CRA Research Design & Methodology

Question 1

What is the first step in research design?

Accepted Answer

To define the research question and objectives.

Answer

The initial and most critical step in any research endeavor is clearly defining what you intend to investigate. Establishing a precise research question and specific objectives provides direction, scopes the study, and guides all subsequent decisions regarding methodology, data collection, and analysis. Without this foundational step, the research lacks focus and purpose.

Question 2

What is a hypothesis in research?

Accepted Answer

A testable prediction or educated guess.

Answer

A hypothesis is a specific, testable statement that proposes a relationship between two or more variables. It serves as an educated guess about the outcome of a study, derived from existing theories or observations, and is then subjected to empirical testing through research to determine its validity.

Question 3

Which research method is used to explore cause-and-effect relationships?

Accepted Answer

Experimental research.

Answer

Experimental research is specifically designed to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables. This method involves manipulating one or more independent variables, observing the effect on dependent variables, and controlling for other factors, often through the use of control groups and random assignment, to isolate the impact of the intervention.

Question 4

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?

Accepted Answer

Qualitative research explores experiences; quantitative research measures variables.

Answer

Qualitative research focuses on understanding experiences, meanings, and perspectives through non-numerical data like interviews or observations, providing rich, in-depth insights. In contrast, quantitative research deals with numerical data, measuring variables and using statistical analysis to identify patterns, test hypotheses, and generalize findings across larger populations.

Question 5

What is sampling in research?

Accepted Answer

Selecting a random group to represent the population.

Answer

Sampling in research involves selecting a subset of individuals or items from a larger population to participate in a study. The goal is to choose a sample that is representative of the entire population, allowing researchers to draw conclusions and generalize findings from the sample back to the broader group without having to study every single member.

(CRA) Certified Research Associate Practice Test

(CRA) Certified Research Associate Practice Test

CRA Research Design & Methodology