Research methods 18 | Types of data Flashcards
What is quantitative data?
Numerical data (e.g., reaction times, Likert scales). Can be analyzed using statistics and graphs.
What is qualitative data?
Descriptive data in words (e.g., interview responses, observations). Provides depth and context.
How can qualitative data be converted to quantitative?
Through coding (e.g., tallying behaviors in observations) or content analysis.
What are strengths of quantitative data?
Objective, easy to summarize, reliable (replicable).
What are weaknesses of quantitative data?
Lacks depth, may oversimplify behavior.
What are strengths of qualitative data?
Rich detail, high validity (truer reflection of experience).
What are weaknesses of qualitative data?
Subjective, harder to summarize, less reliable.
What is primary data?
Data collected firsthand by the researcher (e.g., experiments, surveys).
What is secondary data?
Pre-existing data (e.g., past studies, government records).
What is a strength of primary data?
Tailored to research question (high validity).
What is a weakness of primary data?
Time-consuming and costly to collect.
What is a strength of secondary data?
Saves time and money (readily available).
What is a weakness of secondary data?
May not fit research needs; depends on original study’s reliability.
What is a meta-analysis?
Combining data from multiple studies to identify overall trends.
What is a strength of meta-analysis?
Large sample size → stronger conclusions; balances biases.
What is a weakness of meta-analysis?
Risk of publication bias; relies on secondary data quality.
Give an example of quantitative data in Milgram’s study.
65% of participants administered 450V shocks.
Give an example of qualitative data in Milgram’s study.
Observations showed participants’ distress (emotional conflict).
Name a meta-analysis example.
Van Ijzendoorn’s study on cultural differences in attachment.
Why might meta-analysis be unreliable?
Researcher bias in study selection; unpublished negative results.
