SAMPLE PAST EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS-Research Methods

ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND SECRETARIAL STUDIES

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 500/S16

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

1.Quantitative Methods Formulas Lists and Tables

2. Non-programmable Calculators

3.Graph paper

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
Answer any FIVE(5) questions.
QUESTION 1

Define the following terms.

(a) Research
(b) Methodology
(c) Literature Review
(d) Quantitative research
(e) Discrete random variable
(f) A case study
(g) Research design
(h) Sampling
(i) Population
(j) Inferential statistics (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

(a) Define Primary Data. (1 marks)

(b) Identify at least four (4) sources of primary data. (4 marks)
(c) Explain five advantages and disadvantages of primary data. (15 marks)
QUESTION 3

The scores in the table below were made by a group of students on two (2) different tests. From the given
data calculate;

(a) The mean for each test

(b) Median for each test
(c) The range for each test
(d) The standard deviation for each test

Student Mid-year Test End of Year Test

Score score

A 60 70

B 40 80

C 65 10

D 80 30

E 20 60

F 70 25

G 90 50

H 30 15

I 70 90

J 60 40

(20 marks)

QUESTION 4

(a) What is questionnaire?( 2 marks)

(b) Explain any eight (8) characteristics of a good questionnaire.(12 marks)
(c) Give three advantages and three (3) disadvantages of a questionnaire.(6 marks)

QUESTION 5

(a) Explain the concept of ethical considerations in research.(4 marks)

(b) Explain any four (4) ethical consideration necessary in conducting research. (8 marks)
(c) Discuss the implications of violating any ethical provisions.(8 marks)
QUESTION 6

Measurement is comparison. It is a tool by which data may be inspected, analysed and interpreted so that
the research may probe meaning which lies below superficial fact.

Stevens SS (1946) suggest that there are four (4) levels or types of measurement.

Identify and explain these levels of measurement. Give examples. (20 marks)

QUESTION 7

(a) Outline and explain five (5) basic tools of research. (10 marks)
(b) Discuss any two of the basic tools of research and explain how they are used. (10 marks)

QUESTION 8

(a) Distinguish a researchable problem from a non-researchable problem. (5 marks)

(b) Outline and explain the key characteristics of a good research. (15 marks)
 ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT STUDIES

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 500/S15

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS
Non-programmable Calculator.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
Answer any FIVE (5) questions.

QUESTION 1

Using practical examples explain any four (4) benefits (utility) of research in business.

QUESTION 2

Explain the differences between quantitative and qualitative research approaches.

QUESTION 3

a) Identify and describe any six (6) potential unethical practices in scientific research.
b) Define and explain the phrase ethical principles in research.

QUESTION 4

a) Examine the following types of validity

i) Construct validity
ii) Face validity
iii) Convergent validity
iv) Divergent validity
b) Identify and explain any four (4) types of primary data.

QUESTION 5

a) i) Explain what constitutes measures of dispersion.

ii) Explain two characteristics of variance.
b) Explain the following types of research designs
i) Exploratory
ii) Descriptive

QUESTION 6

a) Identify any four (4) competencies that must be possessed by an interviewer

b) Explain any six (6) practical issues relating to focus groups.

QUESTION 7

a) Compute variance from the following data set: 4, 2,5,8,6.

b) Identify and explain any four (4) potential errors in causal explanation.
 ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION,

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT.

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN
BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND SECRETARIAL STUDIES

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 500/S15

MARCH/APRIL 2014 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
1. Answer any FIVE (5) questions.

2. All questions carry equal marks.

QUESTION 1

Using practical examples, explain the benefits of research to human beings. (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

Justify why a researcher has to consult the works of other researchers and established writers when
conducting research. (20 marks)

QUESTION 3

“In planning research project involving human subjects, it is important to consider the ethical guidelines
designed to protect your study objects (Best and Kahn 1993 p43).Identify and explain any five ethical
guidelines that a researcher must consider. (20 marks)

QUESTION 4

For practical and cost reasons it is often not possible to collect information about the entire population
in which a researcher is interested. Explain the following sampling methods:

a) Stratified sampling (5 marks)

b) Simple random sampling (5 marks)
c) Purposive sampling (5 marks)
d) Snowball sampling (5 marks)

QUESTION 5

a) What is data analysis? (2 marks)

b) Design a plan that outlines the process required to identify the most efficient tests or test for
any research-denied quantitative data. (18 marks)

QUESTION 6

“Teach us to count our days that we learn to be wise” Psalms 90 v 12

a) Identify the rules for data coding that should be followed by a researcher. (10 marks)
b) With the aid of formulas, explain the following two measures of dispersion:
i) Variance (5 marks)
ii) Standard deviation (5 marks)

QUESTION 7

Justify the purpose and importance of written presentation of an investigation. (20 marks)
SAMPLE QUESTION/ANSWER SERIES-2013

QUESTION 1

Using practical examples explain any four (4) benefits (utility) of research in business.

Utility of research in business

(i) Identifying defining and solving organisational or corporate problems eg fraud, labour
turnover etc
(ii) Development of new products or services in order to remain competitive.
(iii) Understand the environment within which the company will be operating or intends to
invest.
(iv) Testing the applicability of new theories, prior to adopting a wide scale or abandoning old
theories partially or completely.
(v) Review and improve production methods, organisational procedures and systems-thus
develop new ways or better ways of operations
(vi) Understand the market demands and needs leads to retention and expansion of company’s
market share.
Any 5 benefits x 1 mark
Explanation x 2 marks
Relevant example x 1 mark
(20 marks)
QUESTION 2

Explain the differences between quantitative and qualitative research approaches.

