BRM NOTES .

1. Define Research.
Research is the systematic, objective process of gathering, analyzing, and
interpreting data to answer questions or solve problems.

2. What you mean by Secondary data.

Secondary data are data originally collected by someone else (e.g., books,
journals, government reports) and repurposed for your study.

3. Write any 3 types of research.

Three common types of research are Basic (theoretical inquiry), Applied
(practical problem solving), and Descriptive (characterizing phenomena).

4. Define Research Design.

A research design is the overall strategy or framework that specifies how you
will collect and analyze data to address your research questions.

5. Explain the term Sampling.

Sampling is the process of selecting a subset of individuals or units from a
larger population to estimate characteristics of the whole.

6. Explain the term Good Research.

Good research yields reliable (consistent) and valid (accurate) findings that can
be generalized beyond the study context.

7. What you mean by Primary data.

Primary data are first-hand data collected directly by the researcher (e.g., via
surveys, interviews, experiments) for the specific study.

8. Define Research Report.

A research report is a formal document presenting the objectives, methodology,
data, results, and conclusions of a systematic investigation.

9. Explain the Cluster Sampling.

Cluster sampling divides the population into clusters (e.g., schools, districts)
and then randomly selects whole clusters as the sample.
10. Role of MR (Marketing Research).
The role of marketing research is to inform business decisions by systematically
gathering and analyzing market, consumer, and competitive data.

11. Ethnographic (Approach).

The ethnographic approach is a qualitative method that studies cultures via
immersive observation and interviews in natural settings.

12. Field research.

Field research is the collection of raw data outside the laboratory—through on-
site observation or interviews in real-world settings.

13. Inferential approach.

The inferential approach uses statistical techniques to draw conclusions and
make predictions about a population based on sample data
 5 MARKS SHORT NOTES.

1. Calculate the mean of the research students

Data: 52, 48, 36, 64, 87, 55, 46

• Sum = 388; n = 7

• Mean = 388 ÷ 7 = 55.43

2. Calculate the mean and median of total marks (out of 600)

Data: 455, 462, 389, 474, 523, 563, 350

• Sum = 3,216; n = 7 → Mean = 3,216 ÷ 7 = 459.43

• Sorted: 350, 389, 455, 462, 474, 523, 563 → Median = 462

3. Calculate the mean marks of the research students

Data: 42, 58, 66, 64, 87, 55, 46

• Sum = 418; n = 7 → Mean = 418 ÷ 7 = 59.71

4. Calculate the mean marks of the research students

Data: 64, 38, 36, 54, 87, 55, 56

• Sum = 390; n = 7 → Mean = 390 ÷ 7 = 55.71

5. Calculate the mean and median of total marks (out of 600)

Data: 555, 362, 589, 374, 523, 463, 350

• Sum = 3,216; n = 7 → Mean = 3,216 ÷ 7 = 459.43

• Sorted: 350, 362, 374, 463, 523, 555, 589 → Median = 463

6. Importance of Research in Management Decisions; Observation &

Interview Methods

Research provides managers timely, reliable data to reduce uncertainty and make
sound strategic and operational choices. It helps identify market trends, customer
needs, and competitive threats, guiding product, pricing, promotion, and
distribution decisions. Through research, managers can test ideas before full-scale
implementation, saving resources and mitigating risk.
Observation Method: the researcher watches subjects in their natural setting
without interference, capturing real behaviors and interactions as they occur. It
yields rich contextual data but may suffer observer bias and limited control.
Interview Method: involves one-on-one or small-group questioning using
structured or unstructured guides to explore respondents’ views deeply. It allows
probing and clarification, producing nuanced qualitative insights, though it can
be time-consuming and subject to interviewer effects.

