Midterm (Weeks 1-5) Flashcards
methods
the specific tools that will be used while researching
methodology
the overall strategy that guides the way research will produce knowledge
probabilistic
a influences the probability of b (makes it more likely)
deterministic
a will determine the outcome of b 100% of the time
ontology
the study of reality. What is there to know?
epistemology
the study of knowledge. How do we know what we know?
realist ontology
reality exists outside of us
relativist ontology
we are part of the reality and there are many realities
positivist epistemology
the only way to produce reliable knowledge is to find empirical evidence. Uses scientific methods
interpretivist epistemology
researchers need to INTERPRET reality to understand it and gain knowledge. The world is socially constructed
Causal claim 1
is there a causal mechanism that connects x to y?
Causal claim 2
Can we rule out the possibility of y causing x?
Causal claim 3
is there covariation between y and x?
Causal claim 4
Have we controlled for all cofounding variables? (Z variables)
Non-abstract research question
A very specific question that looks at one instance of why a phenomenon occurred
Abstract question
A broad question that could apply to many circumstances across space and time
Literature review
Summarizes what has already been researched in a field, building on the “giants”
Causality
Cause and effect - x effects y
Dependant variable
The effect. The outcome of the independent variable
Independent variable
The cause. Effects the outcome of the dependent variable
Cross-sectional measure
Measures the variable at the same time point, across all units of observation
Time series measure
The variable is measured at different time points, used to observe trends
Theory
A well-substantiated explanation for a phenomenon. Tested thoroughly and well-confirmed
Hypotheses
A proposed explanation for a phenomenon. Usually tested to some extent and at least a probability
A working hypothesis
A provisional explanation for a phenomenon. Usually untested, comes before a hypotheses or theory is formed
Deductive approach
When the theory comes before the research
Inductive approach
When the theory comes after the research is done
Unfalsifiable statement
There is no way of proving whether a statement is true or false because there is no way of gathering evidence
Research design
The overall plan for how research will be conducted
Cross-sectional design
Multiple observations at one point in time
Longitudinal design
observations across different time points
Case study design
Analysis of one or more cases
Experimental design
when participants are allocated into different testing (focus) groups for research
Concept
an abstract notion or idea constructed in the mind. Not directly observable, like job satisfaction or racism
Indicator
A directly observable or quantifiable measurement like income or age
Measure
Measures the extent or magnitude of a phenomenon
