Course Catalogue

Module Title: RSM 301 Research Methods

Credit Value:             12

Module Tutor: From respective programme           

General Objective:

This module aims to develop students’ skills in conducting research and in utilizing quantitative and qualitative research tools. It will prepare students for research by acquainting them to the research processes including hypothesis development, research designing, data collection methods, designing of questionnaires and their administration. Application of sampling techniques, statistical methods in data reduction and analysis, as well as formatting and styling of research report will also be stressed.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  After the successful completion of this module, learners are expected to:

·         demonstrate proficiency in basic and selected quantitative and qualitative research tools

·         apply research tools in conducting research

·         be proficient in reviewing literature sources and formulate research problems, questions and hypotheses and design research experiments

·         apply research methods, collect and analyze data

·         apply relevant statistical tools in research work

·         write research reports

 

Learning and Teaching Approach:

The module will be delivered in 15 teaching weeks as per the following:

  • 3 hours/wk of lecturing on the theory component;
  • 1 hour/wk of tutorial
  • The students are required to undertake independent research projects to sharpen their research skills.

 

Assessment

  • End of semester  examination :

Ø  Theory                                      40%

  • Continuous course work:

Ø  Project proposal writing           20%

Ø  Data analysis                            30%

Ø  Assignment                               10%

 

Subject Matter:

Introduction:                                                                                                 5L

·         Research: The concept

·         Types of research: applied and fundamental research; scientific and social research, processes and characteristics, comparisons and deficiencies

·         Scope and purpose of research

 

Review of Literature:                                                                                               6L

·         Concept and need for review of literature

·         Composing bibliography from different sources

·         Reviewing the literature in the bibliography; footnotes, references, and presenting bibliography (with emphasis on the APA Format)

 

Problem, Theoretical Framework and Hypothesis:                                   4L

·         Problem identification and formulation

·         Theoretical framework

·         Formulation of research questions; hypotheses and statements

 

Research Design:                                                                                           7L

·         Importance of research design

·         Elements of the research design

·         Types of research design: exploratory, historical, descriptive, developmental, case study, survey, casual-comparative, experimental, quasi-experimental, and action research designs; common sources of error in research design

 

Qualitative Methods of Research:                                                               3L

·         Rapid assessment; focus group discussion; case history; key informants

 

Data Collection:                                                                                             4L

·         Use of secondary data

·         Collection of primary data: observation, interview, questionnaire; questionnaire design; field-work planning

 

Data Analysis:                                                                                                           12L

·         Data Presentation: tables; graphs and diagrams

·         Statistical analysis of data: use of descriptive and inferential tools, computer entry and output generation, application of statistical software viz. SPSS, Nudist in data analysis

 

Report Writing:                                                                                             4L

·         The report format and types of report

Reading list:

Essential reading:

1.      Grix, J., (2002). The foundations of Research. Palgrave Foundations; New York (accession no.001.4 GRI)

2.      Kerlinger Fred N., Foundations of Behavioural Research, (2000). New Delhi: Surjeet Publications.

3.      Jerrold H. Zar, (2010). Biostatistical Analysis 5/E, Pearson, Northern Illinois,University,USA.

4.      Field, A., (2009) Discovering Statistics Using SPSS. Sage Pub., India.

 

Suggested reading:

1.      Wolf H. K. and P. R Pant,(2002). Social Science Research and Thesis Writing,. (Kathmandu: Buddha Academic)

2.      Punch, Keith F. (2005) Introduction to Social research: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. London: Sage Publlication

3.      Ghosh, B. N. (2007) Scientific Method and Social Research (Revised edition). New Delhi, Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd.

4.      Cozby, Paul C. (2001) Methods in Behavioural Research (seventh edition). Mayfield Publishing Co.

5.      Kumar, Ranjit (2005) Research Methodology: A Step By Step Guide for Beginners, (Second edition)