1.0. Research Methodology
As name implies, research methodology refers to the set of methods and techniques utilized to undertake a research (Kothari, 2004). So this phase of discussion sets out to describe and analyse all the tools and strategies relating to the study in hand.
1.1. Research Question
A research question is the initial consideration or basic idea behind any research project. It describes the issue, idea, or concern that aims to be researched (Kothari, 2004). As for the underlying study, the research question is as follows:
How the trade dispute between Europe and China is influencing the economies of both the regions?
1.2. Research Objectives
These are the projected outcomes of any research to determine its success or failure. A successful research is one wherein all the predefined goals are achieved by the researcher/s in the end (Kumar, 2005). Like any other, current study also associates some key objectives that are described below:
Hence, the research is mainly focused on the implications of tense situation between both the underlying regions in the wake of trade disagreement.
1.3. Research Method and Approach (inductivequalitative)
1.3.1. Research Method
Research method can be divided into two broad categories i.e. qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative research is descriptive in nature the findings of which cannot be measured in terms of numbers (as they cannot be quantified). It provides a solid base for exploratory approach both for data collection and analysis. On the other hand, the results of quantitative research are measurable in terms of numbers and figures, because it is quantified form of data (Kothari, 2004).
Both of the techniques have their own advantages and disadvantages and each of them can be useful or useless in specific conditions. For example, qualitative research helps cover the subject matter in depth and in detail, but may lack precision. On the other hand, quantitative research provides quantified results, which are easy to be analysed and generalised, and is comparatively less time-consuming as compared to its counterpart (qualitative research). However, it may not cover the topic from every angle and lack exploratory overview of it (Newman, and Benz, 1998).
Since the researcher is relying on secondary data for current study, the focus will be retained on qualitative research approach. However, some important figures and facts will also be covered by utilising quantitative tool of data collection and analysis. Therefore, it will be a blend of both the underlying techniques with more involvement of qualitative research method.
1.3.2. Research Approach
Broadly, there are two basic types of research approach including inductive and deductive. Inductive research approach is the name of conceiving a new idea or theory basing on the findings of a study, while deductive approach aims to test an already established or generalized concept, idea, or perception (Hyde, 2000).
The researcher aims to follow deductive approach with regard to the research in hand. There is a general belief that the trade dispute between aforementioned regions has negative effects on the economic growth of both. And, the research objectives (as discussed above) are directed to test the validity as well as intensity of this issue in the light of existing literature on it. However, no attempt is intended towards conceiving any new theory (as in case of inductive approach to research).
1.4. Data Collection
First hand, and second hand are two commonly known mediums or means of data collection. First hand data collection refers to the face-to-face or online interviews, surveys or questionnaire. On the other hand, data is collected from already published material i.e. books, news, views, journals, and other publications in secondary research (Rugg, and Petre, 2007).
The researcher will collect the data from existing literature that covers the case of the study. Preferred mediums for data collection for this purpose are books, journals, and other authentic electronic sources. On a later stage, collected data will be analysed by comparing it to important facts and figures, which would help reach a conclusive opinion.
1.5. Time Horizon
Longitudinal and cross-sectional are two broad categories when it comes to time horizon. Longitudinal time horizon refers to the application of research findings in the long run, while cross-sectional timeframe determines short term relevance of the collected data (Ketchen, and Bergh, 2009). The trade dispute between Europe and China can get resolved at any time, and its implications may also offset due to any macroeconomic change in near or remote future. Therefore, the researcher intends to stick to cross-sectional time horizon for the underlying study.
List of References
Hyde, K. F. (2000). Recognising deductive processes in qualitative research. Qualitative market research: An international journal, vol. 3, no. 2, pp. 82-90.
Ketchen, D. J., & Bergh, D. D. (2009). Research methodology in strategy and management: Vol. 5. Bingley, U.K: Emerald.
Kothari, C. R. (2004). Research methodology: Methods & techniques. New Age International (P) Ltd.
Kumar, R. (2005). Research methodology: A step-by-step guide for beginners. London: SAGE.
Newman, I., & Benz, C. R. (1998). Qualitative-quantitative research methodology: Exploring the interactive continuum. Carbondale, IL: Southern Illinois University Press.
Rugg, G., & Petre, M. (2007). A gentle guide to research methods. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
