Core 1 Research Methodology Flashcards
What is the purpose of research?
- To advance knowledge
- To increase understanding
- To educate others
- To inform practice
What is the difference between a research question and a research hypothesis?
Research Question
A problem which has the intention of being solved through the research conducted, posed as a question or statement
Research Hypothesis
A prediction statement that will be either proven or disproven through conducting research
What is sampling?
This is a process used to select individuals or groups in order to conduct primary research. Researchers intend to use the sample to represent ideas or characteristics of the whole population.
What are the different sampling methods?
- Simple random sampling
- Systematic sampling
- Stratified sampling
- Cluster sampling
- Convenience sampling
What is a sample?
A subset of the population selected for measurement, observing or questioning so as to provide statistical information about the population
What is primary data?
Data that are collected first hand by the researcher; the information is obtained directly by observing behaviour or asking people questions through interviews or questionnaires
What is secondary data?
Data that have been gathered and recorded by someone else; for instance, information acquired from the internet, videos, databases, reference and textbooks, pamphlets and statistical reports of other people’s research
Types of data
- Qualitative
- Quantitative
- Primary
- Secondary
Sources of data
- Individuals and groups (organisations, govt agencies, specialist groups)
- Print (books, newspapers, journals) and digital media (internet, tv, radio)
Reliability
refers to the consistency of the measurement
(If ‘reliable’ a research method could be able to be used again under the same conditions with the same subjects and you would expect similar results)
Validity
refers to measurement that accurately reflects what it is intended to measure
(if ‘valid’ a research study should be based on a suitable methodology and be undertaken so that the results can be interpreted with a degree of certainty)
Identify the different research methods
- questionnaires
- interviews
- case studies
- observations
- literature reviews
Outline the research process
- Planning for research
- Conducting research
- Interpreting research
- Presenting research
Strategies a researcher might us to protect privacy of participants in a study
- ask permission to record responses
- ensure all results remain confidential by changing names or any identifying object on results
- secure storage of data
- maintain anonymity of participants
- dispose of private information carefully
(particularly when researching sensitive topics)
Strategies a researcher might us to show respect subjects of research
- seeking informed consent
- analysing body language and ceasing interview if participant is uncomfortable
- providing an avenue of follow up support/ counselling if researching a sensitive topic
- respecting religious, cultural, physical differences
- maintaining privacy
- reporting results free of bias
- remind them that participation is voluntary and they can cease at any time