QUESTION ONE
You appointed as the new Research and Development (R&D) chairperson for
your firm. Your first assignment is to crate awareness on
... [Show More] the importance of
research as a tool for organizational success. Required:
(a) Describe the hallmarks of scientific research [10 marks]
Hallmarks of Scientific Research
Scientific research is characterized by several hallmarks that distinguish it from other forms of inquiry. These hallmarks include:
1. Empirical: Scientific research is based on empirical evidence, which means that it relies on observations and measurements of the real world. It involves gathering data through systematic and objective methods.
2. Systematic: Scientific research follows a systematic approach, where researchers carefully plan and design their studies. This includes defining research questions or hypotheses, selecting appropriate methods, and collecting and analyzing data in a structured manner.
3. Objective: Scientific research aims to be objective and unbiased. Researchers strive to minimize personal biases and subjective interpretations by using standardized procedures and rigorous methods. They also rely on peer review and replication to ensure the validity and reliability of their findings.
4. Replicable: Scientific research should be replicable, meaning that other researchers should be able to reproduce the study and obtain similar results. Replication helps to validate the findings and increase confidence in the conclusions drawn.
5. Generalizable: Scientific research aims to generate knowledge that can be applied beyond the specific study context. The findings should have broader implications and contribute to the understanding of a particular phenomenon or theory.
6. Transparent: Scientific research promotes transparency by providing detailed descriptions of the research methods, data collection procedures, and analysis techniques used. This allows other researchers to evaluate and critique the study, as well as build upon the existing knowledge.
7. Briefly describe the research process showing the relevance of each step. [10 marks]
Research Process and its Relevance
The research process consists of several steps that are essential for conducting scientific research. Each step has its own relevance and contributes to the overall quality and validity of the study. The key steps in the research process include:
1. Identifying the research problem: This step involves identifying a research problem or question that needs to be addressed. It helps to define the scope and purpose of the study and provides a clear direction for the research.
2. Reviewing the literature: Conducting a literature review is crucial to understand the existing knowledge and research gaps related to the research problem. It helps researchers to build on previous work, identify relevant theories and concepts, and develop hypotheses or research questions.
3. Formulating hypotheses or research questions: Hypotheses or research questions are formulated based on the research problem and the literature review. They guide the research design and data collection process, providing a framework for the study.
4. Designing the study: The study design involves selecting appropriate methods and procedures to collect and analyze data. This step ensures that the research objectives are met and that the data collected will address the research questions or test the hypotheses.
5. Collecting and analyzing data: Data collection involves gathering relevant information using various methods such as surveys, experiments, or observations. The collected data is then analyzed using appropriate statistical or qualitative techniques to draw meaningful conclusions.
6. Interpreting and discussing the findings: The findings are interpreted and discussed in light of the research objectives and the existing literature. This step involves analyzing the results, identifying patterns or trends, and discussing their implications and significance.
7. Drawing conclusions and making recommendations: Based on the findings, researchers draw conclusions and make recommendations for further research or practical applications. This step helps to summarize the key findings and their implications for the field of study.
Each step in the research process is interconnected and builds upon the previous ones. Following this process ensures that the research is conducted in a systematic and rigorous manner, leading to reliable and valid results.
QUESTION TWO
(a) Why is it important to gather information on the background of the organization in which you want to conduct a study? [10 marks]
Importance of Gathering Information on the Background of the Organization
Gathering information on the background of the organization is crucial when conducting a study for several reasons:
1. Contextual Understanding: Understanding the organization's background provides important context for the study. It helps researchers comprehend the organization's history, mission, values, and culture, which can influence the research findings and recommendations.
2. Research Relevance: Knowing the organization's background helps researchers align their study with the organization's goals and objectives. It ensures that the research addresses relevant issues and provides insights that are applicable to the organization's specific context.
3. Identifying Research Gaps: By gathering information on the organization's background, researchers can identify existing knowledge gaps or areas that require further investigation. This helps in designing research questions and objectives that fill these gaps and contribute to the existing body of knowledge.
4. Ethical Considerations: Understanding the organization's background allows researchers to assess any potential ethical considerations or conflicts of interest. It helps ensure that the study is conducted in an ethical manner, respecting the organization's values, policies, and stakeholders.
5. Data Collection and Analysis: Knowledge of the organization's background helps researchers in selecting appropriate data collection methods and analysis techniques. It enables them to tailor their research instruments and approaches to the organization's specific context, ensuring the validity and reliability of the study.
6. Identifying Key Stakeholders: Gathering information on the organization's background helps identify key stakeholders who may have an impact on the research process or be affected by the study's outcomes. Engaging these stakeholders early on can enhance the study's credibility and increase the likelihood of successful implementation of the research findings.
7. Feasibility Assessment: Understanding the organization's background allows researchers to assess the feasibility of the study. It helps in determining the availability of resources, access to data, and potential challenges that may arise during the research process. This assessment ensures that the study is realistic and achievable within the organization's constraints.
In conclusion, gathering information on the background of the organization is essential for conducting a study. It provides context, relevance, and ethical considerations, helps identify research gaps, informs data collection and analysis, identifies key stakeholders, and assesses feasibility. By considering these factors, researchers can conduct a study that is meaningful, applicable, and aligned with the organization's goals and objectives.
(b) Using examples, illustrate the American psychological association
(APA) style referencing and show the consequences of not giving credit to source fro where materials are extracted [10 marks]
The American Psychological Association (APA) style is a widely used format for citing sources in academic writing. It provides guidelines for formatting papers, citing references, and creating a reference list. Here are some examples of APA style referencing and the consequences of not giving credit to the source:
1. In-text citation: When using information from a source within the body of your paper, you need to provide an in-text citation. For example, if you are quoting a book by John Smith, you would write: "According to Smith (2019), 'quote goes here'" or "('Quote goes here,' Smith, 2019)." This allows readers to locate the full reference in the reference list.
