Research and Program Evaluation Flashcards

A counselor administers the same career interest inventory to clients twice, three weeks apart, and correlates the scores. What is being assessed?

Answer: Test-retest reliability

Correlating scores from two administrations of the same test over time estimates test-retest reliability.

Cronbach's alpha is most commonly used to estimate:

Answer: Internal consistency reliability

Cronbach's alpha estimates how consistently items on a scale measure the same construct.

A qualitative researcher collects interview data with the goal of developing a new theory of resilience grounded in participants' accounts. Which tradition is this?

Answer: Grounded theory

Grounded theory uses systematic coding, such as open, axial, and selective coding, to generate theory from data.

A researcher seeks to describe the essence of the lived experience of grief among widowed adults. Which qualitative approach fits best?

Answer: Phenomenology

Phenomenology focuses on the essence and meaning of lived experiences shared by participants.

Using interviews, observations, and document review to corroborate findings is an example of:

Answer: Triangulation

Triangulation strengthens credibility by drawing on multiple data sources, methods, or investigators.

A qualitative researcher asks participants to review the preliminary themes to confirm they accurately reflect their experiences. This strategy is called:

Answer: Member checking

Member checking enhances credibility by having participants verify the researcher's interpretations.

A researcher deliberately selects participants who have completed substance abuse treatment because they have information-rich experiences. This is:

Answer: Purposive sampling

Purposive sampling intentionally selects participants with specific characteristics relevant to the research question.