Research Methods; Procedures and Principles Flashcards
How can I make something more replicable?
- keeping things the same for all participants. (standardisation)
- using a controlled environment.
- training researchers how to conduct the research/specific methods.
- using standardised scripts or instructions.
Why is replicability important?
- you are able to repeat research and find the same thing across contexts, meaning it can be trusted and is more likely to be accurate; this makes it more generalizable.
- it demonstrates measurements are reliable.
What is objectivity?
Objectivity is the basis of all empiricism/science, where:
- sources of personal bias are minimised
- not open to interpretation
- the opposite of this is subjective
- researchers must keep a ‘critical distance’.
What is Falsifiability?
The principle that a theory cannot be considered scientific unless it admits the possibility of being proved untrue (false).
Quantitative Data
Data which is expressed numerically
Strengths of Quantitative Data
- simple to analyse
- more objective
Weaknesses of Quantitative Data
- lacks detail
- less meaningful insight
Qualitative Data
Data which is expressed in words and is non-numerical.
Strengths of Qualitative Data
further expansion of detail
more meaningful insight is gained
Weaknesses of Qualitative Data
- open to interpretation
- more difficult to analyse
- comparisons difficult to identity
Primary Data
Information that has been gathered first hand by the researcher for the purpose of the current research study.
Strengths of Primary Data
Authentic demographic data that fits the research purpose
Weaknesses of Primary Data
Time consuming to conduct research and gather data
Secondary Data
Information that has been already collected by another researcher for a purpose other than the current research, and pre-dates the current research.
Strengths of Secondary Data
May be inexpensive and easily accessed in a timely manner.
