RM4151 – RESOURCE METHOLOGY & INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY.

Question Bank (overall)

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?

Ans:

Aspect Qualitative Research Quantitative Research

Understand depth and richness, explore Identify patterns, relationships,
Purpose and Focus meanings, motivations trends, generalize
Non-numeric (texts, images, videos, Numeric (measurable and
Data Type observations) structured data)
Flexible, open-ended, purposeful Structured, predetermined,
Research Design sampling random sampling
In-depth analysis, thematic/content Statistical methods, inferential
Data Analysis analysis statistics
Aims for generalizability to the
Generalization Typically not for generalization larger population
Acknowledges subjectivity of the Strives for objectivity,
Subjectivity/Objectivity researcher minimizing researcher bias

This table provides a concise overview of the key differences between qualitative and
quantitative research across various aspects. Remember that the choice between these
methods depends on the research question, the nature of the phenomenon under
study, and the researcher's goals.
Or

Data Collection: Qualitative research relies on non-numerical data, such as words, images, and
observations, while quantitative research relies on numerical data, such as numbers and statistics.

Data Analysis: Qualitative research focuses on identifying patterns, themes, and meanings, while
quantitative research focuses on numerical measurements and testing hypotheses.

Research Goals: Qualitative research aims to understand a phenomenon within a real-world context,
while quantitative research aims to establish causal or correlational relationships between variables.

Research Design: Qualitative research is more flexible and open-ended, allowing for in-depth
exploration and interpretation, while quantitative research is more structured and focused on testing
hypotheses.
Data Presentation: Qualitative research is expressed using words and descriptions, while quantitative
research is expressed using numbers and graphs.

Examples of qualitative research methods include one-on-one interviews, focus groups, ethnographic
research, and case study research. Examples of quantitative research methods include surveys,
experiments, and statistical analysis.

What are the steps involved in conducting a research study?

Conducting a research study involves a systematic process that includes several key steps. While the
specifics may vary depending on the nature of the research and the discipline, the following are general
steps often involved in conducting a research study:

1. **Identify the Research Problem:**

- Define the research problem or question that your study aims to address. Clearly articulate the
purpose and objectives of your research.

2. **Review the Literature:**

- Conduct a thorough review of existing literature related to your research topic. This helps you
understand the current state of knowledge, identify gaps, and build a theoretical foundation for your
study.

3. **Formulate a Research Hypothesis or Questions:**

- Develop a clear research hypothesis (for quantitative studies) or research questions (for qualitative
studies) based on your research problem and literature review.

4. **Design the Research:**

- Decide on the research design that aligns with your objectives (e.g., experimental, correlational,
qualitative, or mixed methods). Plan the methods for data collection and analysis.

5. **Select the Sample:**

- Choose the participants or subjects for your study. Define inclusion and exclusion criteria and decide
on a sampling method (random, stratified, convenience, etc.).
6. **Collect Data:**

- Implement the chosen data collection methods. This may involve surveys, experiments, interviews,
observations, or a combination of methods.

7. **Analyze Data:**

- Analyze the collected data using appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis techniques. Ensure that
your analysis addresses your research questions or hypothesis.

8. **Interpret Results:**

- Interpret the findings of your analysis in the context of your research questions or hypothesis. Discuss
the implications of your results and their contribution to existing knowledge.

9. **Draw Conclusions:**

- Summarize the main findings and draw conclusions based on your analysis. Discuss how your results
contribute to the understanding of the research problem.

10. **Communicate Results:**

- Prepare a research report or manuscript that communicates your study's methodology, results, and
conclusions. This may include writing a research paper, thesis, or presenting findings at conferences.

11. **Reflect on the Study:**

- Reflect on the strengths and limitations of your study. Consider areas for future research and
improvements to your research design.

12. **Ethical Considerations:**

- Throughout the entire process, ensure that your research is conducted ethically. Obtain necessary
approvals from ethical review boards, respect participant confidentiality, and adhere to ethical
guidelines.
These steps provide a general framework for conducting a research study. Depending on the field and
type of research, some steps may be more emphasized or adapted to fit specific requirements. Always
refer to your institution's guidelines and ethical standards when conducting research.

What are the different types of research designs?

Research designs refer to the overall strategy or plan employed to answer research questions or test
hypotheses. There are various types of research designs, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
The choice of a particular research design depends on the nature of the research question and the
goals of the study. Here are some common types of research designs:

1. **Experimental Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Involves manipulating one or more independent variables to observe their

effect on a dependent variable.

- **Purpose:** Establish cause-and-effect relationships.

- **Example:** Conducting a controlled experiment to test the impact of a new drug on a specific
medical condition.

2. **Correlational Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Examines the relationship between two or more variables without

manipulating them.

- **Purpose:** Identify associations and patterns between variables.

- **Example:** Investigating the correlation between study hours and academic performance.

3. **Descriptive Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Aims to describe the characteristics or behaviors of a phenomenon.

- **Purpose:** Provide an accurate portrayal of a situation or phenomenon.

- **Example:** Conducting surveys or observational studies to describe the preferences of a target

population.
4. **Cross-Sectional Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Data is collected at a single point in time from participants of different

backgrounds or characteristics.

- **Purpose:** Examines relationships or differences at a specific point in time.

- **Example:** Surveying individuals from various age groups to explore their attitudes toward
technology.

5. **Longitudinal Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Data is collected from the same subjects over an extended period to track
changes or developments.

- **Purpose:** Study patterns of change over time.

- **Example:** Following a cohort of individuals over several years to observe changes in career
trajectories.

6. **Case Study Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** In-depth exploration of a single case or a small number of cases.

