Basic Concepts in Research

Flashcards testing knowledge of basic concepts, goals, purposes, characteristics, and types of research from Chapter 1 notes.

How is a concept defined according to de Belen (2015)?

An abstract term, notion, or idea, often conveyed in a single word which serves as a springboard or building block of a theory.

What are the three main purposes of research regarding observation, investigation, and experimentation?

1. To discover new knowledge and paradigm; 2. To develop and improve standards and protocols; and 3. To test and apply theories or laws in professional practice.

According to Katigbak (2008), how should the importance of research be measured?

On the extent to which research results and recommended actions are being actually carried out.

What are the two basic importances of research cited by Taflinger (1996-2011)?

(a) To learn something or (b) to gather evidence.

How should education look at research according to Gall and Barg (2003)?

As a way to develop new understanding about teaching, learning, and educational administration.

What four goals of research are cited in Cristobal & Cristobal (2013)?

1. To Produce Evidence-Based Practice; 2. To Establish Credibility on the Profession; 3. To Observe Accountability for the Profession; 4. To Promote Cost-Effectiveness Through Documentation.

What is the primary purpose of research?

To inform action.

What are the three groups of research purpose based on what the researcher is trying to accomplish?

Exploratory/Formulative Research, Descriptive Research, and Explanatory Research.

What is the primary goal of Exploratory/Formulative Research?

To formulate more precise questions that future research can answer.

What specific questions does Descriptive Research seek to answer?

It seeks to determine the answer to who, what, where, and how questions.

What is the major focus of Explanatory Research?

It seeks to answer the desire to know "why" to explain, looking for causes and reasons to identify why things occur.

What does the characteristic of being "Controlled" imply in research?

It implies that, in exploring causality in relation to two variables, the study is set up in a way that minimizes the effects of other factors affecting the relationship.

What does the characteristic of being "Rigorous" ensure in research?

It ensures that procedures followed to find answers to questions are relevant, appropriate, and justified.

What does the "Empirical" characteristic of research mean?

Any conclusion drawn is based upon hard evidence gathered from information collected from real life experience or observation.

How do Basic Research and Applied Research differ in their primary focus?

Basic Research advances fundamental knowledge about the human world and focuses on refuting or supporting theories, whereas Applied Research tries to solve problems or help practitioners accomplish tasks.

What is Action Research?

A disciplined process of inquiry conducted by and for those taking the action, primarily to assist the actor in improving or refining his or her actions.

What is the purpose of Impact Assessment Research?

To estimate the consequence of a planned change, used for planning and making choices among alternative policies.

What are the two types of Evaluation Research and their functions?

Formative evaluation (built-in monitoring or continuous feedback used for program management) and Summative evaluation (looks at final program outcomes).

What is the main disadvantage of Cross-sectional Research?

It cannot capture the change process because observations are made at only one point in time.

What are the three types of Longitudinal Research?

Time series, panel, and cohort.