KIN 2032 Theory & Health Research Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts from Dr. Lin's KIN 2032 Theory & Health Research lecture notes, including definitions, differences, and important principles relevant to research methodology.

What is research?

A systematic investigation into and study of materials to establish facts and reach new conclusions.

What is the difference between science and journalism?

Journalism communicates what’s new, while science explains how the world works.

What does a systematic research process ensure?

It ensures maximum objectivity and consistency in researching a problem.

What is objectivity in research?

Objectivity refers to the practice of conducting research without bias.

Define hypothesis.

A tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables.

What is the difference between an independent variable (IV) and a dependent variable (DV)?

The independent variable is the causal variable that produces an effect; the dependent variable is the outcome that results from the causal variable.

What are some qualities of good research?

Quality, quantity, consistency, validity, reliability, and scientific method.

In qualitative research, what does 'grounded theory' aim to achieve?

To develop theory based on the analysis of patterns and themes discovered in observational data.

What is ethnography?

A systematic recording of human culture, focusing on the observation of practices and meanings within a specific environment.

What are the ethical principles outlined in the Tri-Council Policy Statement 2?

Respect for human dignity, concern for welfare, and justice.

What is the purpose of a confidence interval?

To specify a range within which the population parameter is expected to lie.

What can lead to sampling error in research?

The deviation of the selected sample from the true characteristics of the entire population.

What is a qualitative research method that focuses on rich descriptions of the lived experiences of individuals?

Phenomenology.

What is operationalization in research?

Linking abstract concepts to specific measurements.

Define validity in the context of research measurement.

Validity refers to whether a measure is accurately assessing what it is intended to measure.

What is a p-value in hypothesis testing?

A p-value indicates the probability that the observed outcome is due to chance.

What factors affect the validity of research findings?

Selection bias, history, measurement effects, and participant characteristics.

What is the Nuremburg Code?

A set of research ethics principles for human experimentation.

What role do qualitative methods play in research?

They explore subjective meanings, experiences, and social processes.

Why is reflexivity important in qualitative research?

Reflexivity allows researchers to be aware of their influences and biases when interpreting data.