INTRODUCTION
The Project Work in CSR (MEDSP-051) with 8 credits elected by you is going to be a new experience and intended to help you in learning by doing. Research for Project work in CSR is based on various types of information. The more valid is the source of information, the more reliable will be information received. The type of information to be collected depends upon the type of CSR research you are planning to do. Therefore as a CSR professional, you require a wide knowledge of kinds and sources of primary and secondary information.
What you have learned from theory courses of PGDCSR programme may help you in understanding basic principles, processes, issues, challenges, dynamics, planning, monitoring and evaluation of CSR programmes. Having studied the Fundamentals of CSR; CSR Process; CSR Implementation, and; CSR Projects and Programmes, it is appropriate that you should get familiarized with CSR activities / issues / programmes / projects at field level. This handbook shall help you to acquire not only information and knowledge, but also skill in analyzing CSR activities / issues / programmes / projects using either a case study or a survey method. Also, this handbook will be your guide and show you how to formulate a project proposal, conduct the study, write the project report and submit it for evaluation.
OBJECTIVES
After studying this handbook on Project Work in CSR, you should be able to:
• Understand the concepts of case study and survey methods.
• Identify a topic, formulate a project proposal, prepare tools, collect and analyze the data.
• Write the project report and submit it for evaluation.
• Understand the concepts of case study and survey methods.
• Identify a topic, formulate a project proposal, prepare tools, collect and analyze the data.
• Write the project report and submit it for evaluation.
PROJECT WORK IN CSR
Project work in CSR will enable you to enhance your skill in selecting a topic, preparing a project proposal, formulating tools for data collection, collecting data, and generating information for the report on a particular topic.
Various methods are applied for different projects. But in MEDSP-051, you are advised to use case study method or survey method. However, you can also use other methods, if you are comfortable with them.
The methods of scientific social research may broadly be divided into three parts:
• Quantitative methods – Using survey data (Interviews & Questionnaires)
• Qualitative methods – Case Study, Focus Group Discussion, Observation Study
• Mixed methods – Mix of above In the theory course ‘MEDS-054 CSR Projects and Programmes’ we discussed the concepts like CSR programme planning, project formulation, monitoring and evaluation, measurement and sampling, data collection and analysis. In addition to them, the details on the case study and survey methods are briefly given below for your understanding.
• Quantitative methods – Using survey data (Interviews & Questionnaires)
• Qualitative methods – Case Study, Focus Group Discussion, Observation Study
• Mixed methods – Mix of above In the theory course ‘MEDS-054 CSR Projects and Programmes’ we discussed the concepts like CSR programme planning, project formulation, monitoring and evaluation, measurement and sampling, data collection and analysis. In addition to them, the details on the case study and survey methods are briefly given below for your understanding.
CASE STUDY METHOD
The statistical survey methods are based on large scale collection of facts, while case study is based on intensive study of a single CSR initiative by a corporate or company being implemented by any of the implementing agencies. The case study is thus more intensive in nature. The field or study is comparatively limited but has more of depth in it. Case study method in social sciences is being used extensively in psychology, education, sociology, economics, political science, management, development studies and CSR studies.
‘Case study is defined as a method of exploring and analyzing in-depth the life of a social unit, be that a person, a family, an institution, cultural group or even entire community’.
Example 1: A Case Study on Corporate Social Responsibility in NESTLE, TATA, ITC
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313837646_A_case_study_on_Corporate_Social_R esponsibility_in_NESTLE_TATA_ITC
Example 2: An Assessment of Corporate Social Responsibility: Case Study of Sonalika
Types of Case Studies
Case studies can be:
a) Explanatory case studies: They measure casual relationships.
b) Descriptive case studies: They are used to describe the context in which a programme is implemented and the nature of the programme itself.
c) Exploratory case studies: They help to identify performance measures or pose hypothesis for further evaluation. All CSR activities may not be amenable to case study method. Some of the kinds of CSR initiatives that may be studied by case study method are: CSR initiatives / development programmes under CSR, which have failed or succeeded. Example: Critical Success Factors for Corporate Social Responsibility: A Public Sector Perspective https://www.researchgate.net/publication/229897001_Critical_Success_Factors_for_Corporat e_Social_Responsibility_a_Public_Sector_Perspective Social, economic and political consequences of CSR programmes. Example: Corporate Social Responsibility for Social Impact: Approach to Measure Social Impact using CSR Impact Index https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237637826_Corporate_Social_Responsibility_for_ Social_ImpactApproach_to_Measure_Social_Impact_using_CSR_Impact_Index The CSR case studies rely on multiple sources of information and methods to provide a complete picture as possible of the particular case. In other words, the CSR case study aims at studying everything about something, rather than something about everything.
a) Explanatory case studies: They measure casual relationships.
b) Descriptive case studies: They are used to describe the context in which a programme is implemented and the nature of the programme itself.
c) Exploratory case studies: They help to identify performance measures or pose hypothesis for further evaluation. All CSR activities may not be amenable to case study method. Some of the kinds of CSR initiatives that may be studied by case study method are: CSR initiatives / development programmes under CSR, which have failed or succeeded. Example: Critical Success Factors for Corporate Social Responsibility: A Public Sector Perspective https://www.researchgate.net/publication/229897001_Critical_Success_Factors_for_Corporat e_Social_Responsibility_a_Public_Sector_Perspective Social, economic and political consequences of CSR programmes. Example: Corporate Social Responsibility for Social Impact: Approach to Measure Social Impact using CSR Impact Index https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237637826_Corporate_Social_Responsibility_for_ Social_ImpactApproach_to_Measure_Social_Impact_using_CSR_Impact_Index The CSR case studies rely on multiple sources of information and methods to provide a complete picture as possible of the particular case. In other words, the CSR case study aims at studying everything about something, rather than something about everything.
