Chapter 7

Chapter 6

GROUP TWO

SUMMARY CHAPTER 6: ELEMENTS OF RESEARCH DESIGN

The chapter discussed the basic research design. The research design includes the purpose of the study which may be exploratory in nature; which involves a situation when there is inadequate information furnished for the research. It could also be descriptive research which is undertaken to establish and illustrate the characteristics of the variables of interest in a situation. The hypothesis testing was also discussed. The type of investigation to be undertaken which could be either casual study or correlation was examined. The chapter also stated that that the unit of analysis referred to the process of gathering data for analysis and the time horizon could be cross-sectional or longitudinal. Finally, the circumstances in which each design would be appropriate were examined.

REFLECTION

In understanding what a researcher is about to do, the manager has to have adequate knowledge of the research design. Before a manager takes up a study he is expected to do a thorough analysis to have an idea of the how rigorous the study maybe. The design to be adopted by the manager is contingent on magnitude of the problem experienced. Knowledge of research design helps managers to study and intelligently comment on research proposals.

Chapter 5

CHAPTER SUMMARY ON THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK & HYPOTHESIS DEVELOPMENT PREPARED BY MEMBERS OF TEAM 2.

This chapter seeks to shed more light on two vital aspects of the research process which are; i) Theoretical Framework, and

ii) Hypothesis Development.

A theoretical framework is a conceptual model of how one makes logical sense of the relationships among the factors that have been highlighted as necessary to a particular research topic.
It can also be referred to as a logically developed, described and elaborate network of associations among the variables deemed relevant to the problem situation and identified through such processes as interviews, observations and literature survey.

From the definition of the term “theoretical framework” we identified some key elements which are;
i) It is logically based
ii) Existence of a relationship among certain factors or variables

What are Variables?

Variables are the various forms, characteristics or qualities of issues we seek research. Variables can take on differing or varying values.
Variables are called what they are because it is assumed that the cases will vary in their scores on these attributes. For example if the variable is someone’s age, we obviously recognize that people can be different ages.

Types of variables.

i) Dependent variable: this can also be termed as the outcome variable. It is the variable of primary interest to the researcher. The aim of the researcher is to understand, describe and predict this variable. An example of a dependent variant could be a study to determine why some people are more satisfied in their jobs than others. Job satisfaction is the dependent variable in this case.

ii) Independent variable: also known as the predictor or explanatory variables. They are the variables that we believe influence the dependable variable in either a positive or negative way. An example is studying why people are more satisfied with their jobs if they are given a lot more freedom and also a pay increase. The independent variable here is the Job freedom and salary increase.

iii) Moderating variable: also termed the contingent variable. It has a strong contingent or modifying effect on both the independent and dependent variable. It’s main function seems to adjust the strength of relationship between the independent and dependent variables. For example is studying the perception that diversity in organizations can make them more profitable but only if managers are specially trained in diversity management. The moderating variable here is the “diversity training”. It adjusts the strength of relationship between diversity (independent variable) and profitability (dependent variable).

iv) Intervening Variance: this is the variable that surfaces between the time the independent variables start operating to influence the dependent variable and the time their impact is felt on it. Citing the example used in describing the Moderating variable, we said that diversity brings about profitability, we add an intervening variance by stating that diversity(independent variance) leads to innovation which in turn leads to profitability. Innovation is the intervening variance.


Why the theoretical framework?

A theoretical framework guides any research and gives direction determining what things to measure and what statistical relationships you will look for. It is the foundation on which the entire research project is based.
It has also been proven to be very important in exploratory studies because it helps the research have a guide and direction in his research work despite whatever his preconceived notions were about the research topic. Things not in your framework go unnoticed.

Having a sound theoretical framework is very essential in any research which primarily seeks to find solution to a problem. The relationship between the literature survey and the theoretical framework is that literature survey provides a solid foundation for developing the theoretical framework. It provides the basic information i.e. the variables and other logical connections that is using in drawing up the theoretical framework.

Essential Components of The Theoretical Framework.

1. The relevant variables should be clearly identified and labelled.
2. Clearly state how the variables are related to another
3. Theorize the nature and direction of the relationships on the basis of the findings of the previous research, and then indicate if the relationship will be negative or positive.
4. Clearly stated reason why the researcher expects the relationships to exist.
5. A systematic diagram of the theoretical framework should be drawn to show the relationships amongst the variables.


HYPOTHESIS DEVELOPMENT.

Hypothesis development is the next stage in the research process after successfully drawing up the theoretical framework.
Hypothesis can be defined as a logical relationship between two or more variables expressed in the form of testable statement. By confirming or rejecting hypothesis, it is expected that solutions can be found to correct the problem encountered.
Hypothesis should have the following characteristics;
i) It should be testable
ii) Availability of variables that can be related and substantiated.

Types of Hypothesis.

i).If-then statements:
This type of hypothesis seeks to test whether there are differences between two groups (or among several groups) with respect to nay variable or variables.
An example of using this statement can be described using this case; Employees who are healthier will take sick leave less frequently.
“If employees are healthier, then they will take sick leave less frequently”


iii) Directional and Non Directional Hypothesis.
If terms such as positive, negative, more than, less than are used, then the hypothesis are directional because the relationship between variables is indicated.
For example:
“The greater the stress experienced in the job, the lower the job satisfaction level of employees.”

