Exploring Research - QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH

Relativism

Reality is not independent and changes depending on the person, culture or situation

Realism

A reality exists independent of our belief or perception

Objectivism

Knowledge exists independently of the observer and can be discovered via observation

Subjectivism

Knowledge is entirely dependant on the individuals perceptions

Constructionism

Knowledge is constructed through social interaction and context

Post modernism

Asserts that multiple realities exist and knowledge is fragmented

Pragmatism

Knowledge framed in pragmatic terms and problem focused

What is the variable?

The essential concept by which we make sense of and categorise the inherent variability (differences) we observe all around us

What are the 3 Quantitative methods?

1. Observational research - describes phenomena as they occur

   
   

2. Experimentation - aims go establish wether causal relationships exist between variables via experimental testing and manipulation

3. Correlation - aims to establish whether relationships exist between variables without manipulation

What is a Research Question?

A specific and clear question that can be answered through employment of a rigorous and systemic research method

Types of Observational Research -

1. Structured vs Unstructured

Structured - systematic, predetermined approach

Unstructured - Open ended without predefined code or system

2. Participant vs Non-Participant

Participant - researcher actively partakes in activity of the study

Non-Participant - researcher avoid partaking or influencing the activity of the study

3. Naturalistic vs Controlled

Naturalistic. - observing behaviour in its natural environment

Controlled - observing behaviour in a controlled setting

Experimentation -

Definition…

At least One variable is selected and any potential affects on at least one other variable is measured

Which variable is controlled?

The Independent variable

What is the variable we measure?

The dependant variable

What is the term for the differences in the IV?

Conditions or Levels

In designing an experiment, we try to ensure that only changes In the ? Are affecting the ?

? - independent variable

? - Dependant variable

Correlational Research

Involves measuring different ? Of interest and examining whether they ? To each other without ?.

? - variables

? - relate

? - Manipulation