Question 1

‘The distinction between quantitative and qualitative research lies in their respective approach to social enquiry rather than in their conceptual nomenclature'. – in the light of this statement, formulate a research proposal of qualitative research indicating various steps involved in research proc

Accepted Answer

The assertion that the distinction between quantitative and qualitative research lies in their respective approaches to social enquiry, rather than mere conceptual nomenclature, is fundamental in research methodology. While both seek to understand phenomena, their underlying philosophical assumptions about reality (ontology) and how knowledge is acquired (epistemology) fundamentally diverge, dictating their methods and objectives. This intellectual framework, as highlighted in MEC-109, shapes th

Question 2

What do you mean by the ‘term' scientific explanation? Explain the various models of scientific explanation with illustrations. Do you think that these models of scientific explanation can be extended to non-physical sciences? Give reasons in support of your answer.

Accepted Answer

The 'term' scientific explanation refers to the systematic process of providing an answer to a 'why' or 'how' question about an observed phenomenon or event. It aims to make the phenomenon intelligible by identifying its causes, underlying mechanisms, or by subsuming it under general laws or theories. Key characteristics include objectivity, empirical verifiability, logical coherence, and often, predictive power. Unlike mere description, scientific explanation seeks to uncover the fundamental re

Question 3

Distinguish between mono method research and mixed method research. In which situation, would you like to conduct enquiry by using mixed methods research? Give illustration.

Accepted Answer

Research methodologies in economics can be broadly classified based on the type of data and analytical approach employed. This distinction helps researchers choose the most appropriate strategy to address their research questions effectively.

Mono method research involves the exclusive use of either a quantitative or a qualitative approach within a single study. A quantitative mono method study primarily deals with numerical data, employing statistical techniques to test hypotheses, establish r

Question 4

Distinguish between positive and relative measures of inequalities. Explain the computational device of Gini ratio as measure of income inequality.

Accepted Answer

Inequality measures in economics can be broadly distinguished into positive (or absolute) and relative measures, each offering a different perspective on income or wealth distribution.

Positive measures of inequality focus on the absolute differences in income or wealth among individuals or households. They quantify the actual monetary gap between different segments of the population, providing an understanding of the scale of disparity independent of the overall average income. Examples includ

Question 5

What types of data will you need to assess the performance of Indian economy? Explain the various sources of such data.

Accepted Answer

Assessing the performance of the Indian economy requires a comprehensive set of quantitative data spanning various macroeconomic indicators. This data is crucial for understanding economic growth, stability, and the effectiveness of policy interventions, allowing for a robust evaluation of the nation's economic health.

Key types of data needed include **National Income and Production data**, which encompasses Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Gross Value Added (GVA), and sectoral contributions (agr

Question 6

Writer short note on the following:

Accepted Answer

Here are short notes on the requested research methods and statistical techniques, adhering to the specified word limits and formatting guidelines.

### i. Maximum Likelihood method as method of estimation
The Maximum Likelihood (ML) method is a powerful statistical technique used to estimate the parameters of a given probability distribution. It operates on the principle of finding the parameter values that maximize the likelihood of observing the actual sample data. This means it selects the p

MEC-109 Solved Assignment — January 2026 / July 2025

RESEARCH METHODS IN ECONOMICS | IGNOU Master of Arts (Political Science) (MA)

MEC-109—January 2026 / July 2025

RESEARCH METHODS IN ECONOMICS

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MEC-109 Assignment Questions — January 2026

Q2. What do you mean by the ‘term' scientific explanation? Explain the various models of scientific explanation with illustrations. Do you think that these models of scientific explanation can be extended to non-physical sciences? Give reasons in support of your answer.

Q3. Distinguish between mono method research and mixed method research. In which situation, would you like to conduct enquiry by using mixed methods research? Give illustration.

Q5. Distinguish between positive and relative measures of inequalities. Explain the computational device of Gini ratio as measure of income inequality.

Q6. What types of data will you need to assess the performance of Indian economy? Explain the various sources of such data.

Q7. Writer short note on the following:

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