PMP Research Methods Final Examination

PMP Research Methods Final Examination September 2021

SECTION A

Please answer ALL questions

Q1 List 4 synonyms for the positivistic approach to research:

quantitative method 

social surveys

structured questionnaires

official statistics

4 MARKS

Q2 Lost 4 synonyms for the phenomenological approach to research: 

experimentation

scrutiny

exploration

probe

4 MARKS

Q3 List two disadvantages of the positivistic approach to research 

Firstly, that the search for ideal and perfect standards of scientific methodology and analysis are too unrealistic if it is set in conjunction with the extreme complexity of social phenomena. Secondly, positivism is not empathic and takes the subjective, individual and hermeneutic aspects of social sciences into consideration. The second weakness is the absence of empathy

2 MARKS

Q4 List two disadvantages of the phenomenological approach to research

Its drawbacks include analytical and interpretative problems, typically less validity and reliability than positivism and more data collecting time and resources.

2 MARKS

Q5 List four 4 types of questions found in questionnaires

1.e.g. Specific information request

Multiple choice questions.

Rating scale questions.

Likert scale questions.

Matrix questions.

4 MARKS

Q6.Analytical Research often extends the descriptive approach to suggest or explain why or

how something happening

True/False [underline the correct answer]

1 MARK

Q7. Deductive research moves from general ideas/theories to a specific, particular situation. True/False [underline the correct answer]

1 MARK

Q8.The validity of a questionnaire means that the data accurately measures what it was intended to measure

True /False

1 MARK

Q9.Give one example of an open question: Tell me about your relationship with your friends. 

1 MARK

Sub Total 20 MARKS

SECTION B

Answer any four [4] questions only

Q1 Write a brief essay on the positivistic and phenomenological approaches to research.

Positivism argues that the only route to real knowing is via scientific understanding. All other types of human knowledge that cannot be scientifically proved are therefore not taken into account. The positivist search guy thinks that the world is much simpler than it actually is, in order to isolate and independently analyze and shut down relationships among observable variables of the environment in which it is present. In this sort of study, the methodological approach par excellence became a paradigm from 1970 on, positivist or empirical research.

Phenomenological study is phenomenologically grounded and relates to issues relating to people's everyday life. Phenomenological research. Phenomenology is not just a description, but also an Interpretation Process in which the researcher interprets the varied meanings of the experiences. In the fields of social and health sciences, phenomenology is popular, in particular in sociology, psychology, infants and the health sciences.

10 marks

Indicate clearly the advantages and disadvantages of the positivistic and phenomenological approaches

Advantages

Disadvantages

Positivism

Wide variety of situation coverage

Flexible and artificial methods tend to be

Can be quick and cost effective

Not very good in comprehending processes or the importance of actions

May be important when data in big samples are overstated to policy choices

Not extremely useful in theory generation

Wide variety of situation coverage

Since it concentrates on what is or what was lately, it makes it difficult for policymakers to determine how much time and resources should be used in future data collection.

Phenomenology

Can view processes of change throughout time

It might be challenging to analyze and understand data

Help individuals understand their significance

Help to adapt to new problems and ideas

It might be tougher to regulate speed, progress and end objectives than positivist approach

Contribute to new theory development

Collect data that is considered natural and not artificial

Politicians can give a phenomenological study little credence

10 marks

Q2 Write brief notes on the following:

Participant Observation

The study incorporates the use of social interactions between the investigator and informants in an environment for which data is carefully gathered and not invasive (social scenarios, ambientes or contexts). The observation technique of the participants is study including the social interaction between the scientist and the individuals being observed; all affect one another. It systemically and non-intrusively collects data. The participant observation enables us to better understand what happens during training, as a qualitative observation. The individual observing the data collection in the natural environment is characterized by his contact with the subjects seen. The participant observation is one of the strategies used in ethnography to gather information from the public through observations to learn what the user wants, how complaints or claims are needed, as asked.

1:1 interviewing

The interview is an extremely effective strategy for data collection in qualitative research. It is described as a chat that proposes a certain aim other than simply talking. It is a technological tool that assumes the shape of a conversational discussion. Interpersonal communication between the investigator and the subject of the study is created to get verbal replies to the questions asked regarding the problem proposed. The use of other kinds, e.g., visually, to provide relevant information in order to answer the primary issue of study, complements it. The interview is believed to be more efficient as it is more complete than the questionnaire. 

