Discussions Question: Case Study -- Work Sampling

Work Sampling

General Note: Last week was the end of the Discussions on research methodology and parameters. Beginning this week case studies explore management issues and research application.

Researcher Adams wants to conduct a work sampling study and decides to research how much time is spent at the water coolers and what employees say while at the coolers. He believes the best way to do is to install a hidden camera and microphone. Adams wants to be sure proper research ethics are followed. He determines that because employees voluntarily come to work here and abide by company policies and decisions, this takes care of informed consent. As confidentiality exists, he does not intend to let anyone know of the results except the Board of Directors. 

Q1. What is your assessment of the research approach selected by Adams?

Q2. How might you approach the work sampling research study differently?