REVIEWING RELATED LITERATURE
Reviewing related literature is the systematic examination of existing publications like books,
articles, and studies relevant to a research topic, aiming to understand the field's knowledge, uncover
literature gaps, situate the research, and refine questions or hypotheses. It's crucial for developing
theories, methodologies, and identifying areas for new contributions.
Citations are formal references to the work of others from which you have borrowed ideas, data, or actual
words.
Two (2) Types of Citations
1. In-text Citations. In-text citations are brief references within the body of your text that direct
readers to the more detailed entries in the reference list or bibliography. They typically include
the author's last name and the year of publication, and for direct quotes, a page number may also
be included. In-text citations provide immediate source acknowledgment without interrupting the
flow of the writing.
Examples: Single author: (Susada, 2020), Two authors: (Susada & Mendez, 2020), and Three or
more authors: (Susada et al., 2020).
Two (2) Types of In-text Citations
A. Direct Quotation. Direct quotation involves the exact replication of words from a source text
into your own writing, enclosed within quotation marks. This method is used when the
original wording is considered perfect, powerful, or essential for conveying the original
author's idea with precision.
Examples:
a. According to Santos (2020), "Learning is not a passive process, but an active and
dynamic engagement with information" (p. 45).
b. "Learning is not a passive process, but an active and dynamic engagement with
information" (Santos, 2020, p. 45).
A block quotation is a direct quotation that is separated from the rest of the text in a
manuscript and formatted as a distinct block of text. Block quotations are used when quoting
a passage that is typically longer than a threshold of 40 words or more.
B. Indirect Quotation. Indirect quotation often referred to as paraphrasing or summarizing,
involves rephrasing or condensing the ideas from a source text into your own words. Unlike
direct quotation, which reproduces the exact words from a source with quotation marks,
indirect quotation requires you to interpret and restate the original content, maintaining the
original meaning but integrating it seamlessly into your writing style.
Examples:
a. Gonzales (2020) emphasizes the transformative potential of digital technology in
education, arguing that it not only changes the tools teachers use but also fundamentally
alters the teaching and learning process itself.
b. The transformative potential of digital technology in education, which not only changes
the tools teachers use but also fundamentally alters the teaching and learning process
itself (Gonzales, 2020)
2. Reference Citations. Reference citations, often listed in a reference list or bibliography at the end
of a document, provide full details of every source cited in-text. These entries allow readers to
locate and further explore the cited sources.
Types of Reference Citation According to Sources
A. Journal Article
Format: Author's Last Name, Initials. (Year). Title of the article. Title of the Journal,
Volume(Issue), page range. DOI
Example: Susada, B. (2020). Exploring new trends in journal article writing. Journal of
Writing Research, 8(3), 123-145. https://doi.org/xx.xxx/yyyy
B. Books
Format: Author's Last Name, Initials. (Year). Title of the book. Publisher.
Example: Susada, B. (2018). Understanding the basics. Academic Press.
C. Book Chapter
Format: Chapter Author's Last Name, Initials. (Year). Title of the chapter. In Editor's Initials.
Editor's Last Name (Ed.), Title of the book (pp. page range of chapter). Publisher.
Example: Susada, B., Susada, J.M., Mendez, M.L.S., & Mantog, J. (2019). The chapter of
understanding. J. Cervantes & M. Armingol, Exploring the depths of research, 101-120.
Scholarly Publishing.
D. Online Newspaper / Magazine
Format: Author's Last Name, Initials. (Year Month Day). Title of the article. Title of the
Newspaper or Magazine. URL
Example: Susada, B. (2021 April 15). The rise of online learning. The Education Today
Magazine. https://www.educationtoday.com/rise-of-online-learning
E. Web Pages
Format: Author's Last Name, Initials. (Year Month Day). Title of the web page. URL
Example: Susada, B. (2020, June 8). The importance of APA style.
http://www.apastyle.org/importance-of-apa-style
F. Online Reports
Format: Author's Last Name, Initials or Authoring Organization. (Year Month Day). Title of
the report. URL
Example: World Health Organization. (2019 March 14). Global health and aging.
https://www.who.int/ageing/global_health/en/
Application:
Assessment:
Roles of Literature Review in Quantitative Business Research
1. Foundation for Research Question/Hypothesis. Literature review helps in identifying gaps in
existing knowledge, leading to the formulation of specific research questions or hypotheses that
are grounded in theoretical and empirical backgrounds.
