PRC Research Design & Methodology 4

Question 1

A researcher combines results from 40 independent studies on the same topic to estimate an overall effect size. This is:

Accepted Answer

Meta-analysis

Answer

Meta-analysis statistically combines effect sizes from multiple independent studies to produce a pooled estimate.

Question 2

Regression to the mean is most likely to threaten internal validity when:

Accepted Answer

Participants are selected because of extreme scores

Answer

When participants are chosen for extreme scores, their follow-up scores naturally tend toward the average, mimicking a treatment effect.

Question 3

Which ethical principle requires that participation in research be voluntary and based on full disclosure of risks?

Accepted Answer

Informed consent

Answer

Informed consent ensures participants voluntarily agree to participate after receiving adequate information about the study's risks and benefits.

Question 4

A quasi-experimental design differs from a true experiment primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Lacks random assignment of participants to conditions

Answer

Quasi-experiments lack random assignment, making it harder to rule out selection bias as an alternative explanation.

Question 5

Face validity refers to:

Accepted Answer

The degree to which an instrument appears to measure what it is intended to measure

Answer

Face validity is the subjective judgment that a measure looks relevant and appropriate on its surface.

(PRC) Professional Researcher Certification Practice Test