7. A Note on Probability Sampling (150 words)

Probability sampling is a method where every member of the population has a

known, non-zero chance of selection. This allows researchers to calculate
sampling error and make valid inferences about the whole group. Common
techniques include simple random sampling, where units are chosen purely by
chance; systematic sampling, where every kᵗʰ element is selected; stratified
sampling, where the population is divided into homogeneous subgroups before
random selection; and cluster sampling, where entire groups are randomly
picked. Because selection is random, results are unbiased and generalizable,
though the approach can be more time-consuming and costly than non-probability
methods. Researchers use probability sampling in surveys, experiments, and
observational studies to ensure representativeness and statistical rigor.
8. Exploratory Research

Exploratory research aims to gain initial insights into a problem when little is
known. It is flexible and unstructured, helping to define research questions,
hypotheses, and variables for later study. Common methods include literature
reviews, expert interviews, focus groups, and pilot studies that uncover patterns,
ideas, and relationships. This approach does not seek definitive conclusions but
rather generates hypotheses and informs the design of descriptive or causal
research. Exploratory research is particularly useful in new or rapidly changing
fields, where established theories and frameworks are lacking. Its results guide
subsequent stages by clarifying objectives, suggesting key variables, and
identifying measurement issues. Despite its lack of statistical generalizability,
exploratory research is critical for grounding more focused, structured
investigations.

9. Questionnaire and Interview Methods of Data Collection

Questionnaires are structured instruments with fixed questions and response

options, delivered on paper or online. They allow rapid data collection from large
samples, ensure uniformity, and are cost-effective. However, they limit depth, risk
low response rates, and depend on respondents’ literacy and honesty.
Interviews involve direct interaction between interviewer and respondent using
structured, semi-structured, or unstructured formats. Structured interviews follow
a strict script, ensuring comparability; semi-structured allow probing;
unstructured resemble guided conversations for deep insights. They yield rich
qualitative data, clarify ambiguities, and capture nonverbal cues, but require
skilled interviewers, are time-intensive, and can introduce interviewer bias.
Researchers often combine questionnaires for breadth with interviews for depth.
Choosing between them depends on research objectives, sample size, resource
constraints, and desired data richness.

10. Stratified Sampling

Stratified sampling divides the population into non-overlapping subgroups

(strata) based on characteristics like age, income, or region. Within each stratum,
researchers perform random sampling (simple or systematic), ensuring each
subgroup is proportionately represented. This method reduces sampling error by
controlling variability within strata, yielding more precise estimates than simple
random sampling for the same sample size. Stratification enhances
representativeness, particularly when strata differ greatly on key variables. For
example, in a national survey, strata might be states, then sample randomly within
each state.
Researchers must ensure strata are exhaustive (cover entire population) and
mutually exclusive (no overlap). Disproportionate stratified sampling can
oversample small but important subgroups for detailed analysis. While more
complex to plan and require accurate frame information, stratified sampling’s
gains in precision and confidence justify its use in polls, market research, and
social surveys.

11. Ex-post-facto Research

Ex-post-facto research examines relationships after events have occurred without

researcher control over variables. It seeks to link causes and effects by comparing
groups based on existing conditions (e.g., health outcomes in exposed vs.
unexposed cohorts). Since variables can’t be manipulated, internal validity may
be lower than in true experiments. Researchers use statistical controls (covariates,
matching) to reduce confounds and approximate causal inference. Common in
education, epidemiology, and social sciences, it helps study rare or unethical-to-
manipulate phenomena (e.g., effects of natural disasters). Data sources include
archival records, surveys, and institutional databases. Though limited by potential
bias (selection, history), ex-post-facto designs are valuable for exploring real-
world issues when experiments aren’t feasible.

12. Importance of Research in Management Decisions

Research reduces uncertainty in managerial choices by providing systematic data

on markets, consumers, and competitors. It enables evidence-based decisions on
product development, pricing, distribution, and promotion, aligning strategies
with customer needs. By forecasting demand trends, research helps allocate
resources efficiently and anticipate market shifts. It also assesses policy impacts,
informs government and social planning, and guides operational problem-solving
in business contexts. Through techniques like surveys, experiments, and
analytics, research quantifies customer satisfaction, brand health, and campaign
ROI. With valid and reliable findings, managers can test hypotheses, minimize
risk, and enhance competitive advantage. Ongoing research fosters organizational
learning, continuous improvement, and innovation by identifying unmet needs
and emerging technologies.

