Page 25 - SREENARAYANAGURU OPEN UNIVERSITY

tests like t-test, z-test, Chi-square test, ANOVA, MANOVA, Mann
Whitney-U test, Kruskal Wallis-H test, Friedman test etc.. The
type of test used for hypothesis testing is determined by factors
such as the nature and objectives of the research, population
distribution characteristics, sampling techniques, data type, and so ◆ Tentative statements
on. Hypothesis testing will assist a researcher in determining the
validity of his findings. It would assist him in determining whether
the difference, if any, between the two values is due to chance and
thus insignificant, or if the difference is actual and significant. It
will aid in determining whether the difference is genuine or the
result of random fluctuation.

i. Data interpretation and generalisation
When no hypothesis is tested in a study, data interpretation is
performed with the goal of finding an explanation for the research
findings based on existing theories. The findings are interpreted in ◆ Inferences
light of existing theories, and avenues for newer explanations and
future research are opened. Generalisations are made to build a
new theory in hypothesis testing research studies after the data has
been analysed and tested repeatedly to arrive at conclusive results.
Such generalisations result in improved explanations and new
theories for existing phenomena, and they significantly contribute
to the existing data bank.

j. Reporting of result
The final step is to make the findings of the research available ◆ Research report
to the public so that they can be used. The reporting style and
method would be determined by the target audience, the purpose,
and the time of reporting the result. Any research report, whether
detailed or in the form of a brief note, should essentially contain
the following contents.

◆ Preliminary section
Preliminary section consists of the title of the report, table ◆ Front matter
of content, list of tables, graphs, preface and an executive
summary, which briefly gives the research objectives and the
findings and importance of the study.

◆ Main text
◆ Main body of study
It includes the problem background, research objective,
research methodology, study’s significance, and conclusion.
A special mention of the researcher’s recommendation in
light of findings should also be included.

◆ End section

It includes appendices that support the research, such as the ◆ Concluding part
questionnaire and schedule used, a glossary of terms, and any
other information that is not part of the main research but is

SGOU - SLM - MCom Research Methodology 19