Cari-Ana, Alexis, Sean, Matt Research Methods Cari-Ana, Alexis, Sean, Matt

Different Types of Research Basic Research Applied Research Evaluation Research Action Research

Additional Types of Research Historical Research Descriptive Research Correlational Research Causal Comparative Research/ Quasi-Experimental Research True Experimental Research

Research Methods/Instruments Developer Created vs. Externally Developed Standardized Tests/Testing Things to look for: Validity: Define Validity Construct, Content, Item, Concurrent, Sampling Face, Predictive Reliability: Define Reliability test-retest, equivalent forms, split half Observation Questionnaires, Surveys Focus Groups

When performing focus group research it is important to set up a safe environment? TRUE National Research Act of 1974 – Approval of the study by an external organized group prior to implementation of the study (IRB) » No harm » Informed consent » Parental or guardian permission(signatures) Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (Buckley) – Privacy of educational records of students » e.g. recording student id numbers » Masking direct access to student records

Focus Groups aim to? Encourage a range of responses. Using a select group with similar experiences or social/cultural backgrounds, you gain a deeper understanding and interpretations of a specific issue.

Why are surveys popular methods in research? Can cover a range of contexts and subgroups Generally quick and cost efficient Ability to measure multiple variables

Why Conduct Descriptive Research... Test Hypotheses and answer questions Develop an appropriate instrument for gathering information Self Reports may include: Questionnaires, interviews, standardized attitude scales (likert)

What issues may you have doing survey research? Questions are not written or presented in a way to get best results Poor Sampling Frame Non-Responses can distort sample

What is the independent variable in a study examining if TV violence increases aggression in children? Independent Variable: TV Violence

Independent Variables An independent variable is an input variable, that which causes, in part or in total, a particular outcome; it is a stimulus that influences a response, an antecedent or a factor which may be modified (e.g. under experimental or other conditions) to affect an outcome.

Researcher Power over Independent Variables Direct Manipulation Manipulation of at least one independent variable. Intentional and Direct Direct Control Direct control over what is provided to each group Control of Subject Variables Pretest scores, pretest performance Control of Environmental Variables Curriculum materials, length of exposure, etc.

Dependent Variable: People’s reaction time What is the dependent variable in a study predicting that drinking alcohol will decrease a driver’s reaction time? Dependent Variable: People’s reaction time

Dependent Variables A dependent variable, is the outcome variable, that which is caused, in total or in part, by the input, antecedent variable. It is the effect, consequence of, or response to, an independent variable.

Independent Variable: Changes in Work Space What is the independent variable in a study that measures how changes in work space affect employee reaction? Independent Variable: Changes in Work Space

What are the proper characteristics of a quality research question? Analytical in nature - seeking to answer a question or problem Specific in scope - focused on the issue, research question will frame the scope of study Answerable in a reasonable amount of time - realistically studied and answered

What are the benefits of keeping a research journal? Allows for reflection on the research process. Keeping a research journal can be very effective for assessing strengths and weaknesses during the project. It is also a good place to keep evidence and can inform future changes to process or project itself.