2. Contextualization of the Study. It provides a context for the research, situating the study within
the broader scholarly work. This helps in demonstrating the relevance and significance of the
research question or hypothesis.
3. Guidance on Methodology. Existing literature can inform the selection of appropriate quantitative
methodologies, including research design, data collection techniques, and analysis methods. It
offers insights into what methods have been effective in similar studies.
4. Benchmark for Results. Literature provides a benchmark against which new research findings can
be compared and contrasted. This comparison helps in interpreting the results, understanding their
implications, and situating them within the existing body of knowledge.
5. Theoretical Frameworks. It helps in identifying and defining the theoretical frameworks that
underpin the study. These frameworks guide the conceptualization of the research variables and
the relationships between them.
6. Rationale for the Study. Through literature, researchers justify the need for their study,
highlighting how it addresses a gap, challenges existing assumptions, or contributes new insights
to the field.
7. Avoiding Duplication. By reviewing what has already been studied, researchers can ensure their
study adds value to the existing knowledge rather than duplicating past efforts.
8. Identifying Variables and Hypotheses. Literature review can aid in the identification of key
variables and the formulation of testable hypotheses, based on previous findings and theoretical
considerations.
9. Ethical Considerations. It can also highlight ethical considerations and challenges encountered in
previous studies, guiding researchers in adopting ethical practices in their own work.
Roles of Literature Review in Qualitative Business Research
1. Establish the Research Context. It situates the study within the broader academic discourse,
providing background information and highlighting the significance of the research topic or issue.
2. Identify Gaps in Existing Knowledge. By reviewing what is already known, the literature review
helps to uncover areas that have been underexplored or not addressed from the perspective the
current study intends to take.
3. Inform Research Design. The review helps in shaping the research questions and may guide the
selection of appropriate qualitative methodologies (e.g., ethnography, case studies, grounded
theory) by highlighting what approaches have been useful in similar contexts.
4. Theoretical Frameworks. It aids in identifying and refining theoretical frameworks that will guide
the analysis and interpretation of data. This involves understanding concepts, theories, and
models that are relevant to the study's focus.
5. Enhance Reflexivity. Through engaging with the literature, researchers can become more aware of
their own biases and assumptions, fostering a reflexive approach to the study's design, data
collection, and analysis.
6. Guide Data Analysis. Insights from the literature can inform the development of coding schemes
or analytical frameworks, helping researchers to interpret their data in relation to existing
knowledge.
7. Support Findings. The literature review allows researchers to compare their findings with existing
studies, providing a basis for discussing how the new research contributes to or diverges from
established knowledge.
8. Theoretical Contribution. It enables researchers to articulate how their findings contribute to
theoretical discussions and debates within their field, potentially offering new insights or
extending current theories.
9. Ethical Considerations. Literature can inform researchers about ethical considerations and
dilemmas encountered in similar studies, guiding them in ethical decision-making in their own
research.
10. Demonstrate Scholarly Rigor. A thorough literature review demonstrates engagement with the
academic community and establishes the credibility of the research by showing that the study is
grounded in existing scholarship.
Different Writing Styles in Writing Review of Related Literature for Business Research
1.Narrative Literature Review
Description: This style provides a comprehensive overview of the literature on a topic, weaving
together findings and theories in a story-like manner. It's useful for contextualizing the research
within the broader field, discussing historical developments, and highlighting key studies and
theoretical contributions.
Use: Best for exploratory studies or when introducing new perspectives in well-established areas
of business research.
2. Systematic Literature Review
Description: Characterized by a rigorous and replicable methodology, this style involves a
detailed plan for identifying, evaluating, and synthesizing studies. It aims to minimize bias
through systematic search strategies and explicit inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Use: Ideal for topics where there is a need to aggregate findings from empirical studies to inform
practice or policy decisions, such as in marketing strategies or organizational behavior.