Characteristics of a Case Study
Unit of study in the case study method may be an individual CSR initiative by an institution or a group of institutions. In spite of the varying size of the unit of study, the fundamental point is that each unit is taken as a whole. Case study aims at deep and detailed study of the unit. Because of the nature of studying change in specific, precise and detailed manner, case study method is termed as “social microscope”.
As the study is more detailed and extends over a wider expanse of time, the number of units has to be small. There can be no hard and fast rule about it. They are not selected according to some scientific technique of sampling although an attempt is made to select as representative unit as possible. Please refer the theory course ‘MEDS-054 CSR Projects and Programmes’ reading material on ‘Sampling’ for more details on sampling.
The case study method is mainly qualitative in character. Therefore, you have to rely more upon your own power of observation and sense of logic rather than the facts themselves.
Importance of Case Study Method
i) Case study helps in formulating valid hypothesis.
ii) It helps in refining the tools of data collection for other research methods and also for finalizing the sample frame.
iii) It helps to know the peculiarities of the group as well as individual units, the type of response likely to be available and the likes and dislikes of the people.
iv) Case study enlarges the range of personal experience of the researcher as the whole range of subject’s life is studied unlike the survey where the researcher’s knowledge is limited to the particular aspect only.
ii) It helps in refining the tools of data collection for other research methods and also for finalizing the sample frame.
iii) It helps to know the peculiarities of the group as well as individual units, the type of response likely to be available and the likes and dislikes of the people.
iv) Case study enlarges the range of personal experience of the researcher as the whole range of subject’s life is studied unlike the survey where the researcher’s knowledge is limited to the particular aspect only.
How to Conduct Case Study?
Whatever be the design of case study, the steps for conducting a case study are same. The various steps that are involved in any case study are:
Introduction: This should contain the objectives and purposes of conducting the study.
Existing Situation: It is to describe the existing situation of the case under investigation through direct observation or measurement. 8 Example: To make a case study of a CSR initiative, first the existing condition of such initiative should be investigated.
Course of Events: The next step is to determine the most probable antecedents or course of events of the case and to formulate a definite hypothesis or set of hypothesis through knowledge of similar cases.
Example: From the present condition of the CSR initiative, we draw the probable antecedents of the case; say the factors for success or failure, group dynamics etc.
Cause and Effect Relation: The fourth step is the verification of hypothesis or finding cause and effect relationship. The case is checked for the presence or absence of the antecedents or events that support or apply to the case.
Example: A knowledge of the history of the CSR initiative helps in verification. Many documents like annual reports, communication with stakeholders, other records etc. are useful sources.
Direct Observation: Interview, check lists, score cards, rating scales, objective tests or other measuring devices etc. can be employed to secure necessary data. If hypothesis is verified, it follows the next step, if it is rejected, a fresh start has to be made through the formulation of another hypothesis.
Further Validation of the Diagnosis: The next step is directed towards a further validation of the diagnosis. This is achieved through the remedial step of removing the causes found and through making necessary adjustments. The effect of the changes introduced has to be observed carefully.
Follow-up of the Case: The phenomenon under study is re-measured after a significant period of time to ascertain, if any changes have been produced or not, by the modifications introduced. If the change is a positive, the diagnosis is taken to be correct.
Summary of the Findings: Findings have to be summarized precisely and clearly.
Conclusions and Generalizations: The conclusions and generalization drawn should be continuously attempted and clearly focused.
Introduction: This should contain the objectives and purposes of conducting the study.
Existing Situation: It is to describe the existing situation of the case under investigation through direct observation or measurement. 8 Example: To make a case study of a CSR initiative, first the existing condition of such initiative should be investigated.
Course of Events: The next step is to determine the most probable antecedents or course of events of the case and to formulate a definite hypothesis or set of hypothesis through knowledge of similar cases.
Example: From the present condition of the CSR initiative, we draw the probable antecedents of the case; say the factors for success or failure, group dynamics etc.
Cause and Effect Relation: The fourth step is the verification of hypothesis or finding cause and effect relationship. The case is checked for the presence or absence of the antecedents or events that support or apply to the case.
Example: A knowledge of the history of the CSR initiative helps in verification. Many documents like annual reports, communication with stakeholders, other records etc. are useful sources.
Direct Observation: Interview, check lists, score cards, rating scales, objective tests or other measuring devices etc. can be employed to secure necessary data. If hypothesis is verified, it follows the next step, if it is rejected, a fresh start has to be made through the formulation of another hypothesis.
