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All questions of Methods of Research for UGC NET Exam

In which type of descriptive research are the results compared with a norm?
  • a)
    Descriptive-Survey Research
  • b)
    Descriptive-Normative Survey
  • c)
    Descriptive-Status
  • d)
    Descriptive-Comparative
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Krisha Patel answered
Descriptive-Normative Survey Research
Descriptive-normative survey research involves comparing the results of a study with a norm or standard. This type of research aims to understand how a particular group or population compares to a standard or norm in terms of certain characteristics or behaviors.

Importance of Comparing with a Norm
- Comparing the results with a norm allows researchers to determine whether the group being studied exhibits typical or atypical behavior.
- It provides a basis for evaluating the significance or implications of the findings.
- It helps in understanding how the group or population being studied differs from or aligns with established norms.

Example
For example, in a study on student performance in a particular subject, the results may be compared with a national average or standard to assess the academic achievement of the students in that subject. This comparison can help identify areas where students excel or struggle compared to the norm.

Conclusion
Descriptive-normative survey research is valuable in providing insights into how a group or population compares to established norms or standards. By comparing the results with a norm, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the characteristics, behaviors, or performance of the group being studied.

What is the main goal of historical research when studying the accomplishments of individuals or organizations?
  • a)
    To manipulate current data for future predictions
  • b)
    To record and evaluate these accomplishments
  • c)
    To compare different historical events
  • d)
    To establish new theories based on past data
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Dhairya Shah answered
Recording and Evaluating Accomplishments:
Historical research, when studying the accomplishments of individuals or organizations, primarily aims to record and evaluate these accomplishments. This involves documenting the achievements, contributions, and impact of these entities in a specific historical context.

Recording:
One of the main goals of historical research is to accurately record the accomplishments of individuals or organizations. By documenting these achievements, researchers can create a comprehensive record of the past, preserving important information for future generations.

Evaluating:
In addition to recording accomplishments, historical research also involves evaluating them. This evaluation process helps researchers analyze the significance of these accomplishments, understand their impact on society, and assess their lasting legacy.

Understanding Context:
By studying the accomplishments of individuals or organizations within their historical context, researchers can gain valuable insights into the social, political, economic, and cultural factors that shaped these achievements. This deeper understanding allows for a more nuanced interpretation of history.

Preserving Cultural Heritage:
Another important aspect of studying accomplishments through historical research is the preservation of cultural heritage. By documenting and evaluating the achievements of individuals or organizations, researchers can help safeguard important aspects of a community's identity and history.

Informing Future Generations:
Ultimately, the main goal of historical research when studying accomplishments is to inform and educate future generations. By recording and evaluating these achievements, researchers can provide valuable insights into the past, helping to shape our understanding of history and inspire future endeavors.

What is the primary purpose of conducting a background literature review in historical research?
  • a)
    To refine the research ideas and questions
  • b)
    To test the hypothesis
  • c)
    To evaluate source authenticity
  • d)
    To determine primary and secondary data sources
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Juhi Iyer answered
Understanding the Primary Purpose of a Background Literature Review
Conducting a background literature review is an essential step in historical research. The primary purpose is to refine research ideas and questions.
Refining Research Ideas and Questions
- Contextualization: A literature review provides context for your research. By exploring existing literature, researchers can understand what has already been studied, identifying gaps in knowledge.
- Clarifying Focus: It helps in clarifying the specific focus of the research. By analyzing various sources, researchers can narrow down broad topics into more manageable and precise research questions.
- Identifying Trends and Themes: Through reviewing past studies, researchers can identify recurring themes, trends, and debates within the field. This insight allows for the formulation of relevant and significant questions.
- Avoiding Duplication: By understanding previous work, researchers can avoid duplicating efforts, ensuring that their research contributes new insights to the field.
Building a Strong Foundation
- Theoretical Framework: A literature review can help in building a theoretical framework that supports the research. This framework guides the investigation and analysis of historical events or phenomena.
- Methodological Insights: It may also provide insights into methodologies that have been effective in past research, helping researchers design their studies more effectively.
In summary, while aspects like testing hypotheses, evaluating source authenticity, and determining data sources are important, the primary purpose of a background literature review in historical research is to refine research ideas and questions. This foundational step ensures that the research is relevant, focused, and contributes meaningfully to the scholarly discourse.

