Comprehensive Solutions to Research Methodology Questions
1. Define Research in brief. Differentiate between Research and Research
Methodology with examples.
**Research** is a systematic and logical approach to discovering new knowledge or solving
problems. It focuses on identifying, collecting, and analyzing data to answer specific
questions or test hypotheses.
**Research Methodology** refers to the framework or systematic processes employed to
carry out research. It includes the methods, tools, and techniques used in research.
**Example:** If studying the impact of social media on youth (Research), the methods used
to collect data, such as surveys or interviews, form the Research Methodology.
2. What do you mean by Ideal Research? Discuss the key characteristics of ideal
Research.
**Ideal Research** refers to systematic investigations conducted with precision, objectivity,
and adherence to ethical guidelines. It aims for accurate and valid results that can be
reliably reproduced.
**Key Characteristics of Ideal Research:**
- **Objectivity:** Avoiding personal bias.
- **Precision:** Accurate measurements and data representation.
- **Reproducibility:** Ensuring results can be replicated.
- **Ethical Standards:** Adhering to ethical research practices.
- **Practical Application:** Addressing real-world issues effectively.
3. What is sampling and why do researchers utilize samples instead of
Population?
**Sampling** is the process of selecting a representative subset (sample) of a population for
study. Researchers use samples instead of studying entire populations to:
- Save time and resources.
- Reduce complexity in data collection.
- Obtain results more efficiently.
**Example:** To study consumer behavior, a survey might sample 1,000 participants
instead of the entire population.
4. Explain cross-sectional and longitudinal studies each with an Example.
**Cross-sectional Studies:** These involve data collection at a single point in time to analyze
patterns or relationships.
**Example:** A survey measuring employee job satisfaction in a specific year.
**Longitudinal Studies:** These involve repeated observations over a long period to track
changes or trends.
**Example:** Studying the academic progress of students over 10 years.
5. Find the missing frequencies (Mean = 50).
Given data:
X: 10, 30, 50, 70, 90
f: 17, F1, 32, F2, 19 (Total: 120)
Using the formula for the mean: Mean = Σ(fX) / Σ(f)
Solution steps:
1. Use the mean value and equation to calculate missing frequencies.
2. Equations:
F1 + F2 = 52 (from total frequency), and substituting to find exact values.
Detailed calculations will follow in the final write-up.
6. Find the missing frequency (Median = 87.5, N = 1000).
Given data:
Classes: 40-59, 60-79, 80-99, 100-119, 120-139
Frequencies: 50, ?, 500, ?, 50
Using the median formula: Median = L + [(N/2 - CF)/f] × h
Solution steps:
- Calculate cumulative frequencies.
- Substitute into the formula to find missing values.
Detailed calculations provided later.
7. What is the primary objective of conducting research? Explain different types
of research.
**Primary Objective:** To systematically explore or solve problems and generate
knowledge.
**Types of Research:**
- **Descriptive:** Observes and describes phenomena.
- **Analytical:** Analyzes existing information to draw conclusions.
- **Applied:** Solves specific practical problems.
- **Exploratory:** Investigates little-known areas to form hypotheses.
8. Example of the difference between qualitative and quantitative research
methodologies.
**Qualitative Research:** Explores non-numerical data to understand concepts or
experiences. Example: Interviewing employees about workplace culture.
**Quantitative Research:** Analyzes numerical data for statistical patterns. Example:
Surveying 500 participants to determine satisfaction levels.
9. Define Sample? Discuss different types of sampling techniques.
**Sample:** A subset of the population selected for study.
**Types of Sampling Techniques:**
- **Random Sampling:** Equal chance for every individual.
- **Stratified Sampling:** Divides the population into groups.
- **Systematic Sampling:** Selects every nth individual.
- **Convenience Sampling:** Based on availability or ease of access.
10. Find missing frequency (Mean = 18.1).
Given data:
Class: 5-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-25, 25-30, 30-35
Frequencies: 11, 20, 35, 20, a, 6
Solution steps:
1. Use Σ(fX) / Σ(f) = Mean.
2. Formulate equations to find 'a'.
Detailed calculations to follow.
