Research Methods and Ethics: Lec 1

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Which of the following best describes the primary objective of research?

To extend knowledge through disciplined inquiry and systematic investigation. (correct)
To compile data without a specific objective.
To summarize existing knowledge in a specific field.
To advocate for a particular viewpoint or agenda.

A researcher is conducting a study on the effectiveness of a new teaching method. Which approach aligns with the definition of research?

Relying solely on anecdotal evidence from students who liked the new method.
Ignoring potential confounding variables to simplify the data analysis.
Systematically comparing student outcomes between the new method and traditional methods. (correct)
Implementing the method without a control group to quickly see results.

A team is tasked with investigating the impact of social media on teenagers' mental health. What would be considered a critical first step in their research process?

Interviewing a small group of teenagers without a structured plan.
Assuming the impact is negative based on anecdotal evidence.
Conducting a thorough literature review to understand existing knowledge and potential research gaps. (correct)
Immediately launching a social media campaign to raise awareness.

A researcher aims to study the correlation between exercise and stress levels. What is the most appropriate research methodology to employ?

An experimental study where participants are randomly assigned to exercise or no-exercise groups and stress levels are measured. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario exemplifies research that extends knowledge through disciplined inquiry?

A scientist conducting experiments to test a specific hypothesis. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios is LEAST likely to require formal ethical review by a Research Ethics Board (REB)?

A performance review of teaching methods using student grades, conducted internally within a school district. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is planning a study involving deception. According to ethical guidelines, what is the MOST important consideration regarding the use of deception?

Providing a thorough debriefing to participants after their involvement. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of informed consent primarily ensures participants understand the nature of the research and what their involvement entails?

Disclosure (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher wants to observe people's behavior in a public park without their knowledge. Under which circumstance would this be MOST ethically permissible without requiring consent?

If the researcher ensures they are observing behaviors that occur naturally, in a public space, without recording any personal identifying information or an expectation of privacy. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of a Research Ethics Board (REB) review process?

To protect the rights and welfare of research participants while balancing the pursuit of knowledge. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical principle emphasizes maximizing benefits while minimizing potential harm to participants?

Risk-benefit analysis (A) Signup and view all the answers

In research ethics, what does 'respect for the vulnerable' primarily entail?

Providing extra protection to groups with diminished autonomy or increased risk. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics is typically associated with quantitative research?

Emphasis on numerical data and statistical analysis. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In qualitative research, what is the role of the researcher in relation to the participants?

The researcher actively influences and interacts with participants to gain deeper insights. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which research paradigm typically aims for situation-specific findings that cannot be generalized to a larger population?

Qualitative research (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between experimental and observational research?

Experimental research involves manipulating variables, while observational research involves observing variables without intervention. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of research methodologies, what characterizes a quasi-experimental group?

Participants are selected based on pre-existing group membership or conditions. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In single-subject research, what is the typical approach to participant selection?

Purposive selection of one participant with specific characteristics relevant to the study. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is LEAST aligned with the concept of 'disciplined inquiry' as defined in research?

Confirming the research results align with popular belief. (D) Signup and view all the answers

A research study aims to explore a new therapeutic intervention. According to ethical guidelines, how does this differ from an innovative practice?

Research focuses on generating new knowledge with unknown benefits, while innovation assumes a direct benefit. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which research type is primarily concerned with expanding the knowledge base without immediate practical applications?

Basic Research (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher discovers an inconsistency in their data that contradicts their initial hypothesis. What action reflects the highest level of research integrity?

Thoroughly investigating the inconsistency and reporting it transparently, discussing its potential impact on the findings. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In experimental research, what distinguishes the independent variable?

It is the variable the experimenter manipulates to observe its effect. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which component is NOT necessarily a characteristic of (experimental) science?

Subjectivity (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of a dependent variable in experimental research?

It is influenced by or co-varies with the independent variable. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is developing a new theory. Which principle should be prioritized to ensure the theory is scientifically sound?

The theory should be testable through empirical investigation. (D) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is conducting a study on the effect of a new drug on cognitive function, but some participants have undiagnosed conditions that also affect cognitive function. What type of variable are these conditions?

Confounding/Extraneous variables (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the PRIMARY function of a Research Ethics Board (REB)?

To ensure research proposals involving human subjects adhere to ethical principles. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A research team is studying the effectiveness of a new drug. To adhere to the principle of 'probabilistic knowledge,' how should they interpret their findings?

Acknowledge the possibility of uncertainty and the need for further research despite strong evidence of effectiveness. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for a variable to be 'operationally defined' in a research study?

It is defined by how it is measured in the study. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A new test is developed to measure anxiety. Participants take the test multiple times over a week, and their scores vary widely each time. What does this indicate about the test?

It is unreliable. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately contrasts a research question with a hypothesis?

A hypothesis makes a specific prediction, whereas a research question explores possible relationships without prediction. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher uses a questionnaire to assess depression, but the questions actually measure general unhappiness rather than specific symptoms of depression. What is the primary concern about this measurement?