3. Thematic Literature Review
Description: Organizes the literature around themes or conceptual categories rather than
chronologically or by methodology. It identifies patterns and narratives within the research,
offering insights into the evolution of ideas and practices within the field.
Use: Suitable for areas of business research that are diverse in methodologies and theories, such
as entrepreneurship or corporate social responsibility.
4. Theoretical Literature Review
Description: Focuses on building, critiquing, or expanding theoretical frameworks. It analyzes the
relationships between existing theories, identifies gaps, and suggests areas for theoretical
development.
Use: Useful for research that aims to contribute to theoretical advancement in business studies,
such as new models of consumer behavior.
5. Methodological Literature Review
Description: Examines and compares the research methods used in the field, discussing their
strengths, weaknesses, and applicability to different research questions. It can also highlight
innovative or underutilized methodologies.
Use: Important for studies those seek to critique or enhance research methods in business, such as
quantitative models in finance or qualitative approaches in organizational culture studies.
6. Integrative Literature Review
Description: Aims to synthesize findings from both theoretical and empirical studies to generate
new frameworks or perspectives. It integrates knowledge across disciplines, methodologies, and
theories.
Use: Excellent for interdisciplinary research or when aiming to address complex issues like
sustainability practices in businesses, which involve economic, environmental, and social aspects.
7. Critical Literature Review
Description: Offers a critical evaluation of the literature, challenging assumptions,
methodologies, and conclusions. It identifies biases, debates, and contradictions within the field,
providing a deeper understanding of the topic.
Use: Best employed in areas where there is significant debate or where research findings have
been contentious, such as in studies of leadership styles or corporate governance.
8. Scoping Review
Description: Provides a preliminary assessment of the size and scope of the literature on a topic.
It identifies key concepts, theories, and evidence gaps, often as a precursor to a more detailed
systematic review.
Use: Useful for new or emerging areas of business research where the extent and range of the
literature are not yet clear, such as digital transformation in traditional industries.
9. Meta-analysis
Description: A quantitative literature review that combines the results of multiple studies to arrive
at a comprehensive statistical conclusion about a specific research question. It requires studies to
have a similar enough methodology to statistically aggregate their results.
Use: Employed when there are numerous quantitative studies on a topic, such as the effectiveness
of specific marketing techniques or investment strategies.
Business Research
Business research refers to the systematic and objective process of gathering, analyzing, and
interpreting data pertaining to business operations, with the aim of making informed decisions, solving
business problems, enhancing strategic planning, and contributing to the overall improvement and
competitiveness of a business.
Coverage of Business Research
1. Market Research
Consumer behavior and preferences in the digital age.
The impact of social media marketing on brand loyalty.
Market segmentation and targeting strategies for new product launches.
2. Organizational Behavior
The effects of remote work on employee productivity and job satisfaction.
Leadership styles and their impact on organizational culture and performance.
Strategies for enhancing diversity and inclusion within the workplace.
3. Finance
The role of technology in transforming traditional banking services.
4. Strategic Management
The effectiveness of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives on company
reputation.
Business model innovation and its role in sustaining competitive advantage.
5. Human Resources Management
The influence of organizational wellness programs on employee performance.
Talent acquisition and retention strategies in a competitive labor market.
The impact of performance appraisal systems on employee motivation.
6. Entrepreneurship
The challenges and opportunities of starting a business in emerging markets.
The role of incubators and accelerators in startup success.
Crowdfunding as a financing option for small businesses and startups.
THE BUSINESS RESEARCH PROBLEM
A business research problem is a specific question or challenge a business aims to address
through careful investigation and analysis, guiding the creation of research objectives and methods to
produce actionable insights that align with organizational goals.
Sources of Business Research Problems
1. Economic Policies and Government Initiatives. Analyze the impact of government policies, such
as tax reforms, infrastructure projects, and investment incentives, on businesses and industries.
