Variables and coding (3.1)

Question 1

How do variables and sampling relate?

Answer 1

Sampling is about when you record your observations. Variables are about what observations you document.

Question 2

How to develop your hypothesis:

Answer 2

1) Narrow your research topic, take ad lib field notes and review relevant lit.
2) Start to identify relevant variables
3) Pilot your study
4) Create your formal research hypothesis

Question 3

What is the definition of hypothesis and predictions?

Answer 3

• Hypothesis: A plausible explanation for the relationship between variables
• Predictions: Things you would observe if the hypothesis was true

Question 4

What are relevant variables?

Answer 4

•The variables depend on your research question and hypotheses
•Variables – characteristics that vary
- You want to measure and code that variability
- Describe relationships between variables

Question 5

What is variable granularity?

Answer 5

Micro
•Fine grained, detailed
•Good for subtle moment to moment changes

Macro
•Less specific, more general categories
•Good for bigger picture situations

•When in doubt, code at a finer grained level

Question 6

What is variable concreteness?

Answer 6

• Physical/ concrete:
  More specific observable states
  Ex: Hand raising

-Abstract/ Social:
Broader categories for grouping varied instances
Ex: Attention seeking

Question 7

What are constructs and operational definitions?

Answer 7

•Construct – the psychological concept associated with a variable

•Operational definition – the specific way that the variable will be
measured and/or coded

Ex:
C -> Aggression
OD -> Physical behaviors that intentionally causes harm

Question 8

Why are operational definitions important?

Answer 8

• The methods are easier to reproduce
• The methods are more transparent for criticism and evaluation
• Coding becomes less subjective when od is specific

Question 9

What data to collect?

Answer 9

Qualitative:
- Description and notes
Quantitative:
- Ratings 
-Count codes
-Checklists 

•You can’t analyze everything
•Not everything is relevant (noise)
•Data reduction
(Transform the multifaceted experience into a reduced form for analysis,You will lose information)

Question 10

What are ratings?

Answer 10

Observer’s judgment about the quality or quantity of the variable of interest

Likert scales: balanced anchor statements, full range, neutral midpoint

Non Likert Scales: Don’t fit criteria above

Question 11

What are count codes?

Answer 11

Count the number and/or duration of the instances of the variables, provides rich source of data for analysis, less subjective than ratings.

Question 12

What are check sheets?

Answer 12

Sheets prepared for data
collection on a specified
topic. Includes static items (name, date, temp) and action items (behaviors of interest).