BUSINESS
RESEARCH
METHOD
NAME: RAMEESHA ANIS
STUDENT ID: 16642
CLASS: BBA – 06
INSTRUCTOR: SIR FAISAL SULTAN
ASSIGNMENT - 04
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Assignment# 4
Student ID:
9
Code:
Course:
:
Instructor:
16642
Date:
MKT-311
Business Research Methods
M. Faisal
Class:
Duration:
Marks:
28th September, 2022
BBA-6 & BBA-2y-3
1 Week
15 Marks
Objective: The objective of this assignment is to make students conduct research within their relevant area
and expertise in order to optimize their research capabilities and research writing skills
Question Number. 01:
Define Term Data Analysis. What do you mean by Data cleaning and Clearing? How data cleaning and data
clearing will create the authenticity of your data? Explain your own words.
Question Number. 02:
What do you term by Experimentation in research? Provide any two examples of television advertisements
that are showing two major examples of experimentations. Discuss concisely and explicitly.
Question Number. 03:
Define the term population with reference to research? Why we draw sample from population? Provide
Multiple reasons and also clarify what are various ways to draw sample.
Question Number. 04:
Define the term “Research Instrument”. What are basic types of research instrument discuss all with relevant
examples.
Question Number. 05:
What do you mean by research (scholarly) publications? How you type of research (scholarly) publications
are there? Discuss all with relevant examples.
Question Number. 06:
What is are various ethics that we must follow while doing research? Discuss all the forms of ethics associated
with the business research in detail. Highlight different unethical practices that are common in researchers of
business research domain.
Instructions:
a. This is an individual assignment
b. Please submit on LMS as well as in Hard copy, without HARD Copy of the assignment your
file will not be Graded
c. For LMS submit only in word format with times new roman, justified with twelve points and
single line spacing.
d. Late submissions are strictly prohibited
e. Copying ideas from your colleagues and cheating current and previous students will result in
deduction of marks.
f. Try to grasp ideas from various sources like Books, Journal and Magazines and use diagrams,
pictorials, graphics and illustrations here possible.
g. Please use this page as the front cover and return it with the assignment with your name and
student ID reflecting on the top
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Assignment# 4
ANSWER - 01
Define Term Data Analysis.
DATA ANALYSIS:
Data analysis is the process of inspecting, cleaning, transforming, and modeling data to discover useful
information, inform conclusions, and support decision-making. Data analysis has multiple facets and
approaches, encompassing diverse techniques under a variety of names, in different business, science, and
social science domains.
In today's business world, data analysis makes decisions more scientific and helps businesses operate more
effectively. By analyzing data, businesses can identify trends, patterns, and relationships that can be used to
improve products and services, increase sales, and reduce costs.
What do you mean by Data cleaning and Clearing?
DATA CLEANING:
Data cleaning is the process of identifying and correcting errors in data. This can include correcting typos,
removing duplicate data, and filling in missing data.
DATA CLEARING:
Data clearing is the process of organizing and preparing data for analysis. This can include standardizing data
formats, creating indexes, and creating data marts.
EXAMPLE:
In Pandamart, data cleaning and clearing are essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data used
for decision-making. For example, if the data on customer orders are not accurate, Pandamart may not be able
to fulfill orders correctly or accurately track inventory levels.
Here are some real-world examples of data cleaning and clearing in Pandamart:
• Identifying and correcting errors: Pandamart's data analysts may identify errors in customer orders, such
as incorrect product prices or quantities. They can then correct these errors to ensure that the data is accurate.
• Removing duplicate data: Pandamart may receive duplicate data from different sources, such as customer
orders from its website and customer orders from its mobile app. Data analysts can remove duplicate data to
ensure that there is only one record for each customer order.
• Consolidating data from different sources: Pandamart may receive data from different sources, such as
customer orders, inventory levels, and marketing data. Data analysts can consolidate this data into a single
data warehouse to make it easier to analyze.
Data cleaning and clearing are essential steps in the data analysis process. By ensuring that data is accurate
and reliable, Pandamart can make better decisions about its business.
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Assignment# 4
How data cleaning and data clearing will create the authenticity of your data? Explain your
own words.
The authenticity of data means that the data is accurate, reliable, and complete. By cleaning and clearing data,
we can ensure that the data is authentic and that it can be used for accurate and reliable analysis.
Here are some of the ways that data cleaning and data clearing can help to create the authenticity of
data:
• Identifying and correcting errors: Data cleaning can help to identify and correct errors in data, such as
typos, incorrect values, and missing data. This can help to ensure that the data is accurate and reliable.