On the other hand non-directional hypothesis shows no indication of the direction of the relationship. For example:
“There is a relationship between age and satisfaction.” This statement doesn’t give a direction as to the relationship between age and satisfaction

iii) Null and Alternate Hypothesis
The null hypothesis is a proposition that states a definitive, exact relationship between two variables. The null statement is expressed as no relationship between two variables or no difference between two groups. While on the other hand, the Alternate hypothesis is one which is the opposite of the null, it expresses the existence of a relationship between two variables or indicating differences between groups.




Team Summary.
The review of this chapter has helped in identifying and distinguishing between the various variables associated with any given situation and using the links among the variable in drawing up a theoretical framework.

It has also taught us how to develop a hypothesis which can be tested and applied to a research project.

Chapter 4

SUMMARY OF CHAPTER FOUR

THE RESEARCH PROCESS

Broad problem area can be identified through the process of observing and focusing on the situation. The specific issues that need to be researched might fall into:

1.) problem currently existing in an organization
2.) areas that a manager believes need to be improved in the organization
3.) conceptual or theoretical issue that needs to be tightened up for the basic researcher to understand certain phenomena.

Preliminary Data Collection:

Nature of Data to be Gathered:- The nature of information needed by the researcher for the purpose could be broadly classified under three headings:

I. Background information of the organization – that is, the contextual factors like the origin and history of the company, size in terms of employees, location etc.
II. Managerial philosophy, company policies, and other structural aspects.
III. Perceptions, attitudes, and behavioral responses of organizational members and client systems.

Literature Survey:- This is the documentation of a comprehensive review of the published and unpublished work from secondary source of data in the area of specific interest to the researcher. With computerized databases now available and accessible, the literature search is much easier and speedier, and this can even be done without entering the portals of any library. The purpose of literature review is to ensure that no important variable that has in the past been found repeatedly to have had an impact on the problem is ignored.

Based on the specific issues of concern to the manager and the factors identified during the interview process, a literature review needs to be done on these variables. The first step in this process involves identifying the various published and unpublished materials that are available on the topics of interest, and gaining access to them.

In the past, in order to identify relevant sources, researcher needs to manually go through several bibliographical indexes that are compiled periodically, listing the journals, books, and other sources in which published work in the area of interest can be found. Global business information, published articles in newspapers and periodicals among others are all now available on databases. Computerized databases include bibliographies, abstracts, and full-texts database, statistical and financial databases are also easily accessible.

Accessing the online system and getting a printout of all published works in the area of interest from bibliographical index will provide a comprehensive summary of the subject. Whereas, the printout could sometimes include as many as a hundred or more listings, a glance at the titles of the articles or books will indicate which of these may be pertinent and which others are likely to be peripheral to be contemplated.

Writing up Literature Review

The documentation of the relevant studies citing the author and the year of the study is called literature review or literature survey. This survey is a clear and logical presentation of the relevant research work done thus far in the area of investigation. As sated earlier, the purpose of literature survey is to identify and highlight the important variables, and to document the significant findings from earlier research that will serve as the foundation on which the theoretical framework for the current investigation can be built and the hypothesis researcher is knowledgeable about the problem area and has done the preliminary homework that is necessary to conduct the research. A point to note is that literature survey should bring together all relevant information in a cogent and logical manner instead of presenting all the studies in chronological order with bits and pieces of uncoordinated information.

Problem Definition

After the interview and the literature survey, the researcher is in apposition to narrow down the problem from its original broad base and define the issues of concern more clearly. It is critical that the focus of further research be unambiguously identified and defined; there is no amount of research work that can find solutions to the problem if critical issue or problem to be studied is not clearly pinpointed. A problem does not necessarily mean that something is seriously wrong with the current situation that needs to be rectified immediately. A problem could simply indicate an interest in an issue where finding the right answers might help to improve an existing situation.

Examples of well defined problems
i.) to what extent do the structure of the organization and type of information systems installed account for the variance in the perceived effectiveness of managerial decision making?
ii.) how was the new packaging affected the sales of the product?
iii.) Has the new advertising message resulted in enhanced recall?

Managerial Implications

Managers sometimes look at the symptoms in problematic situations and treat them as if they are the real problems, getting frustrated when their remedies do not work. Understanding the antecedents-problem-consequences sequence, and gathering the relevant information to get a real grasp of the problem go a long way in pinpointing it. Managers’ input helps researchers to define the broad problem area and confirm their own theories about the situational factors impacting on the central problems. Managers who realize that correct problem solution, do not grudge the time spent in working closely with researchers, particularly at this stage. Using this facility, the managers can get to know how similar businesses the world over grapple with similar situations and get a better handle on the issues at hand.

