Module 1- RM

Course Overview

  • Course: Research Methodology

  • Module: Introduction to Research

Research Fundamentals

Definitions and Objectives

  • Research: A systematic approach to examining professional practices, developing principles for procedures, and testing theories to improve practice and profession.

Types of Research

Classification Perspectives

  • Research can be classified based on three main perspectives:

    1. Applications of findings.

    2. Objectives of the study.

    3. Mode of enquiry used in conducting the study.

  • Note: These types are not mutually exclusive.

Types of Research Overview

  • Figure 1.2: Types of Research Visualization

    • From the viewpoint of applications:

      • Applied Research

      • Pure Research

    • From the viewpoint of objectives:

      • Descriptive Research

      • Correlational Research

      • Explanatory Research

      • Exploratory Research

    • From the viewpoint of method:

      • Quantitative Research

      • Qualitative Research

      • Mixed Methods Research

Pure Research vs Applied Research

Pure Research

  • Definition: Engages in developing and testing theories or hypotheses, not necessarily for practical application but for intellectual exploration.

  • Purpose: To refine research methodologies and develop theoretical frameworks.

  • Examples:

    • Creating sampling techniques.

    • Validating research procedures.

    • Measuring stress and attitudes in populations.

Applied Research

  • Definition: Focuses on solving specific practical problems faced by individuals or organizations.

  • Purpose: To drive solutions that may address business or societal issues.

  • Common in social sciences and business.

Objectives of Research

Types Based on Objectives

  • Research can be categorized by its objectives:

    • Descriptive Research: Systematic description of phenomena (e.g., demographic studies).

    • Correlational Research: Investigates relationships between variables (e.g., impact of advertising on sales).

    • Explanatory Research: Seeks to explain relationships and reasonings (e.g., causes of health outcomes).

    • Exploratory Research: Initial studies to explore areas that are not well understood or assess feasibility of larger studies.

Approaches to Inquiry

Structured vs Unstructured Approaches

  • Structured Approach (Quantitative): Suitable for determining the extent of a problem.

  • Unstructured Approach (Qualitative): Ideal for exploring diverse perspectives on a topic.

  • Techniques used depend on:

    • The aim of the inquiry.

    • The intended use of findings.

Characteristics of Good Research

  • Controlled: Minimizing extraneous factors to assess causality effectively.

  • Rigorous: Procedures are relevant, appropriate, and justified.

  • Systematic: Follow a logical process throughout the investigation.

  • Valid and Verifiable: Conclusions must be accurate and supported by verifiable findings.

  • Empirical: Based on real-life observations and data.

  • Critical: In-depth scrutiny of methods ensures reliability and integrity.

Limitations of Research

Common Challenges

  • Time-consuming and Expensive: Involves significant resources and time; may not suit urgent decision-making needs.

  • Not an Exact Science: Subject to human error and unpredictability.

  • Does Not Offer Solutions: Provides insights, not direct recommendations.

  • Lack of Management Enthusiasm: Disinterest may lead to underutilization of research findings.

  • Complex Business Environment: Rapid changes can render research findings obsolete.

  • Shortage of Qualified Staff: Lack of skilled researchers affects quality.

  • Sampling Error: Risk of non-representative samples influences validity.

  • Limited Applications: Researchers may face lack of cooperation or misinterpretation of problems.

  • Biases: Research outcomes can be skewed due to biases from researchers or respondents.