SRM University Delhi – NCR, Sonipat

Assignment: 01 Ph.D. Course work

Subject: Research Methodology
Submitted by: Ms. Divya Rana

Ans1.

Research is the methodical, in-depth application of scientific techniques to a problem or

subject. It entails gathering information, evaluating it, and coming up with fresh insights
or answers. Numerous disciplines, including science, education, health, business, and
social science, can conduct research.
Research is defined as the methodical process of posing queries, obtaining data, putting
theories to the test, and coming to conclusions in order to address issues or advance
knowledge.

Importance of Research in the Modern Era

1. Addresses Real-World challenges: Research aids in the resolution of problems such as

poverty, health challenges, climate change, and educational disparities.
2. Encourages Innovation and Technology: Research has produced new technologies such as
cellphones, electric vehicles, and vaccinations.
3. Enhances Decision-Making: Using research data, governments, businesses, and
organizations may make well-informed decisions supported by facts and evidence.
4. Economic Growth: By enhancing products, cutting expenses, and boosting productivity,
research aids in the expansion of enterprises.
5. Improves Knowledge: It helps scientists, educators, and students learn more and keep up with
the latest advancements in their profession.
6. Informs Policies: Laws and public policies that seek to advance society, such those pertaining
to environmental preservation or health care regulations, are informed by research.

Ans2.

The research process is a methodical approach to problem-solving or question-answering.

Every stage contributes to the accuracy and scientific nature of the investigation. The
primary actions that are involved are:
1. Choosing a Research Issue
Selecting a subject or issue that requires research is the first step. It needs to be precise, lucid,
and researchable.

2. Literature Review
This entails reading literature and earlier research on the subject. Knowing what has already been
done and where there are gaps is helpful.

3. Developing a Hypothesis
A hypothesis is a potential solution or presumption regarding the research issue. During the
research, it is put to the test.

4. Design of Research
This is the study's plan. It involves choices on the techniques, samples, instruments, and
methodologies to be employed.

5. Information Gathering
Surveys, interviews, experiments, and observations are some of the methods used to gather data.
To obtain reliable information, this stage is crucial.

6. Analysis of Data
Data is gathered, then examined using logical or statistical techniques to look for trends,
connections, or solutions.

7. Conclusion and Interpretation

The results are evaluated to determine their meaning after analysis. In order to address the initial
study topic, a conclusion is reached.

8. Writing and Presenting Reports

Writing a thorough report or research paper is the last stage. It can be disseminated via papers or
presentations and comprises the methodology, results, and conclusions.

In conclusion, every stage of the research process is critical to guaranteeing the validity,
dependability, and use of the findings. The production of high-quality information that may
advance society is facilitated by a well-organized research process.

Ans3.

Formulating a research problem is the most important and challenging step in the research
process. If the problem is not properly defined, the whole research may go in the wrong
direction. While selecting and defining the research problem, a researcher faces several issues:
1. Clarity of the Problem

The problem should be clearly stated. Vague or broad topics can confuse the direction of the
research.

2. Feasibility

The researcher must check whether the problem can be studied with the available time, money,
tools, and knowledge.

3. Relevance and Importance

The problem should be meaningful and useful for society, academics, or the field of study.
Irrelevant topics may not add value.

4. Availability of Data

If data is not available or difficult to collect, the research cannot move forward. So, the
researcher must ensure data can be collected.

5. Ethical Considerations

The problem should be such that it does not harm individuals or groups. Ethical approval may be
needed for sensitive topics.

6. Avoiding Bias

The researcher must ensure that the problem is not based on personal opinion or pre-decided
outcomes. It should be open to objective investigation.

7. Review of Existing Literature

Sometimes the same problem may have been solved earlier. The researcher must study existing
research to avoid duplication.

Conclusion:

Choosing and defining a good research problem requires clear thinking, planning, and
background study. If the problem is well-formulated, the rest of the research process becomes
easier and more effective.
 Ans4.

The most crucial and difficult part of the research process is creating a research problem. The
entire study process might go awry if the problem is not clearly identified. A researcher
encounters a number of challenges while choosing and specifying the study problem:

1. Problem Clarity
The issue has to be expressed explicitly. Research direction might be confused by topics that are
too general or vague.

2. Possibility
It is the researcher's responsibility to determine if the problem can be investigated given the time,
resources, equipment, and expertise at hand.

3. Significance and Pertinence

The issue should be significant and beneficial to the field of study, society, or academia. Topics
that are irrelevant could not be valuable.

