BA Research Methods and Academic Skills

Question 1

What is a 'literature review' in an academic research paper?

Accepted Answer

A critical survey of existing scholarship relevant to the research question

Answer

A literature review critically synthesizes existing research on a topic, identifying trends, gaps, and debates to situate a new study within the scholarly conversation.

Question 2

What is the purpose of an 'Institutional Review Board' (IRB) in US academic research?

Accepted Answer

To review and approve research involving human subjects to protect their rights and welfare

Answer

An IRB is a federally required committee that reviews research proposals involving human participants to ensure ethical standards, informed consent, and minimal risk.

Question 3

What does 'informed consent' mean in research ethics?

Accepted Answer

Participants voluntarily agree to participate after being fully informed of the study's risks and nature

Answer

Informed consent requires that research participants receive complete information about the study's purpose, procedures, and risks and voluntarily agree to participate before data collection begins.

Question 4

Which research design involves studying the same group of subjects over an extended period of time?

Accepted Answer

Longitudinal study

Answer

A longitudinal study follows the same participants over time to track changes and developments, making it ideal for studying development, aging, or long-term trends.

Question 5

What is 'triangulation' in qualitative research?

Accepted Answer

Using multiple data sources or methods to increase the validity of findings

Answer

Triangulation strengthens research credibility by cross-checking findings using multiple data sources, methods, investigators, or theoretical frameworks.

BA - Bachelor of Arts Degree Practice Test

BA - Bachelor of Arts Degree Practice Test

BA Research Methods and Academic Skills