Research Design & Methodology Flashcards

What is the first step in research design?

Answer: To define the research question and objectives.

The initial and most critical step in any research endeavor is clearly defining what you intend to investigate. Establishing a precise research question and specific objectives provides direction, scopes the study, and guides all subsequent decisions regarding methodology, data collection, and analysis. Without this foundational step, the research lacks focus and purpose.

What is a hypothesis in research?

Answer: A testable prediction or educated guess.

A hypothesis is a specific, testable statement that proposes a relationship between two or more variables. It serves as an educated guess about the outcome of a study, derived from existing theories or observations, and is then subjected to empirical testing through research to determine its validity.

Which research method is used to explore cause-and-effect relationships?

Answer: Experimental research.

Experimental research is specifically designed to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables. This method involves manipulating one or more independent variables, observing the effect on dependent variables, and controlling for other factors, often through the use of control groups and random assignment, to isolate the impact of the intervention.

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?

Answer: Qualitative research explores experiences; quantitative research measures variables.

Qualitative research focuses on understanding experiences, meanings, and perspectives through non-numerical data like interviews or observations, providing rich, in-depth insights. In contrast, quantitative research deals with numerical data, measuring variables and using statistical analysis to identify patterns, test hypotheses, and generalize findings across larger populations.

What is sampling in research?

Answer: Selecting a random group to represent the population.

Sampling in research involves selecting a subset of individuals or items from a larger population to participate in a study. The goal is to choose a sample that is representative of the entire population, allowing researchers to draw conclusions and generalize findings from the sample back to the broader group without having to study every single member.

What is the role of control groups in experimental research?

Answer: To compare the effects of the experimental treatment.

In experimental research, a control group is a group of participants who do not receive the experimental treatment or intervention. Their primary role is to serve as a baseline for comparison, allowing researchers to isolate the effects of the independent variable by comparing the outcomes of the experimental group (which receives the treatment) against the control group.

What is data triangulation in research?

Answer: Using different data sources, methods, or investigators.

Data triangulation is a technique used to enhance the validity and credibility of research findings by examining a phenomenon from multiple perspectives. It involves using various data sources (e.g., interviews, surveys, documents), different data collection methods, or multiple researchers to cross-verify and strengthen the conclusions drawn from the study.

What is reliability in research?

Answer: The consistency and stability of results.

Reliability in research refers to the extent to which a measurement method or instrument consistently produces the same results under the same conditions. A reliable study or measure yields stable and reproducible outcomes, indicating that the findings are not due to random error or chance, and can be trusted to be consistent over time or across different administrations.

What is the purpose of conducting a literature review in research?

Answer: To identify gaps in research and provide context.

A literature review involves systematically identifying, evaluating, and synthesizing existing scholarly work related to a research topic. Its main purpose is to establish what is already known, highlight areas where knowledge is lacking (research gaps), and provide a theoretical framework and context for the current study, demonstrating its relevance and contribution.