Research Methodology Sample Question Paper
Research methodology refers to the systematic ways and scientific processes adopted to conduct research with an aim to find reliable solutions to problems. It includes the objectives, design, research methods, data collection and analysis techniques used in a research. Research methodology helps in measuring the effectiveness of the research and findings. Here is a sample question paper on research methodology to understand the various types of questions asked in this subject:
Section A (Very Short Answer Type Questions)
What do you mean by research? (50 words)
Define sampling. (50 words)
What are the characteristics of good research? (50 words)
What is the difference between dependent and independent variable? (50 words)
What is questionnaire design? (50 words)
Section B (Short Answer Type Questions)
Explain the steps involved in research process. (100 words)
Discuss the types of research design. (100 words)
What are the different data collection methods used in research? (100 words)
What is primary data? Give examples. (100 words)
Write short notes on:
a) Research problem formulation (50 words)
b) Pilot study (50 words)
c) Sampling techniques (50 words)
Section C (Long Answer Type Questions)
What are the objectives and importance of research methodology? Elaborate. (200 words)
Explain in detail the various types of sampling designs used in research. (200 words)
Discuss exploratory, descriptive and causal research designs with suitable examples. (200 words)
What are the different techniques used for editing, coding and classification of data? Explain any two techniques in detail. (200 words)
Differentiate between qualitative and quantitative research approaches. Provide examples of research topics suitable for each approach. (200 words)
Section D (Application Based Questions)
As a research scholar, you have chosen the topic “Impact of demonetization on Indian economy”. Develop a complete research proposal including:
Research title
Objectives of the study
Research problem/questions
Hypotheses of the study (if any)
Research design
Population and sample details
Data collection methods
Data analysis plan
Significance and limitations of the study
You want to conduct a research study on “Factors influencing consumer buying behavior towards green products”. Develop a well structured questionnaire for data collection keeping the research objectives and variables in mind.
You have collected primary data through survey method for your PhD research on “Entrepreneurial motivations and success among women”. Suggest appropriate statistical and data analysis techniques to analyze the collected data and draw meaningful conclusions.
Section E (Case Study Based Questions)
Critically analyze the research methodology adopted in the given case study and suggest possible improvements:
Case study – A research was conducted to understand the health issues faced by construction workers in Delhi. Exploratory research design was used. convenience sampling method was adopted to collect data through interviews from 100 construction workers. Data was analyzed using percentages and frequencies. Key issues identified were musculoskeletal problems, respiratory issues and lack of safety measures at work. Lack of generalizability was a limitation.
You have been provided with the following case details. Develop a complete research proposal incorporating relevant methodological aspects:
Case – A non-profit organization working in the field of education wants to set up skill development centers for school dropouts in Delhi. Before taking a decision, they want to understand the skill gaps, employment opportunities and challenges faced by school dropouts through a research study.
This sample research methodology question paper covers various types of questions from very short answer types to application and case study based long answer questions. The questions assess the conceptual understanding, knowledge of various research processes, sampling techniques, types of research designs, data collection and analysis methods in research methodology. Overall, it provides a comprehensive overview of the scope and depth of the subject.