Research and Scientific Method Quiz

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Questions and Answers

In a mixed methods research design, what is the primary advantage of integrating both quantitative and qualitative data sources?

  • It reduces the cost and time required for data collection.
  • It allows for statistical analysis with smaller sample sizes.
  • It provides a more comprehensive understanding by combining numerical precision with contextual narratives. (correct)
  • It eliminates the need for a control group in experimental studies.

What distinguishes basic research from applied research?

  • Basic research is qualitative, while applied research is quantitative.
  • Basic research is conducted in real-world settings, while applied research is conducted in laboratories.
  • Basic research uses human participants, while applied research uses animals.
  • Basic research aims to expand knowledge without specific application, while applied research seeks to solve practical problems. (correct)

Why is quality improvement (QI) not considered research according to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)?

  • QI studies do not involve human participants.
  • QI studies always involve a control group, whereas true research may not.
  • QI studies are typically conducted in laboratory settings, whereas clinical trials are not.
  • QI focuses on improving existing processes rather than generating new knowledge. (correct)

What is the primary goal of conducting nutrition research?

<p>To answer questions and solve nutrition-related problems. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of outcomes research in clinical nutrition?

<p>To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and value of new treatments compared to standard treatments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In clinical nutrition studies, what is the role of an intervention?

<p>To introduce specific techniques or treatments aimed at producing measurable outcomes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In evidence-based dietetics practice, what is a critical component when making recommendations?

<p>Clearly stating the source of evidence that supports the practice recommendations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of exploratory studies in nutrition research?

<p>To explore and understand nutrition-related problems. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of clinical trials/experimental research in the context of medical knowledge?

<p>To test new treatments, drugs, and medical devices for the treatment, diagnosis, or prevention of diseases. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Descriptive research in nutrition often aims to do what?

<p>Describe a variety of nutrition-related phenomena at a specific point in time. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are randomized controlled trials (RCTs) considered the 'gold standard' in research?

<p>Because randomization helps minimize bias and ensures groups are similar, reducing the risk that differences between groups caused the intervention's effects. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of blinding in some randomized controlled trials (RCTs)?

<p>To prevent researcher or participant knowledge of treatment assignment from influencing the results. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between descriptive and analytic research in nutrition?

<p>Descriptive research aims to describe phenomena, while analytic research examines cause and effect. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a prospective cohort study, what is the primary approach to determine potential disease causes?

<p>Observing a group of non-diseased people over time to detect health changes related to risk factors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of predictive studies in nutrition research?

<p>To isolate variables that may enhance successful outcomes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for nutrition professionals to understand different research methodologies?

<p>To critically evaluate research and apply findings effectively. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher compiles findings from multiple randomized controlled trials on the effect of Vitamin D supplementation on bone density and synthesizes them into a comprehensive overview. This type of research is best described as:

<p>A secondary research study summarizing existing evidence. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which approach is most aligned with the goals of qualitative research?

<p>Exploring the lived experiences and cultural meanings of food choices among recent immigrants. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a quantitative experimental study examining the impact of a novel diet on cholesterol levels, what is the primary purpose of the 'control' concept?

<p>To minimize the influence of extraneous variables on the outcome. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is designing a study to investigate the effectiveness of a mindfulness intervention on reducing stress levels in nurses. The researcher decides to collect both quantitative data (stress scores) and qualitative data (personal experiences) to have a more comprehensive understanding. This approach is best described as:

<p>A mixed methods research design. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which data collection method is most suited for gathering in-depth information about individual experiences related to food insecurity?

<p>Holding focus groups with open-ended discussions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a quantitative study examining the correlation between physical activity levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease, what type of relationship is the study primarily aiming to assess?

<p>Descriptive relationship (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions exemplifies a researcher exerting control in a quantitative study that tests a new drug?

<p>Ensuring that participants are unaware of whether they are receiving the drug or a placebo (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A study design involves collecting survey data to quantify the prevalence of obesity in a population, followed by in-depth interviews with a subset of participants to explore their lived experiences and perspectives on factors contributing to obesity. What type of research design is this?

<p>A mixed methods research design. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Triangulated Design

A research method that uses both quantitative and qualitative data to answer questions.

Basic Research

Research conducted for the sake of knowledge, often in laboratories, to test theories.

Applied Research

Research aimed at solving real-world problems and improving practices, like nutrition changes.