Quantitative Qualitative

1 Numbers Words

2 Point of view of researcher Point of view of participants

3 Theory testing Theory emergent

4 Static Process

5 Structured Unstructured

6 Generalisation Contextual understanding

7 Hard reliable data Rich deep data

8 Artificial setting Natural setting

9 Macro Micro

10 Researcher distant Researcher close

11 Behaviour Meaning

Question 3

A) Identify and describe any six (6) potential unethical practices in scientific research.

B) Define and explain the phrase ethical principles in research.

(a)Potential unethical practices in research

i) Deception of participants
ii) Coercing people to participate against their will
iii) Involving participants without their knowledge and consent
iv) Leading participants to commit acts that diminish their self-respect
v) Invading the privacy of the participants
vi) Exposing the participants to physical or psychological distress
vii) Falsifying the findings of the study
viii) Withholding benefits from the participants in control groups.
Any six pointsx3marks=18marks
(b) Ethical principles refer to guidelines on how researcher must conduct themselves when carrying out
an investigation. Thus they refer to dos and don’ts, right and wrong.

2 marks

Question 4

a) Examine the following types of validity

i) Construct validity
ii) Face validity
iii) Convergent validity
iv) Divergent validity
b) Identify and explain any four (4) types of primary data.

a) I) Construct validity-refers to the extent to which an operationalization measures the concept which it
purports to measure. Construct validity is necessary for meaningful and interpretable research findings.
Construct validity can be assessed in various ways.

3 marks

ii)Face validity-tells us to what extend the measure used seems to be reasonable measure for what it
purports to measure. A simple test for face validity is to ask for the opinion of other acquainted with the
actual topic

3 marks

iii) Convergent validity tells us what extent multiple measures of and /or multiple methods for
measuring the same yield similar (comparable) results. Correlational techniques are often used to assess
convergent validity.

3 marks

iv) Divergent validity tells us to what extent a construct is distinguishable from another construct. If a
researcher measures, say innovativeness he or she should be confident of not measuring another
construct eg organisational resources.

3 marks

b) Four types of primary data.

(i)Status and state of affairs data.

Data of a demographic or socio-economic nature eg age, educational levels, profession etc

2 marks

(ii) Psychological and lifestyle data

Refers to personality and behaviour data ie information which can influence individual behaviour.

2 marks

(iii) Attitude and opinion data

Reveals individual’s attitude and opinion data about a certain idea, product, object or issue.

2 marks

(iv) Awareness and knowledge data

Describes what is known about a product or object

2 marks

(v) Data on intentions

2 marks

(vi)Data on motivations

2 marks

Any four types x 2marks (8marks)

Question 5

a) i) Explain what constitutes measures of dispersion.

ii) Explain two characteristics of variance.
b) Explain the following types of research designs
iii) Exploratory
iv) Descriptive
a) Measures of dispersion
(i)-they are part of descriptive statistical measures which are used to describe the behaviour of
random variable
-spread or dispersion refers to the extent by which the observation of random variable are
scattered about central value.
-measures of dispersion provide useful information with which the reliability of the central value
may be judged.
-widely spread observations indicate how reliability and less representativeness of the central
value.
-conversely, a high concentration of observations about the central value increases, confidence
in the reliability and representation of central value.
Any 4 points x2 marks= (8marks)
 (ii) Variance.

-most useful and reliable measure of dispersion because it takes every observation into account.

-it is based on the deviation (average) from a central value.

-it is a measure of how far each value in the data is from the mean.

Any 2 points x 2 marks =4 marks

b) (i)Exploratory research

-used in research problems that may be more or less understood.

-the researcher may have too little information, just enough to show that there is a problem.

-as new information comes up, the picture becomes clearer, thus initial research is used to look for
leads.

-requires expertise and skills such as the ability to observe and get information and construct
explanation thus theorising.

(4 Marks)

(ii) Descriptive research

-the problem is structured and well understood.

-a detailed plan must be made with regard to how many and who to interview ie the sampling plan

-the key characteristics of descriptive research are structure precise rules and procedures.

Descriptive studies may include more than one variable.

-the researcher must also construct questions or measurements to get information about the problem

(4 Marks)
QUESTION 6

a) Identify any four (4) competencies that must be possessed by an interviewer

b) Explain any six (6) practical issues relating to focus groups.

(a)Interview competences

(i)Opening the interview ie breaking the ice.

(ii) Using appropriate language

(iii)Questioning techniques

(iv) Listening skills

(v) Recording skills

(vii) Recognising and dealing with difficult participants

(viii) Testing and summarising understanding

Any four points x 2 marks (8marks)

(b) Practical issues relating to focus groups.

-a focus group is a focused group interview.

-comprise of several participants the researcher as facilitator and an agreed method of recording what is
said.

-there is usually a specific topic on which discussion is to be had, rather than a whole series of questions.

-point of interviewing is to explore the joint of meaning around a topic in order to see how group
dynamics and interaction work in this process.

-to be creative focus groups require a light touch of management from the researcher.

-issues can surface in much freer way in a focus group than in an individual interview.