Which step in historical research involves assessing the trustworthiness of sources?
  • a)
    Identify an idea, topic, or research question
  • b)
    Conduct a background literature review
  • c)
    Evaluate the authenticity and accuracy of source materials
  • d)
    Analyze the data and develop a narrative exposition of the findings
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Advait Patel answered
Assessing the Trustworthiness of Sources
Assessing the trustworthiness of sources is a crucial step in historical research as it ensures the credibility and reliability of the information being used in the study. Here are some key points to consider when evaluating the authenticity and accuracy of source materials:

Source Reliability
- Determine the authorship: Investigate the qualifications, expertise, and biases of the author to assess their credibility.
- Examine the publication date: Consider whether the source is up-to-date and relevant to the research topic.
- Analyze the source type: Evaluate whether the source is primary (first-hand account) or secondary (interpretation of primary sources).

Source Authenticity
- Check for corroborating evidence: Look for multiple sources that support the information provided in the source material.
- Assess the context: Consider the historical context in which the source was created to understand any potential biases or motivations.

Source Accuracy
- Fact-check the information: Verify the accuracy of the data, statistics, and facts presented in the source.
- Evaluate the language and tone: Consider the language used in the source material to determine its objectivity and reliability.
By critically evaluating the trustworthiness of sources, researchers can ensure the validity and integrity of their historical research findings.

Which research method is primarily quantitative and aims to collect quantifiable information for statistical analysis?
  • a)
    Historical Research Method
  • b)
    Descriptive Research Method
  • c)
    Experimental Research Method
  • d)
    Qualitative Research Method
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
The Descriptive Research Method is primarily quantitative and aims to collect quantifiable information that can be used for statistical analysis. This method often involves surveys and observational studies to gather data about a population. An interesting fact is that descriptive research can also use qualitative methods to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem.

What does phenomenology focus on?
  • a)
    Theoretical deduction
  • b)
    Structures of experience
  • c)
    Statistical analysis
  • d)
    Quantitative measurement
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Phenomenology focuses on describing the structures of experience as they present themselves to consciousness, without relying on theoretical deduction or assumptions from other disciplines.

What differentiates experimental research from other research methods?
  • a)
    It collects data without influencing variables
  • b)
    It uses observational methods exclusively
  • c)
    It manipulates variables to determine effects
  • d)
    It focuses solely on historical events
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Experimental research is distinguished by its manipulation of variables to determine their effects on other variables, allowing researchers to establish cause-effect relationships. This method is systematic and scientific, making it highly effective for testing hypotheses. A fun fact is that experimental research can be conducted in both laboratory and field settings, depending on the study's requirements.

Which method of historical research involves analyzing sources like autobiographies and diaries?
  • a)
    Archival Data
  • b)
    Secondary Sources
  • c)
    Running Records
  • d)
    Recollections
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
Recollections, including sources like autobiographies and diaries, involve personal accounts and memories of past events. These sources provide valuable insights into individual experiences and perspectives. A noteworthy fact is that recollections can offer a more nuanced understanding of historical events by highlighting personal narratives that might not be present in official records.

What is the main objective of the descriptive research method?
  • a)
    To manipulate variables
  • b)
    To establish cause-effect relationships
  • c)
    To describe the characteristics of the population or phenomenon
  • d)
    To test theoretical models
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
The main objective of the descriptive research method is to describe the characteristics of the population or phenomenon being studied. This approach helps in understanding the "what" of the research subject. An interesting fact is that descriptive research can be both cross-sectional and longitudinal, allowing researchers to observe changes over time or analyze data at a single point.

Which sampling strategy is dominant in quantitative research?
  • a)
    Non-probability sampling
  • b)
    Convenience sampling
  • c)
    Probability sampling
  • d)
    Snowball sampling
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Probability sampling is dominant in quantitative research as it ensures that every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected, leading to representative and generalizable results.

