Educational Methodology - Dissertation Example

?CHAPTER THREE - METHODOLOGY 3 Introduction The previous chapter (literature review) discussed various recruitment techniques and critically evaluated how organisations could create best pool of employees. Therefore, this chapter will elaborate on the research philosophy, design and methods to address the question of “How organisations could implement recruitment strategies to create a pool of best employees?” The researcher will present methodologies for data collection and data analysis in the following sections with reference to academic peer reviewed sources. The advantages and shortcomings will also be revealed to clarify the scope of this research project. Finally, the chapter concludes on discussion on ethical considerations and contribution of this study to academic literature. 3.1.1 Deductive Hussey and Hussey (1997) have highlighted the importance of deductive approach so that the researcher could test the findings from project by using theoretical models and frameworks. For instance, this deductive approach enables the research in checking the scope of data and its relevance. In other words, this approach is quite useful because the researcher could accomplish his / her aims and objectives through performing various tests for confirmation of hypotheses (Chapman & Webster, 2003; Lallemand, et al., 2005). Saunders et al. (2009) also pointed out that deductive approach is feasible for researchers that conduct tests to prove / disprove hypotheses and to draw inferences in the light of results. 3.2 Research Philosophy Easterby-Smith et al. (2006) have argued that one of the research philosophies for data collection is known as positivism. For instance, this approach holds that only authentic knowledge is that which is based on sense, experience and positive verification. Saunders et al (2009) have highlighted that positivism is a philosophy which holds that the scientific method should be used to investigate the processes. However, Spens and Kovacs (2006) confirmed that the probability of personal / observer bias and structural limitations is high in positivism. Nevertheless, this is an HRM project and the researcher is concerned with investigation of recruitment procedures that would create best workforce within an organisation; therefore, the scientific method (quantitative) would enhance the scope and validity of this research project. 3.3 Research Design According to Saunders et al (2007), there are four major types of data collection methods including survey, experiments, observations and interviews. For instance, the primary data could be analysed by using case study approach in which a research focuses on comprehensive investigation of different aspects in an organisation. The research, therefore, will use case study method to comprehend the effectiveness of recruitment methods used in Kraft Foods for creating best pool of employees. The researcher will not adopt inductive approach because he is not inclined to develop a new theory. 3.3.1 Case Study Approach Eisenhardt (1989) has made significant contribution towards the use of Case Study Approach by pointing out that Case Study analysis could be used to develop theories. Indeed, this type of analysis takes into account a particular setting and then focuses on explanation and ‘understanding of dynamics’ (Stake, 1994). For instance, Yin (2003) maintains that the Case Study approach focuses on comprehensive evaluation and multiple levels of analysis because it covers a case from many aspects (Cameron & Price, 2009). In addition, this approach is quite useful because it helps “providing description, testing any existing theory and generating a new theory” based on findings from previous researches and literature, current theoretical frameworks and new research project (Eisenhardt, 1989, p. 535). 3.3.2 Excel Once the data on recruitment techniques have been collected from filling of questionnaires, the researcher will utilise Microsoft Excel software (depending upon his convenience) for making calculations, creating tables, charts and graphs for statistical analysis. The statistical tools such as the measures of central tendency (mean, mode, frequency and median) will be used to analyse quantitative data. Indeed, they will help understanding what techniques are mostly used and what is their effectiveness. Chapman & Webster (2003) also affirm that use of technological tools facilitate recruitment and selection process. A good example is use of Human Resource Information System (HRIM), which include such applications and features that benefit in storing and analysing recruitment information of individual candidates. 3.4 Mixed Methods Approach The researcher will use mixed methods approach which is a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to test different hypotheses. According to Sale et al (2002), a research objective and aim may not necessarily be achieved by using either quantitative or quantitative methodology only; therefore, the researcher adopted mixed methods approach to ensure that the data is accurate and reliable as well as could be tested in the light of relevant theoretical models and frameworks. 3.4.1 Qualitative Research Johnson & Duberly (2001) and Johnson et al (2007) have explained the importance of qualitative information by pointing out the fact that this approach helps understanding the theoretical underpinnings, models and frameworks. Moreover, the qualitative data is quite useful in exploratory and descriptive research studies because it enables researchers to understand the interpretations and findings from previous works in more clear and coherent manner. For instance, Cassell et al (2006) have focused on the use of qualitative research because it facilitate in interpretation of responses and elucidation of behaviours / attitudes of the participants. Ekanem (2007) affirm that a researcher could use structured (all questions are prepared for a formal interview), semi-structured (some questions are prepared before interview) and unstructured (no interview preparation) interview types to attain qualitative information from participants (Collis & Hussey, 2003). 