Pointers in Practical Research 2 - Key Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key quantitative research terms, variables, definitions, and literature review concepts from the notes.

Quantitative Research

Uses numerical data analyzed statistically; provides results that are credible, reliable, and generalizable to a larger population; focuses on measuring variables, finding patterns, and testing cause-and-effect relationships.

Numerical Data

Data expressed in numbers that can be measured and analyzed statistically.

Credible, Reliable, and Generalizable

Results that are believable, consistent across measurements, and applicable to a larger population.

Independent Variable

The variable manipulated by the researcher to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable

The outcome being measured; the variable whose value depends on the independent variable.

Extraneous Variable

Outside factors that may affect the study but are not being investigated.

Confounding Variable

An uncontrolled variable that mixes up the results, making it hard to determine effects.

Nominal

Categorical data used for labeling or naming without implying order (e.g., gender, colors).

Ordinal

Categorical data with an inherent order or rank (e.g., 1st, 2nd).

Interval

Numeric data with equal intervals but no true zero (e.g., temperature in Celsius).

Ratio

Numeric data with a true zero, allowing meaningful comparisons (e.g., height, weight).

Discrete

Variables that take only whole numbers (e.g., number of students).

Continuous

Variables that can take any value within a range, including fractions (e.g., height, weight).

Dichotomous

Variables with only two possible responses (yes/no, male/female).

Conceptual Definition

The dictionary meaning or general idea of a term as used in theory.

Operational Definition

The exact procedures or measurements used to apply a term in a study.

Literature Review

A structured synthesis of existing studies to establish context, purpose, and gaps; not just a list.

Introduction (Literature Review)

States the purpose of the review.

Main Body (Literature Review)

Summarizes and synthesizes ideas from different studies.

Conclusion (Literature Review)

Highlights research gaps and links to the current study.

Historical Review

Organizes studies by time period.

Context Review

Groups studies based on background or setting.

Integrative Review

Compares and contrasts findings to form new insights.

Theoretical Review

Focuses on theories/models related to the topic.

Methodological Review

Compares methods used in previous research.

Self-Study Review

Reflects on one’s own work or prior studies.

Review of Related Literature (RRL)

Not just a list of studies; shows gaps in knowledge and supports the new study, including recent related literature.

Research Question

A clear, focused question guiding the study; should be feasible, clear, and significant.

Hypothesis

An educated guess predicting the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

Background of the Study

Explains rationale, context, and basic literature; identifies the research gap.

Research Gap

The issue not yet fully addressed by previous studies.

Feasible

Doable with available time, energy, money, and site.

Clear

Easily understood; not vague.

Significant

Addresses an important issue and contributes knowledge.

Research Title Guidelines

Should include main dependent and independent variables; avoid phrases like 'The study of…'; use concise wording.