Module 10 - Quantitative Research 1 (Ways to Measure) Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is Quantitative Research?
A research approach focused on measuring variables using numerical data and statistical analysis.
This approach emphasizes the collection and analysis of numerical data to identify patterns and test hypotheses.
What is Survey Research?
A method of collecting data by asking people questions via questionnaires. Can be administered online, face-to-face, via telephone, or on paper.
Survey research is commonly used for gathering opinions, behaviors, or characteristics from a sample.
Define Population in research.
The entire group of interest in a study.
The population encompasses all individuals that meet the criteria for the study.
Define Sample in research.
A smaller, representative group selected from the population.
Samples are used to make inferences about the overall population without needing to study everyone.
What is a Representative Sample?
A sample that accurately reflects the demographics and characteristics of the target population.
This ensures that the findings can be generalized to the larger population.
What is a Biased Sample?
A sample that disproportionately includes or excludes certain groups, leading to unrepresentative results.
Bias can occur due to selection methods or response rates.
What are Open Questions?
Survey questions that allow respondents to answer freely in their own words.
This format encourages detailed responses and insights.
What are Closed Questions?
Survey questions that provide a limited set of pre-defined response options.
These questions typically lead to quantitative analysis.
What is a Double-Barrelled Question?
A question that asks about two topics but allows only one answer.
This can confuse respondents and lead to unclear data.
What is a Leading Question?
A question that subtly prompts the respondent to answer in a particular way.
These questions can bias the responses.
What is a Forced-Choice Question?
A question that does not include all possible answers or forces respondents into limited options.
This can restrict the expression of true opinions.
What is a Loaded Question?
A question that contains an assumption or emotionally charged language, often leading to biased responses.
These questions can manipulate the response.
What is Brain Imaging?
Techniques to visualise brain structure (MRI) or brain activity (fMRI).
MRI shows structure using hydrogen atom densities, while fMRI measures brain activity via blood oxygen levels.
What does the BOLD Signal stand for?
Blood Oxygen Level Dependent.
The fMRI signal is based on changes in blood oxygenation that correlate with neural activity.
Define Voxel.
A 3D pixel in brain imaging that represents a unit of brain volume. Each voxel contains thousands of neurons.
Voxel analysis is crucial for interpreting fMRI data.
What is Multivoxel Pattern Analysis (MVPA)?
A machine learning approach in fMRI that identifies mental states by analysing patterns across multiple voxels.
MVPA helps in understanding complex brain functions.
What is Reverse Inference?
The (often invalid) assumption that specific brain activity implies a specific mental state.
This can lead to incorrect conclusions about cognitive processes.
What is Longitudinal Research?
A study design involving repeated observations of the same individuals over a long period of time.
This design is useful for studying changes over time.
What is Cross-Sectional Research?
A study that examines data from a population at a single point in time.
This design provides a snapshot of the population.
What does Generalisability (External Validity) mean?
The extent to which research findings apply to other settings, populations, or times.
High generalisability indicates that the results are broadly applicable.
What is The Dunedin Study?
A landmark New Zealand longitudinal study tracking over 1,000 individuals since 1972, known for low attrition and high impact.
This study has provided significant insights into human development.
