ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN MANAGEMENT

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

1.

• Exploratory research – type of research that aims to

explore a topic or problem that is not well understood or
lacks sufficient information, it is used to gather preliminary
data, identify potential relationships or patterns and
generate hypotheses. Exploratory research is often
conductive through qualitative methods such as interviews,
focus groups, or observations.
• Explanatory research- explanatory research aims to explain
the cause-and-effect relationships between variables or
phenomena. It delves deeper into understanding the
reasons behind certain behaviors or outcomes. This type of
research often involves conducting experiments, analyzing
data, and using statistical methods to identify correlations or
causal relationships

• Descriptive research- Descriptive research seeks to describe

and document the characteristics, behaviors, or phenomena
of a particular population or group. It involves collecting
data through surveys, questionnaires, or structured
observations. Descriptive research provides a detailed
snapshot of current state of a subject ad helps in
understanding its various aspects.
2.

• Structured approach is usually classified as quantitative research. It is more

appropriate to determine the extent of a problem, issue or phenomenon by
quantifying the variation.
 • Unstructured approach is usually classified as qualitative research. This
approach allows flexibility in all aspects of the research process. It is more
appropriate to explore the nature of a problem, issue or phenomenon without
quantifying it.

3.

• Applied research is conducted to solve practical problems or address specific

issues. It aims to use existing knowledge and theories to develop practical
solutions or interventions. Examples of applied research include studies on
the effectiveness of a new drug treatment or the impact of a social
intervention program.
• Pure research involves developing and testing theories and hypotheses that
are intellectually challenging to the researcher but may or may not have
practical application at the present time or in the future. Examples of Pure
research include studies on the fundamental principles of physics or the
evolutionary processes in biology.

4.

TERMS MEANING

Critical the ability to evaluate and analyze

information objectively, considering its
strengths, weaknesses, and implications.

Controlled studies where researchers manipulate or

control certain variables to minimize the
influence of confounding factors and
establish causality.
 Rigorous rigorous and systematic approach to
data collection, analysis, and
interpretation. It involves following
established methodologies and ensuring
the accuracy and reliability of the
findings.

Systematic the structured and organized process of

conducting research, including defining
research questions, selecting appropriate
methods, and analyzing data in a
consistent and replicable manner.

Valid and verifiable is based on sound methodologies,

measures what it intends to measure,
and provides evidence that can be
replicated and confirmed by other
researchers.

Empirical is based on direct observation or

experience and relies on evidence from
real-world data. It involves collecting
and analyzing data.

5.

• relies on empirical evidence

• utilizes relevant concepts
• is committed to only objective considerations
 • presupposes ethical neutrality, it aims at nothing but making only adequate
and correct statements about population objects
• results into probabilistic predictions
• allows testing the conclusions through replication

6.

Validity refers to the accuracy and truthfulness of a statement, argument, or

research finding. It ensures that the information provided is based on sound
reasoning and evidence. Reliability, on the other hand, refers to the consistency and
repeatability of measurements or results. It ensures that the same results would be
obtained if the experiment or observation were repeated under the same conditions.
Unbiased and objective mean that information or judgments are not influenced by
personal opinions, preferences, or prejudices.