exam 2 study guide Flashcards
Longitudinal Studies
These studies involve collecting data from the same
individuals over an extended period. For example, a researcher might
follow a group of 30-year-olds over several years to observe changes in their
joint health in relation to running
observational
Cross-Sectional Studies
single point in
time from a group of participants. They provide a snapshot of the variables of
interest at that specific time
observational
Correlational Research
This type of research examines the relationship
between two or more variables. It’s important to remember that
correlation does not imply causation.
observational
o Case Studies
These involve an in-depth investigation of a specific
individual, group, event, or community. They often involve detailed data
collection from multiple sources
observational
select participants with and without a specific out come compare gropus to identfy assosiated risk factors
Pre-experimental designs
These have the weakest control and often lack a
control group, making it difficult to eliminate normal changes over time
experimantal
Randomized Controlled Trials
These are considered the gold
standard for determining the effectiveness of interventions because they
use random assignment to control for confounding variables and often
employ blinding to minimize bias. However, they can be limited by sample
size, abstraction from real-world settings, and the level of blinding
Qualitative Research
These are considered the gold
standard for determining the effectiveness of interventions because they
use random assignment to control for confounding variables and often
employ blinding to minimize bias. However, they can be limited by sample
size, abstraction from real-world settings, and the level of blinding
Quantitative Research
This approach uses numerical data and statistical
methods to understand phenomena. It focuses on measuring variables, testing
hypotheses, and identifying statistical relationships
Mixed Methods Research
his approach combines both qualitative and
quantitative methods to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a
research problem. The interpretation of results depends on how the components
are integrated and the overall focus of the study
Meta-Analyses
is a statistical method used to summarize the
results of multiple independent studies. By combining information from all
relevant studies, meta-analyses can provide more precise estimates of effects
and may have more statistical power than individual studies. They are considered to
be at the top of the hierarchy of evidence for intervention effectiveness. A meta-
analysis is a type of systematic review
Systematic Reviews
A systematic review is a type of literature review that uses
systematic methods to collect secondary data, critically appraise research
studies, and synthesize findings either qualitatively or quantitatively. Key
characteristics include clearly stated objectives, pre-defined eligibility criteria,
an explicit and reproducible methodology, a systematic search, assessment of
study validity (risk of bias), and systematic presentation and synthesis of
findings. The aim is to provide a complete and exhaustive summary of current
literature relevant to a research question.
Respect for Persons
This principle recognizes the intrinsic value of
individuals and their capacity to make their own decisions. It emphasizes
the importance of autonomy and requires informed consent. Participants
must be fully informed about the study’s purpose, procedures, potential
risks and benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time without penalty
Concern for Welfare:
This principle focuses on ensuring the well-being of
participants by considering the potential physical, mental, social, and other
impacts of the research. Researchers must take steps to minimize potential
harm, including physical harm, psychological distress, and social risks like
stigma or discrimination. Protecting privacy through confidentiality and
secure data storage is also crucia
justice:
his principle emphasizes fairness and equity in research. It
requires that people are treated fairly and equitably, and that the benefits
and burdens of research are distributed fairly across the population.
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hypothesis
testing involves
falsifiable statement that describes a phenomenon
involves using statistical methods to determine the likelihood of
observing the results if the null hypothesis were true
Null Hypothesis
This hypothesis states that there is no significant effect
or relationship between the variables being investigated. Researchers aim
to reject the null hypothesis with their findings
Alternative Hypothesis:
This hypothesis states that there is a significant
effect or relationship between the variables being investigated. It is what
the researcher typically hopes to find evidence for
Independent Variable (IV)
This is the variable that is manipulated or changed by
the researcher in an experimental study. It is considered the potential cause
Dependent Variable (DV)
This is the variable that is measured to see if it is
affected by the independent variable. It is the outcome of interest. Research often
explores the relationship between changes in the IV and the resulting changes in the
DV
Operational Definition
This involves defining a variable in specific, measurable
terms. It clarifies how the variable will be observed, manipulated, or measured in
the study. For example, “stress” could be operationally defined by scores on a
specific stress scale or by physiological measures like heart rate
Nominal Variables:
These are categorical variables where the categories
have no inherent order (e.g., gender, types of exercise).
Ordinal Variables
These are categorical variables where the categories
have a meaningful order or ranking, but the intervals between categories
are not necessarily equal (e.g., levels of pain: mild, moderate, severe)
Continuous Variables
These are variables that can take on any value
within a given range and have equal intervals between values (e.g., height,
weight, time).
