Exploring Research Methods

What is the primary purpose of observation in research?

• To conduct experiments in controlled settings.

• To analyze historical data for trends.

• To gather data about subjects or phenomena in their natural environment.

• To validate existing theories through literature review.

How can observation be biased?

• Observation can be biased due to personal beliefs, cultural influences, and preconceived notions.

• Preconceived notions enhance the accuracy of observations.

• Observation is always objective and unbiased.

• Cultural influences have no effect on observation.

What are the advantages of using questionnaires?

• Time-consuming data collection

• Limited response options for participants

• High costs associated with printing

• Advantages of using questionnaires include efficiency in data collection, cost-effectiveness, anonymity for respondents, ease of analysis, and standardization of responses.

What type of data can be collected through questionnaires?

• Only qualitative data.

• Only categorical data.

• Only numerical data.

• Quantitative and qualitative data.

What is a closed-ended question?

• A question that restricts responses to specific choices, typically 'yes' or 'no'.

• A question that requires a detailed explanation.

• A question that allows for open-ended responses.

• A question that can only be answered with a number.

How do open-ended questions differ from closed-ended questions?

• Open-ended questions can only be answered with 'yes' or 'no'.

• Open-ended questions differ from closed-ended questions in that they invite more elaborate responses rather than limiting answers to predefined options.

• Open-ended questions are always shorter than closed-ended questions.

• Closed-ended questions allow for detailed explanations.

What is the role of an interviewer in qualitative research?

• To conduct statistical analysis of participant data.

• To provide therapy and counseling to participants.

• To summarize findings in a report without participant input.

• The role of an interviewer in qualitative research is to facilitate in-depth conversations that elicit detailed responses from participants.

What are some common types of interviews?

• Written interviews

• Exit interviews

• Structured, unstructured, behavioral, situational, panel, phone interviews.

• Group interviews

How can interviews provide deeper insights than questionnaires?

• Interviews provide deeper insights through real-time interaction, follow-up questions, and the ability to gauge emotions.

• Questionnaires allow for more detailed responses than interviews.

• Interviews are typically shorter than questionnaires.

• Interviews are less flexible than questionnaires.

What is participant observation?

• Participant observation is a qualitative research method involving immersion in a community to observe and engage with participants.

• A quantitative analysis technique for statistical data

• A form of remote observation using technology

• A method of conducting surveys without interaction