Lack of validity (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher wants to study sensitive personal data. According to the information provided, what is required?

An REB review is necessary due to the involvement of human data. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In a study examining the effects of a new rehabilitation program on patients with head injuries, researchers measure participants' motor skills before and after the program. Which type of research design does this BEST describe?

Single subject design (A) Signup and view all the answers

After identifying a broad topic of interest, what is the NEXT step a researcher should take to develop a focused research question?

Conduct a literature review to identify a specific problem or gap in knowledge. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is conducting a longitudinal study on language acquisition. Which of the following threats to internal validity is MOST likely to arise?

Maturation, because children naturally develop language skills as they age. (C) Signup and view all the answers

A school implements a new reading program in one class but not another. To account for pre-existing reading skill differences, students are paired based on initial reading scores, and then one member from each pair is randomly assigned to either program. Which participant selection and assignment method is being utilized?

Match then Random Assignment (D) Signup and view all the answers

In an experiment examining the effect of a new drug on cognitive function, the control group learns about the potential cognitive benefits from participants in the treatment group. What threat to internal validity does this exemplify?

Diffusion or Imitation of Treatment (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is evaluating a new therapy for anxiety. The therapist administering the therapy is aware of which participants are in the treatment group and which are in the control group. What is the primary concern regarding internal validity?

Experimenter bias (D) Signup and view all the answers

A study finds a strong correlation between ice cream sales and crime rates. However, both increase during the summer months. Failing to account for the season would threaten what?

Internal Validity (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher develops a survey to measure 'happiness'. Participants complete the survey, but their scores do not correlate with other established measures of well-being, and the researchers worry that the survey doesn't truly capture the construct of happiness. Which type of validity is MOST directly threatened?

Construct Validity (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios poses the GREATEST threat to internal validity due to instrumentation?

A mechanical scale used to measure weight becomes less accurate over time. (D) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher studying the impact of a new educational program finds that students who scored lowest on the pre-test show the most improvement on the post-test, regardless of whether they participated in the program. Which threat to internal validity might explain this phenomenon?

Statistical Regression to the Mean (C) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes research from other forms of inquiry?

It involves a structured and methodical approach to expand knowledge. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which activity DOES NOT align with the definition of research?

A software developer debugging code to fix a known error in a program. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating the effectiveness of a new educational program. How would that align with the definition of research?

Conducting a systematic evaluation to determine if the program improves student learning outcomes. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does research extend knowledge?

By employing a structured and rigorous process of inquiry. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which component is MOST crucial for ensuring an activity qualifies as research rather than a general inquiry?

A clearly defined methodology and a systematic approach. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Under which of the following circumstances would a research study be LEAST likely to require formal ethical review by a Research Ethics Board (REB)?

A study involving the secondary use of anonymized data. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following must an REB consider regarding risk?

Minimizing potential risks to participants and evaluating the balance between risks and benefits. (D) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher plans to study online forum discussions about a new government policy. Which aspect would MOST determine whether this research requires REB review?

The forum's privacy settings and whether personal identifying information is recorded. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In an experiment involving deception, what is MOST important for researchers to do to align with ethical principles?

Justify the use of deception, debrief participants thoroughly, and ensure no lasting harm results. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A university is conducting a routine evaluation of its online education programs to identify areas for improvement. According to the guidelines, how does this internal assessment differ from formal research requiring REB review?

Quality assurance studies are typically exempt from REB review because they primarily serve internal organizational needs. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is interested in understanding the typical gross motor skills of children at different ages. What type of descriptive research would be MOST appropriate?

Normative research (D) Signup and view all the answers

A clinic wants to implement a new therapy technique but first wants to document in detail the progress of a single patient undergoing this new therapy. Which research approach aligns with this goal?

Single-subject design (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which research question would be BEST addressed by a basic research approach?

Can we identify novel mechanisms of neuroplasticity following brain injury in animal models? (D) Signup and view all the answers

A research team is investigating a new rehabilitation approach designed to improve motor function in stroke patients. They hypothesize that the new approach will lead to significant gains in hand dexterity. In this scenario, what is the dependent variable?

The patients' hand dexterity (C) Signup and view all the answers

In an experiment examining the effect of a new drug on reaction time, participants are given different dosages of the drug (0mg, 50mg, 100mg). However, some participants also consume caffeine throughout the day, which could also affect their reaction time. Which of the following BEST describes the caffeine consumption?

Confounding variable (D) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is conducting a study on the effectiveness of a new treatment for a rare genetic disorder. Due to the limited number of individuals with the condition, they can only recruit a small sample size. Which research design would be MOST appropriate?

Single-subject design (B) Signup and view all the answers

A research team aims to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic status and access to healthcare services. They collect data on income levels, insurance coverage, and utilization of medical facilities within a specific urban area. Which research approach aligns with this goal?