• Removing duplicate data: Data clearing can help to remove duplicate data, which can improve the accuracy
and completeness of the data. For example, if there are two records for the same customer, data clearing can
remove one of the records to ensure that there is only one record for each customer.
• Consolidating data from different sources: Data clearing can help to consolidate data from different
sources into a single data set. This can make it easier to analyze the data and can help to ensure that the data
is accurate and complete.
By cleaning and clearing data, we can help ensure that the data is authentic and can be used for accurate and
reliable analysis.
Here is an example of how data cleaning and data clearing can help to create the authenticity of data in
the real world:
A company that sells products online can use data cleaning and data clearing to identify and correct errors in
customer orders, such as incorrect product prices or quantities. This can help the company ensure that it is
fulfilling orders correctly and not losing money on incorrect orders.
ANSWER – 02
What do you term by Experimentation in research?
In research, experimentation refers to the systematic and controlled process of gathering empirical evidence
to test a hypothesis, investigate a phenomenon, or explore a specific research question. It is a fundamental
method used in various scientific disciplines to acquire knowledge and understand cause-and-effect
relationships.
Provide any two examples of television advertisements that are showing two major examples of
experimentations. Discuss concisely and explicitly.
1- EXAMPLE 1: COCA-COLA EXPERIMENTATION ADVERTISEMENT:
In a television advertisement for Coca-Cola, a major example of experimentation can be seen through a taste
test. The ad shows two groups of participants blindfolded, each given two unlabeled cups—one containing
Coca-Cola and the other a competitor's soda. The participants taste both drinks and express their preference.
This experiment aims to demonstrate that Coca-Cola is preferred over its competitors.
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Assignment# 4
EXPERIMENTAL ELEMENTS:
Objective: The objective is to determine consumer preference by conducting a taste test.
Controlled conditions: The taste test is designed to isolate the effects of the beverages' taste by removing
visual cues by blindfolding the participants.
Independent variable: The independent variable is the brand of soda (Coca-Cola vs. competitor).
Dependent variable: The dependent variable is the participants' preference for the taste of the soda.
Experimental group and control group: The participants form the experimental group, as they taste
both Coca-Cola and the competitor's soda. There is no specific control group in this case, as the focus is on
comparing the two beverages.
Randomization: The participants are likely randomized to minimize biases and ensure the groups are as
similar as possible.
Data collection: Data is collected based on the participants' preferences, which are likely recorded during
the taste test.
Statistical analysis: The advertisement may not explicitly show statistical analysis, but the premise is that
the majority of participants prefer Coca-Cola, indicating its superiority over the competitor.
2- EXAMPLE 2: KFC EXPERIMENTATION ADVERTISEMENT
In a television advertisement for KFC, an example of experimentation can be observed through a comparison
of two different recipes for their fried chicken. The ad presents two groups of people tasting KFC's classic
recipe and a new recipe, showcasing their reactions and feedback.
EXPERIMENTAL ELEMENTS:
Objective: The objective is to assess the preference of consumers for the classic KFC recipe versus the new
recipe.
Controlled conditions: The taste test likely involves presenting the two chicken recipes separately to
participants, ensuring other factors are kept constant.
Independent variable: The independent variable is the recipe type (classic vs. new).
Dependent variable: The dependent variable is the participants' preference for the taste of the chicken.
Experimental group and control group: The participants form the experimental group, as they taste
both the classic and new recipes. There may not be a specific control group in this case, as the focus is on
comparing the two recipes.
Randomization: The participants are likely randomized to minimize biases and ensure the groups are as
similar as possible.
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Assignment# 4
Data collection: Data is collected based on the participants' preferences, likely through their reactions,
feedback, or surveys.
Statistical analysis: The advertisement may not explicitly show statistical analysis, but the outcome is
likely presented as a conclusion about consumer preference for the classic or new recipe.
Both of these examples showcase experimentation in television advertisements by utilizing controlled
conditions, comparing different variables (brands or recipes), collecting data on consumer preferences, and
potentially drawing conclusions based on the results. These experiments serve marketing purposes, allowing
companies like Coca-Cola and KFC to promote their products by demonstrating their superiority or consumer
appeal.
ANSWER – 03
Define the term population with reference to research?
POPULATION:
In research, a population is the entire group of people or things that you are interested in studying. A sample
is a smaller group of people or things that you select from the population to study.
Why do we draw samples from the population? Provide Multiple reasons and also clarify what
are various ways to draw samples.
WHY WE DRAW SAMPLES FROM POPULATIONS:
There are a few reasons why we draw samples from populations.
