Research Methods Exam 3

Numerical

Quantitative research is largely defined by taking this type of measurement

Survey

• This type of methodology uses close-ended questions

• Can be self-administered, administered in person, or administered over the phone

Secondary Data Analysis

• This type of research makes use of data that was originally collected for some other purpose'

  • This design might be the only way to gain access to some types of information

• Typically involves measures with well established reliability and validity

Likert Scale

This is another name for a type of feeling thermometer often used to rate subjects’ opinions or attitudes

True/Classic Experiment

• Quantitative methodology using both random selection of participants into a sample and random assignment of participants into both control and treatment groups

• Best used when treatment is ethical and within the researcher’s control

• Example:

  • Relationship between children’s self control and adult

Ceteris Peribus

Latin phrase meaning “all things being equal”

Quasi-Experimental Design

• Methodology is often used to look at cause and effect relationships where it may be unethical to apply the treatment in question

• No random selection or assignment of participants

  • Typically participants are matched or self-controlled

• Example:

  • Relationship between child abuse and adult criminal behavior

Natural Experiment

• Methodology might be used to look at cause and effect relationships where it may be impractical to apply the treatment in question

  • No random assignment or selection of participants

• Treatment happens naturally “naturally” or beyond the researcher’s control

• Example:

  • Impact of a law on rates of crime

Probability

Way of describing the general behavior of random events in the aggregate

Confederate

This is a person (ex: assistant or paid actor) that is “in” on the experiment and often helps to administer the treatment condition through deception

Types of Quantitative Research (2)

Observational and Experimental

Issues for Researchers to Consider in Developing Good Survey Questions

• Making all responses exhaustive and mutually exclusive

  • Means brain storming responses and checking categories

• Avoiding double barreled questions, which asks two questions as one

• Keeping all questions short, quick, and clear

  • Should be easily understood by a 7th grader

• Avoiding bias wording

  • Like using the halo effect

Question Type Experiments Typically Focus On

Explanatory ones focused on cause and effect relationships

Quantitative Research is Best Used For…

Research questions involving counts of behavior, public opinion, or sensitive issues

Non-Equivalent Groups Design (Quasi-Experimental)

Involves matching participants in both the control and experimental groups on key factors