Centre for Distance and Online Education

NAME MANIK KHARB

Roll No 2314503397

Program MASTER OF BUSINESS

ADMINISTRATION (MBA)
Semester III

Course Name DMBA301-RESEARCH

METHODOLOGY
Code DMBA301
Assignment Set- 1
1. Explain the meaning of Research and Further discuss various types of research.
Research refers to a systematic process of inquiry, investigation, or examination aimed at
discovering new knowledge, solving problems, or answering specific questions. It involves
gathering data, analyzing it, and drawing conclusions based on evidence. Research can be
conducted in a wide range of fields including science, humanities, social sciences, business,
and technology. It is an essential part of academic and professional work, providing the
foundation for innovation, policy-making, and understanding in various disciplines.
Types of Research
Research can be broadly categorized into several types, depending on the approach,
objectives, and methods used. Below are some of the major types of research:
1. Basic Research (Pure Research)-
• Purpose: The goal of basic research is to gain a deeper understanding of fundamental
principles and concepts without immediate practical application. It is exploratory and
focuses on expanding knowledge in a particular field.
• Example: A study exploring the properties of a new material, or research on the
nature of black holes.
2. Applied Research
• Purpose: Applied research is aimed at solving specific, practical problems or
developing new technologies, products, or processes. Unlike basic research, applied
research has immediate and direct applications in the real world.
• Example: Research to develop new medical treatments, or a study on how to improve
the efficiency of solar panels.
3. Descriptive Research
• Purpose: Descriptive research seeks to describe characteristics of a population or
phenomenon without influencing it. It focuses on providing a detailed picture of the
subject under study.
• Example: A survey of the demographic characteristics of a city’s population or an
analysis of consumer behaviour in a market.
4. Analytical Research
• Purpose: Analytical research goes beyond describing phenomena to analyzing them.
It involves interpreting the collected data, often to uncover patterns, relationships, or
underlying causes.
• Example: An analysis of economic data to determine the impact of inflation on
consumer spending patterns.
5. Exploratory Research
• Purpose: Exploratory research is conducted to explore a relatively unknown or
unclear subject. It aims to provide insights, clarify the scope of a problem, and
generate hypotheses for further study.
• Example: Research to understand the causes of a new social trend or the initial
investigation into a new scientific phenomenon.
6. Experimental Research
Purpose: Experimental research is conducted to determine cause-and-effect
relationships. Researchers manipulate variables in a controlled environment to see
how changes in one variable impact another.
• Example: A clinical trial to test the effectiveness of a new drug, or an experiment to see
how changes in lighting affect employee productivity.
7. Qualitative Research
• Purpose: Qualitative research is focused on understanding concepts, experiences, and
social phenomena in a non-numerical way. It emphasizes in-depth exploration of
human behaviour, motivations, and experiences.
• Example: Conducting interviews or focus groups to understand how consumers
perceive a brand.
8. Quantitative Research • Purpose: Quantitative research involves collecting and
analyzing numerical data to identify patterns, relationships, or trends. It is often used to
test hypotheses and theories. • Example: A survey measuring the level of satisfaction
among customers using a Likert scale or statistical analysis of student performance based
on standardized test scores.

2. Discuss various types of data. Further discuss methods of Primary data collection.
Data can be broadly classified into two types: Qualitative Data and Quantitative Data.
These are further subdivided based on characteristics and sources.
1. Qualitative Data
• Descriptive and non-numeric.
• Examples: Text, audio, video, and observations.
• Types:
o Nominal Data: Categories without a specific order (e.g., gender, colors).
o Ordinal Data: Categories with a meaningful order but no consistent
difference between them (e.g., rankings, satisfaction levels).
2. Quantitative Data
 • Numerical and measurable.
• Examples: Height, weight, temperature, and sales figures.
• Types:
o Discrete Data: Countable numbers (e.g., number of students, cars).
o Continuous Data: Measurable on a continuum (e.g., weight, time).
3. Primary Data vs. Secondary Data
• Primary Data: Collected firsthand for a specific purpose.
• Secondary Data: Pre-collected data used for purposes other than its original intent.