Further Validation of the Diagnosis: The next step is directed towards a further validation of the diagnosis. This is achieved through the remedial step of removing the causes found and through making necessary adjustments. The effect of the changes introduced has to be observed carefully.
Follow-up of the Case: The phenomenon under study is re-measured after a significant period of time to ascertain, if any changes have been produced or not, by the modifications introduced. If the change is a positive, the diagnosis is taken to be correct.
Summary of the Findings: Findings have to be summarized precisely and clearly.
Conclusions and Generalizations: The conclusions and generalization drawn should be continuously attempted and clearly focused.
How to Write a Case Study?
The case study cannot be written according to any particular form or in any special style. A casual free type of report is to be preferred to formal type. The length will vary with the case and the use to be made of the study. The report should not be lengthy and irrelevant material need not be included. Avoid technical terminology and loose generalizations. Possible care should be taken to avoid some common sources of inaccuracies such as:
Errors in perception as to what is seen and heard.
Falsification of memory.
Unconscious omissions
Tendency to dramatize.
Projection of one’s owns ideas, attitudes, values and the like into report.
Inclination to pay special attention to unusual and striking incidents and to neglect the common and small details that may have special significance in the light of the whole.
Generalizations and conclusions should be developed from the data rather than from theories.
A balance has to be struck between the completeness necessary for objectivity and brevity essential for clarity.
Errors in perception as to what is seen and heard.
Falsification of memory.
Unconscious omissions
Tendency to dramatize.
Projection of one’s owns ideas, attitudes, values and the like into report.
Inclination to pay special attention to unusual and striking incidents and to neglect the common and small details that may have special significance in the light of the whole.
Generalizations and conclusions should be developed from the data rather than from theories.
A balance has to be struck between the completeness necessary for objectivity and brevity essential for clarity.
Advantages of Case Studies
Good for addressing how and why questions.
Gives concreteness to problems and solutions.
Can be used to study evolutionary or decision-making processes.
Provides in-depth information on a single setting, group or organization.
Can be tailored to specific situations.
Can provide background information as a guide for further study.
Contributes insight into relationships and personal feelings.
Draws out underlying assumptions and general knowledge.
Can be used as a supplement to other methods.
Gives concreteness to problems and solutions.
Can be used to study evolutionary or decision-making processes.
Provides in-depth information on a single setting, group or organization.
Can be tailored to specific situations.
Can provide background information as a guide for further study.
Contributes insight into relationships and personal feelings.
Draws out underlying assumptions and general knowledge.
Can be used as a supplement to other methods.
Limitations of Case Studies
Case study procedures are not standardized. Case studies of the same unit made by two investigators may differ in a number of important aspects.
The reliability and validity of case study material cannot be checked to any great extent through the use of statistical methods.
The researcher develops a tendency towards adhoc theorizing. In place of finding some scientific explanation to a particular phenomenon, researcher tries to find some commonsense explanation for it.
Time consuming and requires a large amount of data.
Results may not be generalizable to a larger population
May provide data on only one or two aspects of a problem.
Requires good observational, recording and reporting skills.
Information may be subjective because of investigator bias.
The reliability and validity of case study material cannot be checked to any great extent through the use of statistical methods.
The researcher develops a tendency towards adhoc theorizing. In place of finding some scientific explanation to a particular phenomenon, researcher tries to find some commonsense explanation for it.
Time consuming and requires a large amount of data.
Results may not be generalizable to a larger population
May provide data on only one or two aspects of a problem.
Requires good observational, recording and reporting skills.
Information may be subjective because of investigator bias.
SURVEY METHOD
The word survey is derived from two words ‘Sur’ or ‘Sor’ meaning ‘See’ and ‘Veior’ meaning ‘Over’. Survey, in simple terms means to “look over” or “see over”. Social survey is a process by which quantitative facts are collected about the social aspects of a community’s composition and activities. In other words, it is a fact finding study dealing with nature and problems of the community vis-a-vis CSR initiatives. Survey studies provide knowledge about the nature of objects, events and persons.
Surveys are a very popular method of collecting data and require a carefully designed questionnaire / interview schedule administered by mail, telephone or personal interviews. Surveys can be used to collect data on CSR beneficiaries’ knowledge, attitudes, skills and aspirations, adoption of practices, programme benefits, evaluation and impacts. It is the responsibility of the evaluator to ensure that ethical standards are maintained. This means that participation is voluntary and survey results are made public in a way that maintains confidentiality.
In the context of CSR, a survey may be conducted to assess the needs of the stakeholders to undertake CSR activities, evaluation of CSR activities conducted etc. When it comes to subject matter, the surveys are concerned with the demographic characteristics, the social environment, the activities on opinions and attitudes of some CSR beneficiaries. Thus, we see that CSR surveys involve a complex variety of objectives, functions and methods.
Characteristics of Survey
• It deals with the immediate needs or problems which can be addressed by CSR initiatives.
• It has a limited geographical scope.
• It has a purpose.
• Facts collected through survey may form the basis of further research.
• It is remedial in nature.
• It has a limited geographical scope.
• It has a purpose.
• Facts collected through survey may form the basis of further research.
• It is remedial in nature.
Objectives of Survey
• Collect data related to various issues / problems of development.
