Research Mitra

  Understanding Epistemology and Ontology in Research 🔍 What Do You Believe About Knowledge and Reality? ✨ Introduction: Let’s Get Philosophical (But Keep It Practical!) Ever wondered why researchers ask certain types of questions? Or how they decide what counts as truth or knowledge? Welcome to the world of epistemology and ontology — two foundational concepts that shape how research is framed , conducted, and interpreted. Understanding them may sound philosophical (and it is!), but don’t worry — we’ll break it down in plain language . 📚 What is Ontology? 👉 Ontology is the study of “what is” — what exists, what’s real. In research, ontology asks: Is there a single reality that exists out there, waiting to be discovered? (Realism) Or do multiple realities exist based on people’s experiences and interpretations? (Relativism or Constructivism ) 🔍 Example: If you’re studying leadership , do you see it as a fixed trait (realist view) or as something that’s interpreted differe...

  Mixed Methods Research — When and Why Should You Use It? 🔍 Bridging the Gap Between Numbers and Narratives 🎯 Introduction: The Best of Both Worlds Ever found yourself torn between choosing quantitative precision and qualitative depth ? You’re not alone. Many real-world research problems are too complex to be captured by one method alone. That’s where Mixed Methods Research (MMR) comes in — an approach that smartly blends the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative research in a single study. Whether you're a budding scholar or a business researcher, understanding when and why to use mixed methods can give your study power, credibility, and holistic insights. 🧠 What is Mixed Methods Research? Mixed Methods Research (MMR) refers to a systematic combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches in a single research project. ✅ Goal: To provide a more complete understanding of a research problem than either method alone. 🔍 When Should You Use Mixed Methods? Here...

  🗓️ Qualitative vs Quantitative Research — A Practical Comparison 🔍 Exploring the Two Pillars of Research Strategy Research is a journey that begins with a question and ends with an insight. But how do you decide which path to take — the qualitative route or the quantitative one? Understanding the key differences, strengths, and applications of qualitative and quantitative research is crucial to designing a robust study. 🧠 What is Qualitative Research? Qualitative research is all about understanding meaning, context, and human experiences . It deals with non-numeric data such as words, images, emotions, and stories. ✅ Common Characteristics: Open-ended & exploratory Focused on “why” and “how” In-depth, small samples Subjective interpretation Uses tools like interviews, focus groups, observation 🧰 Example Methods: In-depth interviews Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) Participant observation Thematic/content analysis 📌 Suitable For: Understanding perceptions, motivations, s...

  📘  Book Review — "Marketing Research: An Applied Orientation" by Naresh K. Malhotra 🔍 Why This Book? Naresh K. Malhotra ’s Marketing Research: An Applied Orientation is widely considered one of the most authoritative and comprehensive textbooks on marketing and social research. Whether you're a research student, an academic, or a practitioner in business or social sciences, this book offers deep insight into the “how” and “why” of research . 📖 Book Overview Title : Marketing Research: An Applied Orientation Author : Naresh K. Malhotra Edition : Typically 6th or 7th edition used in academics Publisher : Pearson Length : ~900 pages Ideal for : MBA students, PhD scholars, and research-driven professionals in marketing, business, and social sciences 🧠 What Makes It Special? ✅ 1. Application-Focused Approach Malhotra doesn’t just discuss theory — he teaches you how to apply research methods in real-world contexts . Each chapter integrates actual marketing examples, cas...

  📘 Book Review — “Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches” by John W. Creswell Labels : Research Methodology , Book Reviews, Mixed Methods , Qualitative Research , Quantitative Research 🎯 Why Review This Book? When we think of foundational research methodology guides, one name that consistently stands out is John W. Creswell . His book “ Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches ” has become a go-to reference for countless students, PhD scholars, and supervisors across the globe. Now in its fifth edition , this book is celebrated for its clarity , balance , and practical orientation — making it perfect for both beginners and intermediate-level researchers. 🧭 What This Book Covers This book offers a comprehensive roadmap through the landscape of research design. Creswell doesn’t push one method over another — instead, he helps you choose the right approach for your purpose. 🔍 The Three Core Approaches: Qualitat...

  📚 Book Review — “The Craft of Research” by Booth et al. Labels : Book Reviews, Research Skills, Academic Writing, Research Planning ✨ Why This Book? If you're new to research or still struggling to structure your ideas, then “The Craft of Research” by Wayne C. Booth , Gregory G. Colomb , and Joseph M. Williams is your essential companion . This book is a classic in research methodology, especially for those navigating social sciences , education , business studies , and humanities . It’s not just about writing — it’s about thinking like a researcher . 🧠 What the Book Covers 1. Thinking about Research The book starts by addressing the why of research — it’s not just to report facts, but to contribute to a broader conversation in your field. 🔍 “Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose.” — Zora Neale Hurston , quoted in the book 2. Asking the Right Questions It teaches how to move from a broad interest to a focused research question , and fi...