Review Questions Solution

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Solutions Manual for Research Methodology Techniques and Trends, 1e by Umesh Dubey, D P Kothari (All Chapters)

Chapter 1 Introduction to Research Review Questions & Solution Q1. What is research? Discuss qualities of good research.

Ans: Research

It is a process through which new knowledge is discovered. The word research is coined by two syllables, re and search. The dictionary defines the former as a prefix meaning again, a new or over again and the latter as a verb, meaning to examine closely and carefully, to test and try, or to probe. The simplest meaning of research is to search for facts, answers to research question and solution for the existing problem.Research refers to the systematic method consisting of enunciating the problem, formulating a hypothesis, collecting the fact or data, analyzing the facts and reaching to certain conclusions either in the form of solutions towards the concerned problem or in certain generals for some theoretical formulation. 1 / 4

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Qualities of good research

Good research possesses certain qualities which are as follows:

• Good research is systematic, it means that research is structured according to

set of rules to follow certain steps in specified sequence. Systematic research also invites creative thinking, and certainly avoids use of guessing and intuition for arriving at the proper findings, conclusion.

• Good research is empirical, it implies that any conclusion drawn is based upon

hard-core evidence gathered from information collected from real life experiences and observations. This provides a basis for external ability to research findings and conclusion.

• Good research is valid and verifiable, research involves precise observation

and accurate description. The researcher selects reliable and valid instruments to be used for the collection of data and uses some relevant statistical tools for accurate description of the results obtained. Whatever the researcher conclude on the basis of finding is correct and can be verified by himself and others.

• Good Research is logical, it suggests that research is guided by the rules of

reasoning and logical process of induction general to specific and deduction specific to general that plays an important role in carrying out research. In fact, logical reasoning makes research feasible and more meaningful in the context of quantitative decision making. 2 / 4

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• Good research develops theories and principles, which are very helpful in

accurate prediction regarding the variables under study. On the basis of the sample observed and studied, the researcher makes sound generalisations regarding the entire populations. Thus, research goes beyond immediate situations, objects or groups being investigated by formulating a generalisation or theory about these factors.

• Purpose of research should be clearly defined and common concepts that are

used should be operationally defined.

• The research procedure should be precisely planned, focused and

appropriately described in order to enable other researcher to do research for further advancement.

• Research design should be carefully planned to generate results to maintained

objectivity.

• The research report should be as much as possible frank enough to gauge

effects of the findings.

• Data analysis in the research report should be adequate to reveal its

significance and the method of analysis employed be appropriate and

• Validity and reliability of data should be examined carefully. 3 / 4

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• Systematic Approach, a planned and organized research saves researcher’s

time and money. Each step of investigation be so planned that it leads to the next step. Part of this approach are Planning and organization.

• Objectivity, it implies that true Research should attempt to find an unbiased

answer to the decision-making problem.

• Reproducible, in reproducible research procedure, an equally competent

researcher could duplicate, and from it deduces approximately the same results. The information regarding samples-methods, collection etc., should be specified.

• Relevancy has the task of avoiding collection of irrelevant information and

saves time and money; and it compares the information to be collected with researcher's criteria for action, it enables to see whether the research is proceeding in the right direction Q2. Explain various criteria of a good research?

Ans: Please refer answer of Second part of Q1.

Q3. How can you minimize biases in research?

Ans: Although research provides many benefits to an organization, it is not a

panacea for all the problem that an organization faces. And conducting research also involves cost, time, and effort. Therefore, an organization should decide upon the option of conducting research after considering various factors. These include time

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