Scientific Research Methodology

Flashcards covering key concepts from the Scientific Research Methodology lecture.

What is a research design?

A blueprint or detailed plan for how a research study is to be completed, operationalizing variables, selecting a sample, and collecting data.

What are the main functions of research design?

To conceptualize an operational plan for procedures in a study and ensure these procedures provide valid, objective, and accurate answers to research questions.

What are the three types of study design based on the number of contacts?

Cross-sectional, Before-and-after, Longitudinal Designs.

What is a Cross-sectional Design?

Observations made at one point in time on a sample or cross-section of a population.

Advantages of Cross-sectional Designs?

Comparatively cheap to undertake and easy to analyze.

What is a Before-and-after Design?

Involves two sets of cross-sectional data collection points to find changes in a phenomenon at two different times.

Key advantage of Before-and-after Designs?

Ability to measure change in a phenomenon or assess the impact of an intervention.

What is a Longitudinal Design?

A design that determines the pattern of change over time by visiting the study population at regular intervals.

Define Retrospective Studies.

Investigate a phenomenon that has happened in the past, often based on available data or respondents’ recall.

Define Prospective Studies.

Estimate the likely frequency of a phenomenon or outcome in the future.

What is an Experimental Study?

Research where an intervention is introduced in a controlled or natural environment to investigate relationships.

What is a Non-experimental Study?

Starts with the effect and attempts to establish what caused it.

What distinguishes Quasi-experimental Studies?

Involves elements of both experimental and non-experimental designs.

What is a trend study?

A study that traces changes over time to find out what has happened, what is happening now, and what is likely to happen in the future.

What is a case study in qualitative research?

In-depth exploration of an atypical case of a particular event, group, or instance.

What is the purpose of focus groups in qualitative research?

Facilitated discussions to explore open topics with a group.

What is a reflective journal log?

A diary of the researcher’s thoughts during the research process.