research methods exam 1

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture notes.

Experiential Reality

Knowledge gained from direct experience (e.g., learning a burner is hot by touching it).

Agreement Reality

Things we consider real because we are told they are real, and everyone agrees (e.g., the sun sets in the West).

Empirical Research

Knowledge produced based on experience or observation.

Methodology

The science of finding out.

Tradition

Knowledge accepted as true because “everybody knows” it.

Authority

Trusting the judgment of someone with special expertise.

Inaccurate Observation

Errors in observation that can be overcome by using measurement devices.

Overgeneralization

Drawing broad conclusions from limited observations; overcome by replication.

Selective Observation

Focusing on observations that confirm existing beliefs; overcome by specifying observations in advance.

Exploration (Purpose of Research)

To examine an issue or policy about which little is known.

Description (Purpose of Research)

To observe and describe the scope of a problem or policy response.

Explanation (Purpose of Research)

To explain why things are the way they are and answer “why?” questions.

Application (Purpose of Research)

Applied research used to evaluate the effects of specific criminal justice programs.

Evaluation Research

Comparing program goals to results to assess effectiveness.

Policy Analysis

Anticipating future consequences of alternative actions; prospective.

The Research Process

Conceptualize, Operate, Observe, Analyze, Apply