Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards

In coaching research, what does a 'control group' allow researchers to do?

Answer: Compare outcomes between those who received coaching and those who did not

A control group provides a baseline comparison so researchers can attribute outcome differences to the coaching intervention rather than other factors.

Which type of validity refers to whether a study's findings can be generalized to other populations or settings?

Answer: External validity

External validity concerns the generalizability of research findings beyond the specific sample and setting studied.

A coach uses a validated psychometric tool to measure client resilience. This practice is best described as:

Answer: Evidence-based assessment

Using validated psychometric tools reflects evidence-based assessment, grounding coaching practice in scientifically supported measurement.

When reviewing coaching outcome studies, a practitioner finds that most use self-report measures. What is the primary limitation of this?

Answer: Responses may be influenced by social desirability bias

Social desirability bias occurs when participants answer in ways they believe are expected or favorable rather than truthfully.

Which research design is most appropriate when a coach-researcher wants to deeply explore a client's lived experience of transformation?

Answer: Phenomenological qualitative study

Phenomenological qualitative research is designed to explore the subjective, lived experiences of individuals in depth.

In evidence-based coaching, the term 'effect size' refers to:

Answer: The practical magnitude of a coaching intervention's impact

Effect size quantifies the practical significance of a finding, indicating how large or meaningful the observed change actually is.

A coach integrates findings from a peer-reviewed meta-analysis on goal-setting into their practice. This exemplifies which ICF-aligned principle?

Answer: Applying evidence-based approaches to coaching

Integrating peer-reviewed research into practice exemplifies the evidence-based approach that ICF competencies encourage coaches to adopt.