Research Methodology & Statistics - GNS 224 Unit 1
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Questions and Answers

What characterizes qualitative research compared to quantitative research?

  • It focuses on theory building through observations. (correct)
  • It uses closed-ended tools for data collection.
  • It collects numerical data for statistical analysis.
  • It analyzes data using inferential statistics.

Which statement accurately describes the nature of research?

  • Research is solely based on subjective opinions.
  • Research aims to solve problems and increase knowledge. (correct)
  • Research is limited to quantitative methods only.
  • Research involves only the collection of data without analysis.

How are data collection tools in qualitative research primarily categorized?

  • As interviews and focus group discussions. (correct)
  • As thematic/content analytic tools.
  • As closed-ended tools.
  • As surveys and standardized tests.

What does the term 'pragmatism' refer to in the context of research methodologies?

<p>A philosophy prioritizing practical outcomes in research. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of experimental research design?

<p>It establishes cause-and-effect relationships between variables. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research is more suited for collecting data from a large population?

<p>Quantitative research. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which research design involves measuring outcomes and exposures at the same time?

<p>Cross-sectional research design (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes quasi-experimental research from other experimental designs?

<p>It does not involve control groups. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of explanatory research design?

<p>To discover reasons why certain phenomena occur. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term best describes research that investigates the relationships between variables without manipulation?

<p>Correlational research design (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Research Definition

A systematic inquiry process that involves data collection, documentation, analysis, and interpretation using methodologies specific to different fields.

Qualitative Research

Non-numerical data collection focusing on multiple realities. Uses tools like interviews and observations.

Quantitative Research

Numerical data collection for analysis, aiming for measurement and figures. Often uses surveys and tests.

Research Types

Qualitative and quantitative research are two main types.

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Data Collection Tools

Various tools like surveys, interviews, observations, standardized tests, and focus groups are used depending on whether it's qualitative or quantitative.

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Experimental Research

A research method used to investigate the cause-and-effect relationship between independent and dependent variables. It involves manipulating the independent variable and observing its impact on the dependent variable.

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True Experiment

A type of experiment where researchers carefully control all variables except the one being manipulated, allowing them to confidently establish a cause-and-effect relationship.

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Pre-experimental

A type of experiment that happens before a true experiment. It lacks some control over variables, making it less reliable for establishing cause and effect.

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Quasi-experiment

A research design that aims to evaluate interventions using humans and societies as subjects, often when true experimental control is not possible.

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Descriptive Research

A research design that aims to gather information and provide a detailed picture of the characteristics and behaviors of a particular population or phenomenon.

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Study Notes

Research Methodology & Statistics - GNS 224

  • Course is for the second year (second semester)
  • The unit is Unit 1
  • The lecture notes were designed by Oluyimide Ifeoluwa Ph.D.

Learning Outcomes

  • Define research
  • Critically explain different types of research
  • Differentiate between different types of research
  • Critically discuss population, sample, and sampling techniques
  • Discuss research ethics and ethical considerations
  • Understand data collection tools in research

What is Research?

  • A systematic inquiry (asking questions)
  • Review previous studies and make implications
  • Solve problems (pragmatism)
  • Make recommendations
  • Reaching new conclusions

What is Research? (Alternative Definition)

  • "Creative and systematic work to expand knowledge."
  • Systematic inquiry process that includes data collection, documentation of information, and analysis and interpretation
  • Uses suitable methodologies based on specific academic disciplines and professional fields

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research

Qualitative Research Quantitative Research
Collection of non-numerical data Numerical data for analysis
Interpretivism (multiple realities and content) Positivism and pragmatism
Theory building through observations and interpretation of data Measurement of figures and data; numerical data
Findings based on a very small population Allows for large data collection across many people
Interviews, observations, focus group discussions; open-ended tools Surveys, standardized tests, questionnaires; closed-ended tools
Thematic/content analytic tools Descriptive and/or inferential analytic tools

Quantitative Research Design - Experimental

  • Experimental research designs investigate interactions between independent and dependent variables to determine causal relationships.
  • It's commonly used within the scientific method.
  • Types of experimental designs include pre-experimental, true experimental, and quasi-experimental.

Quantitative Research Design - Non-Experimental

  • Descriptive research designs provide detailed descriptions of a population or subject.
  • Cross-sectional research designs measure the outcome and exposures in participants simultaneously.
  • Longitudinal research designs involve repeated observations of the same variables over time.
  • Correlational research designs identify relationships between variables without controlling or manipulating them.
  • Explanatory research designs discover reasons behind occurrences, often using interpretive philosophical approaches.
  • Retrospective research designs collect data from existing records.
  • Prospective research designs observe outcomes over time, like in the development of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Population, Sample, and Sampling Techniques

  • Probability Sampling:

    • Random selection; equal chance for all in population
    • Useful for diverse populations
    • Aims for accurate representation
    • Methods include Simple Random Sampling (SRS), Systematic Sampling, Stratified Sampling, and Cluster Sampling.
  • Non-probability Sampling:

    • Researcher's judgment and selective choice
    • Sample may not represent population accurately
    • Easier to find respondents
    • Methods include Convenience Sampling, Purposive Sampling, Quota Sampling, and Snowball Sampling.

Ethical Considerations

  • Ethics are an essential component of research
  • A moral philosophy guiding thorough and viable data collection
  • Questions regarding research that may involve human participants or other ethical considerations are listed

Data Collection Tools

  • Surveys
  • Interviews
  • Observation checklists
  • Data logs/diaries
  • Secondary data sources

Assessment

  • Discuss understanding of research
  • Identify a professional issue (e.g., poor work environment, staff motivation)
  • Establish three research objectives
  • Determine target respondents
  • Choose appropriate sampling technique.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the key concepts of research methodology and statistics covered in Unit 1 of GNS 224. Students will explore definitions, types of research, sampling techniques, and ethical considerations related to research. Gain a comprehensive understanding essential for systematic inquiry and data collection.

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