Research Methods Flashcards

A researcher who tests a hypothesis derived from an existing theory is using which approach?

Answer: Deductive reasoning

Deductive reasoning moves from a general theory to a specific testable hypothesis, the typical approach in quantitative research.

Effect size in statistical analysis tells you:

Answer: How large or meaningful the observed difference actually is

Effect size measures the practical magnitude of a finding, independent of sample size, indicating how meaningful the result is.

Which ethical principle requires researchers to maximize benefits and minimize harms to participants?

Answer: Beneficence

Beneficence obligates researchers to protect participants from harm and maximize the potential benefits of the research.

A literature review in a research paper is intended to:

Answer: Summarize and synthesize existing knowledge on a topic

A literature review synthesizes prior research to establish context, identify gaps, and justify the current study.

Random assignment in an experiment is used primarily to:

Answer: Equalize participant characteristics across conditions

Random assignment distributes participant characteristics equally across groups, minimizing the effect of confounding variables.

A research finding that can be applied beyond the specific sample studied has high:

Answer: External validity

External validity refers to the degree to which results can be generalized to other populations, settings, or times.

Triangulation in research refers to:

Answer: Using multiple methods or data sources to corroborate findings

Triangulation strengthens research validity by cross-checking findings using different methods, data sources, or researchers.