Investigating Motivation: A Research Proposal on Employee Performance

This research design proposal outlines a study to investigate the impact of motivation on employee performance, particularly within a banking context. It details the research philosophy, adopting a positivism approach, and employs an inductive research approach to allow for empirical generalization. The study utilizes a descriptive research design and a qualitative research method, with data collected through primary methods such as questionnaires distributed to senior managers, supplemented by secondary data from published articles and books. Probability sampling will be used to select 10 senior managers. Data analysis will be conducted using thematic analysis to identify patterns and insights into the relationship between motivation and employee performance. The proposal also addresses validity, reliability, ethical considerations, potential limitations, and includes a Gantt chart for project timeline management.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents.................................................................................................................................2
Research Design proposal....................................................................................................................4
Introduction..................................................................................................................................4
Research philosophy....................................................................................................................4
Research approach.......................................................................................................................5
Research design...........................................................................................................................5
Research method..........................................................................................................................6
Data collection method................................................................................................................7
Sampling......................................................................................................................................7
Data analysis................................................................................................................................8
Validity and reliability.................................................................................................................9
Ethical considerations................................................................................................................10
Research limitations...................................................................................................................10
Gantt chart..................................................................................................................................11
Conclusion..........................................................................................................................................12
REFERENCES...................................................................................................................................13
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RESEARCH DESIGN PROPOSAL
Introduction
Next in the series is the research methodology chapter. It is referred to as the manner
wherein the solutions to specific issue under investigation is being assessed with greater
effectiveness. In the methodology part various tools are being applied for the purpose of
attaining evidence and assessing it so as to respond in relation to the questions under
investigation. In the proposed study on impact of motivation on employee performance the
decision with respect to method is being carried out in an appropriate manner (Kumar and
Phrommathed, 2005). The method which will be utilized are discussed in this section. Moreover
the reasons beside use of selected tool have also been stated in the particular chapter. The
researcher make use of various tools in order to collect and make analysis of the employees with
respect to motivation.
Research philosophy
It is considered as the overarching concept that is associated with developing the
knowledge. It covers the nature of knowledge in relation to the research. Research philosophy is
referred to as developing the background of the investigation. It involves the factors that involves
the manner through which people view things in varied manner, several beliefs as well as
perception in real aspect. There is presence of two kinds of research philosophy that is comprised
of positivism as well as interpretivism. The philosophy of positivism is referred to as one that
makes generation of hypothesis which can be tested. Along with this it offers explanation which
can be assessed against the knowledge which is acceptable across the globe wherein we live. On
the other hand the philosophy of interpretivism is one that is providing suitable justification for
issue of the research (Peffers and et.al., 2007). With such philosophy of research scholar reflects
the facts as well as figures which are associated with the issue under investigation. Interpretivism
philosophy can be defined as the approach that focuses upon the meaningful nature of the person
participation within cultural as well as social life.
In the proposed investigation on impact of motivation on performance of banking
employees positivism philosophy would be utilized. Through this scholar is able yo provides
own views for the sake of making evaluation of the social world. Along with this scholar
reflected interest in collection of general data from the social sample. In such theory the scholar
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is independent from the research. This acts as an aid for the researcher in laying concentration on
the facts. Therefore because of this positivism philosophy is most appropriate for the present
investigation.
Research approach
The concept of research approach is regarded as the way in which investigation is being
taken in forward manner by the investigator. There is presence of two kinds of research approach
such is comprised of deductive as well as inductive approach (Harris and et.al., 2009). The initial
aspect begins with the statement as well as the whole investigation is being conducted towards
answering that. The major aim of this is towards concluding with yes or no response to the
question. The procedure of deduction approach moves from the theory to question under
investigation, to gathering of data, findings to rejection or confirming of the research questions.
The inductive approach assist in making research moves from particular condition for the sake of
formulating wide general ideas and theories.
In the present thesis that aims at assessing the impact of motivation on banking
employees performance inductive approach is being utilized. This is due to the reason that with
this investigator is able in creation of empirical generalization. This results in determining the
major association as the research is being conducted. Further it is comprised of search patterns
through observation that results in developing explanation. Through gaining knowledge
regarding the opinions of employees in relation to motivation the research possess the ability to
make determination of the success of the organization (Onwuegbuzie and Leech, 2005).
