Research Methods Flashcards
Independent Variable
The variable that is manipulated or changed.
Experimental Research
Is used to test whether one variable or thing influences or causes a change in another variable or thing.
Dependent Variable
The variable that is used to observe and measure the effects of the independent variable.
Extraneous Variables
Is a variable other than the independent variable that can cause a change in the dependent variable.
Experimental Group
Exposed to the experimental condition; that is, the independent variable is present.
Control Group
Exposed to the control condition; that is, the independent variable is absent.
Sampling Procedure
A subsection, or smaller group, of research participants selected from a larger group (called a population) of research interest.
Random Sampling
Ensures that every member of the population of research interest has a genuinely equal chance of being selected as a participant for the research study.
Stratified Sampling
Dividing the population to be sampled into different subgroups, then selecting a separate sample from each subgroup in the same proportions as they occur in the population of interest.
Random-Stratified Sampling
When random sampling is used to select a sample from each stratum (subgroup). The resulting sample is called a random-stratified sample.
Random Allocation
Participants selected for the experiment are just as likely to be in the experimental group as the control group.
Descriptive Research
Refers to the use of a research method that focuses on studying and describing one or more aspects of thoughts, feelings or behaviour as they occur at a give time and place.
Case Study
An intensive, in-depth investigation of some behaviour or event of interest in an individual, small group or situation.
Observational Study
Refers to any means by which a phenomenon (an observable event) is studied, including the data that represent a phenomenon, such as scores and spoken or written responses.
