Osa Jan25 s1 Bcom PM Research Methods Final

FINAL ONLINE SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
PROGRAMME Bachelor of Commerce in Project Management

MODULE Research Methods
YEAR 3
INTAKE January 2024
DATE 19 June 2024
TOTAL 100
SECTION A - ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS. [40 MARKS]
Formulating the research problem:
There are two types of research problems, viz., those which relate to states of nature and those which relate to
relationships between variables. At the very outset the researcher must single out the problem he wants to study, i.e., he
must decide the general area of interest or aspect of a subject-matter that he would like to inquire into. Initially the
problem may be stated in a broad general way and then the ambiguities, if any, relating to the problem be resolved. Then,
the feasibility of a particular solution has to be considered before a working formulation of the problem can be set up. The
formulation of a general topic into a specific research problem, thus, constitutes the first step in a scientific enquiry.
Essentially two steps are involved in formulating the research problem, viz., understanding the problem thoroughly, and
rephrasing the same into meaningful terms from an analytical point of view. The best way of understanding the problem is
to discuss it with one’s own colleagues or with those having some expertise in the matter.
In an academic institution the researcher can seek the help from a guide who is usually an experienced man and has
several research problems in mind. Often, the guide puts forth the problem in general terms and it is up to the researcher
to narrow it down and phrase the problem in operational terms. In private business units or in governmental
organisations, the problem is usually earmarked by the administrative agencies with whom the researcher can discuss as
to how the problem originally came about and what considerations are involved in its possible solutions. The researcher
must at the same time examine all available literature to get himself acquainted with the selected problem. He may
review two types of literature—the conceptual literature concerning the concepts and theories, and the empirical literature
consisting of studies made earlier which are similar to the one proposed. The basic outcome of this review will be the
knowledge as to what data and other materials are available for operational purposes which will enable the researcher to
specify his own research problem in a meaningful context. After this the researcher rephrases the problem into analytical
or operational terms i.e., to put the problem in as specific terms as possible.
This task of formulating, or defining, a research problem is a step of greatest importance in the entire research process.
The problem to be investigated must be defined unambiguously for that will help discriminating relevant data from
irrelevant ones. Care must, however, be taken to verify the objectivity and validity of the background facts concerning the
problem. Professor W.A. Neiswanger correctly states that Research Methodology: An Introduction 13 the statement of the
objective is of basic importance because it determines the data which are to be collected, the characteristics of the data
which are relevant, relations which are to be explored, the choice of techniques to be used in these explorations and the
form of the final report. If there are certain pertinent terms, the same should be clearly defined along with the task of
formulating the problem. In fact, formulation of the problem often follows a sequential pattern where a number of
formulations are set up, each formulation more specific than the preceding one, each one phrased in more analytical
terms, and each more realistic in terms of the available data and resources.
Source: https://knowledgeofpharma.blogspot.com/2014/03/1-formulating-research-problem.html
QUESTION 1 (20 Marks)
1.1 What are the two types of research problems mentioned in the paragraph? Explain each type and (10 marks)
provide an example of each.
1.2 Describe the steps involved in formulating a research problem according to the paragraph. Discuss (10 marks)
the significance of understanding the problem thoroughly and rephrasing it in meaningful terms.
2.1 In the context of research in academic institutions, what role does a guide or mentor play in (10 marks)
formulating a research problem?
2.2 Explain how the researcher can narrow down a general problem and phrase it in operational terms. (10 marks)
Provide an example to illustrate your answer.
SECTION B - ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS. [60 MARKS]
Compare the features of the two main research paradigms that include both qualitative and quantitative research.
The type of sampling that the researcher decides to use has an implication on the results of the study. Distinguish
between probability and non-probability sampling.
Examine procedures for optimal item construction in survey research and procedures for obtaining a high response rate.
END OF PAPER

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FINAL ONLINE SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT

PROGRAMME Bachelor of Commerce in Project Management

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