Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards
7 cards from real CFS 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 & Evidence-Based Practice flashcards as text
Which data collection method is best suited for gathering detailed qualitative insights from experienced floodplain administrators about regulatory challenges?
Answer: Semi-structured in-depth interviews
Semi-structured interviews allow experienced practitioners to elaborate on complex regulatory challenges while still guiding the conversation with key topics.
When a floodplain researcher reports a p-value of 0.03 for a study on BFE accuracy, what does this indicate?
Answer: There is a 3% probability of observing the results if the null hypothesis were true
A p-value represents the probability of obtaining results at least as extreme as observed, assuming the null hypothesis is true.
A floodplain management agency wants to use GIS-based spatial analysis to identify areas most vulnerable to repetitive flood losses. Which research design element is this?
Answer: Data analysis methodology
Specifying GIS-based spatial analysis as the tool for identifying vulnerable areas defines the data analysis methodology within the research design.
In the context of floodplain research, what does 'triangulation' refer to?
Answer: Using multiple data sources or methods to validate findings
Triangulation in research involves using multiple data sources, methods, or investigators to cross-validate findings and increase confidence in results.
Which type of error occurs when a floodplain researcher incorrectly concludes that a flood mitigation program was effective when it was not?
Answer: Type I error (false positive)
A Type I error (false positive) occurs when a researcher rejects a true null hypothesis, concluding an effect exists when it does not.
Which approach best supports evidence-based decision-making when a CFS professional must recommend flood mitigation options to a local government?
Answer: Synthesizing best available research evidence with local context and stakeholder input
Evidence-based practice integrates the best available research evidence with professional judgment and local contextual factors to inform decisions.
A researcher studying repetitive loss properties uses a Geographic Information System to map flood claim density by census tract. What potential bias must they consider?
Answer: Ecological fallacy — inferring individual behavior from aggregate area data
Ecological fallacy occurs when conclusions about individuals are incorrectly drawn from data aggregated at the group or area level.