• Describe/ explain a phenomenon.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Attain useful knowledge.
• Test hypothesis.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Describe/ explain a phenomenon.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Attain useful knowledge.
• Test hypothesis.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Attain knowledge of cause and effect relationship.
• Study the economic conditions and factors responsible for these conditions.
• Evaluate the CSR programmes and assess the benefits derived from it.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
• Ultimately helps in bringing about development through CSR.
Steps in Survey
• Selecting the problem / intervention
• Definition of aim
• Determination of scope
• Definition of time limits
• Examination of the means of information
• Determination of the unit of survey
• Determination of the amount of refinement
• Preparedness of respondents
• Construction of tools for data collection
• Field work and data collection
• Processing and analysis of collected data
• Interpretation and report writing
• Definition of aim
• Determination of scope
• Definition of time limits
• Examination of the means of information
• Determination of the unit of survey
• Determination of the amount of refinement
• Preparedness of respondents
• Construction of tools for data collection
• Field work and data collection
• Processing and analysis of collected data
• Interpretation and report writing
Types of Surveys
Surveys may be classified according to subject matter, technique of data collection, area covered, regularity etc.
i) General and Specific Surveys General survey is conducted for collecting general information about any population or institution in a general way without any particular objective or hypothesis at hand. Example: Census survey undertaken by the Government for supplying regular data on socio-economic problems. Specific survey is conducted to study specific problems or particular aspect of the community. Therefore, specific surveys are more pointed and only such information as is directly related to the particular purpose is collected. Example: Assessing development needs.
ii) Direct and Indirect Surveys In case of direct surveys quantification is possible, whereas in indirect surveys quantitative description may not be possible. Example: Direct survey – Demographic surveys Indirect survey – Health and nutrition status surveys
iii) Census Survey and Sample Survey In the census survey, all units are covered separately and studied. Whereas, in sample survey, only some representative unit is studied. Compared to census survey, sample survey consumes less time, energy and money, but it is valid only if the sample is true representative of population.
iv) Primary and Secondary Survey In the primary survey, the task of survey is taken up afresh and the surveyor sets the goals and collects relevant facts. But if some facts are already available and there is no need to examine them afresh by a new survey then the survey is called secondary survey. Primary survey is far more reliable than the secondary survey.
v) Initial and Repetitive Survey If the survey is being made for the first time it is called initial survey and if it is being made second or third time it is called repetitive survey. Example for Initial Survey – Bench mark survey to document status of CSR beneficiaries before CSR intervention. Example for Repetitive Survey – Survey to study the impact of a CSR programme.
vi) Preliminary and Final Survey A preliminary survey is called as ‘pilot study’. It occupies the place of fore runner of the final survey. The purpose of this survey is to get the first hand knowledge of the universe to be surveyed. It helps a person to get acquainted with the problem and the nature of the respondents, to prepare the schedule or questionnaire and organizing the survey on proper lines. Final survey is conducted after the completion of pilot survey.
vii) Official, Semi-official and Private Survey Official surveys are conducted by the government through its various departments. The surveys conducted by quasi-government institutions like university, corporations, boards etc., are semi-official surveys. If the survey is conducted by non government persons or agency, it is called private survey.
viii) Public and Confidential Survey Some surveys are not personal in nature and accordingly no secrecy is maintained in the collection of data or publication of results. These surveys are therefore known as public surveys. If the nature of the survey is such that information collected or source of information is not to be revealed to public, the survey is confidential.
ix) Widespread and Limited Survey In widespread survey, a very large area or multiple purposes is involved, whereas in a limited survey only a small area and usually a specific aspect or problem is studied. The latter is comparatively more reliable.
x) Postal and Personal Survey When the data is collected through dispatch of questionnaires by post, it is known as postal survey whereas, if the information is collected through direct interview of the respondents usually through a schedule, it is known as personal survey.
xi) Regular and Ad-hoc survey Regular surveys are repeated after regular intervals without fail. Majority of such surveys are mainly economic in nature. Example: Census, economic survey, etc. The ad-hoc surveys are conducted for specific purpose once for all. It is mostly used for testing the hypothesis.
i) General and Specific Surveys General survey is conducted for collecting general information about any population or institution in a general way without any particular objective or hypothesis at hand. Example: Census survey undertaken by the Government for supplying regular data on socio-economic problems. Specific survey is conducted to study specific problems or particular aspect of the community. Therefore, specific surveys are more pointed and only such information as is directly related to the particular purpose is collected. Example: Assessing development needs.
ii) Direct and Indirect Surveys In case of direct surveys quantification is possible, whereas in indirect surveys quantitative description may not be possible. Example: Direct survey – Demographic surveys Indirect survey – Health and nutrition status surveys
iii) Census Survey and Sample Survey In the census survey, all units are covered separately and studied. Whereas, in sample survey, only some representative unit is studied. Compared to census survey, sample survey consumes less time, energy and money, but it is valid only if the sample is true representative of population.
iv) Primary and Secondary Survey In the primary survey, the task of survey is taken up afresh and the surveyor sets the goals and collects relevant facts. But if some facts are already available and there is no need to examine them afresh by a new survey then the survey is called secondary survey. Primary survey is far more reliable than the secondary survey.