First, it is often not possible or practical to study the entire population. For example, if you are interested in
studying the effects of a new drug, it would be very expensive and time-consuming to give the drug to
everyone in the world. Instead, you can draw a sample of people from the population who are representative
of the entire population.
Second, by drawing a sample, you can save time and money. It is much faster and cheaper to collect data
from a smaller group of people than from the entire population.
Third, by drawing a sample, you can increase the accuracy of your results. If you study the entire population,
there is a chance that your results will be skewed by the presence of outliers or extreme values. By drawing
a sample, you can reduce the chances of this happening.
DIFFERENT WAYS TO DRAW A SAMPLE FROM THE POPULATION:
Here are different ways to draw a sample from the population:
1. 10% sample of the population: This is a simple random sample in which 10% of the population is
selected. This is a good option if you have a large population and you need to save time and money.
EXAMPLE: if you are trying to survey 1000 people in a city, you could randomly select 100 people from
the city's voter registration list.
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Assignment# 4
2. Personal linkages and context: This is a non-random sample in which you select people who you
know or who are connected to people you know. This is a good option if you are interested in a
specific group of people and you need to build rapport with them.
EXAMPLE: if you are trying to survey people about their experience with a new product, you could ask
your friends and family if they have used the product and would be willing to participate in your survey.
3. From data gaps or previous research: This is a non-random sample in which you select people
who have data that you need or who have been studied in previous research. This is a good option if
you are looking for specific information or if you want to replicate previous research.
EXAMPLE: if you are trying to understand why people are not using a particular public transportation
service, you could interview people who have used the service in the past.
4. As per the directive of your research supervisor: This is a non-random sample in which you select
people whom your research supervisor has instructed you to select. This is a good option if you are
new to research and you need guidance from your supervisor.
EXAMPLE: if your research supervisor wants you to survey people who are between the ages of 18 and 25,
you would need to select people who meet this age criterion.
5. Muganda and Mugenda: This is a non-random sample in which you select people who are
representative of the population in terms of their age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status. This is
a good option if you want to make sure that your sample is representative of the population.
EXAMPLE: if you want to survey 100 people from a population of 1000, you would select every 10th
person on the list.
6. Using 10-10 and 20-20 rule: This is a non-random sample in which you select people who are either
10 years older or 10 years younger than you, or who have 20% or less in common with you. This is a
good option if you want to get a variety of perspectives on your research topic.
EXAMPLE: if you are trying to survey people about their experience with a new product, you would want
to make sure that your sample includes people of all ages, genders, and races.
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Assignment# 4
ANSWER – 04
Define the term “Research Instrument”. What are the basic types of research instruments
discuss all with relevant examples.
RESEARCH INSTRUMENT:
A research instrument is a tool used to collect data in a research study. It can be a questionnaire, interview
guide, observation protocol, or other tool that helps the researcher collect information from participants.
TYPES OF RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS:
Here are the basic types of research instruments:
1.
Survey: A survey is a type of questionnaire that is used to collect data from a large number of
people. Surveys can be used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data.
2.
Questionnaire: A questionnaire is a set of questions that are used to collect data from
participants. Questionnaires can be either self-administered, which means that participants complete
them on their own, or interviewer-administered, which means that a researcher asks participants the
questions verbally.
3.
Narrative: A narrative is a story that is told by a participant. Narratives can be collected through
interviews, focus groups, or diaries.
4.
Archival research: Archival research is the process of collecting data from existing sources,
such as historical documents, newspapers, or photographs.
5.
Experiment: An experiment is a research study in which the researcher manipulates one or more
variables to see how they affect another variable. Experiments can be conducted in a laboratory or in
a natural setting.
6.
Observation: Observation is a method of data collection in which the researcher observes the
behavior of participants in a natural setting. Observations can be either structured, which means that
the researcher has a predetermined plan for what to observe, or unstructured, which means that the
researcher observes whatever happens.
7.
Case study: A case study is a detailed examination of a single individual, group, or event. Case
studies can be used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data.
8.
Ethnography: Ethnography is a qualitative research method that involves studying a group of
people in their natural settings over an extended period of time. Ethnographers typically use
participant observation, interviews, and focus groups to collect data.
9.
Phenomenology: Phenomenology is a qualitative research method that focuses on the lived
experiences of individuals. Phenomenologists typically use interviews and focus groups to collect
data.
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Assignment# 4
EXAMPLES OF RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS:
1.
Survey: A survey could be used to collect data on people's attitudes towards a new product.
2.
Questionnaire: A questionnaire could be used to collect data on people's demographics, such as
their age, gender, and income.
3.
Narrative: A narrative could be used to collect data on a person's experience with a particular
illness.
