Research Methodology and Procedure

Abstract

This chapter outlines the research objectives of the global research that is currently conducted within the “Global Employer Preferences (GEP)” project and describes the research design followed in this book. The research builds on 5470 datasets collected to a major part in a non-random computer-based student survey conducted in 23 countries across the globe, gathering data about the relative importance of 25 CSR and non-CSR related employer attributes, the socio-demographic background and basic value orientations of respondents. These 25 attributes are allocated to two non-CSR and three CSR dimensions. The data analysis is done from different perspectives, using different methodologies: The analysis of the global data follows a quantitative approach and compares relative importance values for the CSR and non-CSR related attributes and dimensions of respondents based on their nationality, selected socio-demographic and experience variables, Schwartz value orientations, GLOBE cultural practices and country-specific socio-economic conditions. Country specific data complement the global analysis with a qualitative approach, relating preference patterns with country and sample specific peculiarities.