Which data collection tool is commonly used in quantitative research?
  • a)
    Ethnographic study
  • b)
    Surveys
  • c)
    Participant observation
  • d)
    In-depth interviews
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
Surveys are a common data collection tool in quantitative research. They allow for the collection of numerical data that can be analyzed statistically.

Which approach does quantitative research primarily use?
  • a)
    Inductive
  • b)
    Naturalistic
  • c)
    Deductive
  • d)
    Interpretative
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Quantitative research primarily uses a deductive approach, starting with a hypothesis and using structured methods to test it against empirical data.

What is the primary focus of action research?
  • a)
    Development of theory
  • b)
    Immediate application
  • c)
    General applications
  • d)
    Historical analysis
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
Action research is primarily focused on immediate application rather than the development of theory or general applications. It aims to address and solve immediate problems within a specific context.

Who coined the term 'action research'?
  • a)
    John Dewey
  • b)
    Kurt Lewin
  • c)
    Max Weber
  • d)
    Jean Piaget
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
The term 'action research' was coined by Kurt Lewin, a German American social psychologist, in the 1940s. Lewin's work emphasized the importance of involving participants in the research process to solve practical problems.

Which type of descriptive research uses surveys to gather data about varying subjects?
  • a)
    Descriptive-Comparative
  • b)
    Descriptive-Normative Survey
  • c)
    Descriptive-Survey Research
  • d)
    Descriptive-Analysis
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Descriptive-Survey Research uses surveys to gather data about varying subjects. This method is effective for collecting information from a large number of respondents, making it ideal for demographic studies. An interesting fact is that survey research can be conducted through various means, including online questionnaires, face-to-face interviews, and telephone surveys.

What is the first step in conducting historical research?
  • a)
    Identify and locate primary and secondary data sources
  • b)
    Evaluate the authenticity and accuracy of source materials
  • c)
    Identify an idea, topic, or research question
  • d)
    Conduct a background literature review
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
The first step in conducting historical research is to identify an idea, topic, or research question. This provides a clear focus for the research and guides the subsequent steps. A fascinating aspect of this step is that it often involves a preliminary exploration of available resources to ensure that there is enough material to support the research.

What is one of the constraints of the experimental method?
  • a)
    It does not allow for control of variables
  • b)
    It is not suitable for establishing cause-effect relationships
  • c)
    It is costly and time-consuming
  • d)
    It does not use quantitative data
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
One of the constraints of the experimental method is that it can be costly and time-consuming. Despite its systematic and scientific approach, the resources required to conduct controlled experiments can be substantial. Interestingly, technological advancements have helped reduce some of these costs by enabling more efficient data collection and analysis methods.

Which type of descriptive research seeks to answer questions about real-life situations?
  • a)
    Descriptive-Survey Research
  • b)
    Descriptive-Normative Survey
  • c)
    Descriptive-Status
  • d)
    Descriptive-Comparative
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Descriptive-Status research seeks to answer questions about real-life situations by providing quantitative descriptions of the subject. This approach is often used to understand the current state of a phenomenon. An interesting fact is that descriptive-status research can be used to track changes over time by conducting similar studies at different intervals.

Which type of descriptive research involves comparing two non-manipulated variables to determine which is better?
  • a)
    Descriptive-Survey Research
  • b)
    Descriptive-Normative Survey
  • c)
    Descriptive-Status
  • d)
    Descriptive-Comparative
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Descriptive-Comparative research involves comparing two non-manipulated variables to determine which one is better under specific conditions. This type of research helps in understanding differences between variables without influencing them. Interestingly, this method is often used in educational research to compare different teaching methods or learning outcomes.

What type of research method is most suitable for establishing cause-effect relationships?
  • a)
    Descriptive research
  • b)
    Experimental research
  • c)
    Historical research
  • d)
    Qualitative research
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
Experimental research is designed to establish cause-effect relationships by manipulating one or more variables and observing the effects on other variables. This method involves controlled experiments where variables are systematically changed to determine their impact. A noteworthy aspect is that experimental research is often used in psychology and medicine to test new treatments and interventions.

Which method is NOT typically used in qualitative research?
  • a)
    In-depth interviews
  • b)
    Experiments
  • c)
    Focus groups
  • d)
    Ethnographic research
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Experiments are more commonly associated with quantitative research methods, where control and manipulation of variables are important.