4.Data Availability
Research cannot proceed if data is unavailable or challenging to gather. Therefore, the researcher
has to make sure that data can be gathered.

5. Moral Aspects
The issue ought to be one that doesn't hurt people or communities. Sensitive subjects may
require ethical approval.

6. Steering Clear of Bias

The researcher has to make sure that the issue isn't predicated on subjective beliefs or
predetermined conclusions. It ought to be amenable to unbiased inquiry.

7. Examining Current Literature

Occasionally, the identical issue could have been resolved sooner. To prevent repetition, the
researcher must review previous studies.

In conclusion, careful consideration, preparation, and background research are necessary for
selecting and developing a strong research issue. A well-formulated problem makes the
remainder of the research process simpler and more efficient.
 Ans4.

Meaning of Research Design:

A research design is the overall plan, structure, or strategy a researcher uses to conduct a
research study. It outlines how to collect, measure, and analyze data systematically to answer
research questions or test hypotheses. It serves as a blueprint for the entire research process and
ensures that the evidence obtained enables the researcher to effectively address the problem
logically and as unambiguously as possible.

In simple terms, a research design is the framework that guides the researcher in choosing
methods, tools, and procedures for conducting the research.

Types of Research Designs:

Common types include:

 Descriptive (describes characteristics or functions)

 Exploratory (explores new problems where little information is available)
 Experimental (examines cause-effect relationships)
 Analytical (analyzes existing information)

Significance of Research Design:

1. Provides Clarity and Direction

o A good design helps define what data is needed, how to collect it, and how to
analyze it, thus reducing confusion and errors.
2. Ensures Reliability and Validity
o It enhances the accuracy and consistency of the results by choosing appropriate
tools and techniques.
3. Saves Time and Resources
o Proper planning avoids unnecessary steps, helps use available resources
efficiently, and ensures the study is completed on time.

Minimizes Bias

o A well-structured design reduces the chances of personal bias or systematic error

in data collection and interpretation.
4. Improves Decision-Making
o It helps businesses, policymakers, and academic researchers make informed
decisions based on well-researched evidence.
5. Facilitates Replication
o A clear design allows other researchers to replicate the study, which is essential
for verifying results.
Conclusion:

A research design is not just a technical aspect of research—it is the foundation on which the
entire study is built. It ensures that the research process is systematic, logical, and aligned with
the objectives, thereby enhancing the credibility and usefulness of the final outcomes.

Ans5.

A research design is not just a technical aspect of research—it is the foundation on which the
entire study is built. It ensures that the research process is systematic, logical, and aligned with
the objectives, thereby enhancing the credibility and usefulness of the final outcomes.

The general plan, framework, or approach a researcher employs to carry out a research study is
known as a research design. It describes how to methodically gather, quantify, and evaluate data
in order to test hypotheses or find answers to research questions. It acts as a guide for the whole
research process and guarantees that the evidence gathered will allow the researcher to solve the
problem as clearly and rationally as feasible.
To put it simply, a research design is the framework that directs the researcher as they select the
processes, instruments, and methodologies to be used in the study.

Research Design Types:

Typical kinds include of:
• Descriptive (explains traits or capabilities)

• Exploratory (looks at novel issues with less knowledge)

Analytical (reviews current data) and experimental (looks at cause-and-effect linkages)
The importance of the research design
1. Offers Clarity and Direction: A well-designed system reduces misunderstandings and
mistakes by clearly defining what data is required, how to get it, and how to evaluate it.
2. Assures Validity and Reliability: By selecting the right instruments and methods, it improves
the precision and coherence of the outcomes.
3. Conserves Resources and Time
Effective planning helps make optimal use of the resources at hand, prevents pointless processes,
and guarantees that the study is finished on schedule.
4.Reduces Prejudice
The likelihood of systematic mistake or personal bias in data collection and interpretation is
decreased by a well-structured design.

5.Makes Decisions Better

Based on well investigated data, it assists companies, legislators, and scholarly scholars in
making well-informed judgments.
6.Promotes Replication
Verifying results requires replication of the study by other researchers, which is made possible
by a defined design.

In summary, a research design is the cornerstone around which the entire study is constructed
and is not only a technical component of research. It guarantees that the research procedure is
methodical, rational, and in line with the goals, which raises the validity and applicability of the
end results.

Ans6.

A good research design is one that is carefully planned and methodically executed to ensure the
research objectives are achieved effectively and efficiently. It provides a clear roadmap for
collecting, measuring, and analyzing data, while minimizing bias, errors, and resource wastage.

Key Characteristics of a Good Research Design:

1. Clearly Defined Objectives

o The design should align with the research problem and clearly state the purpose of
the study (exploratory, descriptive, causal, etc.).
2. Appropriate Methodology
o It must choose the right methods—qualitative, quantitative, or mixed—based on
the research questions.
3. Minimizes Bias and Errors
o A good design ensures objectivity and reduces systematic or random errors,
leading to more trustworthy results.
4. Ensures Validity and Reliability
o The data collected must accurately represent the phenomenon being studied
(validity) and produce consistent results under similar conditions (reliability).
5. Economical and Efficient
o It should make the best use of available time, money, and human resources
without compromising the quality of the research.
6. Flexibility (When Needed)
o While maintaining structure, a good design can adapt to unforeseen challenges or
new findings during the research process.
7. Ethically Sound
o It should protect the rights and privacy of participants, follow ethical guidelines,
and ensure informed consent.
8. Well-Structured Sampling Design
 o It should use an appropriate sample size and technique to ensure the sample
represents the population effectively.

Conclusion:

A good research design is like a well-drawn map—it guides the researcher smoothly from
problem identification to the conclusion, ensuring that every step is logical, coherent, and
efficient. It maximizes the credibility of findings, helps in making informed decisions,
and contributes to the advancement of knowledge

Ans7.

To guarantee that the goals of the study are accomplished effectively and quickly, a good
research design is one that is meticulously prepared and systematically carried out. It offers a
precise road map for gathering, calculating, and evaluating data while reducing prejudice,
mistakes, and resource waste.

Important Qualities of an Effective Research Design:

1.Clearly Stated Goals: The design should explicitly identify the study's goal (exploratory,
descriptive, causal, etc.) and be in line with the research challenge.

2. Appropriate Methodology: In accordance with the study questions, it must select the
appropriate methodologies, whether they be mixed, qualitative, or quantitative.

3. Reduces Errors and Bias: A well-designed study guarantees impartiality and minimizes
systematic or random mistakes, producing more reliable findings.

4. Guarantees Validity and Reliability: The information gathered must faithfully depict the
phenomena under investigation (validity) and yield consistent outcomes under comparable
circumstances (reliability).

5. Economic and Efficient: It should maximize the utilization of time, funds, and human
resources while maintaining the caliber of the study.

6. Adaptability (When Required):

A well-designed study can adjust to new discoveries or unanticipated difficulties while keeping
its framework.

7. Morally Reliable
It should provide informed consent, adhere to ethical standards, and safeguard participants'
rights and privacy.
8. Well-Structured Sampling Design: To guarantee that the sample accurately represents the
population, the right sample size and methodology should be used.

In summary:
Similar to a well-drawn map, a strong research design ensures that every step is efficient, logical,
and cohesive as it leads the researcher from issue identification to the conclusion. It increases the
results' credibility, facilitates well-informed decision-making, and advances our understanding.

Ans8.

When developing a sample design for a research project, a researcher must consider several key
factors to ensure that the sample accurately represents the population and the findings are valid,
reliable, and generalizable.

Key Points to Consider in Developing a Sample Design:

1. Clearly Define the Target Population

o Identify who or what you want to study (e.g., college students, working
professionals, rural households).
o Specify the geographic scope, demographics, and characteristics of the
population.
2. Determine the Sampling Frame
o The sampling frame is the list or database from which the sample will be drawn.
o It should be complete and accurate to avoid selection bias.
3. Decide the Sampling Technique
o Choose between:
 Probability Sampling (random, stratified, cluster, systematic) – each unit
has a known, non-zero chance of selection.
 Non-Probability Sampling (convenience, judgmental, quota, snowball) –
selection is based on accessibility or researcher judgment.
o Probability sampling is preferable for generalizability.
4. Determine the Sample Size
o Consider the size of the population, desired level of accuracy, confidence level,
and margin of error.
o Larger samples tend to produce more accurate results but may require more
resources.
5. Consider the Purpose of the Study
o Exploratory studies may work with smaller, non-random samples.
o Descriptive or causal studies usually require larger, representative samples.
6. Budget and Resources
o Time, manpower, and financial constraints must be factored into choosing the
sampling method and size.
7. Expected Level of Precision and Confidence
o Define the level of accuracy (e.g., ±5%) and confidence level (e.g., 95%) you aim
to achieve.
8. Data Collection Method
 o The design should align with the method of data collection (e.g., face-to-face
interviews, online surveys, telephone calls).
9. Potential Bias and Errors
o Try to minimize sampling bias, non-response bias, and measurement errors.
10. Homogeneity or Heterogeneity of the Population

 In a homogeneous population, a small sample might suffice.

 In a heterogeneous population, a more complex or larger sample is needed to capture
variation

Conclusion:

A well-thought-out sample design is critical for the credibility and success of a research
project. It ensures that the data collected is meaningful, representative, and leads to valid
conclusions. Ignoring sample design can result in flawed findings and wasted resources.

Ans9.

To guarantee that the sample fairly represents the population and that the results are legitimate,
trustworthy, and generalizable, a researcher must take into account a number of important
aspects while creating a sample design for a study.

Important Things to Think About When Creating a Sample Design:

1. Clearly state who the target audience is.

Decide who or what you wish to research, such as working professionals, college students, or
rural homes. Describe the population's demographics, traits, and geographic reach.
2. Establish the Sampling Frame: The database or list that the sample will be taken from is
known as the sampling frame.
To prevent selection bias, it must be accurate and comprehensive.
3. Select the Sampling Method: Choose from the following options: Random, stratified, cluster,
or systematic probability sampling, in which each unit has a known, non-zero chance of being
selected.

Non-Probability Convenience, judgmental, quota, snowball, and other sampling methods are
chosen depending on researcher judgment or accessibility. for generalizability, probability
sampling is better.
4. Establish the Sample Size: Consider the population size, the required degree of precision, the
degree of confidence, and the margin of error.
o Although they may need more resources, larger samples typically yield more accurate findings.

5. Take the Study's Goal into Account o Smaller, non-random samples may be used in
exploratory research.
Larger, representative samples are often needed for descriptive or causal research.
6. Resources and Budget: The sample technique must be chosen with consideration for time,
personnel, and budgetary restrictions.
7. Anticipated Precision and Confidence Level: Specify the precision (e.g., ±5%) and confidence
level (e.g., 95%) that you want to attain.
8. Data Gathering Technique: The design should be in line with the data collecting technique
(e.g., telephone calls, online surveys, and in-person interviews).
9. Possible Errors and Biases :Make an effort to reduce measurement errors, non-response bias,
and sampling bias.
10. Is the Population Heterogeneous or Homogeneous?
• A more complicated or bigger sample is required to capture variance in a diverse community,
but a small sample may be adequate in a homogenous group.

In conclusion, a carefully considered sample design is essential to a research project's legitimacy

and success. It guarantees that the information gathered is representative, significant, and
produces reliable findings. Ignoring sample design may lead to inaccurate results and resource
waste.

Ans10.

Differences Between Survey and Experiment

Surveys and experiments are two widely used research methods, but they differ significantly in
purpose, approach, data collection, and control over variables. Here’s a clear comparison:

Aspect Survey Experiment

A method of collecting data from a A method where variables are manipulated to

Definition
group of people by asking questions. observe cause-and-effect relationships.

To gather information, opinions, or To test hypotheses and determine causal

Purpose
behaviors from a sample. relationships.

Nature Descriptive or exploratory. Analytical and causal.

Control Over Full control over independent and dependent

Limited or no control over variables.
Variables variables.

Conducted in natural settings (e.g., Often conducted in controlled environments

Setting
homes, online, field). (e.g., labs, classrooms).

Data Collection Questionnaires, interviews, online Controlled manipulations, treatments, and

Tools forms. observations.

Data Type Usually self-reported data. Observational and behavioral data.

Generally, less time-consuming and

Time & Cost Often more time-consuming and expensive.
more economical.

Causality Cannot establish cause-effect Can determine cause-effect relationships.

 Aspect Survey Experiment

relationships.

A survey on consumer preferences for An experiment testing the effect of a new

Example
smartphones. teaching method on student scores.

Conclusion:

 Use a survey when you want to gather large-scale information about people’s opinions,
preferences, or behaviors.
 Use an experiment when you aim to test a hypothesis and establish causal relationships
by manipulating variables in a controlled setting.

Disparities Between an experiment and a survey

Experiments and surveys are two popular research techniques, although they differ greatly in
their strategy, goal, data collecting, and variable control. Here is a straightforward analogy:
Aspect Survey Experiment

A method of collecting data from a A method where variables are manipulated to

Definition
group of people by asking questions. observe cause-and-effect relationships.