13. Process of Data Collection

Data collection follows these steps:

1. Define objectives: Clarify research questions and variables to guide

method choice.

2. Select sources: Choose primary (surveys, observations, experiments) or

secondary (reports, databases) data based on scope and resources.

3. Develop instruments: Design questionnaires, interview guides, or

observation checklists, ensuring validity and reliability.

4. Pilot test: Trial instruments on a small sample to identify issues and refine
questions.

5. Sampling: Decide on probability or non-probability sampling to select

representative units.

6. Collect data: Administer instruments in the field or online, adhering to

ethical protocols and quality controls.

7. Process data: Edit, code, and tabulate responses for analysis, checking for
consistency and completeness.

8. Review: Validate data accuracy before analysis.

14. Regression Analysis

Regression analysis comprises statistical methods for estimating relationships

between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables. In simple
linear regression, a single predictor variable estimates change in the outcome by
fitting a straight line that minimizes squared errors (ordinary least squares).
Multiple regression extends this to several predictors, allowing assessmet of
each variable’s unique contribution while controlling for others. Researchers use
regression for prediction, forecasting, and exploring potential causal links, though
causation requires careful design and supporting evidence. Key outputs include
coefficient estimates (β), R-squared (variance explained), t-tests (parameter
significance), and residual diagnostics for model validity. Regression assumes
linearity, independence, homoscedasticity, and normality of errors; violations
may require transformations or alternative methods. When properly applied,
regression is a powerful tool in business, economics, and social sciences for data-
driven decision-making.
1. EXPLAIN THE VARIOUS SOURCES OF DATA
COLLECTION AND WRITE ITS ADVANTAGES IN DETAIL.

Data for any research can be drawn from primary or secondary sources. Primary
data are information collected firsthand by the researcher through methods such
as surveys, interviews, observations, and experiments. For example, a clothing
retailer might survey its own shoppers to learn preferences. Secondary data
consist of information previously gathered by others—such as books, articles,
government reports, or commercial databases—and then repurposed. A market
analyst might use industry reports from Nielsen or Euromonitor as secondary
input.

Advantages of Primary Data include direct relevance to the research question;

high control over measurement quality; and the ability to probe deeper via follow-
up questions. Its main drawback is higher cost and time requirement for
collection. Advantages of Secondary Data are low cost and rapid availability.
For instance, a start-up can quickly access demographic data from census reports
without fieldwork. Secondary sources can also provide large historical datasets
enabling trend analysis. However, secondary data may lack specificity, have
questionable reliability, or be outdated.

Researchers often combine both: using secondary data to frame hypotheses, then
collecting primary data to test them. This mixed approach balances speed and
depth, reduces total cost, and improves validity. In a case study, Procter &
Gamble used US census data (secondary) to segment markets, then ran its own
consumer panels (primary) to refine product features, illustrating this synergy.

2. EXPLAIN THE CONCEPT OF RESEARCH AND

ELABORATE ITS OBJECTIVES.

Research is the systematic, objective process of gathering, analyzing, and

interpreting information to answer questions or solve problems. It involves
clearly defined steps—from problem formulation and literature review to data
collection, analysis, and reporting. Research underpins evidence-based decision-
making in fields ranging from marketing to public policy.

Objectives of research articulate what the study intends to achieve. They should
be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For
example, an objective might be “to assess the impact of weekly fitness app
notifications on user engagement over three months.” Objectives serve four key
purposes:

1. Focus the study by narrowing its scope and guiding method selection.

2. Inform design by dictating sample size, instrument type, and analysis

techniques.

3. Facilitate evaluation by providing benchmarks against which results are

compared.

