Research Methods in Social Science Flashcards
7 cards from real BSocSc Bachelor of Social Science practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Research Methods in Social Science flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes the concept of 'validity' in research?
Answer: The degree to which a measure accurately captures what it claims to measure
Validity refers to whether a research instrument or method actually measures the construct it is intended to measure.
A researcher uses interviews, observation, and document analysis together to study a social phenomenon. This approach is called:
Answer: Triangulation
Triangulation uses multiple data sources or methods to cross-check findings and strengthen the credibility of conclusions.
Which ethical principle requires that research participants voluntarily agree to take part with full knowledge of the study?
Answer: Informed consent
Informed consent ensures participants understand the nature, risks, and purpose of the research before agreeing to participate.
In hypothesis testing, what does a p-value less than 0.05 typically indicate?
Answer: The result is statistically significant
A p-value below 0.05 indicates the probability of obtaining the observed result by chance alone is less than 5%, conventionally considered statistically significant.
Grounded theory, as developed by Glaser and Strauss, is best characterized as:
Answer: Developing theory inductively from systematically collected qualitative data
Grounded theory is an inductive qualitative approach in which theory emerges from iterative data collection and constant comparison.
What is the difference between a dependent variable and an independent variable?
Answer: The independent variable is the presumed cause; the dependent variable is the presumed outcome
The independent variable is what the researcher manipulates or uses to predict, while the dependent variable is the outcome being measured.
Which research approach begins with a theory and tests it through data collection?
Answer: Deductive
Deductive research starts with an existing theory or hypothesis and collects data to test whether the evidence supports or refutes it.