Understanding the key terminology in research methodology is critical for conducting effective and accurate research.
Understanding the key terminology in research methodology is critical for conducting effective and accurate research. These terms form the foundation of research design, data collection, and analysis. Below are 10 essential research methodology terms defined clearly.
A hypothesis is a statement that can be tested and is used to guide research by predicting a possible outcome or relationship between variables. It serves as the foundation for experiments and observations. Hypotheses are typically structured as null (no relationship) or alternative (a relationship exists).
Example: “Increased study time leads to higher test scores.”
A variable is any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in different amounts or types within a study. Variables are classified into independent (the cause or influence) and dependent (the effect or outcome).
Independent Variable: The factor that is manipulated in an experiment.
Dependent Variable: The response that is measured.
Example: In an experiment testing the effect of sleep on memory, the independent variable is sleep, and the dependent variable is memory performance.
Sampling is the process of selecting a subset of individuals or elements from a larger population for study. Researchers use samples to make generalizations about the population without having to study every individual.
Types of Sampling:
Validity refers to the accuracy of a measurement or study. It indicates whether the research truly measures what it intends to measure.
Types of Validity:
Reliability is the consistency of a measure. A reliable measurement yields the same results under consistent conditions, meaning it can be replicated over time.
Example: A test that gives similar results for the same individual when taken multiple times is considered reliable.
Ethnography is a qualitative research method focused on studying cultures and communities by observing them in their natural environments. Researchers immerse themselves in the setting to gain a deep understanding of social interactions and behaviors.
Example: Studying the daily lives of a remote indigenous community through participant observation.
A longitudinal study is a research design that follows the same subjects over a long period of time, observing changes and developments in specific variables.
Example: A study tracking the academic progress of a group of students from kindergarten through high school to observe how early education impacts later success.
A cross-sectional study examines a population or sample at a single point in time to gather information on variables of interest. Unlike longitudinal studies, it doesn’t track changes over time.
Example: A survey conducted to assess the health habits of adults across various age groups at a specific time.
Triangulation refers to the use of multiple methods or data sources to strengthen the credibility and validity of research findings. It helps to cross-verify results by combining quantitative and qualitative data or using different theories to analyze the same data.
Example: Combining interviews, surveys, and document analysis in a study to ensure comprehensive and valid results.
A control group is a group of subjects in an experiment that does not receive the treatment or intervention being tested. It is used as a baseline to compare with the experimental group and helps determine the effect of the independent variable.
Example: In a drug trial, the control group may receive a placebo, while the experimental group receives the actual medication.
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