L1: Introduction to Research & Scientific Methods

Question 1

What is the definition of research?

Answer 1

A systematic investigation, including research development, testing and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge.

Question 2

What does scientific method mean?

Answer 2

Formulate hypotheses –> test hypotheses

Question 3

Outline the eight stages in the research process?

Answer 3

1. Formulate a research question
2. Conceptualize a research design
3. Construct an instrument for data collection e.g. analytical assay or questionnaire
4. Select a sample
5. Write a research proposal
6. Collect data
7. Processing and displaying data
8. Write a research report

Question 4

Why is it important to develop an appropriate research design?

Answer 4

• faulty design results in misleading findings

- developing appropriate research design is crucial to get valid findings

Question 5

What is the definition of internal and external validity?

Answer 5

Internal validity: The degree to which the investigator draws the correct conclusions about what actually happened in the study.

External validity: Also known as generalizability. The degree to which the conclusions drawn from the study can be appropriately applied to people and events outside the study.

Question 6

What are the threats to internal and external validity?

Answer 6

Two main kinds of error threaten validity of a study.

Random error (a wrong result due to chance variability) –> affects precision

Systematic error (a wrong result due to bias) 
--> affects accuracy

Question 7

What are the important values for the responsible conduct of research?

Answer 7

• honesty
• accuracy
• efficiency
• objectivity