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

Quantitative research uses numerical measurement and statistical analysis to test theories and establish causal relationships or correlations in political phenomena.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

The phenomenon the researcher seeks to explain

Answer

The dependent variable is the outcome or phenomenon the researcher seeks to explain, which is hypothesized to be caused or influenced by the independent variable.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Defining how abstract concepts will be measured

Answer

Operationalization is the process of defining how an abstract theoretical concept will be measured or observed in concrete, empirical terms in a study.

Question 4

A random sample in survey research is important because it:

Accepted Answer

Ensures the sample is representative of the larger population

Answer

Random sampling gives every member of the population an equal chance of selection, minimizing sampling bias and enabling researchers to generalize findings to the broader population.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Whether the research design correctly identifies causal relationships

Answer

Internal validity refers to the confidence that observed relationships in a study reflect true causal connections rather than confounding variables or design flaws.

PSC - Political Science Certificate Practice Test

PSC - Political Science Certificate Practice Test

PSC Research Methods in Political Science