-a more naturalistic contact for testing and developing ideas is possible.

-facilitator role varies, depending on the understanding of the process by participants.

Any six issues x 2 marks= (12 marks)

QUESTION 7

a) Compute variance from the following data set: 4, 2,5,8,6.

b) Identify and explain any four (4) potential errors in causal explanation.

A) Variance

X1 Mean(x) X1-X (X1-X)2

4 5 -1 1

2 5 -3 9

5 5 0 0

8 5 3 9

6 5 1 1

25 20

S2 = ∑(X1-X)2

n-1

20
S2 = 25−1

20
S2 = 24

S2 = 0.83

4 marks

(b) Potential errors in causal explanation

(i) Tantology-refers to an error in explanation in the causal factor and the result are actually the same or
restatements of one another eg absence of light causes darkness.

4 marks
(ii)Teleology-refers to error in explanation in which the causal factor does not come earlier in time than
the result or because the factor is vague, general force that cannot be empirically measured.

4 marks

(iii) Ecological fallacy-data about associations found among large scale units are greatly over-generalised
and treated as evidence about relationships among much smaller units.

4 marks

(iv) Reductionism-refers to error in explanation in which empirical data associations found among small
scale units of analysis are greatly over-generalised and treated as evidence for statements about
relationships among much large units.

4 marks

(v) Spuriousness-refers ….. Causal relationship due to the effect of unseen or causal factor. Third factor
has more effect than the independent variable.

4 marks

Any 4 points x 4 marks=16 marks

 SAMPLE PAST EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS-Research Methods

ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION,

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND SECRETARIAL STUDIES

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 500/S15

DURATION: 3 hours

MARCH/APRIL 2016 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

1. Calculator.

2. Graph paper.

3. Formulae Booklet.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
1. All questions carry equal marks.
2. Answer any five (5) questions.
3. Start each question on a fresh page.
PAPER NO: 500/S15-RESEARCH METHODS

SUBJECT: Research Methods

Session-March/April 2016 examination

Question 1

A research proposal has been identified by some authorities as the plan that guides a researcher in
conducting any research work. Identify and explain major components of a research proposal.(20 marks)

Question2

a) Describe any five(5) characteristics of good research.(10 marks)

b) Discuss briefly the characteristics of a good researcher.(10 marks)

Question 3

a) Literature review is an important component of research report. Examine the importance of

literature review in research .(10 marks)
b) Using relevant examples, briefly discuss the following research concepts
i) Inferential statistics (2 marks)
ii) Descriptive statistics (2 marks)
iii) Validity (2 marks)
iv) Reliability (2 marks)
v) Objective (2 marks)

Question 4

Outline and explain ethical practices to be considered when carrying out research.(20 marks)

Question 5

Write brief notes on the following:

i) Systematic sampling (4 marks)

ii) Stratified sampling (4 marks)
iii) Purposive or judgemental sampling (4 marks)
iv) Construct validity (4 marks)
v) Face validity (4 marks)
Question 6

From the following data set:-

Class Frequency

0.5-10.5 30

10.5-20.5 15

20.5-30.5 10

30.5-40.5 59

40.5-50.5 12

50.5-60.5 30

Find:-

a) Mean (4 marks)
b) Standard deviation (6 marks)
c) Median (4 marks)
d) Mode (4 marks)
e) Pearson’s coefficient (2 marks)

Question 7

Discuss any five sources of error in research (20 marks)

 SAMPLE PAST EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS-Research Methods

ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION,

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND SECRETARIAL STUDIES

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 500/S15

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

1.Calculator.

2. Graph paper.

3.Formulae Booklet.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
4. All questions carry equal marks.
5. Answer any five (5) questions.
6. Start each question on a fresh page.
PAPER NO: 500/S15-RESEARCH METHODS

QUESTION 1

Discuss considerations when selecting a research problem. (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

What are the critical guidelines a researcher takes into consideration when writing literature review?
(20 marks)

QUESTION 3

Discuss any five sources of error in research. (20 marks)

QUESTION 4

Write brief notes on the following

i) Systematic sampling (4 marks)

ii) Stratified sampling (4 marks)
iii) Random sampling (4 marks)
iv) Construct validity (4 marks)
v) Face validity (4 marks)

QUESTION 5

Outline and explain five general rules for interviewing. (20 marks)

QUESTION 6

Explain the five stages of the research process with the aid of a diagram.(20 marks)

QUESTION 7

The following data was collected from a survey on people who prefer a certain juice.

AGE FREQUENCY

0-5 3

5-10 5

10-15 7

15-20 6

20-25 2
Calculate:

i) Mean (4 marks)
ii) Standard deviation (4 marks)
iii) Draw a histogram for the data and estimate the mode. (12 marks)

QUESTION 1

Considerations when selecting a research problem.

i) It should address some real problem.

ii) It should have the potential to suggest directions for future research.
iii) It takes ethical issues into considerations
iv) It should be of interest to the author or researcher.
v) A good problem contributes to new knowledge.
vi) It provides direction, defines boundaries and sets research area.
vii) It should not be a duplication of what has already been done before
viii) There must be significant benefits of solving the problem.
ix) It should be time bound.
x) It should have current importance.
Any 10x2 marks (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

Guidelines for writing literature review

i) Be clear in your thinking and know what you are attempting to do.
ii) Have a plan. Create an outline of the topics you intend to address and points you intend to
make based on the problem.
iii) Emphasize relatedness by keeping the reader constantly aware of how literature is related
to the problem.
iv) Give credit where it is due i.e acknowledge sources of used ideas from printed and internet
sources.
v) Review literature without reproducing it. Literature should not be a sequence of quates but
an acknowledgement of an idea and relating to your problem.
vi) Summarise what you have said. Review should end with a brief summary of the contents
showing relationship to the problem.
vii) The first draft should not be last draft. The review should be read and re-read critically for
further additions and corrections.
viii) Review of related literature can be improved by having it peered reviewed.
(Any 5x4 marks) (20 marks)
QUESTION 3

Five sources of error in research

i) Inadequacy of the design and the planning of research.

