Understanding Research Methods and Variables

What is a variable in research?

• A variable in research is a characteristic that can vary and is measured or observed.

• A variable is a fixed characteristic that cannot change.

• A variable is a type of research method used in experiments.

• A variable is a summary of the research findings.

Name the two main types of variables.

• Qualitative variables and quantitative variables

• Control variables and random variables

• Independent variables and dependent variables

• Discrete variables and continuous variables

What is an independent variable?

• An independent variable is a variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment.

• A variable that is measured in response to changes.

• A variable that is not relevant to the experiment.

• A variable that remains constant throughout an experiment.

What is a dependent variable?

• The variable that is manipulated to observe its effect.

• The variable that remains constant throughout the experiment.

• The variable that is not measured in the experiment.

• The variable that is measured in an experiment and is affected by the independent variable.

Why is it important to control variables in an experiment?

• Controlling variables is unnecessary for simple experiments.

• It helps to increase the number of variables tested at once.

• It is important to control variables to isolate the effects of the independent variable and ensure valid results.

• Controlling variables makes the experiment more complicated.

What is a hypothesis?

• A hypothesis is a testable statement or prediction about the relationship between variables.

• A hypothesis is a random guess without any basis.

• A hypothesis is an untestable belief or opinion.

• A hypothesis is a definitive conclusion drawn from data.

How do researchers collect data?

• Researchers collect data through random conversations.

• Researchers collect data using surveys, experiments, observations, and interviews.

• Researchers collect data by guessing answers.

• Researchers collect data using social media posts.

What is the purpose of a survey in research?

• The purpose of a survey in research is to collect data from a population to understand their opinions, behaviors, or characteristics.

• To analyze historical data trends

• To conduct interviews with selected individuals

• To create a marketing strategy for a product

What is qualitative research?

• Qualitative research relies solely on statistical analysis.

• Qualitative research is a method of inquiry that explores human behavior and experiences through non-numerical data.

• Qualitative research is a type of research that only uses surveys and questionnaires.

• Qualitative research is a method that focuses exclusively on numerical data.

What is quantitative research?

• Qualitative research focuses on understanding human behavior through interviews.

• Quantitative research is solely based on personal opinions and experiences.

• Quantitative research is a method of inquiry that focuses on quantifying data and analyzing it using statistical techniques.

• Quantitative research does not involve any statistical analysis.