4. Enhance clarity for stakeholders through explicit statements of intent.

Well-formulated objectives drive efficient resource use and ensure that each
research activity—whether a survey, experiment, or case study—directly
contributes to answering the core questions. In a clinical trial, objectives like “to
compare mean blood pressure reduction between Drug A and Drug B at 12
weeks” enable precise statistical testing and regulatory compliance.

3. DISCUSS IN BRIEF THE MEANING AND TYPES OF

SAMPLING.

Sampling is the process of selecting a subset (sample) from a larger group

(population) to make inferences about the whole. It reduces cost and time while
maintaining acceptable accuracy—surveying 1,000 customers can often yield as
much insight as polling an entire base of 100,000.

Sampling methods fall into two broad categories:

1. Probability Sampling, where each population member has a known, non-

zero chance of selection. Key types include:

o Simple Random Sampling: every unit has equal selection

probability, like drawing names from a hat.

o Stratified Sampling: divide population into homogeneous

subgroups (strata) then randomly sample within each—for example,
sampling equal numbers of urban and rural households.
 o Cluster Sampling: randomly select entire clusters (e.g., city blocks)
then survey all units within them.

o Systematic Sampling: select every kᵗʰ element from an ordered list

(e.g., every 10th customer record).

2. Non-Probability Sampling, where selection is based on subjective

judgment:

o Convenience Sampling: use easily accessible subjects, such as mall

intercepts.

o Purposive (Judgmental) Sampling: choose units with specific

traits, like industry experts.

o Quota Sampling: fill predetermined quotas (e.g., 50% male, 50%

female respondents) without randomization.

Illustration: A food-delivery app may use stratified sampling to ensure

representation from heavy, medium, and light users, then apply simple random
sampling within each group. This hybrid boosts precision by controlling for usage
intensity.

By matching the sampling method to research goals, constraints, and population

structure, researchers achieve reliable, generalizable results efficiently

4. Concept of Marketing Research and Its Main Characteristics

Marketing research is the systematic process of obtaining, analyzing, and

interpreting data to inform business decisions and strategies. According to the
American Marketing Association, it is “the systematic gathering, recording and
analyzing of data about problems relating to the marketing of goods and
services”. Its main characteristics include a structured and organized process
that follows defined steps—from problem formulation to conclusion—ensuring
accurate, reliable data collection. It is objective, avoiding researcher bias by
using standardized instruments and protocols. It integrates both quantitative and
qualitative data, balancing statistical rigor with contextual depth. It is ongoing,
as markets evolve and continuous feedback is essential for dynamic decision-
making. It aims for actionable insights, translating findings directly into
marketing strategy adjustments. A real-life example is the U.S. Small Business
Administration’s use of consumer surveys and competitive analysis to refine
outreach programs for entrepreneurs. Marketing research helps firms reduce risk
by testing product concepts with target segments before full launch. It also
underpins competitive intelligence, tracking rival moves and industry trends.

5. Difference Between Various Sources of Data Collection

Data sources fall into primary and secondary categories. Primary data are first-
hand observations or measurements collected directly by the researcher through
surveys, interviews, or experiments. Secondary data are previously published or
existing data—such as government reports, journal articles, or commercial
databases—repurposed for new research. A key difference is specificity: primary
data are tailored to the precise research question, offering high relevance, whereas
secondary data may not perfectly align with study objectives. Primary collection
demands more time and cost, while secondary sources are faster and cheaper
to obtain. Primary data ensure current, controlled measurements, reducing
concerns about data quality; secondary data may be outdated or collected under
different standards. Researchers often use a mixed approach, leveraging
secondary data to refine hypotheses before conducting focused primary studies.
For example, a start-up might analyze census demographics (secondary) and then
administer its own consumer surveys (primary) to validate market demand.
Secondary sources also enable historical or trend analysis over long periods
without the expense of continuous primary collection.