-Lack of adequate operational definitions can lead to an inaccurate description of the
population, type of information to be collected etc.
-Overlooking important factors. (4 marks)

ii) Sampling errors and other errors

-Affect the responsiveness of the sample

-Discrepancy out of which the sample has been drawn and the target population

-Inappropriate sampling method. (4 marks)

iii) Imperfection in the research instrument

-Instrument may be deficient

-In the case of questionnaires errors can be introduced relating to length, order of presentation
and type of questions. (4 marks)

iv) Interviewer bias

-Interviewer can affect the answers of the respondent through personal characteristics.

-Recording inaccurate information

-Falsifying answers (4 marks)

v) Respondent bias

-Unresponsive participants

-Uncooperative participants

-Respondent giving false information

-Difficulty of respondents in expressing themselves

(5 errors x 4 marks) (20 marks)

QUESTION 4

i) Systematic sampling
-Based on the selection of elements at equal intervals, starting with randomly selected
element on the population list.

ii) Stratified sampling

-Population is divided into different groups so that each element belongs to one and only
stratum.

-Randomly sampling is then done in each stratum to come up with a sample.

iii) Random sampling

-Provides equal opportunity of selection for each element in a population.

-A symbol for each unit of the population is placed in a container, mixed well and then the lucky
numbers drawn at random.

iv) Construct validity

-Refers to the extent to which an instrument measures the concepts which it purports to
measure.

-The measurement technique should be closely linked with known theory and concepts in the
area.

v) Face validity

-Concerned with the way the instrument appears to the participant.

-Some instruments may appear far too difficult resulting in participants giving up or may appear
insulting simple as a result participant will not take research seriously.
QUESTION 5

General rules for interviewing

i) Appearance
-Interview should address in fashion similar to that of people being interviewed. A ricly
dressed interviewer may have difficulty getting good cooperation from poor respondents
and vice-versa.

ii) Familiarity with the questionnaire

-If the interviewer is unfamiliar with the questionnaire the study suffers and unfair burden is
placed on the respondent

iii) Read questions as they are in the questionnaire since changing the wording may result in biased
answers.

iv) Recording Responses

-Record exactly what the respondents say so that there are no distortations of answers.

v) Listening with understanding

-Ascertain that you have understood each answer which should be recorded as given by r
espondent.

vi) Neutrality of response

-Do not show approval or disapproval of any answer. This may lead to biased answers. The
respondent may think that certain answers are more acceptable than others.

vii) Respect non-responses, thank respondent for cooperating, repeat an action if the respondent
requests for that.

(Any 5x4 marks)

QUESTION 6

Stages of the research process

i) Problem or Opportunity identification

-Problem Audit
-Background Analysis
-Determination of research Task

ii) Research Design

-Specification of research data
-Determination of research procedures and technique
-Budgetary considerations

iii) Data Collection

-Measurement decisions
-Data Collection Mode Determination
-Sample Determination

iv) Data Analysis and Interpretation

-Preparation of raw data
-Initial data investigations
-Detailed analysis and interpretations

v) Preparation and presentation of research report

-Report components
-Presentation consideration
-Publication consideration

(5x 4 marks) (20 marks)

QUESTION 7

Age Freq x fx Fx2 X2

0-5 3 2.5 7.5 18.75 6.25

5-10 5 7.5 37.5 281.25 56.25

10-15 7 12.5 87.5 1093.75 156.25

15-20 6 17.5 105 1837.50 306.25

20-25 2 22.5 45 1012.50 506.25

TOTAL 23 282.50 4243.75

i) Mean = X = ∑fx = 282.50 =12.28 (4 marks)

∑f 23
ii) Standard deviation = √1 (∑fx 2 + (∑fx)

n-1 2

1 (282.5) 2
= √ (4243.75-
22 23

= √35.1779

= 5.93 (4 marks)

iii) See graph below

 SAMPLE PAST EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS-Research Methods

ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN

RECORDS MANAGEMENT AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 551/S12

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
1.Answer any FOUR (4) questions.

2.Each question carries 25 marks.

QUESTION 1

Appraise five (5) traits of research in records management and information science.(25 marks)

QUESTION 2

Critique the seven (7) step cyclical model of inquiry. (25 marks)

QUESTION 3

Evaluate five (5) types of research methodologies. (25 marks)

QUESTION 4

Describe five (5) reasons for using interviews as a data gathering technique. (25 Marks)

QUESTION 5

Examine four (4) techniques that researchers can use to minimise sampling errors. (25 marks)

QUESTION 6

Discuss five (5) factors that researchers should consider when conducting analytical research. (25
marks).
 SAMPLE PAST EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS-Research Methods

ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION,

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND SECRETARIAL STUDIES

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 500/S15

DURATION: 3 hours

MARCH/APRIL 2017 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

1.Calculator.