10 marks

Explain the advantages that participant observation and the qualitative 1:1 interview present to the researcher

Interview advantages

• A wide range of applications, as unnoticeable facts such as: significance, reasons, views, insinuations, judgements, emotions, etc. may be found.

• It does not have to be subject to space-time restrictions: as you may question about previous occurrences and future scenarios.

• Possibility to focus the subject, that is, on a certain purpose or on a specific subject.

• observing one's own and others, since it offers the ability to find both knowledge of one's own (opinions, intentions, motives for conduct, etc.) and observations made concerning an event.

Participant observation advantages 

Facilitate the perception of the subject

Study the problem in situ

Facilitates access to restricted data

10 marks

20 MARKS

Q3 Write a brief essay on the use of secondary data used by researchers today.

Secondary data is acquired in market research by means of literature or desk research. In reality, this implies that books, papers, reports, research and reports may be consulted to get the data. It is vital to ensure that the credibility of individuals who conducted this study is taken into account. It is important thus that you examine secondary sources with a reputation in the industry, as this will enable you to build on genuine and reputable information in your study. The State of marketing report, which HubSpot produces, is a good example of a commonly utilized secondary data research in marketing. The research gives statistics on marketing development through the provision of pertinent information. The research gives data on marketing developments by offering important information on strategic trends and professional profile. The World Marketing Trends Report produced by Deloitte is another extremely fascinating research for the marketing sector. The current study verifies the considerable increase in data output and the increase in mobile device usage among other highly essential statistics.

10 marks

Explain the advantages and disadvantages of using secondary data

It's cost-effective. It saves both work and cost. It's time to save. It contributes to the specification of primary data gathering as we are able, by using secondary data, to identify the shortcomings and shortcomings and the extra information required. One major downside of using secondary data is that it cannot address the unique study questions of the researcher or contain information the researcher wants. Often this might restrict the analysis or modify the researchers' initial questions.

10 marks

20 MARKS

Q4 Write a brief essay on the different sampling strategies and methods used in modern research.

20 MARKS

Q5 Write a brief essay comparing traditional research and E-research

20 MARKS

Q6 Write a brief essay explaining the differences between multi-method and mixed-methods research.

10 marks

Explain the major reasons why a researcher would use mixed-methods research

10 marks

20 MARKS

Q7 Write a brief essay on ethical considerations in research.

The risks and advantages for patients, researchers and institutions from the study should be stated in ethical considerations. The contingency procedures required to ensure the safety of participants should be envisaged in the case of risk occurrence. The essential ethical feature of this item is the fact that in the selection of persons, there is no discrimination or exposure of people to needless dangers. The necessary techniques, processes, equipment and materials should be explained in relation to the method.

10 marks

Explain the significance and the consequences of the Milgram [1963] and Zimbardo [1971] studies

The disputed experimental results of Milgram [1963] and Zimbardo [1971] studiesare startling. Indeed, in front of growing specialist knowledge in all fields of its existence, the confidence modality in expert systems inaugurated by Modernity displays a manifest subordination of the common and lay person. However this stance demands the permission of an expert knowledge as the only acceptable option to cope with the prevailing precariousness of life, maybe due to a shortage of more attractive alternative ways. The new order also presents a form of logic based on the continual self-confrontation of knowledge, not on certainties. The new order also promotes a form of logic focused more on a continual clash of knowledge than on certainties. Still, there is no assurance that the world will be able to manage its own problems rationally, as this route itself generates new uncertainties and fears. Despite this, it is still chosen to provide the most trustworthy information on the planet. It's a modern paradox: a high degree of knowing confidence paired with a great awareness of its hazards and uncertainties. This viewpoint might cost mankind a great deal. This can't yet evaluate the evaluative effects. But it's certain to carry us someplace, we don't know where it will bring us. Unfortunately, Milgram's experiment may have anticipated one of them in its limited manifestation.

10 marks

20 MARKS

Q8 Write a brief essay on the design of a questionnaire. Refer to the academic works of Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill AND Collis and Hussey

20 MARKS