- **Purpose:** Gain detailed insights into complex phenomena.

- **Example:** Conducting a case study on a specific community to understand its cultural practices.

7. **Quasi-Experimental Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Similar to experimental design but lacks full control over variables.

- **Purpose:** Test causal relationships when full experimental control is not feasible.

- **Example:** Evaluating the impact of a teaching method in a real classroom setting without
random assignment.

8. **Meta-Analysis Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Involves the statistical analysis of existing research results to draw overarching
conclusions.
 - **Purpose:** Combine and analyze findings from multiple studies to identify patterns or trends.

- **Example:** Combining results from various studies to assess the overall effectiveness of a
particular therapy.

9. **Mixed Methods Research Design:**

- **Characteristics:** Combines qualitative and quantitative research methods in a single study.

- **Purpose:** Provide a more comprehensive understanding by triangulating different types of

data.

- **Example:** Collecting survey data and conducting interviews to study the impact of an
educational intervention.

These research designs offer a diverse set of approaches to address different research questions and
objectives. The selection of a particular design depends on the research goals, the nature of the
phenomenon under investigation, and practical considerations. Researchers may also use a
combination of these designs in complex studies.

What are the ethical considerations in research?

Ethical considerations in research are essential to ensure that studies are conducted in a morally
responsible manner, respecting the rights and well-being of participants. Researchers must adhere to
ethical guidelines and principles throughout the entire research process. Here are key ethical
considerations in research:

1. **Informed Consent:**

- **Definition:** Participants must be fully informed about the study's purpose, procedures, risks,
benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time.

- **Implementation:** Obtain written or verbal informed consent before involving participants in the
study.

2. **Voluntary Participation:**

- **Definition:** Participation in research should be voluntary, and participants should not face
coercion or undue pressure to take part.
 - **Implementation:** Clearly communicate that participation is voluntary, and participants have the
right to withdraw without negative consequences.

3. **Confidentiality:**

- **Definition:** Protect the privacy of participants by ensuring that their personal information
remains confidential.

- **Implementation:** Use coding systems, anonymize data, and limit access to confidential
information to authorized personnel only.

4. **Anonymity:**

- **Definition:** Ensure that participants' identities cannot be linked to their responses or data
collected during the study.

- **Implementation:** Use anonymous surveys, remove identifying information, and safeguard data
storage.

5. **Respect for Participants:**

- **Definition:** Treat participants with dignity and respect, acknowledging their autonomy and
individual rights.

- **Implementation:** Avoid any form of discrimination, stigmatization, or exploitation of participants.

6. **Protection from Harm:**

- **Definition:** Ensure that participants are not exposed to physical or psychological harm as a result
of their participation.

- **Implementation:** Conduct risk assessments, monitor participants' well-being, and provide

appropriate support or debriefing if needed.

7. **Balancing Risks and Benefits:**

- **Definition:** Evaluate potential risks and benefits of the study to ensure that the benefits justify
any potential harm.
 - **Implementation:** Clearly communicate the study's purpose, potential risks, and benefits during
the informed consent process.

8. **Researcher Integrity:**

- **Definition:** Researchers should conduct studies with honesty and integrity, accurately reporting
data and avoiding fabrication or falsification.

- **Implementation:** Follow ethical guidelines in data collection, analysis, and reporting.

9. **Social Responsibility:**

- **Definition:** Consider the broader impact of the research on society, ensuring that the study
promotes positive outcomes and avoids negative consequences.

- **Implementation:** Be aware of the societal implications of the research and aim for contributions
that benefit the community.

10. **Approval from Ethical Review Boards:**

- **Definition:** Seek approval from institutional review boards (IRBs) or ethics committees before
initiating research involving human participants.

- **Implementation:** Submit a detailed research proposal to the relevant ethical review board,
addressing ethical considerations, and obtain approval.

11. **Transparent Communication:**

- **Definition:** Communicate research findings transparently, avoiding selective reporting or

distortion of results.

- **Implementation:** Present results accurately, acknowledge limitations, and report negative

findings when applicable.

Adherence to ethical principles is crucial to maintaining the trust of participants, the research
community, and the public. Researchers should be familiar with and follow ethical guidelines specific to
their field and institution. Ethical considerations are not only important for human subjects research but
also extend to studies involving animals, data, and the environment.
What are the key elements of a research proposal?

What are the different types of data collection methods?

What are the different types of data analysis techniques?

What are the challenges in conducting research?

What are the benefits of conducting research?

What are the intellectual property rights?

What are the different types of intellectual property rights?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a patent?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a copyright?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a trademark?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a design patent?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a trade secret?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a license?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a franchise?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a royalty?

What are the steps involved in obtaining a cross-licensing agreement?

Unit I: Research Design

What is the research process and its significance in conducting a study?

Explain the use of secondary and exploratory data in research.

Discuss the different methods of qualitative research.

What are the various data collection methods such as observation studies, experiments, and surveys?

Unit II: Data Collection and Sources

Explain the concept of measurements and different measurement scales.

Discuss the process of preparing, exploring, examining, and displaying data.

What are the different types of questionnaires and instruments used in data collection?
Explain the various sampling techniques and methods.

Unit III: Data Analysis and Reporting

Provide an overview of multivariate analysis and its significance in research.

What is hypothesis testing, and how is it conducted in research?

Discuss the measures of association in data analysis.

How are insights and findings presented using written reports and oral presentations?

Unit IV: Intellectual Property Rights

What is the concept of intellectual property rights (IPR) and its evolution?

Discuss the role of WIPO and WTO in the establishment of IPR.

Explain the common rules and practices of IPR.

What are the different types of patents and their features?