Correlational research (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher defines 'anxiety' as 'the score obtained on the Beck Anxiety Inventory.' What concept does this BEST exemplify?

Operational Definition (C) Signup and view all the answers

A research team is planning a study involving Indigenous communities. Which ethical consideration should be prioritized to ensure respect for the community's values and traditions?

Seeking community-level consent in addition to individual consent, recognizing collective rights and cultural protocols. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a new therapeutic intervention while minimizing potential harm to participants. Which ethical principle is MOST relevant to this scenario?

Risk-benefit analysis. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In a clinical trial, researchers discover that a new drug shows promise but has significant side effects for a specific subgroup of participants. According to the principle of justice, what is the MOST appropriate course of action?

Modify the trial protocol to provide additional monitoring and support for the affected subgroup, ensuring equitable treatment. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying the experiences of refugees. Which approach would best align with a qualitative research paradigm?

Conducting in-depth interviews to explore their lived experiences and perspectives. (C) Signup and view all the answers

A team of researchers aims to understand the impact of a new policy on employee morale in a specific company. Given the desire for situation-specific findings, which research paradigm is MOST appropriate?

Qualitative research, to understand the nuances of the specific workplace. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Researchers are comparing the effectiveness of two different therapies for treating PTSD. One group receives the new therapy, while the other receives the standard, established therapy. What type of research design does this exemplify?

Experimental study. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A school district implements a new reading program in one of its schools and compares the students' reading scores to those of a similar school that did not implement the program. What type of research setting is this?

Quasi-experimental group. (C) Signup and view all the answers

A therapist is assessing the effectiveness of a new intervention for a client with a rare disorder, focusing on detailed, repeated measurements of the client's behavior over time. Which research paradigm best describes this scenario?

Single-subject research. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is designing a study to assess the impact of a new language learning app. To ensure strong internal validity, what should be prioritized?

Controlling extraneous variables that could affect language learning outcomes. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In an experimental study on a reading intervention, some students improve simply because they are re-tested, regardless of the intervention's effectiveness. Which threat to internal validity does this scenario illustrate?

Testing effects (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is conducting a longitudinal study on the effects of a new math curriculum. During the study, the highest-performing student moves away. What threat to internal validity does this represent?

Subject attrition (mortality) (A) Signup and view all the answers

In a study investigating the effectiveness of a new therapy, the therapists unintentionally provide more support and encouragement to the treatment group compared to the control group. Which threat to internal validity is MOST apparent?

Compensatory Equalization of Treatment (C) Signup and view all the answers

A school implements a new anti-bullying program in one grade (treatment group) and continues with the existing program in another grade (control group). However, students in the control group become aware of the new program and start adopting some of its strategies on their own. Which threat to internal validity is present?

Diffusion or Imitation of Treatment (D) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is evaluating the impact of a new mindfulness app on stress levels. Participants with initially high stress levels show a decrease in stress regardless of whether they use the app. What threat to internal validity might explain this?

Statistical Regression to the Mean (D) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher uses a survey to measure participants' attitudes toward climate change before and after showing them a documentary on the topic. However, the wording of some survey questions is changed slightly between the pre-test and post-test. What threat to validity does this represent?

Instrumentation (D) Signup and view all the answers

To control for pre-existing differences in a study on a new exercise program, participants are ranked based on their baseline fitness levels. Pairs are then formed and one member of each pair is randomly assigned to either the exercise program or a control group, what is the most appropriate name for this assignment method?

Matched pairs with random assignment (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is LEAST aligned with maintaining objectivity during the research process?

Relying solely on personal experiences and intuition for data interpretation. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best exemplifies 'disciplined inquiry' in research?

Conducting research with the expectation that the method, results, and conclusions will be scrutinized by the relevant research community. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher aims to develop a new theory. What should be prioritized?

The theory should account for existing data, be testable, and provide explanatory and predictive value. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following exemplifies managing resources dishonestly?

Using grant funds on a slightly different research related item than specified in an approved budget. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In experimental science, what does 'probabilistic knowledge' imply?

Research can increase confidence in a research finding, but can rarely, if ever, prove anything completely. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is planning a study that involves both a research component and an innovative practice. What consideration is most critical when differentiating between these components?

Whether the primary intent is to generate new knowledge versus providing a treatment assumed to be beneficial. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which should a researcher do to act with integrity?

Conduct a thorough literature review even if it delays the start of data collection. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A research team is developing a hypothesis. Which approach aligns with principles of scientific inquiry?

Developing a hypothesis that makes a prediction and implicitly assumes alternative relationships are possible. (A) Signup and view all the answers

A researcher aims to publish their work but is concerned about potential conflicts of interest. What step best reflects research integrity?

Disclosing all potential conflicts of interest transparently in the publication. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Regarding the use of animals, which type of research would require review by a separate board?

Any research involving direct interaction with live animals. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Research

A systematic investigation to extend knowledge.

Purpose of Research

Extending knowledge through a disciplined inquiry and/or systematic investigation.