MODULE 1 OVERVIEW

 
Welcome to Module 1 – INTRODUCTION TO
BUSINESS RESEARCH
 
 In this module, we will discuss the fundamentals of research and more specifically the
business research.  You are going to be equipped with the classification of
research, how the scientific method is used to develop new knowledge and the
importance of conducting a research with the use of a research plan as a roadmap. At
the end of this module, you are going to classify research by purpose and methods of
doing it as how you apply the lessons you learned from this module in reality.
 
We are now set for your research journey!  Have fun while learning and doing the
research process! Augustinian researchers here we go…..
 
 
MODULE 1 LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
 
By the end of this module, the students will be able to:
1.       define what is business research
2.        differentiate the different types of research according to purpose and
methods.
  
COURSE CONTENT FOR MODULE 1:
 
INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS RESEARCH
 
TIME TO
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
COMPLETE
Lecture discussion Fundamentals of Research 1 hour
Question and
Question and Answer on the  Discussed Topic 30 min.
Answer
Lecture discussion Classification of Research 1 hour
Online Research Online Research on research works 1 hour and 30 min.
Brainstorming Findings in the Conduct of Online Research I hour
Classify researches Classify researches 30 hour
Quiz Summative quiz for module 1 30 min.
 
 
LECTURE DISCUSSIONS
      
 
FUNDAMENTALS OF RESEARCH
 
You’re here starting to study business research, both the process and the tools needed
to reduce risk in managerial decision making. Business research is a systematic inquiry
that provides information to guide managerial decisions. It is also a process of planning,
acquiring, analyzing, and disseminating relevant data, information and insights to
decision makers in ways that mobilize the organization to take appropriate action which
in turn maximize performance (Cooper & Schindler, 2014).
 
Furthermore, business research is the systematic and objective identification, collection,
analysis, dissemination, and use of information for the purpose of improving decision
making related to the identification and solution of problems and opportunities in
business and management.
 
What is the purpose of the Business research? 
 
Business research is conducted purposely to investigate some existing problems or new
opportunities as well as to find solutions to problems and to exploit opportunities that
would help decision makers come up with smart decisions.
 
In developing a research design suitable for a specific research problem, take into
consideration the factors such as the objective of the problem to be studied; the nature
of the problem to be studied, the time and the money available for the research work,
the method of collecting information and the availability of good and skilled researchers.
 
 
FACTORS THAT STIMULATE THE STUDY OF RESEARCH
 
1. Information overload
2. Technological connectivity
3. Shifting global centers of economic activity and competition.
4. Increasingly critical scrutiny of big business
5. More government intervention
6. Battle for analytical talent
7. Greater computer power and speed
     Lower-cost data collection
     Better visualization tools
     Powerful computations
      More integration of data
     Real time access to knowledge
      perspective on established research methodologies
 
Managers have access to information from other sources aside from the information
derived from business research. Understanding the relationship between business
research and other sources of information such as decision support system (DSS) and
business intelligence is considered critical for understanding how information drives
decisions relating to companies’ mission, goals, strategies and tactics.
      
THE RESEARCH PROCESS
 
The research process involves similar activities regardless of area of research or
research methodology. The process express scientific method using the steps as
follows: statement of the problem, generating hypothesis, review of relevant literature
and studies, creating measures, choosing the samples, collecting data, analyzing the
data and reporting results as shown in the illustration:
            
 
 SUPPLEMENTAL READING
 
Detailed discussion of the research process could be access thru this link:
http://samples.jbpub.com/9781449627843/Chapter1.pdf
 
For real life application, our view of the research process, the management question –
its origin, selection, statement, exploration and refinement are the critical activities in the
research process.
 
A management dilemma triggers the need for a decision such as growing complaints of
customers, a controversy arises, major commitment of resources are called for or
conditions in the business environment signal the need for a decision, thus conduct
business research starting with a thorough understanding of the management question.
 
Hence, business research process involves the stages as follows:
 
1. Clarifying the research question
2. Proposing research
3. Designing the research project
4. Data collection and preparation
5. Data analysis and interpretation
6. Reporting the results
  
WHAT IS GOOD RESEARCH?
 
1. Purpose clearly defined
2. Research process detailed
3. Research design thoroughly planned
4. High ethical standards apply
5. Limitations frankly revealed
6. Adequate analysis for decision makers’ needs
7. Findings presented unambiguously
8. Conclusions justified
9. Researchers experience reflected
 
ETHICS IN BUSINESS RESEARCH
 
Ethics are norms or standards of behavior that guide moral choices about our behavior
and our relationship with others. Hence, the goal of ethics in research is to ensure that
no one is harmed or suffers adverse consequences from research activities. Unethical
activities are pervasive such as follows:
 
1. Violating non-disclosure agreement
2. Breaking participant confidentiality
3. Misrepresenting results
4. Deceiving people
5. Using invoicing irregularities
6. Avoiding legal liability
 
