Identifying Inquiry Errors in Research

Front

Which of the following best describes "overgeneralization" as an error in systematic inquiry? Options: Drawing a broad conclusion based on a single or limited observation, Ignoring evidence that contradicts your beliefs, Making a measurement error when recording data, Believing that two unrelated events are causally connected

Back

Drawing a broad conclusion based on a single or limited observation

Front

What is "selective observation" in the context of errors in systematic inquiry?

Back

Only noticing evidence that supports your existing beliefs

Front

Which error is demonstrated when a student records that 20 people attended a class, but only 12 actually did?

Back

Inaccurate observation

Front

A student believes that ginger tea cures all illnesses because their friend's fever went away after drinking it. Which error is this?

Back

Illogical reasoning

Front

Which of the following is an example of selective observation? A student only notices articles that show caffeine improves focus and ignores those showing negative effects.

Back

A student only notices articles that show caffeine improves focus and ignores those showing negative effects.

Front

Given the statement: “Every time I forget my umbrella, it rains. Therefore, forgetting my umbrella causes rain.” Which error in systematic inquiry does this illustrate?

Back

Illogical reasoning, because it assumes causation from correlation

Front

A therapist worked with one client who didn’t benefit from mindfulness and decides mindfulness doesn’t work for anyone. Which error is being made, and what is the potential consequence in research?

Back

Overgeneralization; it may lead to dismissing effective treatments for others

Front

A researcher only interviews patients who improved after treatment and ignores those who didn’t. How might this error affect the validity of the research findings?

Back

It introduces bias, making the findings less reliable

Front

Suppose a professor consistently overestimates the number of students who do not complete assignments. What impact could this have on their teaching approach, and which error does this represent?

Back

It could lead to unnecessary strictness; represents inaccurate observation

Front

A coach believes exercise prevents all illness because their athletes rarely get sick. What error is being made, and how could this affect public health recommendations?

Back

Overgeneralization; it could lead to misleading advice that ignores other factors affecting health.