MBA FT Research Methods Module BUS728

Assignment 1 3,500 words ±10%. This assignment carries 70% of total weighting.

Answer ALL questions

Question 1

a). Explain the role the Research Question plays in the construction of an MBA dissertation.

b). Explain what you understand by the term “research hypothesis” and how it is related to the
research question.

c). Illustrate an appropriate null hypothesis using a hypothetical example paying particular attention
to how the hypothesis is worded.
(20 marks)

Question 2

It is typically argued that for a piece of research to be academically acceptable it must exhibit validity,
reliability and generalisablility.

a).explain and critically comment upon each of these three terms as they exist within management
research. (15 marks)

b). methodology textbooks often distinguish between three types of validity: construct, internal and
external validity. Explain and critically comment upon each of these terms as they exist within
management research. (15 marks)

Question 3

Qualitative data collection methods (as opposed to quantitative data collection methods) are typically
grouped as interviews; observation; and diary methods. Interview methods are more typical of
management research although not exclusively so. The following eclectic choice of techniques can
support the interview method with logic and structure for better extraction of data. These
techniques/methods are:

• Repertory grid technique

• Protocol analysis
• Cognitive mapping
• Group and focus interviews

Explain and critically evaluate each of the above four techniques giving an example of when each may
appropriately be used.
(25 marks)
Question 4

Parametric and non-parametric statistics form part of inferential statistical analysis.

a). Give a critical explanation of the difference between descriptive and inferential statistics.

b). Give a critical explanation of the difference between parametric and non parametric statistical
analysis. Illustrate with one example of each.

c). What do you understand by the terms population frame and sample approach in the context of
management research. Exhibit and explain the equation for determining a parametric sample
size.
(25 marks)

NB: although the marks add to 100% this will be weighted 70% to assignment 1 and 30% to assignment
2, the research proposal.