UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

The positivist paradigm is grounded in the belief that reality exists independently of the observer and can be studied objectively. It assumes that phenomena can be quantified, measured and analyzed using standardized procedures and statistical techniques to uncover general laws.

Option A:
This option correctly links positivism to objectivity and measurability. It highlights the reliance on standardized methods to minimize subjectivity and bias, reflecting the traditional scientific model followed by positivist research.

Option B:
This option corresponds more to the interpretivist or constructivist paradigm, which emphasizes socially constructed reality and close involvement with participants, not the positivist emphasis on detached measurement.

Option C:
Option C misrepresents both research in general and positivism in particular. Positivist studies rely heavily on systematic observation and measurement; relying only on intuition would undermine objectivity and replicability.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because positivist researchers commonly use statistics to summarize data, test hypotheses and draw inferences. Rejecting statistics altogether conflicts with the quantitative orientation of positivism.

Quantitative research is characterised by the use of structured instruments, numerical data and statistical procedures to test hypotheses or answer questions. It often seeks to establish patterns, relationships or differences among variables in large samples. The emphasis is on objectivity, measurement and generalisability. Hence, research that focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis is appropriately called quantitative research.

Option A:
Historical research involves systematic study of past events using documents and records, and it may use both qualitative and quantitative data. However, it is defined by its temporal focus rather than by emphasis on measurement and statistics alone. Therefore, historical research is not the best completion.

Option B:
Quantitative research commonly uses experiments, surveys and quasi-experiments to collect data that can be summarised with descriptive and inferential statistics. Its strength lies in producing generalisable evidence and estimates of effect sizes. This orientation aligns exactly with the description in the stem.

Option C:
Phenomenological research is a qualitative approach that explores lived experience and the essence of phenomena from participants’ perspectives. It typically uses in-depth interviews rather than extensive numeric measurement, so phenomenological is not the correct answer.

Option D:
Ethnographic research immerses the researcher in a cultural or organisational setting to understand practices and meanings, relying heavily on qualitative observations and narratives. It is not primarily about numerical measurement and statistical testing, so ethnographic does not fit the stem.

Statements A, B, C and D accurately distinguish between positivist and interpretivist paradigms. Positivism stresses objective measurement and is often linked with experiments and surveys, while interpretivism focuses on meanings and experiences using methods like observation and interviews. Statement E is false because interpretivism rejects the notion of a single fixed reality independent of the researcher; it emphasises multiple, constructed realities. Therefore, the correct combination includes A, B, C and D and excludes E.

Option A:
Option A is incomplete because it omits D, thereby failing to mention the qualitative methods commonly used in interpretivist research. Without D, the methodological side of interpretivism is underrepresented.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it adds E, which contradicts interpretivist assumptions about multiple realities and researcher involvement. Including E mischaracterises interpretivism as having a strictly objectivist stance.

Option C:
Option C is wrong because it includes only B, C and D, omitting A and thus not stating clearly that positivism emphasises objective measurement and quantification. This weakens the contrast between the two paradigms.

Option D:
Option D is correct because it compiles all statements that properly describe the two paradigms and leaves out E, which misstates interpretivist ontology. It reflects both the epistemological and methodological distinctions between positivist and interpretivist approaches.