Moreover with this problem with respect to employee motivation is being assessed with greater
effectiveness. Through observation of the issues as well as importance of motivation in
enhancing performance broader generalization is being drawn.
Research design
This is considered as the most significant aspect within the investigation. This is
considered as the overall strategy which is being utilized for the purpose of integrating several
components of the research in logical terms. It ensures that issues under the investigation would
be addressed with greater effectiveness (Mackenzie and Knipe, 2006). Therefore design of
investigation is considered as the blue print which is being utilized in order to gather, analyze as
well as measure the information. The varied research design is comprised of descriptive,
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exploratory as well as explanatory. The explanatory research design is considered most suitable
in order to make determination of the association that is cause and effect. Such design has
objective towards making investigation of variables that results in causing such behavior. In
contrast to this exploratory research design seeks towards making generation of hypothesis
through determination of set of data as well as examination of the association among the
variables. Descriptive research design is being utilized for the sake addressing the answers to
questions that is comprised of who, where, how, what and when which are attached with
particular issue in the research. This is regarded as the statistical investigation. Such design of
investigation is accurate to a greater extent.
In the present thesis on banking employee motivation descriptive research design is being
utilized. This is due to the reason it is being utilized towards describing the features of the
population or phenomenon which have been studied (Baskerville and Wood-Harper, 2016).
Therefore such is best suitable in order to make assessment of the impact of motivation on the
performance of banking employees. Descriptive research possess less need in order to attain the
internal validity.
Research method
Such plays significant role in conducting the investigation with greater effectiveness.
Research methods is comprised of two kinds that is qualitative as well as quantitative.
Qualitative research is dealing with exploring of the issues and understanding with respect to
subject matter. It is providing answers to the question through development of analysis as well as
sense of unstructured information. This kind of research make utilization of the in-depth studies.
The outcomes that are being attained through means of qualitative investigation tool is
descriptive in nature (Noor, 2008). In contrast to this quantitative investigation can be defined as
systematic research of the social phenomenon through the help of mathematical and statistical
tool. The main target of the research is towards classifying the features, count as well as
construction of the statistical models. Quantitative investigation makes utilization of
questionnaire, surveys in order to gather primary information. In the present thesis on impact of
banking employee motivation on their performance at workplace qualitative tool is being
applied.
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Data collection method
Data collection method is referred to as the significant part in each research. Such
demonstrates that suitable tool is being utilized by the investigator so as to collect the
information in order to achieve the aims and objectives under investigation. There is presence of
two kinds of methods which can be utilized for the sake of gathering data. This includes primary
as well as secondary methods (Rolfe, 2006). In the proposed investigation on impact of
motivation on the performance of the banking employees primary as well as secondary methods
are being used for the sake of collecting the information. Primary method involves gathering of
the data for the first time. With this new data is collected by the investigator on own when
conducting the research. It is gathered by the investigator in order to conduct the research with
greater effectiveness. Primary data collection involves questionnaire, interviews, focus groups,
interviews and surveys. Such act as an aid in attaining detained opinions of the respondents. In
the proposed investigation exploration of the concept of employee motivation is being done. For
the purpose of gathering data by means of primary tool questionnaire is being mailed to the
senior managers of Barclays. The tool of primary data collection is suitable as it consider the
geographical barriers. Such allows the respondents in filling the questionnaire from varied
location.
Another tool that assist in collection of data is secondary. This is data is collected by the
means of published studies. Along with this secondary data involves the data that has already
been utilized by the investigator for the purpose of conducting investigation. It is considered as
the second hand tool (Odom and et.al., 2005). The present thesis is on impact of motivation on
performance of banking employees makes utilization of the information gained through
secondary sources. In this regard published articles and books of several researchers is being
utilized. Secondary data is being collected from sources such as online, blogs, censuses as well
as government reports etc.