v) Initial and Repetitive Survey If the survey is being made for the first time it is called initial survey and if it is being made second or third time it is called repetitive survey. Example for Initial Survey – Bench mark survey to document status of CSR beneficiaries before CSR intervention. Example for Repetitive Survey – Survey to study the impact of a CSR programme.
vi) Preliminary and Final Survey A preliminary survey is called as ‘pilot study’. It occupies the place of fore runner of the final survey. The purpose of this survey is to get the first hand knowledge of the universe to be surveyed. It helps a person to get acquainted with the problem and the nature of the respondents, to prepare the schedule or questionnaire and organizing the survey on proper lines. Final survey is conducted after the completion of pilot survey.
vii) Official, Semi-official and Private Survey Official surveys are conducted by the government through its various departments. The surveys conducted by quasi-government institutions like university, corporations, boards etc., are semi-official surveys. If the survey is conducted by non government persons or agency, it is called private survey.
viii) Public and Confidential Survey Some surveys are not personal in nature and accordingly no secrecy is maintained in the collection of data or publication of results. These surveys are therefore known as public surveys. If the nature of the survey is such that information collected or source of information is not to be revealed to public, the survey is confidential.
ix) Widespread and Limited Survey In widespread survey, a very large area or multiple purposes is involved, whereas in a limited survey only a small area and usually a specific aspect or problem is studied. The latter is comparatively more reliable.
x) Postal and Personal Survey When the data is collected through dispatch of questionnaires by post, it is known as postal survey whereas, if the information is collected through direct interview of the respondents usually through a schedule, it is known as personal survey.
xi) Regular and Ad-hoc survey Regular surveys are repeated after regular intervals without fail. Majority of such surveys are mainly economic in nature. Example: Census, economic survey, etc. The ad-hoc surveys are conducted for specific purpose once for all. It is mostly used for testing the hypothesis.
General Procedures for a Survey Interview
Minimizing Interviewer Bias
• Maintain a neat appearance.
• Follow the sampling plan to locate respondents.
• Be considerate and honest with the respondent.
• Understand the purpose of the study.
• Ask questions exactly as written.
• Record responses accurately.
• Be familiar with the research instrument.
• Follow sampling instructions.
• Check work for completeness.
• Follow the sampling plan to locate respondents.
• Be considerate and honest with the respondent.
• Understand the purpose of the study.
• Ask questions exactly as written.
• Record responses accurately.
• Be familiar with the research instrument.
• Follow sampling instructions.
• Check work for completeness.
Initiating Contact
• Introduce yourself, show your credentials.
• Remind respondent of the advance letter / e-mail / telephonic request, if any sent a few days earlier.
• Explain the purpose of the survey.
• Assure the respondent that his/her answers will remain confidential.
• Explain how respondents were chosen.
• Remind respondent of the advance letter / e-mail / telephonic request, if any sent a few days earlier.
• Explain the purpose of the survey.
• Assure the respondent that his/her answers will remain confidential.
• Explain how respondents were chosen.
Guidelines for Interviewing
• Choose respondents following the sampling criteria.
• Conduct the interview or select a mutually convenient time to return.
• To avoid distractions, try to conduct the interview without an audience.
• Remind participants that the interview is voluntary and their responses are confidential.
• Establish rapport by expressing appreciation of the respondent’s responses and willingness to participate.
• Read questions as they appear in the questionnaire and record answers accurately.
• Do not express your opinions.
• If an answer to an open-ended question is incomplete or appears irrelevant, probe to get a clearer response.
• If a respondent refuses to answer a question, do not insist to get an answer. It may jeopardize the entire interview.
• Conduct the interview or select a mutually convenient time to return.
• To avoid distractions, try to conduct the interview without an audience.
• Remind participants that the interview is voluntary and their responses are confidential.
• Establish rapport by expressing appreciation of the respondent’s responses and willingness to participate.
• Read questions as they appear in the questionnaire and record answers accurately.
• Do not express your opinions.
• If an answer to an open-ended question is incomplete or appears irrelevant, probe to get a clearer response.
• If a respondent refuses to answer a question, do not insist to get an answer. It may jeopardize the entire interview.
Methods of Survey
a) Telephone Survey
In the telephone survey a prepared questionnaire is read to a selected group of people to get the response. The survey sample is often selected from a telephone directory or other lists. People on the list are interviewed one at a time over the phone.
Advantages
• Saves time and resources.
• Widespread respondents can be contacted with high response rate.
• Can address more complex questions than mail questionnaires.
• Quick and efficient source of data.
• Selection of a specific respondent is easier.
• Personal touch.
• Widespread respondents can be contacted with high response rate.
• Can address more complex questions than mail questionnaires.
• Quick and efficient source of data.
• Selection of a specific respondent is easier.
• Personal touch.
Disadvantages
• Questions must be clear and concise.
• They require interviewing skills and a trained supervisor.
• Exclusion of households without telephones or with unlisted numbers.
• Timing of calls is critical and may introduce bias.
• They require interviewing skills and a trained supervisor.
• Exclusion of households without telephones or with unlisted numbers.
