Research Fundamentals
The purpose of research
Advance knowledge, increase understanding, educate others, inform practice
Define primary research/data, using an example
Data collected by the researcher first hand e.g. questionnaire, interview, observation.
List one ethical consideration when conducting research
Bias, respect, confidentiality, privacy, integrity.
List 1 research method
Questionnaire, interview, observation, case study, literature review.
What is one way to manage time during the research process?
Timeline
What is the term for a statement or prediction that can be proven or disproven through research?
Hypothesis.
Define secondary research/data, using an example
Data collected by another e.g. academic journals, articles, textbooks, statistical data (ABS).
What should a researcher include if their questionnaire includes sensitive topics?
Word questions carefully, include trigger warning
Difference between open-ended and close-ended questions, with examples.
OE: allows expression of thoughts and opinions. CE: limited answer, usually yes/no.
What is the purpose of keeping a diary during the research process?
It records the research process, feelings, attitudes, problems that arise and solutions. Accurate data keeping
Sampling group most suitable for research into mental health of teens in NSW
Group: Teenagers
An example of print or digital data
Journals, books, internet, radio, tv, magazines.
What is the term for protecting a participants name during research?
Anonymity or privacy
Definition of a case study
Provides in-depth, detailed investigation of individual, group or event over a period of time
When a researcher uses sources like books or websites to find information, are they collecting primary or secondary data?
Secondary
Difference between a question and a hypothesis
Question that requires an answer, hypothesis is more a statement that you prove or disprove
One advantage and one disadvantage of using the internet as a source of data
Adv: accessibility to a range of data. Dis: misinformation, literacy levels needed to determine accuracy
How to ensure privacy during research
Method best for understanding how children interact with each other during recess
Observation
What is the final step of the research process?
Drawing conclusions from your research
List one sampling method
Random, systematic random, stratified random, cluster, convenience sampling
The difference between qualitative and quantitative data
Qualitative is in-depth, explores feelings and opinions. Quantitative is numerical.
How can a researcher show integrity and avoid bias when conducting research?
Report all findings, avoid leading questions, crediting sources
Method best for collecting detailed, personal stories and opinions of participants
Interview
Outline two of the key steps in the research process
Formulating question/hypothesis, collecting data, documenting actions, analysing results, drawing conclusions.