PSC Research Methods in Political Science

Question 1

Which research method involves collecting numerical data and using statistical techniques to test hypotheses about political phenomena?

Accepted Answer

Quantitative research

Answer

Ethnography

Answer

Discourse analysis

Answer

Participant observation

Question 2

In political science research, a 'dependent variable' is:

Accepted Answer

The phenomenon the researcher seeks to explain

Answer

The variable the researcher manipulates

Answer

A control variable held constant

Answer

A variable measured before the study begins

Question 3

Which of the following best defines 'operationalization' in political science research?

Accepted Answer

Defining how abstract concepts will be measured

Answer

Conducting field research in foreign countries

Answer

Operating government data collection programs

Answer

Writing literature reviews for academic papers

Question 4

A random sample in survey research is important because it:

Accepted Answer

Ensures the sample is representative of the larger population

Answer

Is cheaper than non-random sampling

Answer

Eliminates all measurement error

Answer

Allows researchers to choose who to include

Question 5

The concept of 'internal validity' in research design refers to:

Accepted Answer

Whether the research design correctly identifies causal relationships

Answer

Whether findings can be generalized to other populations

Answer

Whether the study actually measures what it claims to measure

Answer

Whether the study was conducted ethically

Question 6

Which research approach involves in-depth study of a single case — a country, event, or institution — to develop or test theory?

Accepted Answer

Case study method

Answer

Comparative analysis

Answer

Survey research

Answer

Regression analysis