6. Meaning of Research and Its Features

Research is a systematic inquiry designed to discover, interpret, and apply new

knowledge through scientific methods. It involves data collection,
documentation, analysis, and interpretation to answer explicit questions or test
hypotheses. Key features include purposefulness, where each study has clear
objectives guiding its scope and methods. It requires rigor, applying
methodological standards to ensure accuracy and credibility. It demands validity,
meaning the study measures what it intends to, and reliability, ensuring
consistent results upon repetition. Objectivity is essential, minimizing researcher
bias by using structured protocols and blind analysis when possible. Replicability
allows other investigators to reproduce the study and verify findings, enhancing
trust in results. Generalizability denotes the ability to extend conclusions from
the sample to the broader population under defined conditions. Together, these
features ensure research contributes robust, actionable insights and advances
knowledge systematically.

7. CONCEPT OF RESEARCH AND PROBLEMS FACED

WHILE DOING RESEARCH

Research is a systematic process for investigating phenomena, acquiring new

knowledge, and solving problems through empirical evidence and logical
reasoning. It aims to describe, explain, and predict phenomena by testing
hypotheses and applying scientific methods. Common problems include
choosing a viable topic, where too broad or narrow scopes hinder progress.
Securing funding is another challenge, as grants are competitive and limited.
Researchers often struggle with participant recruitment, especially in
specialized or vulnerable populations. Time management and balancing
research with other responsibilities can delay projects. Ensuring data quality—
avoiding missing, biased, or inconsistent entries—requires rigorous protocols.
Ethical considerations, such as informed consent and confidentiality, add
procedural complexity. Publication bias and peer-review hurdles can impede
dissemination of findings, especially negative results. Overcoming these
challenges demands meticulous planning, clear protocols, and adaptive
strategies to ensure credible, impactful research outcomes

8. RESEARCH DESIGN: MEANING AND TYPES

A research design is the overall plan that outlines how to answer research
questions by specifying the methods for data collection and analysis . It acts as a
blueprint ensuring that the study is valid, reliable, and reproducible. Exploratory
designs help clarify vague problems through open-ended approaches like focus
groups or pilot studies. Descriptive designs systematically describe
characteristics or functions of a population, for example, a survey measuring
customer satisfaction across regions . Causal (or experimental) designs
manipulate one or more variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships,
such as A/B testing two ad versions in digital marketing. Cross-sectional designs
collect data at a single point in time (e.g., a one-time health survey), while
longitudinal designs observe the same subjects over extended periods to detect
changes (e.g., tracking academic progress over four years) . Choosing the right
design depends on objectives, resources, time frame, and ethical considerations.

9. RESEARCH REPORT: CONCEPT AND CONTENTS

A research report is a formal document that presents the purpose, methods,

findings, and implications of a study in a clear, logical format. Core sections
include:

1. Title Page – identifies the study’s title, author, and affiliation.

2. Abstract/Synopsis – a concise summary of objectives, methods, results,

and conclusions.

3. Introduction – outlines the research problem, objectives, and literature

review .

4. Methodology – details the research design, sampling, instruments, and

procedures.

5. Results – presents data analyses using tables, figures, and statistical

outputs.

6. Discussion – interprets findings, links back to objectives, and

acknowledges limitations.

7. Conclusion and Recommendations – summarizes insights and suggests

future actions or research.

8. References – lists all sources cited in a standardized format .

9. Appendices – include supplementary materials like questionnaires or raw

data.
In a UNDP case study report on rural livelihoods, clear structuring enabled
policymakers to pinpoint effective interventions based on robust field data.
10. SAMPLING: MEANING AND TYPES

Sampling is selecting a manageable subgroup from a larger population to draw

conclusions about the whole with reduced time and cost .

Probability Sampling

• Simple Random Sampling: every member has equal selection chance,

like drawing names from a lottery .

• Systematic Sampling: select every kᵗʰ element from an ordered list, such
as every 10ᵗʰ customer record .

• Stratified Sampling: divide into subgroups (strata) and sample randomly

within each, e.g., ensuring equal representation of age groups .

