Lecture 1 - Introduction

Question 1

Quantitative Research

Answer 1

The gathering of numerical data from some metric.

Question 2

Qualitative Research

Answer 2

Focus on inner experience and symbolic data - data left in its original forms of meaning after interview/observation.

Question 3

Empiricism

Answer 3

The epistemological stance claiming that the validity of knowledge strengthens to the extent which is based on practical experience and observation.

Question 4

Theory

Answer 4

A conceptual tool, consisting of systematically organized constructs and propositions, for understanding phenomena.

Question 5

Hypotheses

Answer 5

A generalized statement, stemming from theory, that generates testable predictions through empirical research.

Question 6

Data-Theory Cycle

Answer 6

The cycle of scientific exploration beginning with a theory, which then produces a research question, which in turn generates claims to be empirically tested, lending to the collection and analysis of data; evaluation either contradicts or confirms the theoretical claims being tested, refuting or lending support to the original theory.

Question 7

Replicability

Answer 7

A principle of empirical research that contributes to the validity of a study; it states that the validity of a study is, in part, contingent upon its potential to be replicated and produce the same results.

Question 8

Occam’s Razor

Answer 8

The philosophical principle that places greater value on the proposition with the least amount of assumptions; in other words, it gives precedence to simplicity and rejects unnecessary acts of pluralization.

Question 9

Falsifiability

Answer 9

A principle of empirical research that holds all theories should be defined in a way that allows for the possibility of contestation.

Question 10

Parsimony

Answer 10

A principle of empirical research that refers to the economy of reason in the expression of scientific truth.

Question 11

Induction

Answer 11

The construction of theories or generalized patterns from observation; generates new theories from data.

Question 12

Deduction

Answer 12

The confirmation or rejection of theory stemming from the evaluation of research; tests existing theories.

Question 13

Epistemology

Answer 13

The philosophical study of knowledge; consists of theoretical explanations as to the nature, form, availability, and acquisition of knowledge.

Question 14

Positivism

Answer 14

An epistemological stance that claims the only relevant phenomena in science are those that can be measured; adheres to objectivity and empiricism.

Question 15

Interpretivism

Answer 15

An epistemological stance that takes into consideration the subjective experience of human beings.

Question 16

Bias

Answer 16

The disproportionate influence of notional beliefs in the domain of scientific inquiry.

Question 17

Availability Heuristic

Answer 17

A heuristical shortcut stemming from those things easily accessible in our minds; often leads to misjudgment and the distortion of real possibilities.

Question 18

Experiment

Answer 18

The scientific process of claim-testing.

Question 19

Operationalize

Answer 19

Refers to the process of defining non-measurable phenomena in terms that allow it to be measured.

Question 20

Primary Source

Answer 20

The first-hand account of original research.

Question 21

Secondary Source

Answer 21

A source that provides commentary or discussion with reference to a primary source.