Lecture 1 - Introduction Flashcards
Quantitative Research
The gathering of numerical data from some metric.
Qualitative Research
Focus on inner experience and symbolic data - data left in its original forms of meaning after interview/observation.
Empiricism
The epistemological stance claiming that the validity of knowledge strengthens to the extent which is based on practical experience and observation.
Theory
A conceptual tool, consisting of systematically organized constructs and propositions, for understanding phenomena.
Hypotheses
A generalized statement, stemming from theory, that generates testable predictions through empirical research.
Data-Theory Cycle
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.
Replicability
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.
Occam’s Razor
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.
Falsifiability
A principle of empirical research that holds all theories should be defined in a way that allows for the possibility of contestation.
Parsimony
A principle of empirical research that refers to the economy of reason in the expression of scientific truth.
Induction
The construction of theories or generalized patterns from observation; generates new theories from data.
Deduction
The confirmation or rejection of theory stemming from the evaluation of research; tests existing theories.
Epistemology
The philosophical study of knowledge; consists of theoretical explanations as to the nature, form, availability, and acquisition of knowledge.
Positivism
An epistemological stance that claims the only relevant phenomena in science are those that can be measured; adheres to objectivity and empiricism.
Interpretivism
An epistemological stance that takes into consideration the subjective experience of human beings.
Bias
The disproportionate influence of notional beliefs in the domain of scientific inquiry.
Availability Heuristic
A heuristical shortcut stemming from those things easily accessible in our minds; often leads to misjudgment and the distortion of real possibilities.
Experiment
The scientific process of claim-testing.
Operationalize
Refers to the process of defining non-measurable phenomena in terms that allow it to be measured.
Primary Source
The first-hand account of original research.
Secondary Source
A source that provides commentary or discussion with reference to a primary source.