• Cluster Sampling: randomly pick clusters (e.g., city blocks), then survey
all units within them .

Non-Probability Sampling

• Convenience Sampling: select readily available subjects, like mall

intercepts .

• Purposive Sampling: target individuals with specific characteristics, such

as experts in a field .

• Quota Sampling: fill predefined quotas by categories without random

selection, like 50% male and 50% female respondents .
In a Pew Research Center study on social media use, stratified sampling
across demographic groups ensured balanced representation and robust
insights.
11. HYPOTHESES AND THEIR TYPES

A hypothesis is a testable statement predicting the relationship between variables,

guiding empirical research.

Main Types

• Null Hypothesis (H₀): asserts no effect or relationship, serving as the

default position to be tested.

• Alternative Hypothesis (H₁): proposes a specific effect or relationship,

opposite to H₀.

• Directional Hypothesis: specifies the direction of effect (e.g., “increased

study time leads to higher exam scores”) .

• Non-Directional Hypothesis: predicts a relationship without stating its

direction (e.g., “study time is related to exam scores”) .

• Simple Hypothesis: involves one independent and one dependent variable.

• Complex Hypothesis: involves multiple variables and interactions.

• Associative vs. Causal Hypotheses: associative predicts covariation,

causal predicts cause-and-effect.
In a clinical trial, the null hypothesis might state “Drug A has no effect on
blood pressure,” while the alternative posits “Drug A reduces blood
pressure,” with directional emphasis if specified.

12. REPORT WRITING (≈240 WORDS)

A research report is a formal document presenting the objectives, methodology,

findings, and conclusions of a study in a clear, logical flow . It typically begins
with a Title Page stating the report title, author, and date, followed by an
Abstract summarizing purpose, methods, key results, and recommendations in
one paragraph. The Table of Contents maps sections, tables, and figures for easy
navigation . The Introduction outlines the research problem, objectives, and
scope, often grounded in a brief literature review. The Methodology section
details the research design, sampling plan, data-collection instruments, and
analytical techniques . Results present quantitative and qualitative findings using
charts, tables, and narrative summaries. The Discussion interprets results, linking
back to objectives, noting limitations, and comparing to existing studies .
Conclusions and Recommendations translate insights into actionable steps for
stakeholders . Finally, a References list follows a standard citation format, and
Appendices include supplementary materials like questionnaires or raw data .

Illustration: A UNDP rural livelihoods report used this structure to guide

policymakers, clearly moving from problem definition through data analysis to
targeted program recommendations.

13. PROBABILITY AND NON-PROBABILITY SAMPLING

Sampling selects a subset of the population to infer characteristics about the

whole, balancing accuracy with feasibility .

Probability Sampling

Each unit has a known chance of selection, enabling unbiased estimates and
margin-of-error calculation. Methods include:

• Simple Random Sampling: every member is equally likely, like drawing

names from a hat .

• Stratified Sampling: divide into strata (e.g., age groups) and randomly
sample within each, ensuring subgroup representation .

• Cluster Sampling: randomly select clusters (e.g., schools) then survey all
units within chosen clusters .

• Systematic Sampling: choose every kᵗʰ element from a list (e.g., every 10ᵗʰ
customer) .

Non-Probability Sampling

Selection is based on researcher judgment, offering speed and cost-efficiency but

risking bias:
 • Convenience Sampling: subjects are chosen for ease of access, like mall
intercepts .

• Purposive Sampling: specific individuals with desired traits are selected,

such as expert panels .

• Quota Sampling: fill quotas for subgroups (e.g., 50% female, 50% male)
without random selection .

Illustration: A national health survey used stratified sampling by region and age,
then simple random sampling within groups to ensure representativeness . When
budgets are tight, researchers might use convenience sampling at clinic waiting
rooms for preliminary insights.

Case Study: The Pew Research Center’s studies on social media use employ
stratified random sampling across demographics, maximizing both precision and
generalizability .

