NES Research & Evidence-Based Practice 5

Question 1

A researcher studying bullying observes students during lunch without their knowledge. The primary ethical concern is:

Accepted Answer

Failure to obtain informed consent

Answer

Informed consent is a foundational ethical requirement; covert observation of minors raises serious ethical concerns about participant rights.

Question 2

Which term describes a variable that is manipulated by the researcher to observe its effect?

Accepted Answer

Independent variable

Answer

The independent variable is deliberately manipulated to test its effect on the dependent (outcome) variable.

Question 3

A principal wants to know whether her school's students differ significantly from the national average on a standardized test. Which statistical test is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

One-sample t-test

Answer

A one-sample t-test compares a sample mean to a known population mean to determine if there is a significant difference.

Question 4

Triangulation in qualitative research refers to:

Accepted Answer

Combining multiple data sources or methods to enhance credibility

Answer

Triangulation strengthens qualitative findings by cross-checking results from multiple sources, methods, or investigators.

Question 5

Which action would MOST directly increase the internal validity of an experimental study?

Accepted Answer

Randomly assigning participants to treatment and control groups

Answer

Random assignment controls for pre-existing differences between groups, the most direct way to rule out confounding variables and strengthen internal validity.

NES Test Practice Test

NES Test Practice Test

NES Research & Evidence-Based Practice 5