Quick Notes - Module 10 Flashcards
(21 cards)
What is the purpose of survey research?
Gather self-reported data from individuals (e.g., beliefs, behaviours)
Survey research is utilized to collect information directly from respondents about their opinions or behaviors.
Define the hypothesis in survey research.
A proposed explanation or prediction that can be tested through data collection
The hypothesis guides the research design and analysis.
What is the difference between population and sample?
Population: The entire group of interest; Sample: A smaller, representative group selected from the population
Understanding this distinction is critical for effective survey design.
What is a representative sample?
A sample that accurately reflects the demographics and characteristics of the target population
This ensures the findings can be generalized to the larger population.
What constitutes a biased sample?
A sample that disproportionately includes or excludes certain groups, leading to unrepresentative results
Bias in sampling can significantly affect the validity of survey results.
What are open questions in a survey?
Survey questions that allow respondents to answer freely in their own words
They provide richer qualitative data compared to closed questions.
What are closed questions in a survey?
Survey questions that provide a limited set of pre-defined response options
They are easier to analyze but may restrict the depth of responses.
Define a double-barrelled question.
A question that asks about two topics but allows only one answer
This type of question can confuse respondents and skew results.
What is a leading question?
A question that subtly prompts the respondent to answer in a particular way
Leading questions can introduce bias into survey responses.
What is a forced-choice question?
A question that does not include all possible answers or forces respondents into limited options
This can limit the accuracy of the data collected.
Define a loaded question.
A question that contains an assumption or emotionally charged language, often leading to biased responses
Such questions can manipulate the respondent’s answer.
What is the purpose of cognitive neuroscience and fMRI?
Measure brain activity related to psychological processes
This field aims to understand how brain function relates to behavior and cognition.
What are the types of MRI?
- Structural MRI: High-resolution images of brain anatomy
- Functional MRI (fMRI): Measures brain activity via the BOLD (Blood Oxygen Level Dependent) effect
Different types of MRI serve distinct purposes in brain research.
What is the BOLD signal?
The fMRI signal based on changes in blood oxygenation that correlate with neural activity
It is a critical measure in functional MRI studies.
What is multivoxel pattern analysis (MVPA)?
A machine learning approach in fMRI that identifies mental states by analysing patterns across multiple voxels
MVPA allows researchers to decode complex thoughts and emotions from brain activity.
What is the limitation of 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 the purpose of longitudinal research?
Study the same individuals over time to assess change and causality
Longitudinal studies are valuable for tracking developments and trends.
What are the benefits of longitudinal research?
- Reveals cause-and-effect relationships
- Shows long-term trends
These benefits make longitudinal studies powerful in various fields.
Define generalisability in research.
The extent to which research findings apply to other settings, populations, or times
This concept is essential for assessing the relevance of research outcomes.
What is cross-sectional research?
A study that examines data from a population at a single point in time
It provides a snapshot but cannot establish causality.
What is the Dunedin Study?
A landmark NZ longitudinal study tracking over 1,000 people since birth (1972–73)
It is noted for its exceptional retention and global influence in research.
