1. Research Methodology

Question 1

What is the purpose of research?

Answer 1

1. To advance knowledge
2. To increase understanding
3. To educate others
4. To inform practice

Question 2

What is the focus of research?

Answer 2

Research is always conducted with a particular purpose or focus in mind. Usually there is a research problem that needs to be investigated. This problem is stated in the form of a question or hypothesis.

Question 3

What is sampling?

Answer 3

Sampling is where researchers select a suitable sample, which they intend to represent the ideas or characteristics of the whole population.

Question 4

Provide a definition for sample methods.

Answer 4

The methods used to choose the sample group.

Question 5

Provide a definition for sample groups.

Answer 5

The groups chosen as the sample for the study to be undertaken.

Question 6

Provide a definition for sample size.

Answer 6

The number of people who will participate in the research methods

Question 7

List the various sampling methods.

Answer 7

• Simple random sampling
• Systematic sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Conscience sampling
• Stratified sampling

Question 8

What is simple random sampling? And is it free from bias?

Answer 8

It is choosing participants in such a way that each person in the population has an equal chance of being selected. A simple random sample is free from sampling bias.

Question 9

What is systematic sampling? And is it free from bias?

Answer 9

A systematic sample is obtained by selecting one person on a random basis, and then choosing additional people at evenly spaced intervals until the desired number of units has been obtained. A systematic sample is free from bias.

Question 10

What is cluster sampling? And is it free from bias?

Answer 10

A cluster sample is obtained by selecting ‘clusters’ from the population. A cluster might be something like a school within a particular region. Cluster sampling can be subject to bias.

Question 11

What is convenience sampling? And is it free from bias?

Answer 11

A convenience sample is obtained by randomly selecting people from the population who are easy to access. Convenience sampling may be subject to bias.

Question 12

What is stratified sampling? And is it free from bias?

Answer 12

The researcher first needs to break the population into groups based on one particular characteristic or feature, such as education, income level, age or gender. A stratified sample is then obtained by selecting a simple random sample from each of these groups. Stratified sampling is free from bias.

Question 13

In order to determine the most appropriate sample size, you must first consider…..?

Answer 13

The resources available:

• Money - how much will it cost to collect data from each person?
• Time - how much can you do within the available time?
• Knowledge - do you know enough people who fit the population that you intend to study?
• Access to services - are you able to access the sample group?

Question 14

List the types of data.

Answer 14

• Primary data
• Secondary data
• Quantitative
• Qualitative

Question 15

What is primary data?

Answer 15

Primary data is that collected personally by the researcher.

Question 16

What is secondary data?

Answer 16

Secondary data is that is that collected by other researchers.

Question 17

What is quantitative data?

Answer 17

Quantitive data refers to the collection of data that can be measured and recorded in numerical form.

Question 18

What is qualitative data?

Answer 18

Qualitative data refers to the collection of data that involves describing and collecting more detailed information about the topic.

Question 19

List the various sources of data.

Answer 19

• Individuals
• Groups
• Print
• Digital

Question 20

What is reliability?

Answer 20

Reliability is a measure of consistency in results. A measure is said to be reliable if it produces similar results under consistent conditions.

Question 21

What is validity?

Answer 21

Validity is the extent to which findings are accurate and correspond research.

Question 22

There are certain ethical considerations to bear in mind when conducting research, what are they?

Answer 22

• Respect
• Bias
• Integrity
• Privacy

Question 23

How may researchers ensure they are respecting participants?

Answer 23

Examples include:

• Plan questions that are worded carefully so that they do not offend participants.
• Be aware of the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of participants so that no risks are involved.

Question 24

Why is professional integrity important in research?

Answer 24

A researcher must be honest and truthful because they are accountable for undertaking and presenting research without changing, modifying or suppressing any material. Data should be presented without bias or distortion and, if bias or subjectivity does occur, this should be mentioned with the interpretation or analysis of data.

Question 25

How may a researcher ensure their participant’s rights to privacy are being met?

Answer 25

Examples include:

• Asking for permission prior to carrying out any primary research or recording any data using a form of digital video.
• Selecting numbers or letters to label research responses so that participants cannot be identified on the basis of their responses.
• Ensuring that data and opinions are not revealed to others.

Question 26

How may bias occur in conducting research?

Answer 26

Examples include:

• Purposefully choosing a sampling method that will not reflect the correct results.
• Recording data that supports your hypothesis rather than being objective.

Question 27

List the various research methods.

Answer 27

• Questionnaires
• Interviews
• Case studies
• Observations
• Literature reviews