• Timing of calls is critical and may introduce bias.
b) Mail Survey
A mail survey or postal survey is the most frequently used type of survey in evaluation of CSR programmes with least resources.
Advantages
• Can cover a large sample size over a widely dispersed population.
• Provides a visual display of questions.
• Free of interviewer bias.
• Enables respondents to give thoughtful answers and control the pace and sequence of response.
• Relatively inexpensive.
• Provides a visual display of questions.
• Free of interviewer bias.
• Enables respondents to give thoughtful answers and control the pace and sequence of response.
• Relatively inexpensive.
Disadvantages
• Questionnaire must be short and carefully designed.
• Response rate is highly dependent on the number of contacts made with the respondent and the timing of the mailing.
• Little control over the completeness of the response.
• Those who reply may not be representative of the target population.
• Pre-testing of the questionnaire is necessary to avoid costly mistakes.
• Requires time to collect data.
• Requires a literate population and a reliable postal system.
• Response rate is highly dependent on the number of contacts made with the respondent and the timing of the mailing.
• Little control over the completeness of the response.
• Those who reply may not be representative of the target population.
• Pre-testing of the questionnaire is necessary to avoid costly mistakes.
• Requires time to collect data.
• Requires a literate population and a reliable postal system.
c) Personal Survey
Personal or face-to-face surveys are conducted by talking individually to respondents and systematically recording their answers to each question.
Advantages
• Can be used with a highly dispersed population.
• Suited for populations where a representative sample cannot be drawn.
• Can be used where there is a low literacy rate.
• High degree of control over who answers the survey.
• Interviewer can increase the willingness of respondents to answer questions.
• Visual aids can be used to facilitate understanding of survey questions.
• Questions can be fairly complex.
• Suited for populations where a representative sample cannot be drawn.
• Can be used where there is a low literacy rate.
• High degree of control over who answers the survey.
• Interviewer can increase the willingness of respondents to answer questions.
• Visual aids can be used to facilitate understanding of survey questions.
• Questions can be fairly complex.
Disadvantages
• Expensive and time-consuming.
• Interviewers must be carefully selected and receive adequate training.
• Requires a good supervisor.
• Interviewers must be carefully selected and receive adequate training.
• Requires a good supervisor.
d) Online Survey
Online surveys or internet surveys are very popular now for data collection, where a set of survey questions is sent out to a target sample to respond online using internet. The primary reason for the growth seen in the implementation of online survey is that they are extremely low cost and conducting an online survey is convenient due to the sheer magnitude of reach. Over the past decade, researchers have started preferring conductingsurveys using an online survey tool as they can send out surveys from the desktops or laptops and their target audience can respond to these surveys whenever possible. Online surveys are administered using email, social media etc. For efficient data collection, you must choose an advanced and efficient online survey platform (Source: https://www.questionpro.com/blog/what-are-online-surveys/).
Advantages of Surveys
• Survey is the only practical way to collect any type of information.
• Survey facilitates drawing generalization about large population.
• It helps the researcher to find out the new problems.
• Survey helps to construct plan for the development of the society
• It permits fairly complex questions and allows for anonymity of respondents.
• Easy to reach a large number of people.
• Surveys are useful when the population is widely dispersed.
• Survey facilitates drawing generalization about large population.
• It helps the researcher to find out the new problems.
• Survey helps to construct plan for the development of the society
• It permits fairly complex questions and allows for anonymity of respondents.
• Easy to reach a large number of people.
• Surveys are useful when the population is widely dispersed.
Limitations of Surveys
• Expensive and time consuming
• A survey does not easily prove a cause-and-effect relationship.
• Surveys are difficult to use in cross-cultural settings.
• Using surveys requires a fairly literate population.
• It can be difficult to find an accurate and up-to-date list of potential respondents.
• A survey does not easily prove a cause-and-effect relationship.
• Surveys are difficult to use in cross-cultural settings.
• Using surveys requires a fairly literate population.
• It can be difficult to find an accurate and up-to-date list of potential respondents.
PROJECT PROPOSAL
• Suitability of the topic.
• Relevance of the topic to the CSR.
• Time available at your disposal.
• Feasibility of data collection within the given time limit.
• Challenges involved in the data collection and how to meet them.
• Cost involved in the data collection.
• Communication facilities and local language. The Project Proposal should clearly state: Title, Introduction, Objectives, Problem Statement, Research Methodology (with locale, sampling, data collection instruments
• Relevance of the topic to the CSR.
• Time available at your disposal.
• Feasibility of data collection within the given time limit.
• Challenges involved in the data collection and how to meet them.
• Cost involved in the data collection.