3.4.2 Quantitative Research For this study quantitative data will be obtained and used for analysis. Quantitative data will be obtained with a view of establishing the relationships that exist between different recruitment strategies and induction of deserving workers (Kerns, 2003). Based on the quantitative data obtained from the study and the statistical tests (Brown et al, 2003), the researcher would be able to highlight which strategy has been largely used by Kraft Foods to induct most of its workers. The measures of central tendency will be used to analyse quantitative data. Stewart et al (2007) also emphasised over the use of quantitative data, which is generated by designing a questionnaire on Likert Scale, which benefits in creation of information that could be utilised in quantitative research (Anderson, 2007). 3.5 Data Collection Methods 3.5.1 Semi-structured Telephone Interviews In order to obtain more accurate and full data regarding recruitment strategies in the company under study, telephone interviews will be conducted with a limited number of HR managers. Telephone interviews have been conducted owing to convenience compared to face-to-face interviews (Saunders et al, 2007). This method is adopted because it enables to approach and communicate various executives at key positions. In addition, it also ensures flexibility of time and relegates the inconvenience of physical travelling. The interviews will be semi-structured in nature and will be designed before interview session to obtain as much qualitative data as possible regarding recruitment procedures in the company. Neuman (2006) proposes that the semi-structured interview gives the respondent a more relaxed atmosphere to answer to questions while at the same time ensuring that the interview remains objective. 3.5.2 Staff Survey and Sampling Procedures A questionnaire will be developed consisting of 10 - 15 questions for employees of Kraft Foods to determine how they rate recruitment strategies and how effective they are in employment of right candidates. Indeed, the researcher will use the Likert Scale to produce the questionnaire in which 5-6 options will be provided to participants to analyse their responses about recruitment procedures they went through. Kraft Foods Company has over 140, 000 employees worldwide out of which there are more than 16, 000 employees across Europe. The research will approach Kraft Foods UK to conduct a survey with employees to investigate the differences in responses of HR professionals and employees. A sample of 40 employees will be designed and 8 participants will be chosen randomly from 5 departments such as finance, production, marketing and sales, IT and administration. The sample will include respondents of all ages – from top to low management levels. To cater for any inconveniences that may arise due to significantly high variations in responses, the sample size will be increased by a small margin (Gofton & Ness, 1997). 3.6 Ethical considerations According to Painter-Morland (2008), the ethical principles have to specially considered whenever a research project is initiated. Unequivocally, the researcher has to ensure that information presented in dissertation is highly authentic, reliable, updated and obtained from credible sources in an ethical manner. Nevertheless, the research should be very clear, graphic and concise, yet thorough along with the evident information demonstrated in any research project (Miguel, 2010). The information / data presented in the research should be permissible and identifiable for public because this allows new researchers to use this literature, to identify any perceived weaknesses and formulate new research questions and hypotheses. In addition, the researcher has to ensure that participants are not exploited in any way to reveal an organisation’s core business secrets. Rather, every single piece of first-hand information is attained after mutual informed consent with managers and staff. Second, it should be pinpointed there is no any fake or fabricated data usually self-created or self-answered by various false researchers who have zero inclination towards commencing any Primary Research project (Ghauri & Gronhaug, 2005). Next, the researcher will include direct quotes and statistics supported with actual page numbers so that any person could corroborate from original sources. No copying or imitation of existing data is done because all in-text citations are mentioned as well as original sources provided in References / Bibliography sections (Creswell, 2007). 3.7 Validity and Reliability of the Study The research will include secondary information that will compare and contrasted with primary information obtained from interviews, employee survey and focus group research methodologies. The research will contribute to literature by revealing how multinationals recruit best pool of candidates and how this impacts their overall performance. 3.8 Limitations There are four core limitations of this research study. Firstly, the accuracy of quantitative data, facts and statistics presented or summarised by previous researchers (and cited in literature review) is not guaranteed. Second, the responses obtained from participants of survey may be biased or fake. Thirdly, the researcher has not used face-to-face interviews because of time constraints; therefore, he could not be able to observe HR professionals of Kraft Foods. Nevertheless, face expressions definitely help inferring the reliability of responses and information shared with students. The final limitation is that representatives of Kraft Foods may deliberately hide or refuse to share pertinent company information because of organisational code of conduct. Usually multinationals are very concerned with data security so they do not share important company information in the name of privacy. 3.9 Conclusion The researcher will mainly use available conceptual frameworks and models provided by previous theorists; the deductive approach is used. Nevertheless, the best approach to study HR issues is use of scientific method; thus, mixed methods approach is preferred. 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