Business Research Methods and Project Solved Questions Paper 2022
4 (Sem-6/CBCS) HE 6 (BRMPW) 2022
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.
(i) A complete enumeration of all the items in the 'population' is known as a _______.
Answer: Census
(ii) Research methodology is a way to systematically solve the research problem. [State whether the statement is true or false]
Answer: True
(iii) Review of literature is the last step in the research process. [State whether the statement is true or false]
Answer: False
(iv) The hypothesis is generally symbolized as _______.
Answer: H₀ (Null Hypothesis) or H₁ (Alternative Hypothesis)
(v) The first step in any research process is _______.
Answer: Identifying the research problem
(vi) _______ errors are absent in a census survey.
Answer: Sampling errors
(vii) Primary data are those data which have already been collected and analysed by someone else. [State whether the statement is true or false]
Answer: False
(viii) _______ is the process of obtaining information about an entire population by examining only a part of it.
Answer: Sampling
2. Answer any three of the following questions: (2 × 3 = 6)
(i) Briefly explain the meaning of research.
Answer: Research is a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting information to find answers to a specific question or problem.
(ii) Mention any two objectives of research.
Answer:
To gain new knowledge or insights about a subject.
To find solutions to specific problems.
(iii) Briefly explain the meaning of research design.
Answer: Research design is a plan or blueprint that guides the entire research process, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
(iv) What is the meaning of 'field survey'?
Answer: A field survey is a method of collecting data by directly interacting with people in their natural environment, such as through interviews or questionnaires.
(v) Write the meaning of the semantic differential scale.
Answer: The semantic differential scale is a type of rating scale used to measure people's attitudes or opinions by asking them to rate something between two opposite adjectives (e.g., Good – Bad).
(vi) Briefly explain the meaning of sampling.
Answer: Sampling is the process of selecting a small group (sample) from a larger population to study and draw conclusions about the entire population.
3. Answer any two of the following questions: (5 × 2 = 10)
(i) Write a note on the scope of business research.
Answer: Business research is a systematic process of gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to make better business decisions. Its scope includes:
Market Research: Understanding consumer behavior, preferences, and trends.
Financial Research: Analyzing financial statements, investment decisions, and risk assessment.
Operational Research: Improving business processes and efficiency.
Human Resource Research: Studying employee satisfaction, recruitment, and performance.
Product Development: Evaluating customer needs and developing new products.
(ii) Briefly explain the qualities of a good research.
Answer: A good research should have the following qualities:
Clarity and Precision: The research objectives and methodology should be clear and well-defined.
Systematic Approach: The study should follow a structured process of data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Objectivity: The research should be free from personal bias and based on facts.
Reliability and Validity: The results should be consistent and accurate.
Ethical Considerations: The research should follow ethical guidelines, ensuring honesty and confidentiality.
(iii) Briefly explain various components of a research problem.
Answer: A research problem consists of several key components:
Title/Statement of the Problem: A clear and concise description of the issue.
Background Information: Explanation of why the problem is important.
Research Objectives: The specific goals the research aims to achieve.
Research Questions: Key questions that the study will answer.
Scope and Limitations: The boundaries of the research, including what will and will not be covered.
(iv) Write a note on the survey method of research.
Answer: The survey method is a widely used research technique where data is collected from a large group of people using questionnaires, interviews, or online forms.
Types of Surveys: Personal interviews, telephone surveys, mail surveys, and online surveys.
Advantages: Cost-effective, quick data collection, and ability to reach a large audience.
Disadvantages: Responses may be biased or inaccurate if participants do not answer honestly.
(v) Explain the meaning of multidimensional scales.
Answer: Multidimensional scales are measurement tools used in research to assess multiple attributes or characteristics of a concept.
Unlike simple scales that measure only one factor, multidimensional scales evaluate different aspects simultaneously.
Example: A customer satisfaction survey may measure product quality, service experience, and price perception together.
Uses: These scales are commonly used in psychology, marketing, and social sciences.
(vi) Write a note on ANOVA.
Answer: ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) is a statistical technique used to compare the means of three or more groups to determine if there is a significant difference among them.
Types of ANOVA:
One-way ANOVA: Compares one independent variable across multiple groups.
Two-way ANOVA: Analyzes the effect of two independent variables on a dependent variable.
Uses: ANOVA is commonly used in business, medical research, and social sciences to analyze experimental data.
4. Answer any three of the following questions: (10 × 3 = 30)
(i) Explain the basic types of research.
Answer:
Research can be classified into various types based on purpose, method, and nature. The basic types of research include:
Descriptive Research:
Aims to describe characteristics, behaviors, or patterns in a population.