2. Graph paper.

3.Formulae Booklet.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
a. All questions carry equal marks.
b. Answer any five (5) questions.
c. Start each question on a fresh page.
PAPER NO: 500/S15-RESEARCH METHODS

SUBJECT: Research Methods

QUESTION 1

(a) Distinguish between primary, secondary and tertiary sources.(10 marks)

(b) Discuss the relevance of a work-plan and a budget in research. (10 marks)

QUESTION 2

Discuss considerations when selecting a research problem. (20 marks)

QUESTION 3

Explain the importance of literature review to the researcher. (20 marks)

QUESTION 4

How would you differentiate qualitative from quantitative research? (20 marks)

QUESTION 5

Name and explain any ten (10) components of a research proposal. (20 marks)

QUESTION 6

Adherence to ethical norms and standards is important for every research. Explain any five ethical
considerations to be observed by a researcher when carrying out a research study. (20 marks)
QUESTION 7

Five students were assessed on a presentation by two assessors. Using Spearman’s coefficient of rank
correlation, measure the strength of the relationship between the paired data of scores below:- (15
marks)

Students Assessor A Assessor B

1 2 1

2 3 4

3 5 5

4 1 2

5 4 3

Comment on the strength of the correlation. (5 marks)

Marking Guide March/April 2017

QUESTION 1

a) Primary sources-original material from the field study including diaries, interviews etc.(3 marks)
Secondary sources-work written on the topic by other researchers, peer reviewed articles
written by other authors who summarise or discuss trends in the primary literature e.g.
historians, sociologists. (3 marks)
Tertiary sources-general references such as the encyclopaedia, dictionaries, and general
explanations condensed from common knowledge on the topic intended for broad public
audience. Not usually accredited to a particular author. (4 marks)
b) Budget
-Includes rationale for how all items are related to the completion of the project.
-Involves expenses such as data gathering, equipment, software, training, travel and
accommodation.
-Helps researcher identify which resources are already locally available and which additional
resources maybe required.
-Serves as a reminder (5 marks)
c) Work plan
-Specify what work will be accomplished during the specified period.
-Specify for each activity in the work plan what resources are required.
Specify for each activity the unit cost and total cost.
-Work plan establishes standards against which performance can be measured.
-Gives researcher the direction on how to carry out his research.
(5 marks)
QUESTION 2

-Should directly or indirectly address some real problem.

-Should have the potential to suggest direction for future research.

-Takes ethical issues into consideration.

-Is not based in terminology.

-Should be of interest to the researcher or author.

-Should have adequate variables

-A good problem contributes to new knowledge.

-Provides direction, defines boundaries.

-Should not be a duplication of what has already been done before.

-It must have an impact on the field.

-There must be significant benefits of solving the problem.

-Should be time bound.

-Should have current importance.

(Any 10x2 marks) (20 marks)

QUESTION 3

-Increases the researcher’s knowledge on the problem to be studied.

-Helps the researcher to refine the statement of the problem.

-Prevents the researcher from replicative work.

-Makes the researcher familiar with different research methods.

-Helps the researcher to choose research methods that have proved successful.

-Generates new approaches to planning of the study.

-Helps the researcher to place in its proper context.

-Helps researcher to explain the significance of research findings.

-Helps researcher to build on what other writers have written.

 -Enables the researcher to have some insight into theoretical frameworks used by other
researchers.

-Gives confidence to the researcher.

-Enhances the credibility of the research.

(Any 10x2) (20 marks)

QUESTION 4

Qualitative Methods Quantitative Methods

-Develop theory -Test theory

-Uses real life set-up -Uses laboratory set-up

-Seeks to understand phenomenon -Seeks to control phenomenon

-Uses inductive approach -Uses deductive approach

-It is verbal/non-verbal -Is numerical

-Data collected at primary source -Data collected at secondary source

-Uses nominal scale -Use ordinal scale

-Small sample size -Large sample size

-Non-probability samples -Probability sampling

 -Micro. -Macro

-Process oriented. -Result oriented

-Subjective -Objective

-Interpretative -Measurable

-Deals with aspects of human behaviours. -Deals with measurable aspects of human
behaviour

(2 marks identify 2 marks explanation)

(5 points x2x2 20 marks)

QUESTION 5

Title/Topic-to be explicitly clearly stated and precise. It has to be in clear and simple English, so that its
interpretation does not get distorted.

Background to the study-should situate the research into relevant context and also provide an overview
of what the research study is about.

Statement of the problem-tells which prompt the researcher has to undertake. This enables the reader
to see the potential research study as a problem.

Objectives- act as a guide to the selection of research design and data gathering instruments.

Delimitations- refers to the geographical boundaries in terms of population and number of variables to
be investigated.

Limitations-foreseen constraints preventing the researcher from carrying out comprehensive study, e.g.
the methodology used could be limited.

Assumptions of the study-issues the researcher takes for granted, regarding the acceptance of rejection
of aspects to do with research.

Significance/Importance- value and importance of the study’s findings in theoretical addition to existing
knowledge and practical application of the solution in the real world.
Hypothesis- assist researcher to make a prediction about the existence, attributes or relationship
between variables and these will either be supported or rejected by the data gathered. Also hypothesis
is a tentative guess.