ETHICAL TREATMENT OF PARTICIPANTS
 
1. Explain study benefits
2. Explain participants rights and protection
3. Obtain informed consent
 
ETHICS AND THE SPONSOR
1. Confidentiality
       Sponsor non-disclosure
2. Sponsor-Researcher Relationship- both of them should fulfill their respective
obligations
       Source of Manager-Researcher Conflict
1. Knowledge gap between the researcher and the manager
2. Job status and internal political coalitions to preserve status
3. Unneeded or inappropriate research
4. The right to quality research
 
Sponsor’s Ethics
 
Unethical behavior that must be avoided:
 
1. Violating participants confidentiality
2. Changing data or creating false data to meet a desired objective
3. Changing data presentation or interpretation
4. Interpreting data from a biased perspective
5. Omitting sections of data analysis and conclusions
6. Making recommendations beyond the data collected
 
ETHICS AND RESEARCHERS AND TEAM MEMBERS
 
1. Right to safety
2. Protection of anonymity of the participants and confidentiality of the sponsor’s
information
 SUPPLEMENTAL VIDEOS... WATCH THESE
 
To broader your understanding on the fundamentals of research, please watch the
video through this link:
 
MODULE 2 OVERVIEW:
 

Welcome to Module 2 – SELECTING AND DEFINING A

RESEARCH TOPIC
 
In this module, we will conceptualize a research problem more specifically on the
management and business.  You are going to be equipped with the characteristics of a
good research problem. At the end of this module, you are going to identify a good
research problem, outline the objectives of the study and construct hypothesis of the
study.
 
We are now set for the conduct of our research studies!  Have fun while learning and
doing the research process!
 
 
MODULE 2 LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
 
By the end of this module, the students will be able to:
1. List down at least three topic related to the field of specialization.
2. Characterize a good research problem.
3. State the objectives of the study
4. Construct hypothesis.
 
COURSE CONTENT FOR MODULE 2: SELECTING AND DEFINING A
RESEARCH TOPIC
 
TIME TO
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
COMPLETE
Lecture discussion Characteristics of a good research problem 30 min.
Question and
Question and Answer on the  Discussed Topic 30 min.
Answer
Lecture discussion Objectives and Hypothesis of the Study 30 min.
Online Research Online Research on research topics of interest 1 hour and 30 min.
Brainstorming Findings in the Conduct of Online Research I hour
Prepare Written Formulate Statement of the Problem,
30 min.
Outputs Objectives and Hypothesis of the Study
Quiz Summative quiz for module 2 30 min.
Presentation of Statement of the Problem, Objectives and
I hour
Outputs Hypothesis of the Study
 
 
 
LECTURE DISCUSSIONS
 
2.1. CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD RESEARCH PROBLEM
Research problem must be relevant.
Research problem must be feasible.
Research problem must be clear.
Research problem must be ethical.

MODULE 3 OVERVIEW:
 

Welcome to Module 3 – RESEARCH FRAMEWORK

 
In this module, we will design a research framework.  You are going to be equipped with
the knowledge on theoretical and conceptual framework of the study. At the end of this
module, you are going to identify theories and concepts that would help you find
solution to your research problem. After discussing the theory and concepts, you would
be able to illustrate the relationship between and among the identified variables of the
study and design a research paradigm.
 
We are now set for designing a research framework for research studies!  Have fun
while learning and pursuing this step of the research process!
 
 
MODULE 3 LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
 
By the end of this module, the students will be able to:
1. Distinguish a theoretical framework from a conceptual framework.
2. Identify and discuss the theories related to the study.
3. Outline the concepts relevant to the study and Illustrate the relationship of the key
concepts of the study
4. Formulate a theoretical and conceptual framework
  
 
COURSE CONTENT FOR MODULE 3: RESEARCH FRAMEWORK
 
 TIME TO
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
COMPLETE
Lecture discussion Theoretical Framework 30 min.
Question and
Question and Answer on the  Discussed Topic 30 min.
Answer
Lecture discussion Conceptual Framework 30 min.
Online Research on theories and concepts
Online Research 1 hour and 30 min.
related to identified research study
Brainstorming Findings in the Conduct of Online Research I hour
Design theoretical and conceptual framework
Prepare Written of the study and illustrate the relationship
30 min.
Outputs between/ among the variables under study
through a Research Paradigm
Quiz Summative quiz for module 3 30 min.
Presentation of Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks and
I hour
Outputs Research Paradigm of the Study
 
 
 
 
LECTURE DISCUSSIONS
 
 
3.1. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
 
 Presented to explain the theoretical basis of the problem
A theory that explains the existence of the problem and an elaboration on how the
problem (dependent variable) may be influenced by the independent variables is
presented.
consist of theories, principles, generalizations & research findings which are closely
related to the present study under investigation.
where the recent research problem understudy evolved.
Authors be cited
 
FUNCTIONS OF THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK IN RESEARCH
 
It provides the general framework which can guide data analysis.
It identifies the variables to be measured.
It explains why one variable can possibly affect another or why the independent variable
can possibly influence the dependent variable.
It limits the scope of data relevant to the framework by focusing on specific variables.
It stipulates the specific frame of mind or viewpoint that the researcher will take in
analyzing and interpreting the data.