Methods of Primary Data Collection

Primary data collection involves gathering fresh, firsthand data directly from sources. Various
methods include:
1. Observation
• Definition: Watching and recording behaviors or events as they occur.
• Types: o Direct Observation: Observing without interference (e.g., wildlife studies).
o Participant Observation: Researcher participates in the group being studied
(e.g., anthropological studies).
• Advantages: Provides real-time data, natural setting insights.
• Disadvantages: Can be time-consuming and subjective.
2. Surveys and Questionnaires
• Definition: A set of questions designed to gather opinions, behaviors, or
demographics.
• Modes: Online, telephone, face-to-face, or paper-based.
• Advantages: Cost-effective, scalable.
• Disadvantages: Risk of low response rates, potential biases.
3. Interviews
• Definition: Direct interaction to gather in-depth information.
• Types:
o Structured Interviews: Predetermined set of questions. o Unstructured
Interviews: Open-ended questions allowing flexibility.
o Semi-structured Interviews: Combination of both.
• Advantages: Detailed data, adaptability.
 • Disadvantages: Time-consuming, interviewer bias.
4. Experiments
• Definition: Controlled testing to establish cause-effect relationships.
• Examples: Laboratory experiments, field experiments.
• Advantages: High reliability and control over variables.
• Disadvantages: Artificial settings may affect behaviour.
5. Focus Groups
• Definition: Group discussion facilitated by a moderator to collect opinions and
perceptions.
• Advantages: Generates diverse perspectives, interactive.
• Disadvantages: Risk of dominant participants, not generalizable.
6. Case Studies
• Definition: In-depth study of a specific individual, group, or event.
Advantages: Comprehensive insights.
• Disadvantages: Limited to specific cases, not easily replicable.
7. Observation and Measurement Instruments • Examples: Thermometers, GPS trackers,

sensors, etc.
• Advantages: High accuracy.
• Disadvantages: Requires technical expertise, expensive equipment.
8. Social Media and Online Tools
• Definition: Using platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, or specialized apps to collect
feedback.
• Advantages: Quick, wide reach.
• Disadvantages: Privacy concerns, authenticity issues.
Choosing a Method
The choice of data collection method depends on:
• Nature of the research problem.
• Available resources (time, budget, manpower).
• Type of data required (qualitative or quantitative).
• Target audience accessibility.

3. Discuss various types of questions in questionnaire and their need in questionnaire.

Questionnaires are essential tools for collecting data and are composed of various types of
questions designed to gather specific information effectively. Choosing the right types of
questions is critical to achieving the objectives of the research. Below is a discussion on the
types of questions commonly used in questionnaires and their specific purposes.
1. Open-Ended Questions • Definition: Questions that allow respondents to answer in their
own words without restriction.
• Example: "What are your thoughts on our customer service?"
• Purpose: o To gather detailed, qualitative insights.

o To explore respondents' opinions, ideas, or feelings.

2. Close-Ended Questions
• Definition: Questions with predefined response options.
• Example: "How satisfied are you with our service? (Very satisfied, Satisfied, Neutral,
Dissatisfied, Very dissatisfied)"
• Purpose: To gather specific, structured, and easily quantifiable data.
Types of Close-Ended Questions:
1. Dichotomous Questions:
o Definition: Questions with two possible answers.
o Example: "Do you own a car? (Yes/No)" o P u r p o s e : T o collect

straightforward, binary information.

2. Multiple-Choice Questions:
o Definition: Questions offering several options, with one or multiple correct
answers.
o Example: "Which of the following social media platforms do you use?
(Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)" o Purpose: To identify specific preferences
or behaviors.

3. Rating Scale Questions:

o Definition: Questions using scales to measure attitudes or opinions.
o Example: "On a scale of 1 to 5, how likely are you to recommend our

product?" o Purpose: To quantify the intensity of opinions.

4. Ranking Questions:
o Definition: Questions that require respondents to rank options in order of
preference.
 o Example: "Rank the following features of our product in order of importance
(Price, Quality, Ease of Use)." o Purpose: To prioritize preferences or
opinions.

3. Likert Scale Questions • Definition: A type of rating scale question that measures levels
of agreement or disagreement.
• Example: "I find the product easy to use. (Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral,
Disagree, Strongly Disagree)"
• Purpose: To assess attitudes, opinions, or levels of satisfaction.
4. Matrix Questions • Definition: A grid-like question format where multiple items are rated
on the same scale.
• Example: o How would you rate the following aspects of our service?
▪ Quality: (Excellent, Good, Average, Poor)
▪ Speed: (Excellent, Good, Average, Poor)
• Purpose: o To collect consistent data across multiple dimensions.

