MS95 : RESEARCH METHODOLOGY FOR MANAGEMENT DECISIONS

JUNE 2003

Note : (i) Attempt any 1 questions from Section A, each carrying 25 marks.

(ii) Section B is compulsory and carries 25 marks.

SECTION A

1 Research process starts from problem definition to the stage of interpretation of results. Briefly name and discuss the five steps of research process. [25]

2(a) Examine the merits and limitations of the observation method in collecting data. Illustrate your answer with suitable examples.

(b) Which method is most suitable for conducting an enquiry regarding a family welfare programme in India? Explain its merits and demerits. [25]

3(a) List out the advantage of sampling over complete enumeration. When is sampling more appropriate than taking a census?

(b) Describe the difference between a probability sample and a non-probability sample. [25]

4(a) Describe in brief the importance of editing, coding classification, tabulation and presentation of data in the context of a research study.

(b) Write a format of a good report indicating different parts and their positioning in the report. [25]

5 Write short notes on any four of the following : [25]

(i) Simple random sampling

(ii) Quota sampling

(iii) Discriminant analysis and its suitability of use

(iv) Factor loading in factor analysis

(v) Model validation

(vi) Manuscript proof reading

(vii) Different types of experimental design

SECTION B

6(a) What is the purpose of a statistical hypothesis? Discuss null and alternative hypothesis with appropriate examples. [5]

(b) A professor is trying to show new students the importance of quizzes even though 90% of the final grade is determined by exams. He believes that the higher the quiz grades, the higher the final grade. A random sample of 15 students in his class was selected with the data given below :

Quiz average Final average

59 65

92 84

72 77

90 80

95 77

87 81

89 80

77 84

76 80

65 69

97 83

42 40

94 78

62 65

91 90 

(i) Fit a linear regression model of Y (dependent) on X (independent):

(ii) Test the validity of the equation.

(iii) Calculate the co-efficient of determination [20]