UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

A research paradigm encompasses ontological and epistemological assumptions about what reality is like and how knowledge about it can be obtained. It shapes preferences for certain methodologies, such as quantitative or qualitative approaches, and informs how results are interpreted. Common paradigms include positivism, interpretivism and critical theory. Therefore, the basic worldview guiding research choices is correctly called a research paradigm.

Option A:
Variables are measurable characteristics within a study but do not constitute an overarching belief system about reality and knowledge. They are components of research, not its philosophical foundation, so variable is not appropriate.

Option B:
Hypotheses are specific testable propositions derived within a paradigm but do not themselves define the broader worldview; they are subordinate to the paradigm’s assumptions. Hence, hypothesis is not the best completion.

Option C:
Option A, paradigm, reflects the idea that different researchers may interpret the same phenomenon differently depending on their underlying philosophical stance, leading to different designs and methods. This aligns with the stem’s emphasis on a basic set of beliefs guiding research.

Option D:
Statistics are tools for analysing numerical data and are used under many paradigms but do not themselves prescribe a worldview. Therefore, statistic is not the correct answer.