Review of related literature-extracting information that has to do with the research topic from such
sources as texts, publications, journals, internet etc.

Methodology - overall picture of the research design, highlighting data collection methods, instruments
or tools and sampling techniques to be used.

Proposed data analysis- drawing inferences or conclusions from the data, through various statistical
measures, such as measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, measure of skewness and
measure of relationship.

Schedule of activities-estimate of the time periods required for each stage of work versus the total
duration expected of the study.

Budgeting- total financial costs likely to be incurred at each activity, for the duration of the entire
research study.

(10x 2 marks) (20 marks)

QUESTION 6.

Honesty- implies truthfulness of the researcher in collecting and presenting data. The researcher needs
not to fabricate or misinterpret data.

Objectivity- implies that the researcher should not be biased in research design, data collection,
interpretation, analysis and other aspects of research.

Integrity-demands that the researcher should be sincere in his/her actions and should keep his/her
promises.

Deception-participants should be the truth. They should not be deceived.

Anonymity-identity of participants should not be disclosed.

Confidentiality- means that organisational secrets, confidential documents and personal records used in
the research should be kept private.

Plagiarism- failure to acknowledge borrowed information is unethical. Plagiarism is an academic offence

which is severely punishable.

Social responsibility- means that the researcher should try to increase social welfare through his/her
research study. The researcher should not harm society and environment in any way, while conducting
his/her research
Informed Consent- in the case of children participants, permission to be sought from parents.

Harm- the researcher should not do anything that will harm the participant.

Question 7

Student Ass A RA Ass B RB d d2

1 2 4 1 5 -1 1

2 3 3 4 2 1 1

3 5 1 5 1 0 0

4 1 5 2 4 1 1

5 4 2 3 3 -1 1

∑d2=4

(12 marks)

rs=1- 6∑d2

n(n2-1)

1- 6(4)
5(52-1) (2 marks)
1- 24
120

1-0,2 (1 mark)

=0,8 (2 marks)

There is a strong positive relationship between the paired data sets. (3 marks)
 SAMPLE PAST EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS-Research Methods

ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION,

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND SECRETARIAL STUDIES

SUBJECT: Research Methods PAPER NO: 500/15/S15

DURATION: 3 hours

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2017 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

1.Calculator.

2. Graph paper.

3.Formulae Booklet.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
a. All questions carry equal marks.
b. Answer any five (5) questions.
c. Start each question on a fresh page.
PAPER NO: 500/15/S15-RESEARCH METHODS

SUBJECT: Research Methods

QUESTION 1

Evaluate the purpose of literature review in research. (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

a) Explain any five(5) characteristics of a good topic/research problem. (10 marks)

b) Briefly explain the following concepts used research.
i) Background to the study
ii) Statement of the problem
iii) Significance of the study
iv) Hypothesis
v) Delimitation (10 marks)

QUESTION 3

Write brief notes on the following phrases

a) Exploratory research (4 marks)

b) Predictive research (4 marks)
c) Fundamental research (4 marks)
d) Emphatic neutrality (4 marks)
e) Descriptive research (4 marks)

QUESTION 4

a) Identify any four competencies that must be possessed by an interviewer. (8 marks)

b) Explain any six practical issues relating to focus groups. (12 marks)

QUESTION 5

Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the following research types.

a) Basic research (5 marks)

b) Action research (5 marks)
c) Applied research (5 marks)
d) Quantitative research (5 marks)

QUESTION 6

State and explain any five (5) characteristics of a good proposal. (20 marks)
QUESTION 7

The following marks were obtained by 21 HND students in a research theory test.

73 60 65 68 74 63 74 78 58 57 79

67 42 74 76 36 53 56 46 74 73

Calculate the following for the above data

a) Mean (5 marks)
b) Variance (5 marks)
c) Standard deviation (3 marks)
d) Pearson’s measure of skewness and comment (7 marks)

………/cn

Marking Guide October/November 2017

QUESTION 1

- To get background information

- To identify gaps in the body of knowledge existent in an area of specialisation
- To help in the definition of the problem under investigation
- To avoid the duplication of researches successfully carried out else-where
- To bring the researcher’s knowledge to date with current trends
- To help deepen and broaden the researcher’s understanding of the research area
- To familiarise with methodologies that work in the respective study
Any 5 points X 4 marks (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

a) Characteristics of a good research topic/problem

-The topic must be interesting to the researcher
-The topic must be researchable
-The topic must be significant
-The topic must be manageable
-The topic must be ethical
-The topic must be focused
-The topic must add to the pool of knowledge available
Any 5 x 2 marks (10 marks)
b) Research concepts
i) Background

-Clearly shows the motivation for the research

-Reviews the context of the study

-Points out what other researchers have found and why there is need for further research

ii) Statement of problem

-Spells out the rationale for the study

-Identifies variables to be investigated

-Describes variables to be investigated, the nature of the problem, its sites and distribution

iii) Significance of Study

-How the organisation is likely to benefit from the study

-How the study will benefit the researcher in terms of knowledge gap it intends to fill.

-Is there to highlight the benefits that the researcher is going to yield in relation to the policy
makers and managers.

iv) Hypothesis

-Is a tentative answer to a problem?

