Observations and experiments Flashcards
What is an observational study?
An observational study is a type of research where the investigator observes subjects without manipulating any variables.
True or False: Randomised control trials (RCTs) involve random assignment to experimental or control groups.
True
Fill in the blank: In a randomised control trial, participants are randomly assigned to either the _____ group or the control group.
experimental
What is the main advantage of randomisation in RCTs?
Randomisation helps eliminate bias and ensures that the groups are comparable.
What does the term ‘control group’ refer to in RCTs?
The control group is the group that does not receive the experimental treatment and is used for comparison.
Which type of study design is generally considered the gold standard for evaluating the effectiveness of an intervention?
Randomised control trial (RCT)
True or False: Observational studies can establish causality.
False
Fill in the blank: In RCTs, the _____ effect refers to changes in participants’ behaviour due to their awareness of being in a study.
Hawthorne
What does the term ‘randomised’ imply in the context of RCTs?
It implies that participants are assigned to experimental or control groups by chance, reducing selection bias.
Define ‘placebo’.
A placebo is an inactive substance or treatment designed to mimic a real treatment but has no therapeutic effect.
What is an example of a disadvantage of observational studies?
Observational studies cannot establish a cause-and-effect relationship due to potential confounding variables.
Fill in the blank: The _____ effect occurs when participants in a study change their behavior due to the study itself.
observer
What is the purpose of a sample size calculation in RCTs?
Sample size calculation determines the number of participants needed to detect a significant effect if it exists.
What is the main purpose of conducting evaluations in research?
The main purpose of evaluations is to assess the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of interventions or programs.
Fill in the blank: Randomised control trials are often considered more _____ than observational studies.
reliable
What is the primary purpose of structured/formal observations?
To systematically collect data in a controlled environment to assess specific behaviors or outcomes.
True or False: Structured observations are less reliable than unstructured observations.
False
Fill in the blank: In structured observations, observers use a __________ checklist/framework to guide their data collection.
standardised
Which of the following is a characteristic of structured observations? A) Flexibility in data collection B) Use of standardised measures C) Subjective interpretation
B) Use of standardised measures
What is one advantage of using structured observations in research?
They allow for replication and comparison of results across different studies.
What is the primary characteristic of unstructured observations?
They are informal and do not follow a standardised format or structure.
True or False: Unstructured observations can provide rich qualitative data.
True
Fill in the blank: Unstructured observations are often used in _____ research to gather insights.
qualitative
Which of the following is a disadvantage of unstructured observations? A) Flexibility B) Subjectivity C) Depth of information D) Cost-effectiveness
B) Subjectivity
What type of situations are unstructured observations particularly useful in?
Naturalistic settings where behaviors occur spontaneously.
What is the primary difference between covert and overt observations?
Covert observations are conducted without the subjects’ knowledge, while overt observations are done with the subjects’ awareness.
True or False: Covert observations can lead to ethical concerns.
True
Fill in the blank: Overt observations are often used in ________ research.
quantitative
Which type of observation is more likely to alter the behavior of the subjects?
Overt/structured/formal observation
Multiple choice: Which of the following is an example of covert observation? A) Classroom behavior study B) Hidden camera surveillance C) Public opinion polls
B) Hidden camera surveillance
What is a potential advantage of using covert/unstructured observations?
They allow researchers to collect data without influencing participants’ behavior.
True or False: Overt observations are always more reliable than covert observations.
False
What ethical consideration must researchers keep in mind when conducting covert observations?
Informed consent and the right to privacy.
Fill in the blank: In overt observations, researchers typically inform participants about ________ of the study.
the purpose
Short answer: Name one situation where covert observation might be necessary.
Studying sensitive behaviors that participants might conceal if they knew they were being observed.
