or it has
strengthened. You might have thought that the issue is not as severe, but the numbers told you
otherwise. To show this impact, include information from sites and studies which played a part
in this change. Your conclusion should answer the Global Question very concisely, without
beating around the bush. This should be within 1-2 sentences. Make these two short paragraphs,
since the word limit is strict and the analysis sections will take up a lot of word limit before this.

Example​: ​A Reflection and Conclusion to Research on Water Table Depletion:

Global Question:​ ​Is the instant supply of water more important than securing the water table for
the future?
My initial perspective of this topic was vague. It was not supported by data or any information,
and statements made were very general. This research has allowed me to center my report on a
certain section of the water problem: Water Table Depletion. It has also allowed me to take it
much more seriously, as I was now aware of the rates at which the table was dropping, and how
low it is in many areas. ​According to a Hindustan Times Article in 2019 named “Gurugram
water level falls 3 meters in 5 years, extraction at 308%”​, it was found that the table was 68
meters below surface in Chakkarpur, compared to 28.9 in Gurgaon. Understanding the
dependency on agriculture for countries like India and Pakistan sheds light on the ripple effect of
table depletion. India will suffer food security if irrigation can not be done for crops.
After research and analysis, it can be concluded that Securing the water table for the future is
more important than an instant supply of water. The latter is still being somewhat satisfied,
however the former will affect all generations to come, as well as this one. Therefore it is more
important to secure the water table for the future than supplying water to residential areas
instantly.

68
 Topic 8 - Including Different Perspectives:
By Harsh Ahuja

To include different perspectives means to consider how an issue may seem for different people, from
different caste systems or different genders, and many other distinguishing factors. This allows for a
well-rounded analysis or argument, and also may help in the comprehensiveness of a solution you may
propose towards the end of your research.
It is largely a matter of habit and depends on how deep you delve into the depths of the internet. The skill
of searching for information and reading information comes in handy here, as we can use different
methods to search for different perspectives from around the world and skim read the vast information on
the internet to identify the most relevant one.
It is important in the individual report to include global, national perspective and personal perspective.
Where applicable, local perspective can also be included.
Example​: Issue Analysis(focus on consequences) for White Rhino Poaching:

Personal: Local: National: Global:

Guards: Tribes: Tourism Industry.: International Sci

Short Run:​ Somewhat Short Run: ​Negative Short Run:​ Negative Community:
positive impact, as security Impact(emotionally, on income flow, more If IVF is successful,
needs rise, and security beliefs) money into extra fame and money will
tightens around the species. Lifestyle can be affected if advertising. increase. to some extent
Long Run: ​Job can be ecosystems are disrupted. Long Run: for the community.
sustained if the issue Long Run: Amplification of Rhino Population will
persists. If not, then salaries Similar effects, ecosystem previous effects, some rise, and so will tourism
and demand only drops disruption-based impact industries will be and the economy in the
insignificantly. would amplify completely eradicated respective country.
Money and time will
Sanct. Staff: Ecosystem: Economy: have to be put in great
Short Run:​ Possible Short Run:​ Negative Short Run:​ Drops due amounts to fix this
emotional impact, income impact(Food web to less tourism. issue.
flow might drop due to disrupted). Other organism Long Run:
limited tourism populations drop/increase Increased/increasing
Long Run: ​Income flow uncontrollably. poverty. Salaries for
will continue to drop to Long Run:​ Amplified many drop. Companies
dangerous levels effects could affect climate. will suffer, downsizing
Food web disruption on large/ medium scale
extreme.

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Topic 9 - Making a Research Poster:
By Amaya Chopra and Gehana

Research posters can be used for an array of reasons, mostly to inform the audience about the
research conducted and publicize the information in a concise manner. These types of posters are
widely used in the academic community.

A basic research poster should have a mix of brief texts incorporated with statistics, graphs,
tables, pictures, and other forms of visual depiction. A research poster summarizes the key
findings of research in addition to the process followed in the research.

Few benchmarks or guidelines to follow are-

● Font should be legible.
● The title should be straight forward and catchy.
● Word count from 300- 800.
● Text is to the point and crisp.
● The text should be formatted in bullet points.
● Effective use of colors, fonts, and graphics.
● The layout should be clear and bold.
● Team and organization name should be visible.
● The bibliography should be included.

Well Designed Poster:

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Poorly Designed Poster:

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 Conclusion:
We hope that the readers found clarity on the skills, research methodology and individual report
component of GP.

A well thought out research project and report takes a lot of time to formulate and we have to
dwell on the topic in depth and keep thinking about it constantly. Sometimes genius strikes when
we are least expecting and we find some information which could be useful for our project or
report when we are unprepared to record it. Therefore, it always pays off to be alert and ready for
such situations and keep a journal or record of the whole research process in one place. This
record can be re-visited multiple times to keep the objective of the research project clear, not
deviate from it, and review the process constantly to reflect upon the journey in the end. The
moments of research and project where everyone is collaborating, when something important is
found, all research papers, assignments etc should be captured and well documented for the final
reflection.

We hope we are able to come up with the 2nd edition of the book with more details and
professionalism soon!

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Bibliography:

​ Akhtar, Sadia. “They fled violence in Myanmar but Rohingya refugees living in pathetic
conditions in Mewat refugee camps.” ​Hindustantimes,​ 20 June 2018,
https://www.hindustantimes.com/gurugram/they-fled-violence-in-myanmar-but-rohingya-
refugees-living-in-pathetic-conditions-in-mewat-refugee-camps/story-Q6q6oEPKOhTyX0
bH22refP.html​. Accessed on 18 September 2019.

Desai, Prayag Arora. “Gurugram Water Table Falls 3 Metres in 5 Years, Extraction at 308%.”
Hindustan Times​, 5 Apr 2019,
https://www.hindustantimes.com/gurgaon/gurugram-water-table-falls-3-metres-in-5-years
-extraction-at-308/story-LkX4eLsrlmUYT24DAyn1zO.html​. Accessed on 19 April 2020.

D’souza, Renita. “Housing poverty in urban India: The failures of past and current strategies
and the need for a new blueprint.” ​ORF​, 1 March 2019,
https://www.orfonline​.org/research/housing-poverty-in-urban-india-the-failures-of-past-
and-current-strategies-and-the-need-for-a-new-blueprint-48665/​. Accessed on 25
September 2019.

Gupta, Das, Moushami. “Delhi, Gurgaon, Gautam Buddh Nagar favourite with
migrants: Economic Survey.” ​Hindustantimes,​ 6 February 2019,
https://www.hindust​antimes.com/india-news/delhi-gurgaon-gautam-buddh-nagar-f
avourite-with-migrants-economic-survey/story-d1i4C0zMJfA8HMjDfptyyK.html​.
Accessed on 24 September 2019.

No Author. “Gurgaon District at a Glance.​”CGWB,​

http://cgwb.gov.in/District_Profile/Haryana/Gurgaon.pdf​. Accessed on 17 April 2020.

No Author. “Gurgaon Is Dying Because Of Pollution & Water Scarcity.” ​Youth Ki Awaaz​, 3
Dec. 2018,

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 https://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2018/12/the-paradox-of-unbridled-growth-in-gurgaon/​.
Accessed on 17 April 2020.

Purdue University​,
https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/logic_in_argumenta
tive_writing/fallacies.html#:~:text=Fallacies%20are%20common%20errors%20in,
evidence%20that%20supports%20their%20claim.​ Accessed on 25 July 2020.

Teamie,​ ​https://ipggn-lms.xperientiallearning.org/dash/#/classroom/2584/sections/lesson/7516/pa
ge/7517​. Accessed in July 2020.

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