Sampling
Sampling is regarded as the tool that is being established for the purpose of carrying out
study of certain selected items. The smaller selection can be defined as the sample. In the present
thesis on employee motivation the technique of sampling the is being utilized is referred to as
probability. When conducting the research there is greater difficulty for the investigator in
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collection of the data from the whole population. For the sake of resolving this sample selection
is being done (Johnson, Onwuegbuzie and Turner, 2007). This tool of sampling is suitable for the
investigation. This is due to the reason that it offers similar opportunity to all the senior
managers who are carrying out performance within the firm. This is because personnel are the
part of the research. Probability sampling tool ensure that several units of population possess
equal chance towards gaining selected sample for investigation. Another important aspect in
sampling is relating with determining the size of the sample. This is being defined as the number
of units that have become the part of the research. Such demonstrates the respondents number
from whom the data is being collected in order to conduct the research. For the proposed thesis
on impact of motivation on performance of the banking employees size of sample is 10
respondents. This is comprised of senior managers of the company.
Data analysis
After the collection of the data from the varied sources the next part of the thesis is
comprised of analysis as well as evaluating the data gathered. Analysis of data is regarded as the
process that act as an aid in application of logical and statistical tool in systematic way. This is
being carried out for the sake of describing, condensing, illustration and evaluation of the data.
With this investigator can make inspection, transformation as well as cleaning of data in order to
reach at valid outcome. For the purpose of analyzing the information there is presence of two
methods (Wang and Hannafin, 2005). This is comprised of qualitative as well as quantitative
method.
In the present thesis on impact of motivation on banking employee performance
qualitative tool would be utilized in order carry out analysis of the information. The major reason
towards qualitative analysis is towards gaining better understanding with respect to motivation
and its impact on the employees performance within banks. Moreover by means of analysis
deeper knowledge can be attained with respect to enhancement of the motivation among the
employees. The major aim of the present investigation is towards assessing the impact of
employee motivation on business performance. Through the help of qualitative analysis the
views of senior managers with respect to employee motivation can be gained in an effective
manner. Through the assistance of qualitative analysis in depth description of the positive and
negative impact is being generated. In the present thesis qualitative tool is being incorporated
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through use of thematic tool. The themes are being devised after determination of the patterns
across the information. Such act as an aid in providing important description with respect to
phenomenon under research. In contrast to this quantitative tool is one that is effective tool in
analysis of the data. The objective of such is towards quantifying the information. Such is being
conducted out for the purpose of generalizing the result to the interest of the population.
Quantitative tool makes utilization of SPSS as well as Excel.
Validity and reliability
Validity and reliability are the most important aspect associated with research project
through which research can easily ensure that all applied techniques are effective to extract valid
outcome from collected information. At this juncture, validity and reliability are ensured in
collection as well as application of suitable techniques. Here, validity reflects that results of
present study are consistent with the existing studies as it rely upon the same output. At this
juncture, internal validity is assessed with the help of test used for gathering information and
analyzing the same. On the other hand, external validity shed light upon generalization of
research outcome for the purpose of resolution of problem which is being faced by the business.
It shows that in the current report research validity has been maintained with selection of most
suitable methodology or tools in the light of research aim and objectives. Furthermore, validity
can be ensured through primary and secondary data collection tools which facilitate to collect
appropriate amount of information. At this juncture, questionnaire method has been applied for
approaching primary respondents and assess their views related to selected research
investigation. In addition to this, analysis of information is generally done with the help of
appropriate tools such as thematic analysis under which results are presented so that accordingly
research aim and objectives can be accomplished in relatively less time. Apart from this,
reliability is another important aspect which is also considered in the current report. It represent
the degree of consistency and stability of outcome. Hence, for the current research on motivation
both reliability and validity have been maintained for collecting large amount of information to
reach at the end results. However, no any information has been manipulated and results are
reflected in a very genuine manner.
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Ethical considerations
It is regarded as the significant aspect which is being taken into account by the
investigator through carrying out research. Through the help of ethical norms research can be
completed with appropriateness. In the proposed research on impact of motivation on employee
performance the ethical norms that are complied with are as below:
Prior approval: The respondents of the research may not agree in taking part within the
investigation. As per the voluntary participation principle the respondents must not be
forced towards taking part in the research. In this regard the research is required to take
permission in prior. None of the participant is involved with force in the investigation.
