research methods

Cross-Sectional Design

Researchers compare different age groups at one point in time.

Longitudinal Design

Researchers study the same individuals over an extended period.

Sequential Design

Combines cross-sectional and longitudinal research by studying multiple age groups over time.

Reliability

The consistency of a research measure.

Validity

The extent to which a study measures what it is intended to measure.

Advantages of Cross-Sectional Design

Quick, less expensive, no participant dropout, easy to conduct.

Disadvantages of Cross-Sectional Design

Does not show individual development over time, cohort effects.

Best For Cross-Sectional Design

Comparing age differences.

Advantages of Longitudinal Design

Shows actual developmental change, tracks individual growth, eliminates cohort differences.

Disadvantages of Longitudinal Design

Expensive, time-consuming, participants may drop out, results may become outdated.

Best For Longitudinal Design

Studying developmental change over time.

Advantages of Sequential Design

Reduces cohort effects, provides more complete developmental information, combines strengths of both methods.

Disadvantages of Sequential Design

Most expensive, most time-consuming, complex to conduct and analyze.

Best For Sequential Design

Obtaining the most comprehensive picture of development.

Informed Consent

Participants must understand the study and agree to participate voluntarily.

Confidentiality

Researchers must protect participants' personal information.

Protection from Harm

Participants should not experience unnecessary physical or psychological harm.

Right to Withdraw

Participants can leave the study at any time without penalty.

Institutional Review Board (IRB)

A committee that reviews research proposals to ensure ethical standards are met.

Experimental Research

The research method that can establish cause and effect.

Biggest Limitation of Correlational Research

Correlation does not prove causation.

Fastest Research Design

Cross-sectional design.

Design Studying Same People

Longitudinal design.

Combines Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal

Sequential design.

Main Advantage of Case Study

Provides detailed information about an individual or small group.

Difference Between Reliability and Validity

Reliability = consistency; Validity = accuracy.