Research Methods Quiz

Questions that can be answered through measurement. Examples include "what is the average height of men in the United States?" or "what is the boiling point of water?"

The idea that research can be completely objective and free from bias, values, or personal perspectives.

A written summary of a research project that presents the findings in a clear and objective way.

A persuasive essay that presents an argument in support of a claim.

A process in which experts in a field review and evaluate a research study before publication.

A detailed analysis of existing research related to a specific topic.

Sources that provide direct evidence or data related to the subject of research. For example, participant interviews, eyewitness accounts, and original documents.

Sources that provide information about a topic that is not directly gathered from the original event or source. An example would be a biography about a famous person - the author wasn't there but gathered information from primary sources.

A survey research approach used to collect data about intangible concepts like beliefs, values, attitudes, and motives.

A survey research strategy focused on gathering insights about how individuals interact with physical objects or technologies.

Survey research that examines employee perspectives within an organization. It provides insights from those working in the organization rather than solely relying on management views.

A survey research advantage where the amount of time needed to collect data from each participant is minimal.

A survey research disadvantage where the data collected from each participant might be limited in depth and breadth. This can lead to less reliable conclusions compared to in-depth interview methods.

Data that has never been published or has limited distribution. Examples include personal papers, corporate records, and government documents.

Archives that maintain unpublished papers and related materials in their original format. Each archive has a specific collection mandate.

A bias towards the present day that can distort historical understanding.

Using multiple independent sources to verify the accuracy of information.

A critical approach to data analysis, questioning the reliability and potential biases of sources.

Recurring patterns, behaviours, or events observed in data. Helps you understand trends and long-term impacts.

Moments of significant change in data, marking shifts in trends or behaviours. Helps you identify critical turning points.

A research method involving in-depth analysis of a specific case or event. It uses real-world data to provide a comprehensive view of the topic.

A process that aims to provide a scientific rationale for the research decisions made. It involves justifying source selection and data collection methods.

A sampling method where every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. It's like drawing names out of a hat, ensuring fair representation.

A sampling method where participants are selected at regular intervals from a complete list. It's like choosing every 10th person on a roster.

A sampling method where the population is divided into subgroups based on key characteristics, and participants are selected proportionally from each subgroup. It's like ensuring your sample reflects the diversity of the population.

The proportion or percentage that each subgroup should contribute to the total sample in stratified sampling. It helps ensure accurate representation of all groups.

The process of identifying and selecting actual participants for your research. It involves understanding your target population and having a reliable method for finding them.

A symbolic or minimal effort made to appear inclusive or diverse, often without genuine commitment to change.

The probability of error in a sample, typically expressed as a percentage. A 95% confidence level means the sample results are likely to be accurate 19 out of 20 times.

The degree of allowable error in a sample. It represents the range within which the true population value is expected to lie.

A predetermined set of questions used to collect data from participants. Emphasis on clear questions and brevity for an effective survey.

Questions where respondents choose from a pre-defined list of answers. Helps standardize responses and makes analysis easier.

Questions that allow participants to provide their own answers in their own words, providing richer insights.

A type of scale used in questionnaires to measure attitudes, opinions, or feelings. Respondents choose from a range of options, typically anchored by opposites.

The location and time of data collection can significantly impact the results. Factors like participant comfort, survey method, and distractions should be considered.

A research method that involves in-depth conversations with individuals or groups to gather insights about their experiences, beliefs, or opinions related to a specific topic.

A research method where a group of people with shared experiences or expertise engage in a guided discussion about a particular topic, allowing researchers to gather multiple perspectives and insights simultaneously.

Beliefs, values, attitudes, motives, desires, or passions that are difficult to measure directly or objectively.

To avoid influencing respondents' responses or providing clues that might bias their answers.

Arranging your questions in different ways on a survey to assess how the order might influence responses.

Asking the same question at different points in a survey to check if respondents provide consistent answers. This helps validate data and ensure the reliability of responses.

When the individuals participating in a study represent the wider population being investigated, ensuring the findings can be generalized to the larger group.