LecPPT-Ch04

Hypothesis Testing

The process of making a conjecture or educated guess about the outcome of a study that can be tested through research.

Random Selection

A method of selecting participants for a study that ensures every individual has an equal chance of being chosen.

Selection Bias

A distortion of statistical analysis results due to the method of collecting samples.

Direct Observation

A research method where the researcher observes behavior directly in a natural setting.

Operational Definition

A clear, specific description of how a variable will be measured or defined in a study.

Reliability

The degree to which an assessment tool produces stable and consistent results.

Validity

The extent to which a test measures what it claims to measure.

Case Studies

In-depth descriptions of individuals or groups, often used in nonexperimental research.

Correlation Coefficient (Pearson r)

A statistical measure that describes the strength and direction of a relationship between two variables.

Independent Variable

The variable that is manipulated or controlled in an experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

Dependent Variable

The outcome factor that is measured in an experiment, expected to change due to manipulation of the independent variable.

External Validity

The extent to which the results of a study can be generalized to, or have relevance for, settings, people, times, and measures other than the ones used in the study.

Cross-sectional Research

A research design that involves observing different subjects at one point in time.

Qualitative Research

Research that collects non-numerical data, focusing on understanding concepts, thoughts, or experiences.

Institutional Review Boards (IRBs)

Committees that review research proposals to ensure ethical standards are met, particularly regarding the treatment of participants.

Nonmaleficence

The ethical principle of doing no harm to participants in a study.

Beneficence

The ethical principle of maximizing benefits to participants while minimizing any potential harm.