HOD 2500 Study Notes

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from the HOD 2500 study notes, providing definitions and explanations essential for understanding research methodologies and analysis in a concise format.

Narrative Review

A summary essay written by an expert to show the big picture of what is known about a topic.

Scoping Review

Maps out what has been studied on a topic and identifies gaps in research.

Systematic Review

Rigorously collects and evaluates studies about a specific question using strict protocols.

Meta-Analysis

Combines numerical data from multiple studies to find overall patterns.

Direct Observables

Things you can see or measure directly; e.g., height or hair color.

Indirect Observables

Measured using indicators or scales; e.g., IQ scores or anxiety levels.

Hypothetical Constructs

Abstract ideas that cannot be directly observed; e.g., happiness or self-esteem.

Categorical Variables

Types of data that represents groups or categories without an order; e.g., race.

Dichotomous Variables

Types of variables that have only two options; e.g., Yes/No.

Discrete Variables

Variables that take on whole numbers without decimals; e.g., number of cars.

Continuous Variables

Variables that can take any value on a scale; e.g., age or income.

Nominal Measurement

Named categories without order; e.g., state of residence.

Ordinal Measurement

Ordered categories; e.g., levels of agreement.

Interval Measurement

Equally spaced values without a true zero; e.g., temperature.

Ratio Measurement

Equally spaced values with a true zero; e.g., weight or income.

Sampling

Choosing a smaller group from a larger population to study it.

Population

The entire group of interest that you want to study.

Sample

A subset of the population selected for a study.

Non-Probability Sampling

Sampling based on availability or judgment rather than random selection.

Probability Sampling

Sampling where every individual has a known chance of selection.

Test-Retest Reliability

A method to measure reliability by asking the same question at two different times.

Inter-Rater Reliability

Consistency among different observers rating the same event or situation.

Internal Consistency

Items within a survey scale that should correlate with each other.

Validity

The degree to which a measure accurately captures what it’s intended to measure.

Face Validity

The degree to which a measure seems logical at face value.

Content Validity

The degree to which a measure covers all parts of a concept.

Predictive Validity

The degree to which a measure can predict related outcomes.

Deterministic Framework

A model where effects are predetermined, and inputs lead to one outcome.

Regression

A statistical method that predicts how an independent variable affects a dependent variable.

P-Value

A measure indicating the probability that results are due to chance; lower values indicate stronger evidence.

Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)

An experiment where participants are randomly assigned to treatment or control groups.

Null Hypothesis (H₀)

The hypothesis that there is no difference or relationship; it is what you test against.

Confounder

A variable related to both the independent and dependent variables that distorts results.

External Validity

The extent to which research findings can be generalized to other settings or populations.