• Communication facilities and local language. The Project Proposal should clearly state: Title, Introduction, Objectives, Problem Statement, Research Methodology (with locale, sampling, data collection instruments
Select a Supervisor and Consult the Supervisor for Guidance in Topic Finalization
The eligible project supervisors include:
a) IGNOU Academic Counsellors at Learner Support Centres for PGDCSR / MADVS programmes with relevant experience.
b) Teachers / Researchers / Development Professionals in CSR / Development Studies or related disciplines like Extension Education, Social Work, Economics, Sociology, Public Administration, Political Science, Rural Development etc (PhD preferred or. M.Phil / Masters with 5 years experience).
c) Faculty at the Headquarters (School of Extension and Development Studies). In case the proposed supervisor is not acceptable to the School of Extension and Development Studies, the student shall be advised so, and in such cases the student should change the supervisor and resubmit the proposal. The student will submit project proposal afresh with the signature of the new supervisor, as it will be considered as a new proposal. Similarly, if a student wants to change his/her supervisor for any reason, he/she would be required to submit the project proposal along with the signature of the new supervisor on a new project proposal proforma, as it would be considered as a new proposal. In case of academic counsellors, it should be clearly mentioned the courses he/she is counselling for, and since when, along with the name and code of the study centre, he/she is attached with. The project supervisor will be paid a token honorarium of Rs.300/- by the University for guiding the student (University may revise the honorarium from time to time).
a) IGNOU Academic Counsellors at Learner Support Centres for PGDCSR / MADVS programmes with relevant experience.
b) Teachers / Researchers / Development Professionals in CSR / Development Studies or related disciplines like Extension Education, Social Work, Economics, Sociology, Public Administration, Political Science, Rural Development etc (PhD preferred or. M.Phil / Masters with 5 years experience).
c) Faculty at the Headquarters (School of Extension and Development Studies). In case the proposed supervisor is not acceptable to the School of Extension and Development Studies, the student shall be advised so, and in such cases the student should change the supervisor and resubmit the proposal. The student will submit project proposal afresh with the signature of the new supervisor, as it will be considered as a new proposal. Similarly, if a student wants to change his/her supervisor for any reason, he/she would be required to submit the project proposal along with the signature of the new supervisor on a new project proposal proforma, as it would be considered as a new proposal. In case of academic counsellors, it should be clearly mentioned the courses he/she is counselling for, and since when, along with the name and code of the study centre, he/she is attached with. The project supervisor will be paid a token honorarium of Rs.300/- by the University for guiding the student (University may revise the honorarium from time to time).
Responsibilities of Supervisors
• To provide guidance regarding selecting a focused topic.
• To encourage learners to study / refer books / journals / newspapers / magazines; discuss with experts in the area to find out some topics of their interest.
• To provide the information about the settings where the empirical data (if needed) for the project can be collected.
• To provide information about the related literature.
• To motivate learners from time to time & to provide them required help whenever they need.
• Encourage learners to work originally, not to copy or reproduce; and to proceed systematically.
• Give letter of authorization which would enable/help student to collect the data for research (The authorization letter can also be given by the concerned study centre/ regional centre).
• To encourage learners to study / refer books / journals / newspapers / magazines; discuss with experts in the area to find out some topics of their interest.
• To provide the information about the settings where the empirical data (if needed) for the project can be collected.
• To provide information about the related literature.
• To motivate learners from time to time & to provide them required help whenever they need.
• Encourage learners to work originally, not to copy or reproduce; and to proceed systematically.
• Give letter of authorization which would enable/help student to collect the data for research (The authorization letter can also be given by the concerned study centre/ regional centre).
Project Proposal Submission and Approval
After selection of the supervisor and finalising the topic, student should send:
• Filled in Project Proposal Proforma signed by the supervisor (Annexure-II)
• One copy of the typed Project Proposal (3 to 5 pages) and
• Bio-data of the supervisor (2 pages with complete contact details, academic background, work experience etc) for approval by speed post to:
• Filled in Project Proposal Proforma signed by the supervisor (Annexure-II)
• One copy of the typed Project Proposal (3 to 5 pages) and
• Bio-data of the supervisor (2 pages with complete contact details, academic background, work experience etc) for approval by speed post to:
Communication of Approval
A written communication regarding the approval/non-approval of the project will be sent to the student within four weeks of the receipt of the proposal in the School through e-mail / post.
Resubmission of Project Proposal
In case of non-approval of the proposal, the comments/suggestions for reformulating the project will be communicated to the student. In such case the revised project proposal should be submitted with revised project proposal proforma and a copy of the rejected project proposal, project proposal proforma bearing the comments of the evaluator and P.P. No. (Project Proposal Number) allotted.
PROJECT REPORT
Formulation
• The length of the report may be about 30 to 40 typed pages (1.5 line spacing), not exceeding approximately 10,000 words (excluding appendices and exhibits). However, 10% variation on either side is permissible.
• Each project report must include: o 1st Page – Title page (See the example -Annexure V) o 2nd Page – Approved Project Proposal Proforma (Annexure II) o 3rd Page – Certificate of originality signed by student and supervisor (Annexure III) o Introduction (with Objectives and Problem Statement) o Methodology (with locale, sampling, data collection instruments and statistical tools used) o Results and Discussion o Summary o References, and o Appendix.
• Each project report must include: o 1st Page – Title page (See the example -Annexure V) o 2nd Page – Approved Project Proposal Proforma (Annexure II) o 3rd Page – Certificate of originality signed by student and supervisor (Annexure III) o Introduction (with Objectives and Problem Statement) o Methodology (with locale, sampling, data collection instruments and statistical tools used) o Results and Discussion o Summary o References, and o Appendix.
