AP Research Terms

Triangulation

Using multiple methods, data sources, theories, or researchers to cross-check and validate findings, increasing credibility and reliability.

Sampling Techniques

Methods used to select participants or cases from a population; includes random sampling, stratified sampling, and convenience sampling.

Qualitative Data

Non-numeric data exploring themes, meanings, and descriptions (e.g., interviews, open-ended surveys).

Quantitative Data

Numeric data that can be measured and statistically analyzed (e.g., test scores, percentages).

Mixed Methodology

A research design that combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches for comprehensive understanding.

Gap

An area in existing literature that has not been adequately explored, which research seeks to address.

Confounding Variable

An external factor that may influence both independent and dependent variables, affecting validity.

Likert Scale

A survey tool measuring attitudes or opinions on a scale (e.g., 1 = Strongly Disagree to 5 = Strongly Agree).

Informed Consent

A process of informing participants about the research purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits before participation.

Literature Review

A summary and synthesis of existing research on a topic to establish context and identify gaps.

Primary Data

Data collected firsthand by the researcher (e.g., surveys, interviews, experiments).

Secondary Data

Existing data collected by others (e.g., databases, articles, government reports).

APA Format

A citation style developed by the American Psychological Association for formatting papers and citing sources.

Alignment

The logical connection between the research question, method, data collection, and analysis, ensuring coherence.

Implications

The broader significance or consequences of findings for theory, practice, policy, or future research.

Limitations

Factors beyond the researcher's control that may affect study results or generalizability.

Delimitations

Choices made by the researcher to narrow the scope of the study (e.g., specific population, timeframe).

Assumptions

Things accepted as true without proof, necessary for the study to proceed.

Protected Population

Groups requiring special ethical consideration due to vulnerability, such as minors or individuals with disabilities.

Replicability

The ability for a study to be repeated by others, producing similar results, demonstrating reliability.

Institutional Review Board (IRB)

A committee that reviews and approves research involving human subjects to ensure ethical standards.

Inquiry Proposal Form

An official document used to propose a research project for approval before conducting the study.

Coding

A process in qualitative research where data is organized into categories or themes for analysis.

Data Collection

The process of gathering information for a study (e.g., surveys, experiments, interviews).

Data Analysis

The process of interpreting collected data to find patterns, relationships, or insights.

Operational Definitions

Specific explanations of how concepts or variables are measured or identified in a study.

Recursive Process

The iterative nature of research where steps may be revisited and revised as new insights are gained.