Example: A survey on customer satisfaction in a shopping mall.
Exploratory Research:
Conducted when little is known about a subject to gain new insights.
Example: Studying consumer reaction to a new product before launching it.
Explanatory (Causal) Research:
Identifies cause-and-effect relationships between variables.
Example: Analyzing the impact of advertising on sales growth.
Applied Research:
Focuses on solving specific real-world problems.
Example: Researching ways to improve employee productivity in a company.
Fundamental (Basic) Research:
Conducted to expand knowledge without immediate practical application.
Example: Studying the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
Qualitative Research:
Focuses on non-numerical data such as opinions, behaviors, and experiences.
Example: Conducting interviews to understand consumer preferences.
Quantitative Research:
Involves collecting and analyzing numerical data to identify patterns.
Example: Using statistical analysis to study customer buying behavior.
Longitudinal Research:
Studies the same group of people over a long period.
Example: Tracking student performance over ten years.
Cross-sectional Research:
Conducted at a single point in time to analyze different variables.
Example: A survey on political opinions before an election.
Experimental Research:
Conducted in a controlled environment to test hypotheses.
Example: Testing the effectiveness of a new drug on patients.
(ii) Elaborately explain the concept of 'unit of analysis'.
Answer:
The unit of analysis refers to the main entity being studied in a research project. It defines what or whom the researcher is analyzing to draw conclusions.
Types of Units of Analysis:
Individuals:
The most common unit of analysis, focusing on people’s behaviors, opinions, or characteristics.
Example: A study on student performance based on their study habits.
Groups:
Research conducted on collective units such as families, teams, or communities.
Example: Studying family spending patterns in urban areas.
Organizations:
Examining institutions like businesses, schools, or hospitals.
Example: Research on employee motivation in multinational companies.
Social Artifacts:
Studying cultural products, documents, or media.
Example: Analyzing news articles to study media bias.
Events:
Research focusing on incidents like natural disasters, protests, or economic recessions.
Example: Studying the impact of COVID-19 on global trade.
Importance of Unit of Analysis:
Helps in structuring research and determining data collection methods.
Defines the scope of research and ensures clarity in analysis.
Helps avoid errors like ecological fallacy (applying group-level conclusions to individuals) or individualistic fallacy (applying individual-level findings to groups).
Example: If a researcher is studying poverty in a city, they must decide whether to analyze individuals (people's income) or groups (households).
(iii) Explain various steps in the research process.
Answer: The research process follows a systematic sequence of steps to ensure accurate and meaningful results. The key steps are:
Identifying the Research Problem:
The first step is to define the issue that needs investigation.
Example: Understanding the impact of social media on youth behavior.
Review of Literature:
Examining existing studies related to the topic to identify gaps.
Example: Reading previous research papers on digital marketing trends.
Formulating Research Objectives and Hypothesis:
Setting clear research goals and forming a hypothesis (a testable statement).
Example: "Increased screen time negatively affects student concentration levels."
Choosing the Research Design:
Selecting a framework for data collection and analysis.
Example: Choosing between qualitative (interviews) or quantitative (surveys) methods.
Defining Population and Sampling:
Identifying the group from which data will be collected and selecting a representative sample.
Example: Studying 500 college students to represent all university students.
Data Collection:
Gathering information using various techniques such as surveys, experiments, or observations.
Example: Conducting interviews to understand consumer buying behavior.
Data Analysis and Interpretation:
Organizing, summarizing, and analyzing data using statistical tools or qualitative methods.
Example: Using software like SPSS for data analysis.
Testing Hypothesis:
Comparing results with the hypothesis to determine validity.
Example: Checking if the data supports the claim that social media reduces productivity.
Drawing Conclusions and Recommendations:
Summarizing findings and suggesting practical applications.
Example: Recommending companies to limit employee social media usage for better productivity.
Preparing and Presenting the Research Report:
Documenting the research process, findings, and conclusions in a structured format.
Example: Publishing a report on "The Future of Online Learning in India."
Importance of Following Research Steps:
Ensures reliability and validity of research.
Provides a clear and logical flow of study.
Helps in making well-informed decisions based on data.
By following these steps, researchers can conduct effective and meaningful studies, leading to valuable insights and conclusions.
(iv) Describe the techniques of defining a research problem.
Answer:
Defining a research problem is an important step in any research study. The following techniques are used:
Identify the Broad Area: The researcher must first choose a general topic or area of study.
Review Previous Studies: Reading past research helps in understanding what has already been studied and what gaps exist.
Understand the Problem Clearly: The researcher should analyze the issue carefully and understand all aspects of it.