-Guides the researcher as to what course of action to follow

-Maybe accepted or rejected after testing

-Provides a framework for data collection analysis and interpretation

v) Delimitation

-These are boundaries of the study both theoretical and practical

-It guides the researcher’s choice to show how far, how wide and how deep the research will go.

-It helps the researcher to keep focused on the research problem.

Any 2 x 5 (10 marks)

QUESTION 3

a) Explanatory Research
-It is a preliminary study of unfamiliar problem about which the researcher has little or no
knowledge and very few or no earlier studies will have been carried out.
(4 marks)
b) Predicative Research
-Would answer a question such as “will the payment of workers lead to regular attendance to
the workers”. (4 marks)

c) Fundamental/Basic research

-Is research carried out for purposes of furthering knowledge

-Usually carried out in a laboratory or other sterile environment, sometimes with animals.

-It draws its pattern and spirit from the physical sciences and has presented a vigorous structure
type analysis. (4 marks)

d) Emphatic research

-The researcher takes a neutral non-judgemental stance towards whatever content may emerge

-Complete objectivity is impossible, pure subjectivity undermines credibility.

-The researchers’ passion is important. (4 marks)

e) Descriptive Research

-Used to identify and obtain information on the characteristics of a particular problem and may
answer a question such as “what are the feelings of students who spend most of the time
basking in sunshine instead of attending lectures”. (4 marks)

QUESTION 4

a) Interviewer competencies
-Opening the interview i.e. breaking the ice
-Using appropriate language
-Listening skills
-Recording skills

-Questioning techniques

-Recognising and dealing with difficult participants

-Interpretation skills

-Testing and summarising

 Any 4 points x 2 marks

b) Practical issues relating to focus groups

-A focus group is a focused group interview
-Comprises of several participants, the researcher as facilitator and an ageed method of
recording what is said.
-There is usually a specific topic on which discussion is to be explore the joint of interviewing is
to explore the joint construction of meaning around a topic in order to see how group dynamics
and interaction work in this process.
-To be creative focus groups require a light touch of management from researcher.
-Issues can surface in a much freer way.
-A more naturalistic contest for testing.
Any 6 points x 2 marks

QUESTION 5

a) Basic Research

Strengths Weaknesses

Covers a wider area which has more long term
effects
It is the foundation on which much applied
research is conducted
It is time consuming and costly
It is based on theoretical aspect but without
practical idea.

Covered by curiosity and aims at increasing

humanity’s knowledge of the world

(5 marks)
b) Action research

Strengths Weaknesses

Helps educators use data rather than Harder to do than conventional research
preferences
It doesn’t accord with the expectations of some
It is local and focuses directly on the problem examiners

It is not appropriate to generalise research

findings to larger populations

(5 marks)
 c) Applied research

Strengths Weaknesses

It develops a man’s condition It targets only the condition instead of the

overall betterment of knowledge and vice
Practical problem solving versa
Can be used to collect information about Only answers a specific question that has
markets, competitors and customers direct applications to the world.

(5 marks)
c) Quantitative research

Strengths Weaknesses

More reliable and objective Subjectivity leads to procedural problems

Can use statistics to generalise a finding Replicability is very difficult

Often reduces and restructures a complex

problem to a limited number of variables

(5 marks)

QUESTION 6

i) Short and prompt-take an executive summary approach providing top line information
wherever possible
ii) Avoid jargon and technical terminology-focus on the practical elements of your proposal
iii) Explain what tangible benefits your project can provide to the organisation.
iv) Explain exactly what you will deliver as part of the deal.
v) Describe exactly what resources you will need from the organisation e.g. materials and time
for completing questionnaires.
vi) Outline likely time scales, project milestones and headlines that will aid the organisation’s
understanding of the research process.
Any 5 x 4 marks
QUESTION 7

𝑥 𝑋2 𝑥 𝑋2

73 5329 67 4489

60 3600 42 1764

65 4225 74 5476

68 4624 76 5776

74 5476 36 1296

63 3969 53 2809

74 5476 56 3136

78 6084 46 2116

58 3364 74 5476

57 3249

73 5329

79 6241
∑x=1346

∑x2=89304

(a) (i) Mean = ∑x

n

= 1346 (2 marks)

21

= 64 (1 mark)

(ii) Variances S2 = 1 (∑x2- (∑x)2)

n-1 n

= 1(89304)-(1346)2 (2 marks)

20 21

= 1(3031, 80952)

20

= 151, 590476 (1 mark)

(i) Standard deviation(s)

S=√Variance
=√151,59 (1 mark)
= 12,31 (1 mark)
(ii) Pearson’s measure of skewness
= mean-mode = 64-74 (3 marks)
standard deviation 12,31

= - 10

-12.31

= -0.81

Comment : Negatively skewed (2 marks)

 SAMPLE PAST EXAMINATION QUESTION PAPERS-Research Methods

ZIMBABWE

MINISTRY OF HIGHER AND TERTIARY EDUCATION,

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

HIGHER EDUCATION EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL

(HEXCO)

NATIONAL DIPLOMA

IN

BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT AND SECRETARIAL STUDIES

SUBJECT: Marketing Research Theory PAPER NO: 531/15/S05

DURATION: 3 hours

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2017 EXAMINATION

REQUIREMENTS

1.Serislised Booklets.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE
a. All questions carry equal marks.
b. Answer any five (5) questions.
c. Start each question on a fresh page.