Quality Improvement (QI)

A process to identify problems and test solutions to enhance outcomes or systems.

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Outcomes Research

Research that tests the cost-effectiveness and value of new treatments compared to standard treatments.

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Clinical Nutrition Studies

Research with human participants to understand and treat conditions or diseases effectively.

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Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

A study design where participants are randomly assigned to treatment or control groups to reduce bias.

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Blinded Studies

Studies where participants or researchers do not know group assignments to prevent bias.

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Original Research Study

A research narrative conducted and designed by the researchers themselves.

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Secondary Research

Summaries and discussions of primary research, organizing evidence from multiple studies.

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Quantitative Research

A systematic process using numerical data to describe and analyze relationships among variables.

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Qualitative Research

Research aimed at understanding participants' experiences without manipulating variables.

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Mixed Methods Research

Combines quantitative and qualitative methodologies in a single study for a broader perspective.

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Descriptive Studies

Quantitative studies aimed at describing relationships among variables.

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Analytic Studies

Quantitative studies examining cause-effect relationships among variables.

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Control in Research

Critical concept preventing outside factors from influencing study outcomes.

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Purposes of Nutrition Research

To answer questions, improve outcomes, and provide efficient care.

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Evidence-Based Practice

Using research evidence to inform nutritional practice decisions.

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Exploratory Research

Research aimed at exploring and describing various phenomena.

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Descriptive Research

Describes phenomena at a specific point without testing hypotheses.

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Analytic Research

Research that examines cause and effect relationships.

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Prospective Cohort Studies

Observational studies tracking a healthy group over time for health outcomes.

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Predictive Studies

Studies designed to isolate variables that may improve outcomes.

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Validity in Evidence

The reliability and applicability of research findings in nutrition.

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Study Notes

Research and Scientific Method

  • Research is a systematic process for gathering and analyzing information to advance knowledge.
  • The scientific method is a systematic approach used in research, involving steps to investigate questions, interpret data, and expand knowledge.
  • Steps in the scientific method include defining the problem, literature review, developing a research question and objective, forming a hypothesis, developing a research design and methods, conducting the study and collecting data, interpreting results, drawing conclusions, and disseminating findings.

Research Question

  • A research question should focus on a problem (e.g., obesity).
  • It should identify a relationship between two or more variables.
  • A statement of the problem provides context for the need for research.
  • Research questions can be based on problem areas such as clinical nutrition, community nutrition, business management, or food science.

Research Objectives

  • Research objectives are stated based on literature review and research question.
  • Examples of objectives, include examining whether different weighting methods produce greater weight loss.
  • Variables are characteristics that can take on different values, categorized as categorical (e.g., sex) or continuous (e.g., body weight).

Research Design and Variables

  • Research designs are tools, techniques, and processes involved in research to obtain data.
  • Examples include questionnaires, case studies, and interviews.
  • Instruments are measurement devices.
  • Research designs can be cross-sectional examining data at one point in time or longitudinal assessing data over a longer period.
  • Researchers may use quantitative or qualitative approaches or a mixed method approach.

Extraneous Variables

  • Extraneous variables are factors influencing study outcomes beyond those being studied.
  • These can lead to incorrect conclusions.

Research Purposes

  • Exploratory research explores existing problems.
  • Descriptive research aims to describe characteristics of a phenomenon.
  • Analytical research aims to investigate the relationship between variables.
  • Predictive research attempts to predict outcomes based on characteristics and interventions.

Classification of Research

  • Original research involves conducting a study with primary data collection.
  • Secondary research involves summarizing and discussing existing data.
  • Research can be classified by purpose—basic, applied, or quality improvement.
  • Basic research is performed without a specific application in mind.
  • Applied research aims at solving a real-world problem.

Types and Design of Research

  • Qualitative research aims to understand experiences, exploring topics like beliefs and values.
  • Quantitative research employs objective measures and analyses numeric data.
  • Mixed methods research combines quantitative and qualitative approaches.
  • Studies can be observational or experimental
  • Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are a gold standard in experimental studies.

Steps in Quality Improvement

  • Defining the problem, determining an improvement plan, modifying policies/procedures, confirming improvement outcomes, and communicating results are steps in quality improvement.
  • Outcomes research evaluates the cost-effectiveness of new treatments compared with standard treatments.

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