PRC Data Collection & Analysis 3

Question 1

What is the main advantage of a longitudinal study design over a cross-sectional design?

Accepted Answer

Ability to track changes in the same subjects over time

Answer

Longitudinal designs follow the same subjects across time, enabling researchers to observe change, development, and causal sequences.

Question 2

Which statistical test is appropriate for comparing means across three or more independent groups?

Accepted Answer

One-way ANOVA

Answer

One-way ANOVA tests whether the means of three or more independent groups differ significantly, controlling the overall Type I error rate.

Question 3

A p-value of 0.03 means:

Accepted Answer

There is a 3% probability of obtaining the observed result if the null hypothesis is true

Answer

A p-value indicates the probability of observing results at least as extreme as those found, assuming the null hypothesis is true.

Question 4

In qualitative research, 'saturation' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The point at which new data no longer yields new themes or insights

Answer

Theoretical saturation occurs when additional data collection produces no new categories or themes, signaling sufficient depth.

Question 5

Which of the following BEST describes 'triangulation' in research?

Accepted Answer

Cross-validating findings by using multiple data sources, methods, or analysts

Answer

Triangulation strengthens validity by corroborating findings through multiple and independent data sources, methods, or theoretical perspectives.

(PRC) Professional Researcher Certification Practice Test