Introduction
This section covers the research design, population, sample, research instruments, and data analysis techniques. The methodology applied aims at coming with the best conclusions on the impact of globalization on the growth of the Chinese economy.
Research Approach
A research study is approached either deductively or inductively. Induction involves starting a research from reality and later building a theory based on the data collected (Bryman and Bell 2007). On the other hand, deduction refers to the relationship between a recommended theory and the research (Bryman and Bell 2007). In this regard, a hypothesis is either accepted or rejected depending on the results of a research study (Bryman and Bell 2007). For that reason, this research will be performed deductively.
Research Design
In social research, a research design is required before data collection commences (DeVaus 2001). This study will, therefore, employ descriptive research design. This is because descriptive research is the most appropriate research design in a study that makes use of a hypothesis and research objectives and questions (DeVaus 2001).
Data Collection
Researchers collect either Primary or secondary data. However, in most research studies, both types of data are collected. Primary data is information that has not been documented (Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill 2003). Secondary data, on the other hand, is information that has been summarized and documented by other researchers (Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill 2003). This research is based on a theoretical framework. Consequently, secondary data will be collected through websites, electronic journals and books and the university library.
Research instruments
This research will use questionnaires and structured interviews to collect primary data. According to Kajornboon (n.d.), a researcher is able to probe for more information when using interviews and questionnaires to collect data from respondents.
Validity and Reliability of the Study
Validity means that a research study must produce the intended results (Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill 2003). On the other hand, reliability means that a research has to be done in a dependable way (Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill 2003). To ensure reliability, Cronbach’s alpha will be used to measure internal consistency in this study. Alternatively, validity will be ensured through a pre-test. In this case, a pilot study will be conducted prior to the main research.
Population
This research study will focus on all trade partners of China. For that reason, the population covered will include all countries trading with china.
Sampling techniques
This study will employ probability sampling. To be specific, random sampling will be used. According to Wiersma (n.d.), random samples are vital in minimizing biases and enhancing validity of all statistics used in a study. However, to perform a random sample, a sampling frame is required (Wiersma, n.d.). Therefore, this research’s sampling frame will constitute all countries trading with China. Additionally, the study will make use of cluster sampling. This is because the population chosen is too large. For that reason, it is prudent to sub-divide this population in to clusters. Subsequently, units within the clusters will be randomly selected.
Data analysis techniques
Data will be analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Additionally, both simple and advanced analyses will be carried out. Simple data analyses will consist of frequency distribution and descriptive statistics. On the other hand, advanced analyses will be performed through regression and correlation. Correlation will be used to find out the relationship between Chinese trade policies and foreign investments.
References
Bryman, A & Bell, A 2007, Business research methods, Oxford University Press, Oxford, England.
DeVaus, D.A 2001, what is research design? The context of design. Web.
Kajornboon, A n.d., using interviews as research instruments. Web.
Lewis, P, Saunders, M & Thornbill, A 2007, Research Methods for Business Students, Pearson Publishers, Harlow, England.
Wiersma, W n.d., The Validity of Surveys: Online and Offline. Web.