4.
Archival research: Archival research could be used to collect data on the history of a particular
company.
5.
Experiment: An experiment could be used to test the effectiveness of a new drug.
6.
Observation: Observation could be used to collect data on the behavior of shoppers in a retail
store.
7.
Case study: A case study could be used to collect data on a particular business and how it has
been successful.
8.
Ethnography: Ethnography could be used to collect data on the culture of a particular group of
people.
9.
Phenomenology: Phenomenology could be used to collect data on the experience of being a
patient with a chronic illness.
ANSWER – 05
What do you mean by research (scholarly) publications? How you type of research (scholarly)
publications are there? Discuss all with relevant examples.
RESEARCH (SCHOLARLY) PUBLICATIONS:
Research (scholarly) publications are written accounts of original research that have been peer-reviewed and
published in a scholarly journal or other academic venue. They are typically written by experts in a
particular field and are intended to communicate new knowledge or insights to other researchers and
scholars.
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Assignment# 4
TYPES OF RESEARCH (SCHOLARLY) PUBLICATIONS:
There are several types of research (scholarly) publications:
1.
Journal articles: Journal articles are the most common type of research (scholarly) publication.
They typically report on the results of original research, such as a study or experiment. Journal
articles are typically short, around 10-15 pages, and are written in a clear and concise style.
FOR EXAMPLE: "The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns" by John Smith and Jane
Doe, published in the Journal of Political Science, 2018.
2.
Books: Books are another type of research (scholarly) publication. They typically provide a more
comprehensive overview of a particular topic than a journal article. Books can be either monographs,
which are single-authored books, or edited volumes, which are collections of articles or chapters
written by different authors.
FOR EXAMPLE: "The Future of Work" by Michael Osterman, published by Princeton University
Press, 2019.
3.
Conference proceedings: Conference proceedings are collections of papers that have been
presented at a conference. Conference proceedings are typically published in book form, but they can
also be published in online journals.
FOR EXAMPLE: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Workplace" by Mary Jones, presented at
the 2020 Conference on Artificial Intelligence.
4.
Research reports: Research reports are documents that report on the results of research that has
been funded by a government agency or other organization. Research reports are typically less
formal than journal articles or books, and they are often intended for a specific audience, such as
engineers or scientists.
FOR EXAMPLE: The Development of a New Drug for Cancer" by Dr. Peter Green, published by the
National Institutes of Health, 2021
5.
Theses and dissertations: Theses and dissertations are long research papers that are written by
students as part of their graduate studies. Theses and dissertations are typically published in
electronic form, but they can also be published in print.
FOR EXAMPLE: The Impact of Climate Change on the Arctic" by Dr. Emily White, submitted to the
University of California, Berkeley, 2022.
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Assignment# 4
ANSWER – 06
What is are various ethics that we must follow while doing research? Discuss all the forms of
ethics associated with the business research in detail. Highlight different unethical practices
that are common in researchers of business research domain.
There are a number of ethical considerations that must be taken into account when conducting business
research. These include:
1. Informed consent: Participants must be fully informed about the purpose of the research, the
procedures involved, and the potential risks and benefits before they agree to participate.
2. Confidentiality: The researcher must protect the confidentiality of participants' data. This means
that the data should not be shared with anyone who is not authorized to see it, and it should be stored
in a secure location.
3. Avoiding harm: The researcher must take steps to avoid harming participants, either physically or
emotionally. This means that the researcher should not ask participants to do anything that they are
uncomfortable with, and the researcher should be prepared to stop the research if a participant
experiences any distress.
4. Respect for participants: The researcher must treat participants with respect. This means that the
researcher should be honest and transparent with participants, and the researcher should not take
advantage of participants in any way.
Unethical practices that are common in business research include:
Fabricating or falsifying data: Researchers may fabricate or falsify data in order to support their
hypotheses. This is a serious ethical violation, and it can have a negative impact on the credibility of the
research.
Plagiarism: Researchers may plagiarize the work of others by copying their ideas or words without giving
them credit. Plagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty, and it can lead to serious consequences for
researchers.
Failing to disclose conflicts of interest: Researchers may have conflicts of interest, such as financial ties to
a company that is the subject of their research. Researchers must disclose any conflicts of interest to their
participants and to the research community.
Failing to obtain informed consent: Researchers may fail to obtain informed consent from participants.
This can happen if researchers do not adequately explain the research to participants, or if they pressure
participants to participate.
It is important for researchers to be aware of the ethical issues involved in business research. By following
ethical principles and avoiding unethical practices, researchers can help to ensure that their research is
conducted in a responsible and ethical manner.
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