Research Methods and Scientific Learning

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to surveys, tests, scientific learning, research, and observational methods.

What is a survey?

A systematic method of collecting data from a group of respondents to gain information about a larger population.

What is a test or assessment?

A structured set of questions or tasks designed to measure knowledge, skill, aptitude, or performance in a specific domain.

Define Scientific Learning.

An approach to gaining knowledge that uses the scientific method—asking questions, forming hypotheses, observing, experimenting, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

What is research?

A systematic investigation aimed at discovering new information or establishing facts by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data.

What is an observational study?

A form of research in which the investigator observes subjects without manipulating variables, recording phenomena as they naturally occur.

What is the key difference between research and observation?

Research seeks to explain or predict phenomena and can involve interventions; observation focuses on describing phenomena without interference.

Why is scientific learning important?

It develops critical thinking, fosters evidence-based decision making, enhances problem-solving abilities, and drives reliable knowledge advancement.

List the steps of the learning process.

Motivation → Attention → Encoding → Storage → Retrieval → Application.

Outline the key steps in a survey procedure.

Define objectives → Design questionnaire → Select sample → Collect responses → Analyze data → Report findings.

Provide an example of a test.

A multiple-choice achievement exam that measures students’ mastery of course content.

Provide an example of research.

An experimental study comparing the effects of different teaching methods on student performance.