Week 4 Learning Outcomes Flashcards
What is the purpose of hypotheses in formulating research aims?
To provide a testable prediction or explanation that guides the research process.
Hypotheses help clarify the research objectives and set the direction for data collection and analysis.
What are the defining features of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)?
They involve random assignment of participants to treatment and control groups, allowing for causal inference.
RCTs are considered the gold standard in evaluating the efficacy of interventions.
What are the defining features of quasi-experimental studies?
They do not use random assignment and often involve comparison between groups that are already formed.
Quasi-experimental designs are useful when randomization is not feasible.
What are the defining features of cross-sectional studies?
They collect data at a single point in time, providing a snapshot of a population or phenomenon.
Cross-sectional studies are often used for prevalence research.
Identify strengths of various quantitative designs.
- Ability to establish cause-and-effect relationships
- Generalizability of findings
- Statistical analysis capabilities
Each design type has unique strengths that make it suitable for different research questions.
Identify limitations of various quantitative designs.
- Limited depth of understanding
- Potential for bias in non-random designs
- Difficulty in capturing complex phenomena
Understanding limitations is crucial for interpreting results accurately.
What principles underpin qualitative approaches?
They focus on understanding human experiences, meanings, and social contexts through in-depth exploration.
Qualitative research often emphasizes participant perspectives and subjective interpretations.
Which research questions are appropriate for specific quantitative designs?
Questions that seek to measure relationships, comparisons, or effects in a population.
Each quantitative design is suited for different types of research questions.
Identify common qualitative approaches.
- Interviews
- Focus groups
- Ethnography
- Case studies
These approaches allow for rich, detailed data collection.
How can research questions be matched with appropriate methods of qualitative research?
By considering the nature of the question, the depth of inquiry required, and the context of the study.
Different qualitative methods are suited to different types of questions.
What are the criteria for evaluating qualitative research?
- Credibility
- Transferability
- Dependability
- Confirmability
These criteria help assess the rigor and trustworthiness of qualitative studies.
Describe the organisation and structure of a qualitative journal article.
Typically includes introduction, methodology, findings, discussion, and conclusion sections.
The structure allows for a clear presentation of qualitative research processes and outcomes.
