EDAC Research Methodology 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In evidence-based design, a 'hypothesis' is best described as:
- A testable prediction about the relationship between a design element and an outcome (Correct answer)
- A definitive conclusion drawn from completed research
- A regulatory standard for healthcare facility design
- A qualitative description of patient experience
Correct answer: A testable prediction about the relationship between a design element and an outcome
A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction that guides how a design intervention will affect measurable outcomes.
Question 2: Which data collection method is classified as qualitative in EBD research?
- Focus group interviews (Correct answer)
- Infection rate tracking
- Patient fall counts
- Survey Likert scale scores
Correct answer: Focus group interviews
Focus group interviews capture subjective experiences and opinions, making them a qualitative method.
Question 3: What does 'confounding variable' mean in the context of EBD research?
- A variable that correlates with both the independent and dependent variables, distorting results (Correct answer)
- The primary outcome being measured in a study
- A variable intentionally manipulated by the researcher
- A standardized design element across all study sites
Correct answer: A variable that correlates with both the independent and dependent variables, distorting results
Confounding variables can create false associations between design interventions and outcomes if not controlled.
Question 4: Which of the following best describes a 'before-after' study design in healthcare design research?
- Measuring outcomes in the same facility before and after a design intervention (Correct answer)
- Comparing two different hospitals simultaneously
- Surveying staff preferences before construction begins
- Reviewing published literature before and after a specific year
Correct answer: Measuring outcomes in the same facility before and after a design intervention
Before-after designs compare outcomes at the same site pre- and post-intervention to assess design impact.
Question 5: When EBD practitioners translate research into design decisions, what is the first recommended step?
- Frame a clear question about the desired outcome (Correct answer)
- Select the architectural features to implement
- Submit a budget proposal
- Conduct a post-occupancy evaluation
Correct answer: Frame a clear question about the desired outcome
Framing a clear, focused question ensures the research search and design decisions remain aligned with the intended outcome.
Question 6: A meta-analysis in EBD research is most useful because it:
- Combines statistical results from multiple studies to increase power and precision (Correct answer)
- Provides a detailed narrative of a single case
- Replaces the need for primary research in practice
- Offers expert consensus without raw data
Correct answer: Combines statistical results from multiple studies to increase power and precision
Meta-analyses pool quantitative data from many studies, yielding more reliable estimates of an intervention's effect.
EDAC Research Methodology 2
In evidence-based design, a 'hypothesis' is best described as: