Scope and Methods Exam 2

Dependent variable

Dependent variable

The variable that changes because of another variable.

Independent variable

The variable that causes change in the dependent variable.

Antecedent variables

Variables that come before the main relationship and help predict another variable.

Intervening variables

Variables that are hard to measure but can be noted through research.

Difference between causation and correlation

Causation means one event makes another happen; correlation means two events happen at the same time but are not connected.

Hypothesis

An educated guess that connects two variables.

Operational definition

A way to define a concept so it can be measured clearly.

Reliability in research

getting consistent results every time the research is done.

External validity

Whether the research situation reflects real-life experiences.

Four levels of measurement

Nominal (names), Ordinal (order), Interval (measurement), and Ratio (comparison).

Sample

A smaller group studied to represent a larger group.

Purpose of statistical significance

To make conclusions about a larger group from the results of the study.

Simple random sample

A sample where everyone has the same chance of being chosen.

Aim of statistical inference

To make educated guesses about a population based on sample data.

Margins of error

They show how much uncertainty there is in polling results.

Spurious relationships

When unseen factors affect both variables in a study.

Research design

A plan for how to gather and analyze data.

Case study

In-depth study of one case in real life.

Types of qualitative research designs

Different ways to choose cases in qualitative research.

Quantitative research design

Research that uses numbers for analysis and reporting.

Randomized experiments

Experiments where subjects are randomly put into groups.