5. Demographic Questions
Definition: Questions that gather basic information about respondents, such as age,
gender, income, or education level.
• Example: "What is your age? (Under 18, 18-25, 26-35, 36-50, Over 50)"
• Purpose: o To segment and analyze data based on respondent
characteristics.

6. Behavioural Questions
• Definition: Questions focused on past or current actions.
• Example: "How often do you shop online? (Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Rarely, Never)"
• Purpose: o To understand habits, preferences, or patterns.

Need for Various Types of Questions in Questionnaires

1. Clarity and Precision:
o Close-ended questions ensure clear and measurable data.
o Open-ended questions allow for detailed, explanatory responses.
2. Flexibility:
o Different questions serve different purposes, such as measuring attitudes
(Likert scale) or gathering demographic data (demographic questions).
 3. Segmentation and Comparison:
o Demographic and ranking questions enable data segmentation and comparison
between groups.
4. Depth and Breadth:
o A mix of question types ensures a balance between detailed insights
(openended) and broad trends (close-ended).
5. Engagement:
o Pictorial and matrix questions keep respondents interested and reduce survey
fatigue.
6. Decision-Making:
o Behavioural and hypothetical questions provide actionable insights for
forecasting and strategy.
Assignment Set 2
4. Explain Editing. Discuss various types of editing.
Editing is the systematic process of reviewing and revising content to enhance its clarity,
coherence, accuracy, and overall quality. This practice is essential across various fields,
including writing, data analysis, and multimedia production, ensuring that the final product
effectively communicates its intended message. Types of Editing
1. Developmental Editing o Purpose: Focuses on the overall structure and content of
the material. o Scope: Involves substantial revisions to improve the organization,
flow, and clarity of ideas. o Application: Commonly applied to manuscripts, research
papers, and longform content.
2. Line Editing o Purpose: Examines the text at the sentence and paragraph level. o
Scope: Addresses issues such as sentence structure, word choice, and readability. o
Application: Ensures that each sentence effectively conveys its intended meaning and
contributes to the overall narrative.
3. Copyediting
o Purpose: Ensures consistency and correctness in grammar, punctuation,
spelling, and formatting.
o Scope: Focuses on eliminating errors and standardizing language usage. o
Application: Critical for preparing content for publication, including articles,
books, and online materials.
4. Proofreading
o Purpose: The final step in the editing process, concentrating on surface-level
errors.
o Scope: Identifies and corrects typographical errors, formatting inconsistencies,
and minor mistakes.
o Application: Performed after all other editing stages to ensure the document
is error-free.
5. Technical Editing
o Purpose: Ensures that technical content is accurate, clear, and accessible to the
intended audience. o Scope: Involves verifying technical information, improving
clarity, and ensuring adherence to style guides. o Application: Common in
manuals, user guides, and scientific publications.

6. Data Editing
o Purpose: Involves reviewing and correcting data to ensure its accuracy and
consistency.
 o Scope: Detects and rectifies errors, inconsistencies, and anomalies within
datasets.
o Application: Crucial in statistical analysis, research studies, and data-driven
decision-making.

5. Research proposals and reports are an important component of research. Discuss and
further describe various components of research report. Importance of Research Proposals
and Reports
1. Research Proposal
o Definition: A document outlining the planned research, including objectives,
methodology, and significance. o Importance:
▪ Guides the research process: Serves as a roadmap for the researcher.
▪ Secures funding or approval: Demonstrates the feasibility and
importance of the study to funding bodies or academic committees.
▪ Clarifies objectives: Helps refine research questions and approach.
2. Research Report o Definition: A formal document presenting the outcomes of

completed research. o Importance:

▪ Communicates findings: Shares insights with stakeholders,
academics, or the public.
▪ Contributes to knowledge: Adds to the existing body of knowledge in
a field.
▪ Basis for action: Provides evidence to support decision-making or
policy formulation.

Components of a Research Report

A research report is structured to present the study's objectives, methods, findings, and
implications systematically. Below are the main components:

1. Title Page
• Content: o Title of the report. o

Author(s) name(s). o I n s t i t u t i o n a l

affiliation.

o Date of submission.
 • Purpose: o Provides an overview of
the report at a glance.

2. Abstract
• Content:
o A concise summary of the research objectives, methods, findings, and
conclusions. o Typically 150–250 words.
• Purpose: o Gives readers a quick overview to decide whether to read the full
report.