Define Objectives: The main goals of the research should be clearly stated.
Narrow the Topic: The research problem should be specific and not too broad.
Consider Feasibility: The study should be practical and possible within available time and resources.
Frame the Problem as a Question: The problem should be written as a clear research question to guide the study.
By following these techniques, a researcher can define a clear and effective research problem.
(v) What is a longitudinal study? Explain its advantages and disadvantages. (2 + 4 + 4) = 10
Answer: A longitudinal study is a research method where data is collected from the same group of people over a long period of time. It is used to study changes and developments over time.
Advantages of Longitudinal Study:
Tracks Changes Over Time: Helps understand how people, businesses, or situations change over time.
More Accurate Results: Since the same subjects are studied, it reduces errors and provides reliable data.
Better Understanding of Cause and Effect: Helps in studying the relationship between different factors over time.
Useful for Studying Trends: It is widely used in fields like psychology, medicine, and economics to study trends.
Disadvantages of Longitudinal Study:
Time-Consuming: Since the study takes place over a long time, it requires years to complete.
Expensive: It requires a lot of money to track participants for a long period.
Participant Dropout: Some participants may leave the study, affecting the accuracy of results.
Difficult to Manage: Collecting data over time requires proper planning and organization.
Despite these challenges, longitudinal studies are useful for understanding long-term effects and changes.
(vi) What is Likert scale? Explain its advantages and limitations. (2 + 4 + 4) = 10
Answer:
The Likert scale is a tool used in research to measure people's opinions, attitudes, or behaviors. It consists of a series of statements, and respondents rate them on a scale (e.g., 1 to 5 or 1 to 7), such as "Strongly Agree" to "Strongly Disagree."
Advantages of Likert Scale:
Easy to Use: Simple for respondents to understand and answer.
Quantifies Opinions: Converts opinions into numbers, making analysis easier.
Flexible: Can be used in different types of research, such as marketing and social sciences.
Reliable Data Collection: Provides consistent responses when designed properly.
Limitations of Likert Scale:
Limited Response Options: People may not find an option that exactly matches their opinion.
Middle-Point Bias: Some respondents may always choose the neutral option to avoid thinking deeply.
Cultural Differences: People from different cultures may interpret the scale differently.
Subjective Responses: Results depend on personal opinions, which may not always be accurate.
Despite these limitations, the Likert scale is one of the most commonly used tools for measuring attitudes and perceptions.
(vii) Explain the meaning of secondary data. Mention various sources of secondary data. What precautions should the researcher take before using secondary data? (2 + 4 + 4 = 10)
Answer:
Secondary data refers to data that has already been collected and published by someone else. Researchers use it to save time and resources.
Sources of Secondary Data:
Government Reports: Census data, economic surveys, and other government documents.
Books and Journals: Published books, research papers, and articles.
Websites and Online Databases: Internet sources, research portals, and company reports.
Newspapers and Magazines: Articles and reports on various topics.
Precautions Before Using Secondary Data:
Check Accuracy: Ensure the data is correct and reliable.
Verify the Source: Use only trusted sources like government records or academic publications.
Check for Bias: Some data may be influenced by personal opinions or specific agendas.
Ensure Relevance: The data should match the research topic and be up to date.
Using secondary data can help researchers gather information quickly, but they must ensure its quality and reliability.
(viii) Explain the reasons why sampling is used in the context of research studies.
Answer: Sampling is the process of selecting a small group from a large population to study. Researchers use sampling for several important reasons:
Saves Time: Studying the entire population is time-consuming, so a sample helps researchers get results faster.
Reduces Cost: Collecting data from every individual requires a lot of money, while sampling is more cost-effective.
More Practical and Manageable: It is easier to handle and analyze data from a smaller group rather than a large population.
Ensures Accuracy and Reliability: If the sample is chosen properly, it provides reliable data that represents the whole population.
Useful for Large Populations: When the total number of individuals is too high, studying a sample makes research possible.
Reduces Workload: Researchers and data collectors can focus on a smaller group instead of gathering data from everyone.
Allows for In-Depth Analysis: Since fewer individuals are studied, researchers can collect detailed and high-quality data.
Minimizes Errors: Proper sampling techniques help avoid mistakes that can happen when studying an entire population.
Flexibility in Research: Different types of sampling methods can be used based on the research objective, making studies more adaptable.
Better Decision-Making: Since results are obtained faster and more efficiently, decision-makers can act based on research findings without long delays.
Sampling is a key method in research that helps make studies efficient, cost-effective, and accurate without needing data from every individual in a population.
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