acct403 assignment draft
acct403 assignment draft
Doody, O., & Noonan, M. (2016). Nursing research ethics, guidance and application in practice. British
Journal of Nursing, 25(14), 803-807.
Fama, E. F., & French, K. R. (1992). The Cross-Section of Expected Stock Returns. The Journal of Finance,
47(2), 427–465. https://doi.org/10.2307/2329112
Katz, A. L., Webb, S. A., Macauley, R. C., Mercurio, M. R., Moon, M. R., Okun, A. L., ... & Committee on
Bioethics. (2016). Informed consent in decision-making in pediatric practice. Pediatrics, 138(2).
Komić, D., Marušić, S. L., & Marušić, A. (2015). Research integrity and research ethics in professional
codes of ethics: Survey of terminology used by professional organizations across research
disciplines. PloS one, 10(7), e0133662.
Mills, A. J., & Helms Mills, J. (2018). Archival research. The SAGE Handbook of qualitative business and
management research methods, 32-46.
Ventresca, M. J., & Mohr, J. W. (2017). Archival research methods. The Blackwell companion to
organizations, 805-828.
Q1
Survey Research:
Our target respondents are current subscribers of the streaming service, aged 18-45,
who use the service at least once a week.
a. How satisfied are you with the content available on the streaming service?
c. Are there specific features you would like to see added or improved?
Start with general satisfaction questions, then move to specific aspects like content and
interface. End with the likelihood of recommendation to keep a positive note.
Use a mix of multiple-choice questions, rating scales, and open-ended questions. Begin
with demographic questions, followed by the main survey questions, and end with a
thank-you message.
Q2
Archival research is a comprehensive and systematic investigation method that involves the examination
and analysis of existing records, documents, and materials to gain insights into historical events, social
phenomena, or specific research questions. These records can span a wide range, including historical
manuscripts, official documents, personal letters, photographs, newspapers, and other forms of
documented information. The primary essence of archival research lies in its reliance on pre-existing
data rather than the collection of new data through experiments or surveys, making it an invaluable tool
for researchers seeking a historical perspective.
The significance of archival research becomes evident in its unique ability to provide a deep and
nuanced understanding of historical contexts and trends. By immersing themselves in primary sources,
researchers can access unfiltered, authentic, and context-rich information, allowing for a more profound
interpretation of historical phenomena. This method is particularly advantageous when exploring topics
that lack contemporary data or require an in-depth investigation into the roots and evolution of
particular issues.
One critical aspect of the importance of archival research is its role in contributing to the overall rigor
and reliability of research outcomes. By meticulously examining and triangulating data from various
archival sources, researchers can enhance the credibility and validity of their findings. This method
becomes especially relevant when corroborating or complementing findings obtained through other
research methodologies, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
In the field of accounting research, archival methods are frequently employed to analyze financial
documents and statements. A notable example is the research paper titled "The Cross-Section of
Expected Stock Returns" by Eugene F. Fama and Kenneth R. French. This seminal work utilizes archival
data on stock returns and financial ratios to develop the Fama-French three-factor model, a cornerstone
in asset pricing theory. Through meticulous examination of historical stock data, the researchers were
able to derive enduring insights into the systematic risk factors influencing stock returns.
This example illustrates how archival research can have a lasting impact on the development of
theoretical frameworks within disciplines. The ability to trace and analyze historical financial data
enables researchers to discern long-term patterns and trends, contributing to the advancement of
knowledge.
In conclusion, archival research is a robust and multifaceted research method that provides depth and
authenticity to investigations across various disciplines. Its significance lies in its capacity to offer a
nuanced understanding of historical events and patterns, contribute to the rigor of research outcomes,
and play a pivotal role in the development of theoretical frameworks within specific fields. The example
from accounting research underscores the enduring impact that archival methods can have on shaping
our understanding of complex financial phenomena.
Q3
Ethical guidelines are crucial for researchers to ensure the integrity, respect, and responsible conduct of
research. These guidelines form the ethical framework that researchers must adhere to throughout the
entire research process. Here are six essential ethical guidelines that researchers need to consider:
First, informed consent is not just a procedural formality; it is a fundamental ethical principle.
Researchers must go beyond obtaining a participant's signature and ensure that individuals have a
genuine understanding of what the research entails. This involves clearly communicating the purpose,
procedures, potential risks, and benefits of the study in a language and format that participants can
comprehend. Researchers should also emphasize the voluntary nature of participation and the right to
withdraw at any point without consequences. This guideline ensures that participants make informed
and autonomous decisions about their involvement in the research.
Secondly, protecting the confidentiality and privacy of participants is paramount for building trust in the
research process. Researchers should implement robust measures to safeguard sensitive information,
such as de-identifying data and securing storage systems. Clear communication with participants about
how their data will be handled and ensuring that only authorized personnel have access helps maintain
confidentiality. Respecting participants' privacy involves minimizing any intrusion into their personal
lives and ensuring that they feel secure in sharing information without fear of undue exposure.
Besides, ensuring the welfare of participants requires a careful balancing act. Researchers must assess
potential risks associated with the study and take proactive steps to minimize or eliminate them. This
includes implementing ethical research designs, providing adequate debriefing after potentially
distressing procedures, and offering support services if needed. Researchers should prioritize the well-
being of participants throughout the study, recognizing that their contribution to research should not
come at the expense of their physical, psychological, or social welfare.
Additionally, honesty and transparency are foundational to the scientific process. Researchers have a
responsibility to accurately represent their work from the formulation of research questions to the
reporting of results. This involves avoiding the manipulation or distortion of data and presenting findings
in a truthful and comprehensive manner. Transparent reporting allows other researchers to replicate
and verify the study, contributing to the cumulative knowledge of the scientific community. It also builds
public trust in the research enterprise.
Fairness and justice in research involve equitable distribution of benefits and burdens. Researchers must
be mindful of inclusivity in participant selection, avoiding discrimination and ensuring diverse
representation. This is particularly important when working with vulnerable populations, where
researchers must take extra precautions to prevent exploitation. Balancing the benefits and burdens of
research among participants and addressing any potential disparities contribute to the ethical conduct
of research.
Lastly, ethical guidelines extend beyond general principles to include adherence to laws and regulations.
Researchers must be aware of and comply with applicable local, national, and international laws
governing research. This includes institutional review board (IRB) requirements, data protection laws,
and any specific regulations relevant to the research context. Compliance ensures that researchers
operate within legal and ethical boundaries, providing an additional layer of protection for participants
and upholding the integrity of the research.
In conclusion, these ethical guidelines collectively create a robust framework for responsible and
respectful research. Adhering to these principles not only safeguards the rights and well-being of
participants but also contributes to the credibility and trustworthiness of the research process. Ethical
conduct is not a mere checkbox but an ongoing commitment to upholding the highest standards of
integrity in scientific inquiry.