Introduction to Research Methods and Variables

Flashcards covering key definitions, characteristics, and classifications from the lecture on research methods, designs, and variables.

What are the three main components involved in research?

Collection/documentation of data, analysis, and interpretation

How is research defined in terms of its inquiry?

A systematic inquiry that carefully considers studies regarding a concern using scientific methods

Which characteristic of research means it follows a step-by-step and organized approach?

Methodical (systematic and organized)

Which characteristic of research focuses on gaining a deeper understanding of data?

Analytical

Which characteristic of research asks whether studies can be repeated and achieve similar results?

Replicable

What characteristic of research stresses being aware of bias and continually questioning results?

Critical

Which characteristic of research indicates that it relates to real-life situations and observations?

Empirical

Which characteristic of research means it is rational and follows a system?

Logical

What is the difference between Research Methods and Research Design?

Research Methods are the strategies or ways to achieve a goal, whereas Research Design is the overall plan for conducting the research

What type of research aims simply to describe phenomena without establishing cause–effect relationships?

Descriptive research

Which research approach investigates a single instance in depth to understand causes or problems?

Case study

Which research design uses information from the past to understand events or trends?

Historical research

What research design tests cause-and-effect relationships using manipulation and control?

Experimental research

Which qualitative approach explores lived experiences and perceptions?

Phenomenological research

What is meant by a Mixed Method Design?

A research design that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches

What distinguishes Qualitative from Quantitative research?

Qualitative research uses words, descriptions, and subjective insights, while Quantitative research uses numbers, statistics, and objective measurement

Define a Variable in the context of research.

A data element being measured that can affect or change study results

What are Numeric Variables?

Variables that express how many or how much

How do Continuous Variables differ from Discrete Variables?

Continuous variables can assume any value within a range (measured), while discrete variables take only whole values (counted)

What are Categorical Variables?

Variables that describe qualities or characteristics, identifying the type or category

Which categorical scale involves logically ordered or ranked values?

Ordinal scale

What do we call categorical data with no intrinsic order?

Nominal scale

How many categories exist in a Dichotomous variable?

Two categories

What term describes categorical variables with many possible categories?

Polychotomous variables