PAPER NO: 531/15/S05-MARKETING RESEARCH THEORY

SUBJECT: Marketing Research Theory

QUESTION 1

Outline the major components of research proposal. (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

Discuss the importance of exploratory stage in marketing research process. (20 marks)

QUESTION 3

Describe liker scale and semantic differential scale. (20 marks)

QUESTION 4

Explain how you would design a structured questionnaire. (20 marks)

QUESTION 5

Elaborate on the advantages and disadvantages of stratified random sampling. (20 marks)

QUESTION 6

Identify and explain the steps that are followed when analysing research data. (20 marks)

QUESTION 7

Describe the procedure for developing a sampling plan. (20 marks)

QUESTION 8

a) Define literature review. (2 marks)

b) Highlight the benefits of conducting literature review when conducting research. (20 marks)

……../ez
Marking Guide October/November 2017

QUESTION 1

Elements of the research proposal:

Title

Background of the study

Statement of the problem

Sub problems

Aims of the study

Objectives

Assumptions

Hypothesis

Significance of the study

Delimitations of the study

Limitations of the study

Definition of key terms

Literature review

Methodology

- Population
- Sampling
- Data collection methods
- Data collection instruments

Data analysis

Plan of activities

Project budget

20 elements X 1 mark each (20 marks)

QUESTION 2

The exploration phase sets the stage for a company to investigate its assumptions if it is out of its
market. (5 marks)

The exploratory stage is important because it is necessary to establish what is already on record about
the market of interest. (5 marks)

Exploratory research will indicate what available data relating to the following are needed:

a) The parameters of the survey population

b) The ideas held by this population about the product field. (5 marks)

In order to design why data collection instrument is necessary to have explored consumer attitudes.
(5 marks)

QUESTION 3

Likert scale

Is a psychometric scale commonly involved in research that employs questionnaires.

It is widely used approach to scaling responses in survey research e.g. Wikipedia has a user friendly
interface.

Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree

A Likert type scale assumes that the strengths/intensity of experience is liner that is a continuum drom
strongly agree to strongly disagree. (10 marks)

Semantic differential scale

Is a type a rating scale designed to measure the connective meaning of objects events and components.

The connotations are used to derive the attitude towards the given object event or concept.

The scale is set using polar adjectives (opposite meaning terms at each end.)

Strong---------------------------------------------------------------------------Weak

Decisive-------------------------------------------------------------------------Indecisive

Good-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Bad

Cheap----------------------------------------------------------------------------Expensive

Lazy-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Industrious (10 marks)

QUESTION 4

Formulation of Hypothesis

Topics of interest

Ordering of Topics

Questionnaire Lay-out

Pilot Test Design

To optimise

Ordering of questions

Instruction to interviewer

Efficiency of layout

Cost of interviews (20 marks)

QUESTION 5

Stratified Sampling

A probability sampling technique that uses a two-step process to partition the population into strata.

Advantages

- The strata are mutually exclusive in that evenly population element should be assigned to only
one stratum. (3 marks)
- Elements are selected from each stratum by random procedure. (3 marks)
- A major objective of stratified sampling is to increase precision without increasing cost.(3 marks)
- The elements within a stratum should be as homogeneous as possible. (3 marks)

Disadvantages

- There are extraneous sampling variations (3 marks)

- The variations are not easy to measure (3 marks)
- The number of strata to use is a matter of judgement. (2 marks)
QUESTION 6

The five-step procedure for data analysis.

Step 1: Validation and editing (quality control)

Step 2: Coding

Step 3: Data Entry

Step 4: Machine cleaning of data

Step 5: Tabulation and statistical analysis

5 steps x 4 marks each (20 marks)

QUESTION 7

Step 1: Define the population of interest

Specify the characteristics of those individuals or things, e.g. customers, companies, stores, from whom
or about whom information is needed to meet research objectives.

Step 2: Choose a data collection method

Select data collection methods. The selection of each method has implications for the sampling process.

Step 3: Identify a sampling frame

Identify the list of elements of the population.

Step 4: Select a sampling method

Depends on the objectives of the study, the financial resources available, time limitations, and the
nature of the problem under study.

Step 5: Determine sample size

With non-probability samples, factors such as budget and number of sub groups to be analysed are
considered. For probability samples a formula is used.

Step 6: Develop operational procedures for selecting sample elements

The operational procedures to be used in selecting sample elements in the data collection phase of a
project is developed and specified, whether a probability or non-probability sample is being used.

Step 7: Execute the operational sampling plan

Check to ensure that specified procedures are adhered to.

6 steps x 3 marks each (18 marks)

7th step x 2 marks (2 marks)

QUESTION 8

a) Definition of literature review

Literature review is an account of previously published material by experts and researchers in
particular area of interest.
The literature review gives the author an opportunity to reference previous research
publications to provide strength and weaknesses of research. (2 marks)
b) Benefits of literature review
i) Provide confidence as you discover other individuals interest in the research area
ii) Allows you to get new and different ideas that you may not have thought about
iii) Provides networking opportunities with other individuals in the field.
iv) Allows you to preview what methods others have used.
v) Derives strengths and weaknesses found in the chosen methods that enhances research
project.
vi) Potential to reveal problems other individuals have come across in their research that
may help the researcher to relate their research to previous research.
vii) It familiarise with methodology.
6 points X 3 marks each (18 marks)