14. RESEARCH METHODS

Research methods are systematic strategies for collecting and analyzing data to
answer research questions . They fall into three broad categories:

1. Quantitative Methods

Focus on numerical data and statistical analysis to test hypotheses and measure
variables. Common techniques include:

• Surveys with structured questionnaires for large samples .

• Experiments manipulating variables under controlled settings (e.g., A/B

testing in digital ads) .

• Correlational Studies examining relationships without causal claims,

such as linking ad spend to sales volume .

2. Qualitative Methods

Explore meanings, experiences, and motivations through non-numerical data.

Techniques include:
 • Interviews (structured, semi-structured, unstructured) to probe individual
perspectives .

• Focus Groups gathering group insights on topics like brand perception .

• Ethnography immersing in natural settings to observe behaviors, such as

in-store shopping habits .

3. Mixed-Methods

Integrate quantitative and qualitative approaches to leverage strengths of both,

such as using survey data to identify patterns and interviews to explain underlying
reasons .

Illustration: A telecom company combined large-scale surveys to measure

customer satisfaction scores (quantitative) with in-depth interviews to explore
reasons for dissatisfaction (qualitative), enabling both breadth and depth of
insight .

Case Study: Amazon uses A/B testing (quantitative) on website layouts and
follow-up user interviews (qualitative) to refine user experience, exemplifying
mixed-methods in practice.
QUESTION:
In the contest for “Miss Princesa City 2020,” two judges gave scores to eight
candidates as follows:

Candidate 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Judge 1 Score 97 96 94 89 88 87 84 84

Judge 2 Score 93 96 97 94 91 89 88 84

1. Transform each judge’s scores into ranks (1 = highest score).

2. Compute Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient rsr_srs.

3. Interpret the result.

Solution
1. Assign Ranks

• Highest score → Rank 1; ties share the average of their rank positions.

Candidate J1 Score Rank J1 J2 Score Rank J2

1 97 1.0 93 4.0

2 96 2.0 96 2.0

3 94 3.0 97 1.0

4 89 4.0 94 3.0

5 88 5.0 91 5.0

6 87 6.0 89 6.0

7 84 7.5 88 7.0
8 84 7.5 84 8.0

2. Calculate ddd and d2d^2d2

Candidate Rank Rank d=R1−R2d=R_{1}-R_{2}d=R1 d2d^2d2

J1 J2 −R2

1 1.0 4.0 –3.0 9.00

2 2.0 2.0 0.0 0.00

3 3.0 1.0 2.0 4.00

4 4.0 3.0 1.0 1.00

5 5.0 5.0 0.0 0.00

6 6.0 6.0 0.0 0.00

7 7.5 7.0 0.5 0.25

8 7.5 8.0 –0.5 0.25

Sum 14.50

3. Compute Spearman’s rsr_srs

4. Interpretation

• An rsr_srs of 0.8274 indicates a strong positive correlation between the

two judges’ rankings.
 • Candidates ranked highly by Judge 1 generally also rank highly with Judge
2.

• Minor discrepancies (e.g., Candidates 1 and 3 swapping positions) do not

significantly affect overall agreement.

• Implication: The judges’ scoring criteria and perceptions are closely

aligned, lending consistency and fairness to the contest’s evaluation
process.

QUESTION 2:

The Land Transformation Office (LTO) believes that motorcycle riders who do
not wear helmets are at higher risk when an accident happens. They gathered the
following data on the number of accidents per month in five regions:

Region 1 2 3 4 5

Accidents (with helmets) 20 12 16 15 17

Accidents (without helmets) 21 20 17 20 18

Compute Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient between helmeted-rider

accidents and non-helmeted-rider accidents. Interpret the result.

