UGCNET Questions

Exploratory research is undertaken when the researcher has limited prior information about a problem situation. Its purpose is to gain familiarity, clarify concepts and identify promising directions for more structured studies. Rather than testing precise hypotheses, it helps generate them through flexible methods like informal interviews, case studies or pilot surveys. Therefore, exploration and idea generation lie at the heart of this design.

Option A:
Option A refers to hypothesis testing with large samples, which corresponds more to conclusive or explanatory research than exploratory work. Exploratory studies are usually small scale and flexible.

Option B:
Option B correctly describes exploratory research as focused on relatively unknown problem areas and aimed at producing insights, questions and tentative hypotheses. It emphasizes that the goal is conceptual and preparatory, not definitive testing or precise measurement.

Option C:
Option C talks about measuring the exact magnitude of a well defined phenomenon, which is more characteristic of descriptive or conclusive research rather than exploratory work.

Option D:
Option D stresses causal relationships and high control, which are features of experimental or explanatory designs rather than exploratory ones.

A focus group discussion is a qualitative technique where 6 to 12 participants share their views on a specific topic in an interactive setting. The moderator introduces questions or themes and facilitates conversation, encouraging participants to respond not only to questions but also to each other. This group interaction generates rich data on perceptions, attitudes and social dynamics.

Option A:
This option incorrectly describes one to one interviewing, which is a different technique. Focus groups rely on multiple participants interacting simultaneously, not individual sessions.

Option B:
This option accurately conveys the essence of focus groups, namely small group discussion facilitated by a moderator. It highlights both the group size and the guided but relatively open format.

Option C:
This option contradicts the basic idea of a focus group. The method is intentionally designed to stimulate interaction among participants; if interaction were completely avoided, it would no longer be a focus group but a set of isolated responses.

Option D:
This option describes use of a highly structured yes/no questionnaire, which is typical of a survey with fixed responses. Focus groups instead rely on relatively open-ended discussion rather than ticking pre-coded answers.