MLS Research Methods and Data Literacy

Question 1

Which research design is most appropriate when a librarian wants to understand how patrons naturally behave in the library without manipulating variables?

Accepted Answer

Observational/naturalistic study

Answer

Experimental design

Answer

Quasi-experimental design

Answer

Cross-sectional survey

Question 2

In library and information science research, what does 'triangulation' refer to?

Accepted Answer

Using multiple data sources or methods to validate findings

Answer

Measuring three variables simultaneously

Answer

Applying a three-step coding process

Answer

Sampling from three different populations

Question 3

A librarian conducts a usability study of the library catalog and collects think-aloud protocols from 12 participants. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Qualitative research

Answer

Quantitative research

Answer

Mixed-methods research

Answer

Bibliometric analysis

Question 4

Which sampling technique would a researcher use when they want every member of the library's registered user base to have an equal chance of being selected?

Accepted Answer

Simple random sampling

Answer

Purposive sampling

Answer

Convenience sampling

Answer

Snowball sampling

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) in library research involving human subjects?

Accepted Answer

To protect participants from harm and ensure ethical conduct

Answer

To evaluate statistical methodology

Answer

To review the library's budget allocations

Answer

To certify that findings meet publication standards

Question 6

A researcher calculates a Cronbach's alpha of 0.87 for a survey measuring information literacy self-efficacy. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

The survey items have high internal consistency reliability

Answer

The survey has poor construct validity

Answer

The sample size is adequate

Answer

The survey is free of response bias