MODULE 4 OVERVIEW:
 

Welcome to Module 4 – THE VARIABLES OF THE

RESEARCH STUDY AND
                                          DEFINITION OF TERMS
 
In this module, we will identify and classify the variables of the study.  You are going to
be equipped with the description of each type of variables of the research study and be
able to classify the identified variables as to what type they respectively belong.
Moreover, you will be provided with guidelines on how to define each of the variables
understudy in both conceptual and operational definition. At the end of this module, you
are going to identify and classify the variables understudy and define each of them in
both conceptual and operational definition.
 
We are now set for the next step of the research process!  Have fun while learning and
doing this step of the research process!
 
 
MODULE 4 LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
 
By the end of this module, the students will be able to:
1. Identify and categorize the key variables of the study
2. Define each variable of a study both conceptually and operationally.
 
COURSE CONTENT FOR MODULE 4  : THE VARIABLES OF THE
RESEARCH STUDY AND DEFINITION OF TERMS
 
 
TIME TO
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
COMPLETE
Identification, classification and categories of
Lecture discussion 30 min.
variables understudy
 Question and
Question and Answer on the  Discussed Topic 30 min.
Answer
Conceptual and Operational Definition of the
Lecture discussion Variables and  Key Terms of the Research 30 min.
Study
Online Research on Variables and Definition
Online Research 1 hour and 30 min.
of the identified variables.
Brainstorming Findings in the Conduct of Online Research I hour
Prepare Written Identify, classify, categorize and define all
30 min.
Outputs variables and key terms understudy
Quiz Summative quiz for module 4 30 min.
Presentation of
Variables and key terms of the study and I hour
Outputs
 
 
LECTURE DISCUSSIONS
 
4.1. THE VARIABLE OF THE STUDY
 
A concept that stands for a variation within a class of objects or person
A characteristic or property that can take different values or attributes.
the basic elements which are measured in a study which observable and measurable.
 
EXAMPLES
 
age                           
sex
civil status
income location of business
product
price
promotion
service quality
customer relationship management
corporate social responsibility
investments
financial management
degree of effectiveness
extent of implementation
business performance
sales
profit
 cost
 
 
Types of Variables
 
1. Dependent variable
 
The “assumed effect” of another variable
The change that occur in the study population when one or more factors are changed or
when an intervention is introduced
Usually dependent variable is the problem itself
 
2. Independent variable
 
The “assumed cause” of a problem
It’s an assumed reason for any “change” or variation in a dependent variable
Sometimes treated as “antecedent” variable (the variable before)
Likewise the “antecedent” variable may be treated as an “independent” variable
 
EXAMPLE
 
“RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EXPOSURE TO MASS MEDIA AND PURCHASE
INTENTION OF FAST-MOVING CONSUMER GOODS CUSTOMERS”
 
                        Independent Variable                        Dependent variable
                        Exposure to mass media                      Purchase Intention
 
3. Intervening variable
 
A factor that works “between” the independent and dependent variables
It can weaken/decrease or strengthen/increase the effect of the independent variable on
the dependent variable
Also called a facilitating variable/ moderating/ control variable
 
EXAMPLE
 
“FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE CONSUMER DECISION MAKING PARTICIPATION
OF MARRIED PROFESSIONALS”
 
Independent Variable: sex, age, education, income
Intervening Variable: Gender Sensitivity (Perception about gender roles)
Dependent Variable: Consumer Decision-Making Participation
 
4. Antecedent variable
 
A factor or characteristics which is found before (ante) the independent variable.
It is expected to influence the independent variable
 
EXAMPLE
 
“EXTENT OF EXPOSURE TO ADVERTISEMENT AND PURCHASE
INTENTION OF THE CUSTOMERS OF AESTHETIC PRODUCTS”
 
Antecedent Variables: Income, Age
Independent Variable: Extent of Exposure to Advertisement
Dependent Variable: Purchase Intention
 
 
4.2 THE DEFINITION OF TERMS
 
Operational Definition of Variables and Other Terms
 
The major variables of the study and other relevant terms should be operationally
defined according to how they are used in the study.
It gives a specific meaning to the variable
It must indicate and clarifies how a variable is going to be measured and used.
The variable must be defined in terms of events/units of measurements that are
observable by the senses. Which serve as indicators of the variable
 
HOW TO MAKE OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS
 
List your independent and dependent and intervening and antecedent (if any) variables.
Write an operational definition for each variable.
Identify the possible categories of each variable and determine if the categories can be
clearly understood, are mutually exclusive (do not overlap) and exhaustive. The list of
categories is complete so that all respondents can be categorized.
List the key terms which may be interpreted differently by different people unless they
are operationally defined. Write an operational definition for each term.
When defining a variable or a term, be guided by the following questions:
1. Does the definition clearly specify the way the variable will be measured?
2.  Are the categories of each variable mutually exclusive?
3. Are the categories exhaustive?