Rsh 1 Final

Question 1

Qualitative approach

Answer 1

• Definition: non-numerical data, small samples (focus groups, interviews, case studies)
• Usage: in-depth analysis of specific cases or individual responses
• Advantages: detailed data collection, flexibility in approach, focus on human experiences
• Disadvantages: subjective and time-consuming, difficult to present results, often less accepted in certain academic or scientific fields

Question 2

Quantitative approach

Answer 2

• Definition: numerical data, larger samples, experimental, quasi-experimental, and statistical techniques
• Usage: testing hypotheses, analyzing trends, generalizing findings
• Advantages: objective and replicable, broad generalizability, use of advanced statistical tools
• Disadvantages: limited understanding of social meanings, artificial research environments, lack of access to specific or nuanced feedback

Question 3

Mixed-Method approach

Answer 3

• Definition: combines qualitative and quantitative methods
• Usage: addressing complex research questions by balancing depth and breadth

Question 4

Triangulation

Answer 4

use of multiple methods (3 techniques) to assess the same data, reducing reactivity and improving validity

Question 5

Reflexivity

Answer 5

awareness of how observation changes participants’ behavior

Question 6

Top-Down

Answer 6

starts with a theory - makes a prediction - gathers data - confirms or rejects prediction

Question 7

Bottom-Up

Answer 7

starts with data - identifies patterns - develops a theory

Question 8

Archival Research

Answer 8

• Definition: uses existing documents or records
• Usage: to study human activity in natural settings or phenomena difficult to observe directly

Question 9

Focus Groups

Answer 9

• Definition: group discussions to gather insights into participants’ experiences and beliefs
• Usage: for qualitative understanding of perspectives

Question 10

Interviews

Answer 10

• individual discussion to gather specific insights

Question 11

Types of interviews

Answer 11

structured, unstructured, semi-structured

Question 12

Structured interview

Answer 12

pre-planned, standardized questions

Question 13

Unstructured Interview

Answer 13

conversational, flexible topics

Question 14

Semi-Structured Interviews

Answer 14

combination of planned and flexible questions

Question 15

Case Studies

Answer 15

• Definition: in-depth analysis of one or a few cases
• Usage: detailed exploration of unique situations

Question 16

Descriptive research

Answer 16

Explains what is happening. Used to describe characteristics, frequencies, or categories (often qualitative)

Question 17

Experimental research

Answer 17

Explains why something happens. Tests cause-and-effect relationships.

Question 18

Systematic observation

Answer 18

predetermined behaviors are noted in an organized way

Question 19

Naturalistic observation

Answer 19

observing behavior in natural settings (high ecological validity)

Question 20

Laboratory observation

Answer 20

observing behavior in a controlled environment (low ecological validity)

Question 21

Participant observation

Answer 21

• Definition: researcher interacts with participants while observing
• Advantages: rich data, flexibility, deep understanding
• Disadvantages: expensive, time-consuming, small sample size, potential bias

Question 22

Concealed observation

Answer 22

participants unaware they are being observed (avoids reactivity)

Question 23

Ecological validity

Answer 23

credibility of a study based on its natural setting

Question 24

Coding system

Answer 24

method for categorizing and recording observed behaviors (interval, duration, frequency recording)

Question 25

Intra-observer reliability

Answer 25

consistency in one observer’s coding

Question 26

Inter-observer reliability

Answer 26

consistency across multiple observers

Question 27

Blind observation

Answer 27

observer unaware of the study’s purpose to avoid bias

Question 28

Contrived observation

Answer 28

artificially altering a variable to observe changes in behavior

Question 29

Single-Item indicator

Answer 29

a single question or statement used to measure a specific variable

Question 30

Format of program evaluation report

Answer 30

Introduction:
- background: summarize key points , highlight relevant prior studies or theories, explain why program or intervention being evaluated is important
- objectives: state overall goals of evaluation, describe population or setting being evaluated
- relevance: explain how evaluation fills gaps in knowledge or meets specific needs (practical, theoretical, or policy-driven)
Current Project:
- hypotheses: clearly articulate key research questions or hypotheses guiding the evaluation
- approach: specify whether evaluation uses top-down or bottom-up approach, describe why this approach is appropriate for evaluation goals
Study 1 and 2:
- purpose: define objectives
- methods: describe design, participants, instruments, data collection procedures
- results: present findings in a clear, concise manner. Use tables, graphs, or summaries of statistical analyses when applicable
- discussion: interpret findings and discuss whether they align with initial hypotheses, explain implications for program
General discussion:
- key findings: summarize major results from both studies, highlighting areas of agreement or contradiction
- connection to prior research: relate findings to previous literature or theories discussed in intro
- recommendations: provide evidence-based suggestions for improving program
- suggestions for future studies: identify areas where further research is needed