Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards
7 cards from real ICF practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice flashcards as text
A coaching program evaluation uses a pre-test/post-test design without a control group. The main threat to the conclusions drawn is:
Answer: Regression to the mean and history effects confounding the results
Without a control group, improvements could be due to the passage of time, external events (history), or natural score regression rather than the coaching program itself.
The ICF's commitment to evidence-based practice most directly supports which Core Competency cluster?
Answer: Facilitating Learning and Results
Facilitating Learning and Results includes applying evidence-based frameworks and theories to support the client's growth and goal achievement.
Which sampling strategy would be most appropriate when a researcher wants to specifically study coaches who have experienced burnout?
Answer: Purposive sampling
Purposive sampling intentionally selects participants who have the specific characteristics relevant to the research question.
A coach reads that a study on mindfulness coaching had a 40% dropout rate. This primarily threatens which aspect of the research?
Answer: Internal validity through attrition bias
High dropout (attrition) can bias results if those who dropped out differ systematically from those who completed the study, compromising internal validity.
Which of the following is an example of a 'mixed methods' approach in coaching research?
Answer: Combining a quantitative survey with qualitative interviews to capture both breadth and depth
Mixed methods research integrates quantitative and qualitative data to provide a more comprehensive understanding than either approach alone.
In coaching outcome research, 'goal attainment scaling' (GAS) is valued because it:
Answer: Allows individualized goal measurement tailored to each client's unique objectives
GAS allows researchers and practitioners to measure progress toward individually tailored goals, making it highly relevant for personalized coaching research.
A coach-researcher wants to ensure their qualitative study findings are trustworthy. Which combination of strategies best achieves this?
Answer: Prolonged engagement, peer debriefing, and negative case analysis
Prolonged engagement, peer debriefing, and negative case analysis are classic qualitative credibility strategies proposed by Lincoln and Guba.