Which philosopher's work contributed to the birth of naturalistic or qualitative research?
  • a)
    Sigmund Freud
  • b)
    Karl Marx
  • c)
    Immanuel Kant
  • d)
    Auguste Comte
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
Immanuel Kant, among others, contributed to the philosophical foundation of naturalistic or qualitative research, emphasizing the importance of understanding human experiences.

Which of the following is a characteristic of descriptive research?
  • a)
    Manipulates variables to test hypotheses
  • b)
    Focuses on the "why" of the research subject
  • c)
    Uses observational methods to collect data
  • d)
    Establishes cause-effect relationships
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
Descriptive research uses observational methods to collect data, focusing on describing characteristics of a population or phenomenon without influencing any variables. This type of research aims to answer questions like "what" rather than "why." Interestingly, descriptive research can provide a comprehensive snapshot of a population at a single point in time, often used in market research.

What is a limitation of quantitative research?
  • a)
    Subjective interpretation
  • b)
    Limited generalizability
  • c)
    Inflexibility in design
  • d)
    Time-consuming nature
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Quantitative research can be inflexible in design, as it relies on structured methods and predefined hypotheses, limiting the ability to adapt to new findings during the study.

What is a key feature of action research in educational settings?
  • a)
    Large-scale data collection
  • b)
    Theoretical development
  • c)
    Immediate problem-solving
  • d)
    Historical analysis
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
A key feature of action research in educational settings is its focus on immediate problem-solving, aiming to improve practices and address issues quickly and effectively.

What kind of sources does historical research primarily rely on?
  • a)
    Hypothetical models
  • b)
    Experimental data
  • c)
    Archival data
  • d)
    Current trends
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
Historical research primarily relies on archival data, which includes official documents, records, and other items found in archives and museums. These primary sources provide direct evidence about past events. An interesting point is that archival research can sometimes uncover previously unknown documents that significantly alter our understanding of historical events.

What type of historical research source is a textbook?
  • a)
    Primary Source
  • b)
    Secondary Source
  • c)
    Running Record
  • d)
    Recollection
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
A textbook is considered a secondary source because it compiles and interprets information from primary sources and other secondary sources. Secondary sources provide second-hand accounts of events and are useful for gaining an overview of a topic. An interesting fact is that textbooks often undergo rigorous peer review and editorial processes to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What is an example of a primary source in historical research?
  • a)
    Encyclopedias
  • b)
    Textbooks
  • c)
    Autobiographies
  • d)
    Monographs
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Autobiographies are considered primary sources because they are first-hand accounts written by individuals who experienced the events in question. Primary sources provide direct evidence about the topic under investigation. Interestingly, some of the most valuable historical insights come from personal diaries and letters that were never intended for public consumption.

Which descriptive research method involves further analysis by dividing the subject into parts?
  • a)
    Descriptive-Comparative
  • b)
    Descriptive-Normative Survey
  • c)
    Descriptive-Status
  • d)
    Descriptive-Analysis
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
The Descriptive-Analysis method involves further analysis by dividing the subject into parts to understand it better. This approach can help identify underlying patterns and relationships within the data. An interesting fact is that this method is often used in social sciences to analyze complex phenomena like social behavior and organizational dynamics.

What is the primary focus of historical research?
  • a)
    To predict future events accurately
  • b)
    To collect data from the present
  • c)
    To evaluate past occurrences objectively
  • d)
    To manipulate variables in a controlled setting
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Academia Elite answered
Historical research primarily focuses on the objective evaluation of data related to past events. It aims to understand causes, effects, or trends of these events, which can explain present occurrences and predict future events. An interesting fact about historical research is that it often involves extensive archival work, where researchers dig through old documents, photographs, and other records to piece together historical narratives.

Which step comes first in conducting action research?
  • a)
    Defining and analyzing the problem
  • b)
    Identifying a problem
  • c)
    Sharing of results
  • d)
    Development of hypothesis
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

JKL Classes answered
The first step in conducting action research is identifying a problem. This initial step is crucial for setting the direction of the subsequent research process.

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