2. Consumer Behavior Trends. Investigate the preferences, purchasing behaviors, and digital
consumption patterns of Filipino consumers. Research might focus on the growing e-commerce
market, the impact of social media on buying decisions, or the preference for local over foreign
brands.
3. Technological Adoption and Digital Transformation. Explore how Filipino businesses are
adopting new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and e-commerce platforms, and the
challenges they face in digital transformation.
4. SMEs and Entrepreneurship. Small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the Philippine
economy. Research could focus on the challenges SMEs face, such as access to capital, market
competition, or digitalization, and explore strategies for growth and sustainability.
5. Environmental Sustainability. Investigate the practices of Philippine businesses in relation to
environmental sustainability, including waste management, sustainable sourcing, and the
adoption of green technologies.
6. Tourism and Hospitality Industry. With tourism being a significant sector, research could focus
on sustainable tourism practices, the impact of global travel trends on local tourism, and strategies
for enhancing the tourist experience.
7. Cultural and Social Influences on Business. Examine how Filipino cultural values and social
norms influence business practices, consumer behavior, and employee management.
8. Impact of Natural Disasters on Businesses. The Philippines is prone to natural disasters, such as
typhoons and earthquakes. Research could explore disaster preparedness, resilience planning for
businesses, and the economic impacts of these events.
SAMPLING TECHNIQUES
A population refers to the entire set of individuals, items, or data points that are of interest for a particular
study, encompassing all subjects that fit within the defined criteria of the investigation. It represents the
total group about which the researcher wishes to draw conclusions. A sample, on the other hand, is a
subset of this population, selected through various methods to represent the larger group as accurately as
possible. Samples are utilized because it is often impractical or impossible to study the entire population
due to constraints such as cost, time, and accessibility. The process of selecting a sample and analyzing it
allows researchers to make inferences and predictions about the population from which it was drawn.
Sampling is a process used in quantitative research to select a group of subjects (a sample) for study from
a larger group (a population). Since it's usually impractical to study the whole population, researchers
draw conclusions about the population based on a well-chosen sample.
Sampling Error occurs due to the differences between the sample and the entire population. The aim is to
minimize sampling error to ensure the sample accurately represents the population.
Computing Sample Size
Slovin’s Formula
𝑁
𝑛=
1 + 𝑁𝑒 2
where, 𝑛 is the sample size, 𝑁 is the total population size, and 𝑒 is the margin of error (in
decimal)
Types of Sampling Techniques
A. Probability or Random Sampling. Probability or random sampling involves selecting participants
in such a way that each member of the population has a known and non-zero chance of being
selected. This approach is characterized by random selection, allowing for the calculation of the
odds of any given individual being chosen, which supports the generalization of the results to the
broader population. The main types of probability sampling include:
a. Simple Random Sampling. Every member of the population has an equal chance of being
selected which is accomplished by either fish bowl method or by the use of table of
random numbers.
b. Systematic Sampling. Every nth member of the population is selected, following a
random start. The interval of respondents is determined by dividing the number of the
population by the sample size.
c. Stratified Sampling. The population is divided into strata (subgroups) based on certain
characteristics, and members are randomly selected from each stratum. This sampling
usually followed by simple random sampling in the selection of the actual respondents.
d. Cluster Sampling. The population is divided into clusters (groups), and entire clusters are
randomly selected.
B. Non-probability or Non-random Sampling. Non-probability or non-random sampling does not
involve random selection. Instead, participants are chosen based on factors such as convenience,
judgment by the researcher, or other non-random criteria, making it difficult to determine the
probability of any individual member being chosen. This can limit the ability to generalize
findings. Types of non-probability sampling include:
a. Convenience Sampling. Participants are selected based on their availability or ease of
access.
b. Judgmental or Purposive Sampling. Participants are chosen based on the researcher’s
judgment about who would be most beneficial for the study.
c. Snowball Sampling. Existing study participants recruit future participants from among
their acquaintances.
d. Quota Sampling. The researcher selects individuals to meet a specific quota related to
demographic characteristics or other criteria.