Chapter 3

BA 306 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY


TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS RESEACH

To run a business, useful, timely, accurate, reliable, and valid data are needed. When data in their raw form are evaluated, analyzed and synthesed, useful information become available to managers that help them make good business decisions. Technology in all aspect of business cannot be overstated. Technology as used in this chapter refers to all hardware, software and communication aids that achieve the desire business result.

COMMONLY USED TCHNOLOGIES IN BUSINESS RESEARCH

These include all electronic interactive media such as CD-ROM, the DVD, the browser, the internet and the intranet, and search engine.
The Internet, which is vast global network of computers connecting people and information, has opened up tremendous opportunities through the world. Business research can proceed using the internet using the internet the internet and search engines, even where sources of information on a particular topic are not readily known.

The Electronic Mail, The internet also permits the exchange of electronic mail which has become increasingly become the primary mode of communication in business both within and outside the company.

The Intranet is the internal system of the organization what the internet to its external environment. It links internal data networks of the computer, but prevent access to other outside the company. It also facilities data collection from within the company; for instance, survey can easily conducted through the intranet to assess employee moral.

Browsers, Browser software allows users easy to and navigates through the web.

Web sites, organization create websites to promote their image, communicate with the customers, build , relationships, share information, offer attractive inducements to prospective customers, and ensure that they keep returning. In some cases they even allows online purchase by customers.




SOME SOFTWARE USED IN BUSINESS RESEARCH.
Groupware, Groupware is software that runs on a network so that teams can work on joint projects, and allows people from different departments to access data jointly.

Neural Networks, Neural Networks are designed to trace patterns in a set of data and generalized them. This software enables sale forecast, stock market prediction, detection of weather patterns etc.

CAM/CAD, Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software helps engineers to design the manufacturing components and direct the production of the product. Computer aided design (CAD) software creates and display complex drawings with precision, enabling experimentation with different designs.

Enterprise Resource Planning, Enterprise Resource Planning packages from software companies that offer all-in-one integrated business applications have slowly replaced traditional manufacturing, finance and order entry applications, which are usually home designed and do not lend themselves to easy integration

EMERGING APPLICATIONS IN TECHNOLOGY
Handheld Devices, Handheld devices like palm, assisted by new class of software easy data gathering and immediate analyses, and has initiated change in field work.

Interactive voice Technology, CD-ROM, and Rational Database, This technological advances have help businesses to conduct research and increase their operational efficiency.

Digital Whiteboards, allows contents on a board displaying intricate diagrams and voluminous notes to be copied on the pc notepad and transmitted to others, as requested.

Group Videoconferencing, reproduces the face-to-face meeting effect by using large TV monitors or projector.

INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND MANAGERIAL DECISION MAKING
As organizations take on expanded functions and grow in size, it is important for them to be equipped with a good information system from which data can be accessed for analysis by managers at different level. Among the aspect of information systems managers used are; Data Warehousing, Data Mining and Operation Research.

DATA STORAGE AND SURVEILLANCE
Data is the life blood of companies and should be mirrored life in at least two other locations, or at least backed up by on tape and stored in other safe locations.


CONLUSION

Information technology and the development of software to gather, store and analyze information, result of which facilitate decision making. We have specifically examined some of the current possibilities for research afforded by the use of the software from simple data collection to the development of information systems to facilitate further research and decision making.




TEAM 2 MEMBERS
MONDAY
BENJAMIN
ADESHOLA
SOPHIE
EFOSA
HASSANNAT
MOSES
DORIS
OLUSEYI

Chapter 2

Chapter 1

SUMMARY OF CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION:
This chapter talks about the Scientific Research which applies to both Basic and Applied Research.

Scientific Research focuses on solving problems and pursues a step by step logical, organized and rigorous method or approach to identify the problems, gather data, analyze them and draw valid conclusions thereon.

The Hallmark of the Scientific Research is stated below.

1. Purposiveness
2. Rigor
3. Testability
4. Replicability
5. Precision and Confidence
6. Objectivity
7. Generalizability
8. Parsimony

Thus, the primary method s of Scientific Investigation or Research is the Hypothetico Deductive Method.

Deduction is the process in which we arrive at a reasoned conclusion by logical generalization of a known fact. This is to say for example – high performers are highly proficient in their job. So if Seyi is a performer then we conclude that he is highly proficient in his job.

While Induction – is the process where we observe certain phenomena and base on this we arrive at conclusions.








The Seven Step Process in the Hypothetico -Deductive Methods are namely

1. Observation
2. Preliminary Information Gathering
3. Theory Formulation
4. Hypothesizing
5. further Scientific Data Collection
6. Data Analysis
7. Deduction

IN SUMMARY:

In this chapter we obtain a general understanding of what constitutes Scientific Research and the Hallmarks of scientific investigation or research. We also looked at the steps involved in the hypothetical –deductive method of studying a problem in order to solve it. Thus, when managers realize the value of scientific investigation, they are able to understand and accept the need for good research. While this offers the opportunity to effectively solve complex problems encountered at workplace. The manager also realizes the fact that although organizational research cannot offer 100% accuracy in results. Choices and trade-offs among the various criteria of scientific investigation can be made to obtain valid results for purpose of good decision making.