Research Methodology Review

This set of flashcards covers essential research concepts and methodologies based on the provided lecture notes.

What is science?

Science is the empirical study concerned with data collection, public observations, objectivity, and seeks simple explanations while being self-correcting and progressive.

What are the two philosophical foundations of science?

Ontological questions (WHAT can I know?) and epistemological questions (HOW can I gain that knowledge).

What is a hypothesis?

A statement that describes or explains a relationship between variables; a 'best guess' which can lead to observable predictions.

Define 'inductive reasoning'.

Inductive reasoning is the process of forming general statements based on a small set of specific observations.

Define 'deductive reasoning'.

Deductive reasoning starts with a general statement and reaches a conclusion about a specific example.

What is a dependent variable (DV)?

The variable that is measured in an experiment; it is the outcome variable affected by manipulations of the independent variable.

What is an independent variable (IV)?

The variable that is manipulated or varied in an experiment to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

What are the steps of the scientific method?

1. Observe phenomena; 2. Formulate a hypothesis; 3. Generate testable predictions; 4. Evaluate predictions through systematic observations; 5. Use observations to support, refute, or refine the hypothesis.

What is a quasi-experimental design?

A research design that resembles an experimental design but lacks random assignment, using pre-existing groups instead.

What is validity in research?

Validity refers to how well a measure tests what it is supposed to measure, producing accurate results.

What are the types of validity?

Face validity, concurrent validity, predictive validity, construct validity, convergent & divergent validity.

What is reliability in measurement?

Reliability refers to the consistency of a measurement; it should produce the same results under unchanged conditions.

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?

Quantitative research deals with numerical data and statistical analysis, while qualitative research focuses on descriptive data from non-numerical sources.

What is a chi-squared test used for?

A chi-squared test compares observed frequencies with expected frequencies in categorical data to infer relationships between variables.

What do we call the hypothetical mechanism(s) proposed in theory?

A theory proposes a system of ideas intended to explain something.

What is the role of operational definitions in research?

Operational definitions specify how variables are measured, making concepts clear and allowing for replication of studies.

What are Type 1 and Type 2 errors in hypothesis testing?

Type 1 error occurs when a true null hypothesis is incorrectly rejected, while Type 2 error occurs when a false null hypothesis is not rejected.

What is a random sample?

A randomly selected group of participants from a larger population, ensuring that each individual has an equal chance of being included.

What does the central limit theorem state?

The central limit theorem states that the distribution of sample means approaches a normal distribution as the sample size increases, regardless of the shape of the population distribution.