Criteria of Research Samples
1. Representativeness. The sample should accurately reflect the characteristics of the population. It's
crucial for the sample to mirror the population's composition regarding key variables such as age,
gender, socio-economic status, or any other characteristic relevant to the study.
2. Size. The size of the sample affects the confidence in the research findings. Larger samples tend
to be more representative of the population, reducing the margin of error and increasing the
reliability of the results. However, the law of diminishing returns applies; beyond a certain point,
increasing the sample size yields minimal gains in accuracy relative to the added effort and cost.
3. Random Selection. In probability sampling methods, every member of the population should have
a known and equal chance of being selected. This criterion is vital to prevent selection bias and
ensure that the sample is not systematically different from the population.
4. Stratification. When the population has distinct subgroups (strata) that are relevant to the research
question, the sample should be stratified to ensure that these subgroups are adequately
represented. This involves dividing the population into strata and then randomly sampling from
each stratum.
5. Accessibility. The practicality of accessing potential participants is also a criterion. The sample
needs to be drawn from a population segment that is accessible to the researcher, considering
time, cost, and logistical constraints.
QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS
Quantitative research methods systematically study observable phenomena using statistical,
mathematical, or computational techniques to develop mathematical models and hypotheses.
Measurement is key, linking empirical observations to quantitative expressions.
Data Collection
Data collection is the systematic process of gathering and measuring information from a variety
of sources to obtain a complete and accurate picture of an area of interest.
Common Data Collection in Quantitative Research Methods
1. Surveys and Questionnaires. These are among the most common techniques, involving structured
questionnaires with closed-ended questions to gather numerical data from a large number of
respondents. Surveys can be administered online, by phone, by mail, or in person.
2. Experiments. This method involves manipulating one or more variables (independent variables)
to observe the effect on one or more outcome variables (dependent variables), under controlled
conditions. Experiments can be conducted in laboratory settings or in the field.
Data Coding in Quantitative Research Methods
In the context of quantitative research methods, coding refers to the process of categorizing and
assigning numerical values or labels to pieces of information or data based on predefined rules or criteria.
This process is essential for transforming raw data into a structured form that can be easily analyzed
statistically. While coding is more commonly associated with qualitative research, it plays a significant
role in quantitative studies as well, especially in the initial stages of data preparation and analysis. Here’s
how coding functions within quantitative research:
1. Variable Coding: Coding often involves assigning numbers to represent different categories or
responses. For example, in a survey asking about gender, males might be coded as "1" and
females as "2". This numerical representation facilitates the statistical analysis of the data.
2. Scaling and Scoring: Coding is also used to create scales and scores from survey items or test
responses. For instance, Likert scale responses to statements of agreement can be coded from 1
(strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree), and these codes can be summed or averaged to create
composite scores representing attitudes or behaviors.
Types of Data Analysis
Choosing the right statistical test is pivotal for analyzing data correctly. The choice depends on the
research question, the level of measurement of the data, and the distribution of the data. Here are some
common scenarios:
a. Mean. The mean, or average, is a fundamental statistical measure used to describe the central
tendency of a dataset.
Example statement of the problem: What is the level of awareness among business owners on the
TRAIN Law?
b. Test of Differences (e.g., t-tests, ANOVA). Used to compare means between two or more groups.
For example, a t-test is used for comparing two groups, while ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) is
used for three or more groups.
Example statement of the problem: Is there any significant difference on the level of awareness
on TRAIN Law between those in manufacturing industry and those in the tourism industry?
c. Test of Relationships (e.g., correlation, regression). Used to examine the relationship between
variables. Correlation tests (like Pearson's r) assess the strength and direction of the relationship
between two continuous variables. Regression analysis predicts the value of a dependent variable
based on the value of one or more independent variables.
Example statement of the problem: Is there any significant relationship on the level of awareness
of TRAIN Law and educational level of participants?
QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS
Qualitative research methods focus on gathering and analyzing non-numerical data to delve into
the depth, meaning, and complexity of concepts, opinions, and experiences. This approach is valuable for
uncovering insights into behaviors, motivations, emotions, and the social contexts influencing individuals,
without relying on statistical analysis.
