PSC Research Methods and Political Analysis

Question 1

What is the difference between a 'hypothesis' and a 'theory' in political science research?

Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction, while a theory is a broader explanatory framework

Answer

A hypothesis is a proven fact, while a theory remains speculative

Answer

A theory is tested empirically, while a hypothesis is purely conceptual

Answer

Hypotheses are used only in quantitative research, while theories apply to qualitative work

Question 2

In political science research, what does 'operationalization' mean?

Accepted Answer

Defining how an abstract concept will be measured in a specific study

Answer

Obtaining government permission to conduct research

Answer

Analyzing the results of a survey after data collection

Answer

Recruiting research participants from the population of interest

Question 3

What is a 'control variable' in quantitative political science research?

Accepted Answer

A variable held constant or statistically controlled to isolate the relationship between key variables

Answer

The main variable whose effect you are trying to measure

Answer

The outcome variable you are trying to explain

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A variable used only in experimental research designs

Question 4

What does 'random sampling' achieve in survey research?

Accepted Answer

It gives every member of the target population an equal chance of selection, making the sample representative

Answer

It ensures that all respondents give honest answers

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It reduces the cost of data collection by minimizing the sample size needed

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It ensures the survey questions are unbiased and neutral

Question 5

What is 'content analysis' as a research method in political science?

Accepted Answer

A systematic method for analyzing the content of communications (texts, speeches, media) by coding for specific themes or patterns

Answer

Interviewing elected officials about the substance of their policy views

Answer

Analyzing the legislative content of congressional bills for constitutional compliance

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Conducting focus groups to assess public reaction to political messages

Question 6

What is 'selection bias' in political science research?

Accepted Answer

A systematic error that occurs when the sample is not representative of the target population

Answer

The tendency of researchers to favor theories that confirm their political views

Answer

The bias introduced when survey questions are leading or ambiguous

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The error introduced when researchers manipulate their data