2. Reference list: At the end of your paper, you need to include a reference list that provides detailed information about each source you cited. The reference list entry for a book by John Smith would look like this: Smith, J. (2019). Title of Book. Publisher.
3. Consequences of not giving credit: Failing to give credit to the original source of information can have serious consequences. It is considered plagiarism, which is a form of academic dishonesty. Plagiarism can result in disciplinary action, such as failing a course or even expulsion from an academic institution. Additionally, it undermines the integrity of your work and the credibility of your research.
4. Academic integrity: Properly citing sources not only avoids plagiarism but also demonstrates academic integrity. By acknowledging the work of others, you show respect for their ideas and contributions. Citing sources also allows readers to verify the information you present and builds credibility for your own arguments.
In summary, APA style referencing is essential for giving credit to the original sources of information used in academic writing. Failing to do so can have serious consequences, including plagiarism and damage to your academic and professional reputation. It is important to follow the guidelines of APA style to ensure proper citation and maintain academic integrity.
QUESTION THREE
Differentiate between quantitative and qualitative research design showing
when each is most appropriate [20 marks]
QUESTION FOUR
(a) Discuss the factors that a researcher will consider when choosing a sample for a research project [10 marks]
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Sample for a Research Project
When choosing a sample for a research project, researchers need to consider several factors to ensure the sample is representative and provides valid and reliable results. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Population: Researchers need to define the target population they want to study. The population should be clearly defined and relevant to the research question.
2. Sampling Frame: A sampling frame is a list or source from which the sample will be drawn. It should accurately represent the target population and be accessible to the researcher.
3. Sampling Method: Researchers need to choose an appropriate sampling method based on the research question and available resources. Common sampling methods include random sampling, stratified sampling, and convenience sampling.
4. Sample Size: The sample size should be determined based on statistical considerations, such as the desired level of precision and the variability within the population. Larger sample sizes generally provide more reliable results.
5. Sampling Bias: Researchers should be aware of potential biases that may affect the sample's representativeness. Common biases include self-selection bias, non-response bias, and sampling bias due to the sampling method used.
6. Ethical Considerations: Researchers need to ensure that the sample selection process respects ethical guidelines, such as informed consent, privacy, and confidentiality.
7. Resources and Time: Researchers need to consider the available resources, including budget, time, and personnel, when choosing a sample. The chosen sample should be feasible within these constraints.
8. Research Objectives: The research objectives and research question should guide the sample selection process. The sample should be designed to provide the necessary data to answer the research question effectively.
Using illustrative examples, describe the use of snowballing and cluster sampling techniques in research [10 marks]
Snowballing and Cluster Sampling Techniques in Research
1. Snowball Sampling: Snowball sampling is a non-probability sampling technique used when the target population is difficult to reach or identify. It involves identifying initial participants who meet the research criteria and then asking them to refer other potential participants. This process continues until the desired sample size is achieved. Snowball sampling is often used in studies involving hidden populations or sensitive topics, where traditional sampling methods may not be feasible.
2. Cluster Sampling: Cluster sampling is a probability sampling technique used when the target population is naturally divided into clusters or groups. Instead of selecting individual participants, researchers randomly select clusters and include all members within the selected clusters in the sample. This technique is useful when it is impractical or costly to obtain a complete list of individuals in the target population. Cluster sampling is commonly used in studies involving geographical areas, schools, or organizations.
Illustrative Examples:
• Snowball Sampling: Suppose a researcher wants to study the experiences of undocumented immigrants in a particular city. Since it is challenging to identify and access this population, the researcher may start by recruiting a few initial participants through personal contacts or community organizations. These participants can then refer other undocumented immigrants they know, and the process continues until the desired sample size is reached.
• Cluster Sampling: Imagine a researcher wants to study the academic performance of students in a large school district. Instead of individually selecting students, the researcher randomly selects a few schools from the district. Within the selected schools, all students are included in the sample. This approach saves time and resources compared to individually selecting students from the entire district.
Both snowballing and cluster sampling techniques have their advantages and limitations. Researchers should carefully consider the research objectives, population characteristics, and available resources before deciding which sampling technique to use.
QUESTION FIVE
(a) Why is it important for researchers to be ethical when conducting their studies? [10 marks]
(b) Differentiate between deductive and inductive reasoning citing their applications in research. [10 marks]
It is important for researchers to be ethical when conducting their studies because:
• Ethical norms promote the aims of research, such as knowledge, truth, and avoidance of error1.
• Ethical norms protect the rights of research participants, such as voluntary participation, informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, and potential for harm2.
• Ethical norms maintain scientific or academic integrity, such as avoiding plagiarism, fabrication, falsification, or misrepresentation of data1.
• Ethical norms foster collaboration between science and society, such as respecting different values and perspectives, engaging with stakeholders, and communicating results responsibly2.
(b) Deductive reasoning and inductive reasoning are two different types of logical reasoning that are used in research. The main differences are:
• Deductive reasoning starts with a general theory and tests it with specific observations or data. Inductive reasoning starts with specific observations or data and develops a general theory or conclusion34.
• Deductive reasoning is top-down or theory-driven, meaning it moves from the general to the specific. Inductive reasoning is bottom-up or data-driven, meaning it moves from the specific to the general34.
• Deductive reasoning can produce certain or valid conclusions if the premises are true and the logic is sound. Inductive reasoning can only produce probable or plausible conclusions based on the available evidence54.
• Deductive reasoning is often used to test hypotheses or existing theories in a structured and rigorous way. Inductive reasoning is often used to generate hypotheses or new theories when there is little or no existing literature on a topic34. [Show Less]