Research

Question 1

Accuracy

Answer 1

A term used in survey research to refer to the match between the target population and the sample

Question 2

Bell Curve

Answer 2

a frequency distribution statistic. normal distribution is shaped like this

Question 3

Apparency

Answer 3

clear, understandable representation of the data

Question 4

Case Study

Answer 4

the collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular participant or small group, frequently including accounts of subjects themselves.

Question 5

Control Group

Answer 5

a group in the experiment that receives no treatment in order to compare the treated groups against the norm

Question 6

Correlation

Answer 6

a common statistical analysis, measures the degree of relationship between pairs of interval variables in a sample. A non-cause and effect relationship between 2 variables

Question 7

credibility

Answer 7

a researcher’s ability to demonstrate that the object of the study is accurately identified and described, based on the way in which the study was conducted.

Question 8

data

Answer 8

recorded observations, usually in numeric or textual form

Question 9

deductive

Answer 9

a form of reasoning in which conclusions are formulated about particulars from general or universal premises

Question 10

empirical research

Answer 10

the process of developing systematized knowledge gained from observation that are formed to support insights and generalizations about the phenomena under study

Question 11

dependability

Answer 11

being able to account for changes in the design of the study and the changing conditions surrounding what is studied.

Question 12

design flexibility

Answer 12

a quality of an observational study that allows researchers to pursue inquiries on new topics or questions that emerge from initial research.

Question 13

deviation

Answer 13

the distance between the mean and the particular data point in a given distribution.

Question 14

experiment

Answer 14

a researcher working within this methodology creates an environment which to observe and interpret the results of a research question. Participants in the study are randomly assigned to groups. groups are treated differently and measurements are conducted to determine if different treatments appear to lead to different effects.

Question 15

factor analysis

Answer 15

a statistical test that explores relationships among data. the test explores which variables in a data set are most related to each other.

Question 16

hypothesis

Answer 16

tentative explanation based on theory to predict a casual relationship between variables

Question 17

independent variable

Answer 17

variable that is part of the situation that exists from the stimulus given to a dependent variable . includes: treatment, state of variable, such as age, size, weight etc.

Question 18

inductive

Answer 18

a form of reasoning in which a generalized conclusion is formulated from a particular instance

Question 19

kinesics

Answer 19

analysis examines what is communicated through body movement

Question 20

mean

Answer 20

the average score within a distribution

Question 21

narrative inquiry

Answer 21

qualitative research approach based on researcher’s narrative account of the investigation

Question 22

parameter

Answer 22

a coefficient or value for the population that corresponds to a particular statistic from a sample and is often inferred from the sample

Question 23

phenomenology

Answer 23

qualitative research approach concerned with understanding certain group behaviors from that groups point of view

Question 24

population

Answer 24

target group under investigation

Question 25

probability

Answer 25

chance that a phenomenon has of occurring at random, statistical measure (the p factor)

Question 26

qualitative research

Answer 26

Focuses on exploring and understanding complex phenomena, contexts, and processes through in-depth, subjective inquiryEmphasizes flexibility: reflexivity, and immersion in naturalistic settings to capture rich, nuanced data and perspectives. Utilizes methods such as interviews, focus groups, observations, and document analysis to generate descriptive, interpretive, and contextually rich insights.

Question 27

quantitative research

Answer 27

Focuses on systematically collecting and analyzing numerical data to test hypotheses, identify patterns, and quantify relationships between variables. Emphasizes objectivity, replicability, and generalizability of findings through controlled experimentation, survey research, and statistical analysis. Utilizes methods such as surveys, experiments, and statistical modeling to generate precise, reliable, and statistically valid results.

Question 28

Utilization-Focused Evaluation (UFE):

Answer 28

Developed by Michael Quinn Patton. Focuses on maximizing the utility and usability of evaluation findings to inform decision-making and improve program effectiveness. Emphasizes stakeholder involvement, participatory approaches, and utilization focused methods throughout the evaluation process Highlights the importance of considering the needs, perspectives, and interest of intended users in shaping evaluation questions, methods, and reporting formats.

Question 29

Theory of Change (TOC):

Answer 29

Provides a framework for understanding how and why programs are expected to achieve their intended outcomes. Emphasizes the development of a logic model or pathway that articulates the sequence of activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts hypothesized to lead to desired changes. Highlights the Importance of stakeholder engagement, contextual factors, and causal pathways in designing, implementing, and evaluating programs.

Question 30

Logic Model

Answer 30

A visual representation of a program’s theory of change, depicting the relationships between program inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes and impacts.

Question 31

Evaluation Capacity Building (ECB):

Answer 31

Focuses on enhancing organizations’ and individuals’ ability to conduct and use evaluation effectively Emphasizes the development of evaluation competencies, resources, and infrastructure to support evidence-based decision-making and program improvement Highlights the importance of fostering a culture of learning, reflection, and continuous improvement within organizations and communities.

Question 32

Social Network Analysis (SNA)

Answer 32

Examines the structure, patterns, and dynamics of relationships and interactions among individuals, groups, or organizations within a social network. Provides insights into information flow, collaboration, influence, and resource. distribution within networks, informing program planning, implementation evaluation, Emphasizes the identification of key actors, connectors, and brokers within networks, facilitating targeted interventions and capacity-building efforts.

Question 33

Mixed Methods Research

Answer 33

Integrates qualitative and quantitative approaches within a single study or evaluation to complement each other’s strengths and address research questions more comprehensively . Emphasizes the triangulation of data sources, methods, and perspectives to enhance the validity, depth, and breadth of findings. Utilizes methods such as sequential explanatory design, concurrent triangulation design, or transformative design to integrate qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis.