Business Research Methods and Project Solved Questions Paper 2023
4 (Sem-6/CBCS) HE 6 (BRMPW) 2023
COMMERCE (Honours Elective)
Paper: COM-HE-6066
(Business Research Methods and Project Work)
Full Marks: 50
Time: Two Hours
The figures in the margin indicate full marks for the questions.
1. Answer any four of the following as directed: (1 × 4 = 4)
(i) All the items under consideration in any field of enquiry constitute a population.
(ii) A complete enumeration of all items in the 'population' is known as a sample survey. False (It is known as a census survey).
(iii) Research is actually a voyage of discovery. True
(iv) The hypothesis is generally symbolized as H.
(v) Identification of the research problem is the first step in any research process.
(vi) Sampling errors are absent in a census survey.
(vii) Secondary data are those data which have already been collected and analysed by someone else. True
(viii) Census survey is impossible in the situations when population is infinite. True
2. Answer any three of the following questions: (2 × 3 = 6)
(i) Briefly explain the meaning of hypothesis.
Answer: A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or assumption that a researcher tests through study and experimentation. It is a statement that predicts the relationship between two or more variables in a research study.
(ii) Mention any two objectives of research.
Answer:
To discover new facts or verify existing knowledge – Research helps in expanding knowledge in a particular field.
To solve specific problems – Research aims to provide solutions to practical issues faced by individuals, businesses, or society.
(iii) What is a research problem?
Answer: A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, or gap in knowledge that a researcher aims to study and find solutions for. It forms the foundation of any research project and guides the research objectives.
(iv) What is the meaning of 'laboratory study'?
Answer: A laboratory study is a type of research conducted in a controlled environment where variables can be precisely manipulated and measured. It is commonly used in scientific and experimental research.
(v) Write the meaning of sampling.
Answer: Sampling is the process of selecting a small group from a larger population to conduct research. It helps in studying trends and patterns without needing to analyze the entire population.
(vi) Briefly explain the meaning of Likert scaling.
Answer: The Likert scale is a rating scale used to measure people's opinions, attitudes, or perceptions. Respondents indicate their level of agreement or disagreement with a series of statements, usually on a scale of 1 to 5 (e.g., Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree).
3. Answer any two of the following questions: (5 × 2 = 10)
(i) Briefly explain the qualities of a good research. (5)
Answer: A good research study should have the following qualities:
Clarity of Objectives: The research should have a well-defined aim and purpose.
Systematic Approach: It should follow a structured and logical process.
Accuracy and Reliability: The data collected should be valid, precise, and trustworthy.
Ethical Considerations: Research should follow ethical guidelines, ensuring honesty and integrity.
Reproducibility: Other researchers should be able to replicate the study and get similar results.
A good research study helps in making informed decisions and contributes valuable knowledge.
(ii) Briefly explain the concept of 'unit of analysis'. (5)
Answer: The unit of analysis refers to the main entity being studied in a research project. It represents what or who is being analyzed to draw conclusions. Common units of analysis include:
Individuals: Studying people’s behaviors, attitudes, or opinions (e.g., customer satisfaction surveys).
Groups: Research on families, organizations, or communities (e.g., team productivity).
Organizations: Studying businesses, institutions, or governments (e.g., company performance analysis).
Events: Researching incidents, elections, or historical events (e.g., impact of natural disasters).
Objects or Documents: Examining books, articles, or social media posts (e.g., content analysis of advertisements).
Choosing the right unit of analysis is essential for meaningful research results.
(iii) Write a note on observational method of research. (5)
Answer: The observational method is a research technique where researchers collect data by watching and recording behaviors, events, or interactions. It is commonly used in psychology, sociology, and market research.
Types of Observation:
Structured Observation: The researcher follows a pre-defined plan (e.g., observing customer behavior in a store).
Unstructured Observation: No fixed guidelines, allowing for flexible data collection (e.g., studying children’s play behavior).
Participant Observation: The researcher interacts with the subjects (e.g., joining a community to study its culture).
Non-Participant Observation: The researcher observes without involvement (e.g., monitoring traffic patterns).
Advantages:
Provides real-world insights.
Reduces reliance on self-reported data.
Limitations:
Can be time-consuming.
Observer bias may affect results.
The observational method is useful when studying natural behaviors that cannot be manipulated in a lab setting.
(iv) Write a note on the Chi-square test. (5)
Answer: The Chi-square test is a statistical method used to examine the relationship between two categorical variables. It helps determine whether observed differences in data are due to chance or a real association.
Types of Chi-square Tests:
Chi-square Test for Independence: Checks if two variables are related (e.g., gender and voting preference).
Chi-square Goodness of Fit Test: Determines if observed data fits an expected distribution (e.g., customer age groups in a store).
Formula:
= Observed frequency
= Expected frequency
Advantages:
Simple to use and interpret.
Works with categorical data.
Helps in hypothesis testing.
Limitations:
Requires a sufficiently large sample size.
Cannot be used for numerical (continuous) data.
The Chi-square test is widely used in social sciences, business research, and healthcare to analyze patterns and relationships in data.
4. Answer any three of the following questions: (10 × 3 = 30)
(i) What do you mean by research? Explain its significance in modern times. (2 + 8 = 10)
Answer: Meaning of Research: Research is a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information to increase knowledge. It helps in solving problems, making discoveries, and improving existing theories.
Significance of Research in Modern Times:
Solves Problems: Research helps find solutions to social, economic, and technological problems.
Supports Decision-Making: Businesses, governments, and individuals use research to make informed decisions.
Encourages Innovation: New inventions and technologies are possible due to research.
Improves Healthcare: Medical research helps develop new treatments, vaccines, and healthcare techniques.
Enhances Education: Research improves teaching methods, learning techniques, and educational policies.
Aids Economic Growth: It helps businesses understand market trends and consumer behavior, leading to economic development.
Supports Policy Making: Governments rely on research for planning laws and policies.
Environmental Protection: Research helps in understanding climate change, pollution control, and sustainability.
Technological Advancement: It leads to new developments in artificial intelligence, robotics, and other modern technologies.
Enhances Quality of Life: Research contributes to improving overall human life by making things more efficient and effective.
Research is a key driver of progress and plays a vital role in shaping the future.
(ii) Explain the various steps involved in the research process. (10)
Answer:
The research process consists of several steps that ensure systematic and accurate study:
Identifying the Research Problem: The first step is to select a specific issue or topic for study.
Reviewing Literature: The researcher studies previous research and existing knowledge on the topic.
Setting Objectives and Hypothesis: The goals of the study and possible outcomes are defined.
Research Design Selection: A plan or framework is created to guide data collection and analysis.
Selecting Data Collection Methods: The researcher chooses methods like surveys, interviews, or experiments.
Sampling Process: A specific group is selected from the population for data collection.
Data Collection: The researcher gathers information using selected techniques.
Data Analysis and Interpretation: The collected data is processed and analyzed to find patterns and insights.
Drawing Conclusions: Based on analysis, results are interpreted, and conclusions are made.
Report Writing and Presentation: The final findings are documented in a structured format and shared with others.
Following these steps ensures that the research is structured, reliable, and valuable.
(iii) Describe the techniques involved in defining a research problem. (10)
Answer:
Defining a research problem is crucial for conducting meaningful research. The following techniques help in this process:
Identify the Broad Area of Interest: The researcher selects a general topic related to their field of study.
Review Existing Literature: Previous research, books, and articles are analyzed to understand gaps and trends.
Analyze Practical Issues: Identifying real-world challenges helps in defining a relevant problem.
Consult Experts and Stakeholders: Discussions with professionals, scholars, and industry experts provide valuable insights.
Define Clear Objectives: The purpose and expected outcomes of the research should be well-defined.
Narrow Down the Topic: The problem should be specific and focused rather than broad and vague.
Ensure Feasibility: The research should be practical, considering available resources, time, and accessibility.
Frame as a Research Question: The problem should be stated as a question that guides the study.
Check Relevance and Importance: The problem should be meaningful, addressing current issues or knowledge gaps.
Test with Preliminary Investigation: Conducting a small pilot study or discussion helps refine the problem before full research begins.
Using these techniques ensures that the research problem is well-defined, clear, and researchable.
(iv) Explain the basic types of research. (10)
Answer:
Research can be classified into different types based on its purpose, method, and approach. The basic types of research are:
Descriptive Research: It focuses on describing characteristics, behaviors, or trends. Example: A study on customer preferences.
Analytical Research: It examines data to find patterns, relationships, or causes. Example: Market analysis of product demand.
Exploratory Research: Conducted to explore new ideas or identify problems for future study. Example: Research on emerging technologies.
Experimental Research: Involves controlled experiments to test hypotheses. Example: Testing the effectiveness of a new medicine.
Qualitative Research: Focuses on non-numerical data, such as opinions, experiences, and behaviors. Example: Interviews or case studies.
Quantitative Research: Uses numerical data and statistical analysis. Example: A survey on customer satisfaction.
Applied Research: Conducted to solve real-world problems. Example: Developing a new business strategy.
Fundamental (Basic) Research: Aims to increase general knowledge without an immediate application. Example: Research on human psychology.
Longitudinal Research: Studies changes over time by collecting data at different points. Example: A 10-year study on climate change.
Cross-Sectional Research: Collects data at a single point in time to analyze trends. Example: A survey on social media usage in 2025.
Each type of research serves a specific purpose and is chosen based on the study’s objectives.
(v) Explain the advantages and limitations of Likert scale. (5 + 5 = 10)
Answer: Advantages of Likert Scale:
Easy to Use: Respondents can easily select an option, making it simple to gather data.
Quantifiable Data: It allows researchers to measure attitudes, opinions, and behaviors numerically.
Standardized Responses: Provides a consistent format, making comparisons easier.
Flexible Application: Can be used in surveys, interviews, and online research.
Helps in Trend Analysis: Useful for tracking changes in opinions over time.
Limitations of Likert Scale:
Response Bias: People may choose neutral or extreme answers without much thought.
Limited Depth: It does not capture the reasons behind a respondent's choice.
Cultural Differences: Interpretation of scale points may vary across cultures.
No Clear Middle Ground: Some respondents may struggle to choose between options if their views are unclear.
Prone to Social Desirability Bias: People may give answers they think are socially acceptable rather than their true opinion.
Despite its limitations, the Likert scale remains one of the most widely used tools in research.
(vi) Mention the various sources of secondary data. Explain the precautions that should be taken by a researcher before using secondary data. (5 + 5 = 10)
Answer: Sources of Secondary Data:
Government Publications: Census reports, economic surveys, and statistical reports.
Journals and Research Papers: Published academic studies provide useful insights.
Books and Magazines: Contain historical and theoretical information.
Online Databases: Websites like Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and government portals.
Company Reports: Financial statements and market research reports.
Newspapers and Media Reports: Provide recent events and analysis.
Institutional Records: Data from universities, NGOs, and international organizations.
Social Media and Blogs: Sometimes used for studying public opinions and trends.
Precautions Before Using Secondary Data:
Check Reliability: Ensure the data comes from a trustworthy and credible source.
Verify Accuracy: Cross-check with other sources to confirm the correctness of the data.
Check Relevance: The data should match the research objectives and context.
Ensure Timeliness: Use up-to-date information, especially for market and scientific research.
Understand Data Collection Methods: Be aware of how the data was originally collected to assess its validity.
Using secondary data saves time and effort, but researchers must carefully evaluate its quality before use.
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