To gather information, opinions, or To test hypotheses and determine causal

Purpose
behaviors from a sample. relationships.

Nature Descriptive or exploratory. Analytical and causal.

Control Over Full control over independent and dependent

Limited or no control over variables.
Variables variables.

Conducted in natural settings (e.g., Often conducted in controlled environments

Setting
homes, online, field). (e.g., labs, classrooms).

Data Collection Questionnaires, interviews, online Controlled manipulations, treatments, and

Tools forms. observations.

Data Type Usually self-reported data. Observational and behavioral data.

Generally, less time-consuming and

Time & Cost Often more time-consuming and expensive.
more economical.

Cannot establish cause-effect

Causality Can determine cause-effect relationships.
relationships.

A survey on consumer preferences for An experiment testing the effect of a new

Example
smartphones. teaching method on student scores.
In conclusion, if you wish to collect a lot of data on people's beliefs, inclinations, or actions, use
a survey.
• To test a theory and prove causation by adjusting variables in a controlled environment, do an
experiment.

Ans.

To calculate the Median and First Quartile (Q1) from the given grouped frequency distribution,
follow these steps

Ans. Objective:

Solution:

Median in the first quartile (Q1)

Overtime

No. Of employees (Frequency, f)

Hours

Cumulative frequency(CF)

10-15

11

11

15-20

20

11+20=31

20-25

35

31+35=66

25-30

20
66+20=86

30-35

86+8=94

35-40

94+6=100

Total employees (N) = 100

Median position = n/2

= 100/2

= 50

So, median class lies between 20-25

Median = L+ [ (n/2-c.f.)/f] ×h

20 + [ (50-31)/35] ×5

Median= 22.71

First quartile position = n/4

= 100/4

= 25

So, the first quartile class is 15-20

Hence first quartile is; = L + (n/4- C.f.)/f ×h

= 15+(25-11)/20 × 5

= 18.56 ans

The median in the first quartile (Q1) is approximately 18.56 hours.

Ans.

Solution:

Calculation of Mean of product A: Product A: 59+75+ 27+ 63+27+ 28+56 /7 = 335/7 = 47.86

Calculation of Mean of product B: Product B: 150+ 200+125+310+330+250+225 = 1390/7 =

198.57

Standard deviation of product A is; = (59-47.86)2+ (75-47.86)2+(27-47.86)2+(63-47.86)2+(27

47.86)2+(28-47.86)2+(56- 47.86)2

=124 + 736 + 435 + 229 + 435 + 394 + 66 = 2419/7

= 345.57 =√345.57 = 18.58

Standard deviation of A is 18.58

Standard deviation of product B is;

= (150-198.57)2+(200-198.57)2+(125-198.57)2+(310-198.57)2+(330-198.57)2+(250-

198.57)2+(225-198.57)2

=2362 + 2.04 + 5410 + 12425 + 17288 + 2644 + 699 = 39,828.04/7

=5689.72

Standard deviation of B:

B =√5689.72

=75.42

To conclude standard deviation of product A is 18.58 ans

standard deviation of product B is 75.42 ans

Since standard deviation of product B is higher it indicates greater fluctuation sin weekly sales
as compare to product A higher standard deviation reflects more variability in sales data.

So, product B shows high fluctuations in product B

Ans.

Solution:

Mean (average) is as follows:

Batsman A

=85+20+62+28+74+5+69+4+13= 360

Mean of Batsman A is 360/9= 40

Batsman B

= 72 + 4 + 15 + 30 + 59 + 15 + 49 + 27 + 26 = 297

= 297/9= 33

Variance of Batsman A

= (85-40)2+(20-40)2+(62-40)2+(28-40)2+(74-20)2+(5-40)2+(69-40)2+(4-40)2+(13-

40)2

/9

= 2025 + 400 + 484 + 144 + 1156 + 1225 + 841 + 1296 + 729 = 8400

= 8400/9

= 922.22

Standard Deviation of Batsman A= √922.22

=30.37 ans

Variance of Batsman B

= (72-33)2+(4-33)2+(15-33)2+(30-33)2+(59-33)2+(15-33)2+(49-33)2+(27-33)2+(26-
33)2

=1521 + 841 + 324 + 9 + 676 + 324 + 256 + 36 + 49 = 4034

= 4043/9

= 448.22

Standard Deviation of Batsman B =√448.22

= 21.17 ans

Batsman B have less standard deviation as compare to Batsman A

Hence Batsman B is more consistent.