The major aim of the research was explained to them.
Confidentiality: This has been made sure by the investigator that data attained from the
respondents would not be shared to anyone who has no interest within the research.
Through following the principle of anonymity it is made sure that respondents are
anonymous in whole research.
Restricted access: For the proposed investigation on impact on motivation on performance of
employees make use of secondary data that is collected from varied studies on particular
topic that are conducted in past. These research are present on various sites. There is
restriction in accessing certain sites. In this relation prior permission needs to be taken by
the investigator in order access the specific sites.
Suitable citation of work: In the proposed study the research work of several authors is being
taken into account. Ethical consideration is made sure through citation of the work which
is taken in the investigation in an appropriate manner. None of matter is being pasted and
copied in the similar manner. Instead rephrasing of the content is be carried out and this
is being written in own words by the scholar.
Research limitations
The process of accomplishment of the research is full of challenges and certain problem
are being experienced by the researcher. The major limitation in the present thesis on impact of
motivation on performance of banking employees are stated as below:
Prolonged procedure: Long procedure is being followed so as to attain the whole research. This
is time consuming activity that relates with collection of information by means of books and
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journals. As the present study has to be done within limited span of time therefore the researcher
has less feasibility in covering all the aspects under research.
Inadequacy of the secondary data: Secondary data is required for the present investigation. Such
is due to the reason that it act as an aid for the investigator in making development better
understanding in relation to subject matter in research. The major limitation with this is that data
is not attained by the investigator. This is due to the reason that access on several sites was
restricted. Therefore there is possibility that some information in the research is being missed
out.
Gantt chart
Activity/Week 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Drafting of research proposal
Defining aims and objectives
of research
Carrying out literature review
Research methodology
Primary data collection
Analysis of data and
interpretation
Conclusion
Recommendations
Submission to tutor
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Changes Based On responses
Final Submission
CONCLUSION
From the above carried out research, it can be concluded that the section of research
methodology or research design proposal is very important. Furthermore, the section lays
emphasis on identification of specific problem and seeking for specific solution regarding the
same. For the purpose of carrying out research on topic on impact of motivation on performance
of banking employees, positivism philosophy will be used. It can be also concluded that
inductive approach and descriptive research design is more suitable for accomplishing aim
objective of the present research.
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REFERENCES
Journals and Books
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method for information systems research. In Enacting Research Methods in Information
Systems: Volume 2 (pp. 169-190). Springer International Publishing.
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electronic data capture (REDCap)—a metadata-driven methodology and workflow process
for providing translational research informatics support. Journal of biomedical informatics.
42(2). pp.377-381.
Johnson, R.B., Onwuegbuzie, A.J. and Turner, L.A., 2007. Toward a definition of mixed
methods research. Journal of mixed methods research. 1(2). pp.112-133.
Kumar, S. and Phrommathed, P., 2005. Research methodology (pp. 43-50). Springer US.
Mackenzie, N. and Knipe, S., 2006. Research dilemmas: Paradigms, methods and methodology.
Issues in educational research. 16(2). pp.193-205.
Noor, K.B.M., 2008. Case study: A strategic research methodology.American journal of applied
sciences. 5(11). pp.1602-1604.
Odom, S.L. and et.al., 2005. Research in special education: Scientific methods and evidence-
based practices. Exceptional children. 71(2). pp.137-148.
Onwuegbuzie, A.J. and Leech, N.L., 2005. On becoming a pragmatic researcher: The importance
of combining quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. International journal of
social research methodology. 8(5). pp.375-387.
Peffers, K., Tuunanen, T., Rothenberger, M.A. and Chatterjee, S., 2007. A design science
research methodology for information systems research. Journal of management
information systems. 24(3). pp.45-77.
Rolfe, G., 2006. Validity, trustworthiness and rigour: quality and the idea of qualitative research.
Journal of advanced nursing. 53(3). pp.304-310.
Wang, F. and Hannafin, M.J., 2005. Design-based research and technology-enhanced learning
environments. Educational technology research and development. 53(4). pp.5-23.
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