CRA Data Collection & Analysis 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which type of measurement scale has a true zero point, allowing meaningful ratio comparisons?
- Nominal
- Ordinal
- Interval
- Ratio (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Ratio
Ratio scales have a true zero point, enabling statements like 'twice as much,' unlike interval scales which lack a meaningful zero.
Question 2: A researcher wants to collect data from every tenth person on a list. This technique is called:
- Stratified sampling
- Cluster sampling
- Systematic sampling (Correct answer)
- Convenience sampling
Correct answer: Systematic sampling
Systematic sampling selects every nth element from a list, providing a structured and efficient probability-based approach.
Question 3: In a research dataset, an outlier is best described as:
- A data point that matches the mode
- A value that falls far outside the typical range of observations (Correct answer)
- A missing value replaced with the mean
- The midpoint of the interquartile range
Correct answer: A value that falls far outside the typical range of observations
Outliers are data points that deviate markedly from the overall pattern and can distort statistical analyses if not properly addressed.
Question 4: Which statistical test is most appropriate for comparing means across three or more independent groups?
- Paired t-test
- Independent samples t-test
- One-way ANOVA (Correct answer)
- Chi-square test
Correct answer: One-way ANOVA
One-way ANOVA compares means across three or more independent groups while controlling the Type I error rate better than multiple t-tests.
Question 5: The Hawthorne Effect refers to participants changing their behavior because:
- They are given financial incentives
- They know they are being observed (Correct answer)
- The environment is unfamiliar
- The researcher is present at data entry
Correct answer: They know they are being observed
The Hawthorne Effect occurs when participants alter their behavior simply due to awareness of being observed, introducing a form of response bias.
Question 6: When a survey item asks 'Do you agree that our excellent product improved your life?', this is an example of:
- A double-barreled question
- A leading question (Correct answer)
- A filter question
- A forced-choice item
Correct answer: A leading question
Leading questions include embedded assumptions or wording that nudges respondents toward a particular answer, threatening response validity.
Question 7: Which data collection method is most susceptible to social desirability bias?
- Passive observation
- Automated sensor recording
- Self-report questionnaires (Correct answer)
- Archival record review
Correct answer: Self-report questionnaires
Self-report questionnaires allow participants to consciously or unconsciously present themselves in a more favorable light, increasing social desirability bias.
CRA Data Collection & Analysis 2
Which type of measurement scale has a true zero point, allowing meaningful ratio comparisons?