Research Methods and Ethics Quiz

What is primary research?

• Research that involves the collection of existing data from published sources.

• Research that involves the collection of new, original data directly from sources.

• Research that involves analysing data collected by others.

• Research that involves summarising existing research findings.

Answer explanation

Primary research is defined as the collection of new, original data directly from sources, distinguishing it from secondary research, which involves existing data. Thus, the correct choice is the one that describes this process.

Which of the following is an example of secondary research?

• Conducting interviews with experts in the field.

• Distributing surveys to gather new data.

• Reviewing literature and analysing existing studies.

• Observing participants in a natural setting.

Answer explanation

Secondary research involves analyzing existing data rather than collecting new data. Reviewing literature and analyzing existing studies fits this definition, as it utilizes previously gathered information.

Why is research ethics important in conducting research?

• It ensures the research is completed quickly.

• It guarantees the research will be published.

• It protects the rights and well-being of participants.

• It increases the cost of conducting research.

Answer explanation

Research ethics is crucial as it protects the rights and well-being of participants, ensuring their safety and dignity throughout the research process.

Which of the following is a key component of writing an introduction for research?

• Listing all the references used in the study.

• Providing a detailed analysis of the results.

• Stating the research question or hypothesis.

• Describing the methodology in detail.

Answer explanation

A key component of writing an introduction for research is stating the research question or hypothesis, as it sets the focus and direction for the study, guiding the reader on what to expect.

What is a common ethical consideration in research involving human participants?

• Ensuring the research is profitable.

• Obtaining informed consent from participants.

• Using the latest technology for data collection.

• Publishing the research in a high-impact journal.

Answer explanation

A common ethical consideration in research involving human participants is obtaining informed consent. This ensures that participants are fully aware of the research and agree to participate voluntarily.

Which of the following is NOT typically a method of primary research?

• Surveys

• Experiments

• Literature reviews

• Focus groups

Answer explanation

Literature reviews summarize existing research rather than collect new data, making them a secondary research method. In contrast, surveys, experiments, and focus groups involve direct data collection, classifying them as primary research methods.

What is the main purpose of secondary research?

• To gather new data directly from participants.

• To validate the findings of primary research.

• To analyse and interpret existing data.

• To conduct experiments in a controlled environment.

Answer explanation

The main purpose of secondary research is to analyse and interpret existing data, which helps in understanding trends and insights without collecting new data directly from participants.

In the context of research ethics, what does confidentiality mean?

• Sharing participant information with other researchers.

• Keeping participant information private and secure.

• Publishing participant names in the research report.

• Discussing participant data in public forums.

Answer explanation

In research ethics, confidentiality means keeping participant information private and secure. This protects participants' privacy and ensures trust in the research process, unlike sharing or publishing their information.

What should be included in the introduction of a research paper?

• A detailed list of all the equipment used.

• A summary of the research findings.

• The background and context of the research topic.

• A complete bibliography of sources.

Answer explanation

The introduction of a research paper should include the background and context of the research topic, as it sets the stage for the study and helps readers understand its significance.

Which of the following is a potential risk of not adhering to research ethics?

• Increased funding for the research project.

• Enhanced credibility of the research findings.

• Harm to participants and loss of trust in research.

• Faster completion of the research study.

Answer explanation

Not adhering to research ethics can lead to harm to participants and a loss of trust in research, undermining the integrity of the scientific process and potentially causing long-term damage to the field.