Problems and Issues in Natural Resources Research

Question 1

Common Sources of Error in the Research Process

Answer 1

Population specification
Sampling
Instrument/Equipment
Measurement

Question 2

Common Errors in Research: Experimental Studies

Answer 2

Treating the experimental and control groups differently, leading to biased findings.
Using too few cases, leading to large sampling errors and insignificant results.
Failing to divide main groups into subgroups for analysis.
Matching subjects on irrelevant criteria.
Losing subjects by over-matching criteria.

Question 3

Common Errors in Research: Observational Studies

Answer 3

Insufficient training for observers, leading to unreliable data.
Overly demanding observation procedures.
Observer interference with the situation.
Evaluating infrequent behaviors that yield unreliable data.

Question 4

Common Errors in Research: Interview Studies

Answer 4

Inadequate planning of interviews.
Insufficient practice interviews for skill acquisition.
Lack of safeguards against interview bias.
Not calculating reliability of interview data.
Using language respondents won’t understand.
Asking for information respondents don’t have.

Question 5

Common Errors in Research: Questionnaire Studies

Answer 5

Using questionnaires for problems better suited to other methods.
Neglecting questionnaire development and pretesting.
Asking too many questions.
Overlooking details that influence respondents’ impressions.
Not checking non-responders for potential bias.

Question 6

Common Errors in Research: Content Analysis Studies

Answer 6

Selecting easily available but biased content.
Choosing irrelevant content for research objectives.
Failing to determine reliability of analysis procedures.
Using vague classification categories.

Question 7

Common Errors in Research: Relationship (Correlation) Studies

Answer 7

Assuming correlation implies causation.
Using samples that differ too much for comparisons.
Using convenient data instead of necessary data.
Not employing appropriate disciplinary theory.
Selecting unproductive variables.
Using simple correlation techniques when more complex methods are needed.
Failing to develop adequate measures for complex behaviors.

Question 8

Ethical Issues in Research

Answer 8

Ethics: Rules governing behavior; Research Ethics: Guidelines for conducting and disseminating research.

Question 9

Importance of Research Ethics

Answer 9

Promotes research aims.
Supports collaborative values (mutual respect, fairness).
Ensures accountability.
Preserves public trust.
Supports social and moral values.

Question 10

Aspects of Most Ethical Codes

Answer 10

Honesty and Integrity
Objectivity
Carefulness
Openness
Respect for Intellectual Property
Confidentiality
Responsible Publication
Legality
Animal Care
Protection of Human Subjects

Question 11

Key Principles

Answer 11

Honesty and Integrity: Observed in all research stages.
Objectivity: Avoid bias and disclose interests.
Carefulness: Review work critically; keep records.
Openness: Share data and insights; be receptive to criticism.
Respect for Intellectual Property: Avoid plagiarism; acknowledge contributions.
Confidentiality: Protect sensitive information.
Responsible Publication: Publish new work; avoid duplication.
Legality: Follow laws and regulations.
Animal Care: Ensure humane treatment of animal subjects.
Human Subjects Protection: Minimize harm; respect rights.

Question 12

Ethics Committee in Academic Institutions

Answer 12

Review research proposals for ethical issues.
Ensure appropriateness and proportionality of research.
No research starts without ethical approval.