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Semester 4: Research Methods in Public Administration
Research Methodology: Meaning, Scope, Objectives, Types, Problem Definition, Hypothesis, Operationalizing Problems, Traditional Enquiry Methods
Research Methodology
Research methodology refers to the systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to answer research questions. It encompasses the theoretical framework, philosophical stance, and strategies used in research.
The scope of research methodology includes defining the boundaries of the study, identifying research participants, and determining the appropriate methods for data collection and analysis.
Objectives in research methodology outline the specific goals of the study, such as understanding phenomena, testing theories, or solving problems within a field.
Different types of research methodologies include qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Each type has distinct approaches and tools for data gathering and analysis.
Problem definition involves identifying and articulating the specific issues or gaps in knowledge that the research aims to address. This step is crucial for guiding the research process.
A hypothesis is a testable statement predicting the relationship between variables. It guides the research design and data collection, helping to focus the study.
Operationalizing problems means defining abstract concepts in measurable terms. This allows researchers to systematically study phenomena and test hypotheses.
Traditional enquiry methods include techniques such as surveys, interviews, case studies, and observational methods. These approaches have been foundational in research practices and provide valuable data.
Social Science Research: Modes, Desk and Field, Research Design, Case Study, Experimental Methods
Social Science Research: Modes, Desk and Field, Research Design, Case Study, Experimental Methods
Modes of Research
Research can be classified into various modes such as qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative research involves understanding social phenomena through interviews, focus groups, and observations, whereas quantitative research relies on numerical data and statistical analysis.
Desk Research
Desk research, or secondary research, refers to the collection and analysis of existing data. It includes reviewing literature, reports, and online databases. This approach is cost-effective and helps in identifying gaps in existing research.
Field Research
Field research involves collecting original data directly from the source. Methods include surveys, observations, and experiments conducted in real-life settings. This type of research provides firsthand insights and is crucial for understanding complex social dynamics.
Research Design
Research design is the framework for collecting and analyzing data. It includes selecting the population, sampling techniques, and determining the method of data collection. A well-structured research design ensures the reliability and validity of results.
Case Study
The case study method involves an in-depth analysis of a single case or a small number of cases. It provides detailed contextual analysis and is often used when exploring new or complex phenomena.
Experimental Methods
Experimental methods involve manipulating variables to observe the effects on other variables. This method is often used in controlled environments and is useful for establishing cause-and-effect relationships.
Research Design: Essentials and Types, Data Collection (Primary/Secondary), Methods (Observation, Survey, Interview, Case Study, Panel Study)
Research Design Essentials and Types, Data Collection, Methods in Public Administration
Research Design
Research design is the framework for collecting and analyzing data. It guides the entire research process and ensures the reliability and validity of the results. The main types of research designs include descriptive, experimental, correlational, and exploratory designs.
Types of Research Design
1. Descriptive Research Design: Aims to provide an accurate account of characteristics of a population or phenomenon. It includes observational methods and surveys. 2. Experimental Research Design: Involves manipulating one variable to determine the effects on another variable. It is often used in clinical trials and scientific experiments. 3. Correlational Research Design: Explores the relationship between two or more variables without manipulating them. It identifies patterns and correlations but does not imply causation. 4. Exploratory Research Design: Conducted when there is little existing information on a topic. It seeks to explore insights and generate hypotheses.
Data Collection Methods
Data collection is a crucial step in research. There are two main types: primary and secondary data collection. 1. Primary Data Collection: Involves gathering original data directly from participants through methods such as surveys, interviews, and observations. This provides recent and firsthand information. 2. Secondary Data Collection: Utilizes existing data collected by others, such as academic articles, government reports, and historical records. This method is cost-effective but may be less specific.
Methods of Data Collection
1. Observation: Systematic watching and recording of behavior or phenomena as they occur in their natural settings. 2. Survey: A structured set of questions delivered to a sample population to gather quantitative or qualitative data. 3. Interview: Direct communication with participants to gather in-depth information, perspectives, and experiences. 4. Case Study: An in-depth exploration of a single instance or event, providing comprehensive detail and context. 5. Panel Study: Involves repeated observations of the same subjects over time to analyze trends and changes.
Sampling: Principles, Types, Scaling Techniques, Measurement Scales
Sampling: Principles, Types, Scaling Techniques, Measurement Scales
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Sampling involves selecting a subset of individuals from a population to estimate characteristics of the whole population.
It is crucial for reducing costs and time while gathering data.
Ensuring a good sample minimizes bias and improves the reliability of the results.
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Techniques that give each member of the population a known, non-zero chance of being included in the sample.
Simple random sampling
Stratified sampling
Cluster sampling
Techniques where not all members have a chance of being included in the sample.
Convenience sampling
Quota sampling
Purposive sampling
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Methods used to assign numbers or labels to responses or attributes.
Rating scales
Ranking scales
Likert scales
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Categorizes data without a natural order.
Gender
Marital Status
Categorizes data with a specified order but no defined interval between the categories.
Satisfaction ratings (satisfied, neutral, dissatisfied)
Measures data with meaningful intervals, but no true zero point.
Temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit
Measures data with a true zero point, allowing for comparison of magnitudes.
Height
Weight
Age
Data Processing: Steps, Tools, Analysis, Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Ethical Issues, Citation Rules
Data Processing: Steps, Tools, Analysis, Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Ethical Issues, Citation Rules
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Gathering data through surveys, interviews, experiments, or secondary sources. Essential to define clear objectives and methodologies to ensure relevance and reliability.
Data Collection
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The process of identifying and correcting inaccuracies or inconsistencies in the data. This includes handling missing values, removing duplicates, and ensuring uniformity in data formats.
Data Cleaning
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Applying statistical and computational techniques to explore the data. This can involve descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and data visualization.
Data Analysis
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Translating the analyzed data into meaningful insights. This requires critical thinking to understand the implications of the findings in the context of the research objectives.
Data Interpretation
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The structured presentation of the research findings. This includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Ensure clarity and coherence throughout.
Thesis Writing
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Considerations regarding the ethical implications of data collection and analysis. This includes informed consent, confidentiality, and the responsible reporting of findings.
Ethical Issues
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Adhering to established academic standards for citing sources. Familiarity with different citation styles, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, is essential for maintaining academic integrity.
Citation Rules