3. Introduction
• Content:
o Background of the study. o Statement of the problem.
o Objectives and research questions.
o Significance of the study.
o Scope and limitations.
• Purpose: o Sets the context and justifies the research.

4. Literature Review
• Content: o Summary of previous research related to the topic.
o Identification of gaps or unresolved issues.
• Purpose:
o Demonstrates understanding of the field and establishes the basis for the
research.
5. Methodology
• Content: o Research design (e.g., experimental, survey, qualitative). o

Data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews). o Sampling

techniques.
o Data analysis methods.
• Purpose: o Explains how the study was conducted to ensure reliability

and reproducibility. 6. Results

• Content: o Presentation of data findings (e.g., tables, graphs, charts).
 o Descriptive and inferential statistics (if applicable).
• Purpose:
o Provides objective, uninterpreted data from the research.

6. A random sample of 395 people in a country were surveyed to find out if gender is
independent of education level. Each person was asked to report on the highest education
level they had obtained. The data that resulted from the survey is summarized in the
following table:
High School Bachelors Masters Ph.D. Total
Female 60 54 46 41 201
Male 40 44 53 57 194
Total 100 98 99 98 395

Formulate the hypothesis and test that are gender and education level dependent at 5% level
of statistical significance?

To test whether gender and education level are independent, we use the chi-square test for
independence. Here's how we can structure and solve the problem step-by-step:

Step 1: Formulate the Hypotheses

1. Null Hypothesis (H0H_0H0): Gender and education level are independent.
2. Alternative Hypothesis (HaH_aHa): Gender and education level are not independent.

Step 2: Set the Significance Level

• The level of significance is α=0.05\alpha = 0.05α=0.05 (5%).

Step 3: Organize the Data

The table provided summarizes the observed frequencies (OijO_{ij}Oij). Let’s assume it is
structured as follows (you can provide exact numbers if different): Education Level Male
Female Total
High School 60 54 114
 Bachelor’s Degree 75 85 160
Master’s Degree 45 35 80
Total 180 174 395

Step 4: Calculate the Expected Frequencies

The expected frequency for each cell is calculated as:
Eij=Row Total × Column Total Grand Total E_{ij} = \frac{\text{Row Total} \times
\text{Column Total}}{\text{Grand Total}}Eij=Grand Total Row Total × Column Total For
example, for "High School" and "Male":

E 11 = ( 11 4 × 1 8 0 ) 3 9 5 = 5 1 . 9 7 E _ { 11 } = \ f r a c { ( 11 4 \ t i m e s 1 8 0 ) } { 3 9 5 } =
51.97E11=395(114×180) =51.97
This calculation is repeated for each cell to populate the expected frequency table.

Step 5: Compute the Chi-Square Statistic

The chi-square statistic (χ2\chi^2χ2) is calculated as:
χ2=∑(Oij−Eij)2Eij\chi^2 = \sum \frac{(O_{ij} - E_{ij})^2}{E_{ij}}χ2=∑Eij(Oij−Eij)2
Where:
• OijO_{ij}Oij = observed frequency for cell (i,j)(i, j)(i,j),
• EijE_{ij}Eij = expected frequency for cell (i,j)(i, j)(i,j).
We sum over all cells in the table.

Step 6: Determine the Degrees of Freedom

The degrees of freedom (dfdfdf) for the test is:
df=(Number of rows−1)×(Number of columns−1)df = (\text{Number of rows} - 1) \times
(\text{Number of columns} - 1)df=(Number of rows−1)×(Number of columns−1) In this
case: df=(3−1)×(2−1)=2df = (3 - 1) \times (2 - 1) = 2df=(3−1)×(2−1)=2

Step 7: Find the Critical Value and Make a Decision

Using the chi-square distribution table for df=2df = 2df=2 and α=0.05\alpha = 0.05α=0.05,
the critical value is 5.9915.9915.991.
• If χ2>5.991\chi^2 > 5.991χ2>5.991, reject the null hypothesis (H0H_0H0).
 • Otherwise, fail to reject H0H_0H0.

Step 8: Interpret the Results

• If H0H_0H0 is rejected, there is sufficient evidence to conclude that gender and
education level are dependent. • If H0H_0H0 is not rejected, there is insufficient evidence
to conclude that gender and education level are dependent.