PSC Research Methods in Political Science 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a 'control variable' in statistical analysis?

Accepted Answer

To isolate the relationship between the independent and dependent variables

Answer

Control variables hold competing explanations constant, allowing researchers to isolate the specific effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.

Question 2

A 'longitudinal study' in political science collects data on the same subjects:

Accepted Answer

Over an extended period of time

Answer

Longitudinal studies track the same individuals, institutions, or units over time, allowing researchers to observe change and establish temporal sequences important for causal inference.

Question 3

Which term describes the closeness between what a measure captures and what the researcher actually intends to measure?

Accepted Answer

Validity

Answer

Validity refers to whether a measure actually captures the concept it is intended to measure, distinct from reliability (consistency of measurement).

Question 4

Content analysis as a research method in political science involves:

Accepted Answer

Systematically analyzing the content of texts, speeches, or media

Answer

Content analysis systematically codes and categorizes written, spoken, or visual material to identify patterns, themes, or biases — commonly used to study political rhetoric and media coverage.

Question 5

In a natural experiment, researchers exploit:

Accepted Answer

Naturally occurring variations that approximate random assignment

Answer

Natural experiments take advantage of real-world events (policy changes, geographic boundaries, or random assignment by nature) that create treatment and control groups without researcher manipulation.

PSC - Political Science Certificate Practice Test

PSC - Political Science Certificate Practice Test

PSC Research Methods in Political Science 2