Past Paper

Year 2019
Subject: Business Research Method
Prepared By: Hamza Sharfat
Class: BBA (2020-24)
Course Instructor: Professor Asifa Gill

Short Answer
1. What is descriptive research?
2. Define Simple Random Sampling?
3. Define ratio scale with the help of an example.
4. Differentiate between cross sectional and longitudinal research.
5. Explain semi structured interview.
6. What is meant by deductive reasoning?
7. Write down two advantages and two disadvantages of external researcher.
8. Explain funneling technique of questioning?
9. Explain any two possible threats to internal validity in experimental design.
10. Pros and Cons of observational studies

1. Answers
What is descriptive research?
Descriptive research is a type of research design that involves observing and
describing the behavior of a specific population or phenomenon. This type of
research aims to provide an accurate and detailed understanding of the subject
being studied, but it does not seek to explain or predict behavior.

2. Define Simple Random Sampling?

Simple random sampling is a statistical technique used in research to select a
random and representative sample from a population. In this method, each
 member of the population has an equal chance of being selected, and the
sample is chosen without any bias or systematic pattern.

3. Define ratio scale with the help of an example.

A ratio scale is a measurement scale that has a true zero point and equal
intervals between values. In this scale, ratios between values are meaningful
and can be compared.
For Example:
An example of a ratio scale is weight in pounds or kilograms. A weight of 200
pounds is twice the weight of 100 pounds.

4. Differentiate between cross-sectional and longitudinal research.

● Cross-sectional research is a type of study that collects data at a single
point in time, while longitudinal research collects data over an extended
period, typically months or years.
● Cross-sectional research can provide a snapshot of a population at a
given time, while longitudinal research allows researchers to observe
changes in behavior or attitudes over time.

5. Explain semi-structured interview.

A semi-structured interview is a type of interview where the interviewer has a
set of predetermined questions but is allowed to ask follow-up questions based
on the interviewee's responses. The structure of the interview provides
consistency in data collection, while the flexibility of follow-up questions allows
for more in-depth and meaningful responses.

6. What is meant by deductive reasoning?

Deductive reasoning is a logical process where a conclusion is drawn based on a
set of premises or assumptions. In this process, the conclusion is derived from
the general principle to a specific instance. Deductive reasoning is used
extensively in scientific research and helps to test hypotheses and theories.

7. Write down two advantages and two disadvantages of external researcher.

Advantages of an external researcher:
● Objectivity and impartiality in research
● A fresh perspective on the research problem
Disadvantages of an external researcher:
● Lack of knowledge and familiarity with the organization or industry
● Cost and time implications

8. Explain the funneling technique of questioning?

 The funneling technique of questioning is a method of gradually narrowing down
the scope of an interview or survey. This technique starts with broad and
open-ended questions and then gradually narrows down to specific and focused
questions.

9. Explain any two possible threats to internal validity in experimental design.

Two possible threats to internal validity in experimental design are:

1. History effect: This occurs when an external event or factor affects the
outcome of the study. For example, a change in legislation that affects
the behavior of participants.
2. Maturation effect:
This occurs when changes in the participants' behavior are due to natural
developmental processes, such as aging or maturity, rather than the
treatment or intervention.

10. Pros and Cons of observational studies

Pros of observational studies:
● Provide a more naturalistic and realistic setting
● Can be used to study rare or unethical behaviors or conditions
Cons of observational studies:
● Lack of control over extraneous variables
● Observer bias or subjectivity

These papers are available at:

https://sites.google.com/view/hs-library-/home