Research Methods Chapter Overview

Questions and Answers

What is the main purpose of hypotheses in research?

To guide the research process and inform the reader (correct)

To predict outcomes without any reference to literature

To provide a definitive conclusion about the research

To eliminate the need for data collection

Which type of hypothesis predicts no relationship between groups?

Alternative hypothesis

Null hypothesis (correct)

Nondirectional hypothesis

Directional hypothesis

What is the primary characteristic of a directional hypothesis?

It predicts specific outcomes based on literature. (correct)

It examines the influence of demographic variables.

It predicts a broad outcome without specifics.

It states a hypothesis based on random sampling.

Which of the following best describes mediating variables?

Variables that stand between the independent and dependent variables. Signup and view all the answers

What type of question is primarily concerned with describing variables?

Descriptive questions Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of moderating variables in research?

To affect the influence of the independent variable on the dependent variable. Signup and view all the answers

What does mixed methods research represent?

The combination of quantitative and qualitative data Signup and view all the answers

Which question type involves drawing inferences from the sample to a population?

Inferential questions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of research questions in a study?

To focus the study and guide data collection. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following guidelines is essential when writing qualitative research questions?

Central questions should begin with 'what' or 'how'. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic should quantitative research questions possess?

They need to be clear, specific, and measurable. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of formulating research hypotheses for quantitative studies?

They must be testable through statistical analysis. Signup and view all the answers

How many subquestions should ideally accompany a central qualitative research question?

Five to seven. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Purpose of the Chapter

Establishes the primary intent of the study.
Introduces research questions and hypotheses to guide readers.

Principles of Research Questions

Two forms: Central Questions (broad inquiries) and Associated Subquestions.
Limit subquestions to five to seven additions to the central question.
Central questions should relate to specific qualitative strategies.
Start qualitative questions with 'what' or 'how' to promote exploration.
Focus on a single phenomenon for thorough investigation.
Use exploratory verbs reflecting an evolving research design.
Employ open-ended questions, avoiding references to literature unless necessary.
Clearly specify participants and research locations in the central question.

Designing Quantitative Research Questions

Formulate hypotheses that are testable through statistical methods.
Ensure clarity, specificity, and measurability in questions.
Establish relationships and predict outcomes through variables.
Consider research design and methodologies when framing questions.

Importance of Research Questions

Help narrow the purpose statement of the study.
Guide the research process and inform readers about expectations.

Types of Quantitative Hypotheses

Null Hypotheses: Predict no relationship or difference between groups.
Alternative Hypotheses: Predict specific outcomes based on existing literature.
Directional Hypotheses: Make specific predictions, e.g., one group will have higher scores.
Nondirectional Hypotheses: Predict differences without specifying their nature.

Variables

Mediating Variables: Variables that lie between independent and dependent variables.
Moderating Variables: Affect the impact of the independent variable on the dependent variable.

Models for Writing Questions

Descriptive-Inferential Model: Begin with descriptive questions followed by inferential questions that include independent, dependent, and moderating variables.

Descriptive and Inferential Questions

Descriptive Questions: Aim to describe variables and their relationships.
Inferential Questions: Make inferences from a sample to a population.

Mixed Methods Research Questions and Hypotheses

Focus on integrating qualitative and quantitative data to answer essential research questions.