Submission of Project Report
One typed hard bound / spiral bound copy of the project report (about 30-40 pages) is to be submitted with a cover letter to:
Along with the cover letter, please enclose your supervisor’s Remuneration Bill for
Guidance of Project Work (Annexure IV).
University may provide online uploading link for submitting softcopy of the Project report in PDF format. Please check IGNOU website for the link. If softcopy is uploaded, you need not submit the hardcopy.
Project Report can be submitted any time throughout the year. If a Project Report is submitted between 1st December to 31st May then the result will be declared along with June Term-end examinations. If a Project Report is submitted between 1st June to 30th
November then the result will be declared along with December Term-end examinations.
Accordingly the suggested deadlines for project report submissions are:
• May 31st for Evaluation along with June Term End Examinations.
• November 30th for Evaluation along with December Term End Examinations.
• May 31st for Evaluation along with June Term End Examinations.
• November 30th for Evaluation along with December Term End Examinations.
EVALUATION OF PROJECT REPORT
The maximum marks for the Project Report is 100. For successful completion of the Project, a learner should secure a minimum of 40% marks. There is no viva or assignment for the Project Work. The external examiner will be selected by the Student Evaluation Division from the approved list provided by School of Extension and Development Studies.
Sample Topics for a Project Proposal
In order to enable you to choose a topic for your Project Work: MEDSP-051, we have listed below some areas. This does not imply that you will choose only from these areas. These are just sample areas, which are meant to provide you with ideas and will guide you in selecting a topic of your interest in that area.
1. A case study on CSR in NESTLE (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
2. Assessment of corporate social responsibility: A case study of Sonalika motors (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
3. Critical success factors for corporate social responsibility: A public sector perspective
4. Social, economic and political consequences of CSR programmes
5. CSR for social impact: Approach to measure social impact using CSR impact index
6. Perceptions of stakeholders on CSR activities of Delhi Metro (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
7. Impact of CSR on livelihood security of community
8. Evaluation of CSR activities of NTPC (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
9. Satisfaction of beneficiaries on CSR services (housing or sanitation or education services etc. of your choice)
10. CSR needs assessment (on any development issue)
11. CSR activities of NTPC – Swot analysis (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
12. CSR policy – A critical analysis
13. Internal organisational factors influencing corporate social and ethical reporting
14. User’s perceptions of corporate social responsibility and accountability
15. Corporate social responsibility reporting in India: A descriptive analysis.
16. The evolution of CSR in India
17. The views of corporate managers on the current status and future prospects for social reporting
18. A content analysis of CSR reports of listed companies
19. CSR reporting research in the Indian academia: A critical review
20. CSR among Indian firms: An empirical investigation
21. Motivations for CSR reporting – An analysis
22. Determinants of corporate social disclosure in India
23. An analysis of corporate social responsibility in India
24. CSR and its impact on the Indian education sector (or any other sector of your choice)
25. CSR and education sector: Issues and remedies (or any other sector of your choice)
26. Constraints in implementation of CSR
27. A study on CSR with special reference to selected banks in Karnataka (or any other sector or state of your choice)
28. Approaches for CSR implementation by different corporate companies – A critical analysis
29. A study on India’s Top10 corporate spenders towards CSR activities
30. A study of CSR practices in Indian industry
31. Role of NGOs in CSR – A case study of PRADAN – Professional Assistance for Development Action (or any other NGO of your choice)
1. A case study on CSR in NESTLE (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
2. Assessment of corporate social responsibility: A case study of Sonalika motors (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
3. Critical success factors for corporate social responsibility: A public sector perspective
4. Social, economic and political consequences of CSR programmes
5. CSR for social impact: Approach to measure social impact using CSR impact index
6. Perceptions of stakeholders on CSR activities of Delhi Metro (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
7. Impact of CSR on livelihood security of community
8. Evaluation of CSR activities of NTPC (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
9. Satisfaction of beneficiaries on CSR services (housing or sanitation or education services etc. of your choice)
10. CSR needs assessment (on any development issue)
11. CSR activities of NTPC – Swot analysis (or any organization or corporate company of your choice)
12. CSR policy – A critical analysis
13. Internal organisational factors influencing corporate social and ethical reporting
14. User’s perceptions of corporate social responsibility and accountability
15. Corporate social responsibility reporting in India: A descriptive analysis.
16. The evolution of CSR in India
17. The views of corporate managers on the current status and future prospects for social reporting
18. A content analysis of CSR reports of listed companies
19. CSR reporting research in the Indian academia: A critical review
20. CSR among Indian firms: An empirical investigation
21. Motivations for CSR reporting – An analysis
22. Determinants of corporate social disclosure in India
23. An analysis of corporate social responsibility in India
24. CSR and its impact on the Indian education sector (or any other sector of your choice)
25. CSR and education sector: Issues and remedies (or any other sector of your choice)
26. Constraints in implementation of CSR
27. A study on CSR with special reference to selected banks in Karnataka (or any other sector or state of your choice)
28. Approaches for CSR implementation by different corporate companies – A critical analysis
29. A study on India’s Top10 corporate spenders towards CSR activities
30. A study of CSR practices in Indian industry
31. Role of NGOs in CSR – A case study of PRADAN – Professional Assistance for Development Action (or any other NGO of your choice)