Common Data Collection in Qualitative Research Methods
1. In-depth Interviews. Conducted on a one-on-one basis, these interviews are designed to explore
the interviewee's views, experiences, or beliefs in depth. Open-ended questions encourage
detailed responses, allowing researchers to delve into specific aspects of the research topic.
2. Focus Groups. A focus group involves a small, diverse group of participants discussing a specific
topic under the guidance of a moderator. This method is useful for exploring people’s attitudes,
experiences, and reactions in a social setting, offering insights into group dynamics and
consensus (or lack thereof) on issues.
3. Participant Observation. In this method, researchers immerse themselves in the setting or context
being studied, observing and sometimes participating in the activities of the group. This allows
for a deep understanding of social processes, behaviors, and interactions within their natural
context.
Coding in Qualitative Research Methods
Coding data for qualitative analysis is a systematic process used to organize, categorize, and
interpret textual or non-numerical data collected from interviews, observations, documents, or other
qualitative research methods. This process is essential for identifying patterns, themes, and categories
within the data, facilitating a deeper understanding of the underlying phenomena. Here’s how coding is
typically conducted in qualitative analysis:
1. Familiarization with the Data. Begin by thoroughly reading or reviewing the data to gain a deep
understanding of its content. This initial review helps in identifying preliminary insights and
potential patterns.
2. Generating Initial Codes. Codes are labels or tags that are assigned to segments of the data that
capture the essence of the information. Initial coding involves going through the data line-by-line
or paragraph-by-paragraph to tag or highlight segments of the text with descriptive codes. These
codes can be words or short phrases that summarize the segment's content.
3. Searching for Themes. After the initial coding, the next step is to examine the codes for patterns
and group related codes into potential themes. A theme is a broader category that represents a
significant pattern in the data related to the research questions.
4. Reviewing Themes. This involves refining the themes to ensure they accurately represent the
coded data segments and the entire data set. It may require splitting themes into sub-themes,
combining themes, or discarding irrelevant themes. This step ensures that the themes are
coherent, consistent, and distinct.
5. Defining and Naming Themes. Once the themes have been identified and reviewed, they need to
be clearly defined and named. This involves describing what each theme covers and how it relates
to the research question. The names should be concise yet descriptive enough to convey the
essence of the theme.
6. Producing the Report. The final step involves weaving together the analytic narrative and data
extracts to tell the story of the research findings. This includes a detailed analysis of each theme,
supported by quotes from the data to illustrate the points made. The report should reflect the
complexity of the data and provide insights into the research questions.
Technologies in Qualitative Data Analysis
Technology in qualitative data analysis refers to the use of specialized software tools designed to
facilitate the organization, coding, analysis, and interpretation of non-numerical or unstructured data such
as text, images, and audio recordings. These tools help researchers manage large volumes of qualitative
data, streamline the analysis process, and enhance the rigor and transparency of their findings. Key types
of technology used in qualitative data analysis include:
1. Qualitative Data Analysis Software (QDAS). These are comprehensive programs that support
various aspects of qualitative research, from data organization and coding to analysis and
visualization. Examples include NVivo, ATLAS.ti, MAXQDA, and Dedoose. These tools allow
researchers to import data from different sources, create and apply codes, search and retrieve
coded segments, and identify patterns and themes.
2. Transcription Software. Transcription tools such as Otter.ai, Transcribe, and Sonix automatically
convert audio recordings of interviews or focus groups into text, significantly reducing the time
and effort required for manual transcription. Some QDAS tools also integrate transcription
features.
3. Text Analysis Tools. Specialized text analysis software, such as Leximancer and WordStat, uses
natural language processing (NLP) and text mining techniques to automatically identify themes,
patterns, and relationships in text data. These tools are useful for exploratory analysis and can
complement manual coding approaches.
4. Audio and Video Analysis Tools. Software like ELAN and Transana is designed to facilitate the
coding and analysis of audio and video data, allowing researchers to annotate, segment, and
analyze multimedia content in detail.