Solution Steps

1. List the two series

o XXX: Accidents with helmets = [20, 12, 16, 15, 17]

o YYY: Accidents without helmets = [21, 20, 17, 20, 18]

2. Assign ranks to each value (1 = smallest, 5 = largest)

o For XXX:
 ▪ 12 → Rank 1

▪ 15 → Rank 2

▪ 16 → Rank 3

▪ 17 → Rank 4

▪ 20 → Rank 5

o For YYY:

▪ 17 → Rank 1

▪ 18 → Rank 2

▪ 20, 20 → Ranks 3 & 4 → average = 3.5 each

▪ 21 → Rank 5

Region XXX Rank XXX YYY Rank YYY

1 20 5.0 21 5.0

2 12 1.0 20 3.5

3 16 3.0 17 1.0

4 15 2.0 20 3.5

5 17 4.0 18 2.0
Region Rank XXX Rank YYY ddd d2d^2d2

1 5.0 5.0 0.0 0.00

2 1.0 3.5 –2.5 6.25

3 3.0 1.0 2.0 4.00

4 2.0 3.5 –1.5 2.25

5 4.0 2.0 2.0 4.00

Sum 16.50

3. Apply Spearman’s formula

4. Interpretation

o rs≈0.175r_s \approx 0.175rs≈0.175 indicates a very weak positive

correlation between accident counts with helmets and without
helmets across regions.

o In plain terms, regions with slightly more helmeted‐rider accidents

also tend to have slightly more non-helmeted-rider accidents—but
the relationship is very weak.
 o Thus, helmet usage alone does not explain regional accident
variation; other factors (traffic volume, road quality, enforcement)
are likely more influential.

CASE STUDY:
A local fitness center, "FitLife Hub," has recently launched a new range of
specialized fitness classes, including Zumba Fusion, High-Intensity Interval
Training (HIIT), and Yoga Sculpt. The management wants to understand the
satisfaction levels of their members with these new classes and identify areas for
potential improvement. They are particularly interested in understanding:

a. Which of the new classes are most popular?

b. What aspects of the classes (e.g., instructor quality, music, workout intensity,
class schedule) are members most satisfied or dissatisfied with?

c. Are there any specific suggestions members have for enhancing these new
offerings?

To gather this information efficiently from their large membership base, the
FitLife Hub manager decides to use a questionnaire.

Frame a Questionnaire for FitLife Hub manager.

SOLUTION :
FitLife Hub Member Satisfaction Questionnaire

Instructions:
• This survey will take 5 minutes.
• Your responses are confidential and will help us improve our classes.
• Please answer all questions.
Section A: Your Profile

1. How often do you attend FitLife Hub per week?

o ☐ 1–2 days

o ☐ 3–4 days

o ☐ 5+ days

2. Which of these classes have you tried in the past month? (check all that
apply)

o ☐ Zumba Fusion

o ☐ HIIT

o ☐ Yoga Sculpt

Section B: Popularity & Preference

3. Rank the three new classes in order of how much you enjoy them (1 =
favorite, 3 = least favorite):

o Zumba Fusion: __

o HIIT: __

o Yoga Sculpt: __

4. If you could only attend one new class, which would you choose?

o ☐ Zumba Fusion

o ☐ HIIT

o ☐ Yoga Sculpt
Section C: Satisfaction with Class Aspects

For each aspect below, please circle the number that best reflects your
satisfaction (1 = Very Dissatisfied, 5 = Very Satisfied).

Aspect 1 2345

Instructor Quality 12345

Music & Atmosphere 1 2 3 4 5

Workout Intensity 12345

Class Schedule/Timing 1 2 3 4 5

Studio Cleanliness 12345

5. Was the class length (e.g., 45 min) appropriate?

o ☐ Too Short

o ☐ Just Right

o ☐ Too Long

Section D: Suggestions & Open Feedback

6. What did you like most about the new classes?

(Please write 1–2 sentences.)

7. What one change would most improve your experience?

(e.g., “Add more stretching,” “Use different music style,” “Offer a noon
slot.”)

8. Any other comments or ideas for new class types or features?

(Feel free to share any additional thoughts.)