Assignment about Research Methodologies

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Research methodologies: investigating the critical factors of thermal coal price fluctuation of
Queensland in Australia.
Student’s name
Course
Institutional affiliation
City and state
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The methodology of the study
This paper majorly brings out a brief outline of the different methodologies to be used for
data collection. The data collected will be both qualitative and quantitative. Three major
techniques are to will be used in the research study. These will include quasi-experimental, time
series and qualitative methodologies. To begin with, quasi-methodologies will majorly be used
for collecting quantitative data about the study. Tools such as questionnaires, interviews,
individual surveys will be used under this particular methodology. These tools will provide a
reliable basis for collecting primary data about the study. Some of the advantages involved in
this methodology are that it limits on the level of personal bias (Gaille,2018). One of the
disadvantages is that these methodologies involve numerous statistical procedures. The sample
size of the study will be determined by the use of a simplified method of proportion. That is n
=N/ (1+N (e2)). Where n is sample size, N is the population size, and e is the level of precision.
The level of significance is predetermined at 5%. This implies that the data will be 95% accurate
and representative (Bhat, 2019). Throughout the general study, the researcher will pay close
attention to both the general and specific ethical considerations. These will include adherence
with the law, integrity of respondents, conflict of interests and so many others. From the above
technique, the researcher intends to use a total population of 100 respondents. A population of
100 participants will generate a sample size of 80 respondents for the research. That is 100/
(1+100(0.05^2)) =80.
The other type of methodology that will be used for the study will involve the
qualitative methodology. This particular methodology will be best applied to assessing the third
research question of the study. The methodology will be analyzing the ways through which coal

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prices in Queensland is affected by the identified factors in the quasi-experimental methodology.
The qualitative approach will be based on techniques such as existing records, in-depth
narratives, and grounded theories (Sauro, 2015). These techniques such as the grounded theories
will be used to analyze the relationship between the dependent ad independent variables of the
topic of study. For example, how does the price of coal vary with changes in the macro and
micro elements within Queensland? The sample required for qualitative methodology will be
chosen based on focus groups, in-depth interviews, and ethnographic studies. These will
particularly involve specific individuals to avoid saturation of the study. They will be aimed at
obtaining unique information from the qualified categories of individuals. This particular
methodology of the study will enable the researcher to evaluate data with more detail. The
qualitative data will not focus on the quantifiable factors r but rather on the reliability and
effectiveness of information gathered. The other advantage associated with this particular type of
research is that data will be obtained from experienced and knowledgeable individuals. This type
of data is important as it reduces the level of deviation from the actual results intended or
objective. It, therefore, facilitates the production of valuable results. The limitations associated
with qualitative methodologies can arise from the small sample size. Basing on small sample size
for data collection increases the level of error. Unrepresentative conclusions can be generated
such information is not analyzed and assessed in the best optimum manner. Additionally, the
information generated under this methodology tends to be misleading in nature. The ethical
considerations under this methodology will include data protection, the researcher will as well
ensure that sources are kept anonymous and confidential and consent of the respondents will
have to be sought before any data is collected.