Research methods

Question 1

Define experiments

Answer 1

A research method where the researcher manipulates one or more variables (independent variables) to observe the effect on another variable (dependent variable), while controlling other factors. Experiments are used to determine cause-and-effect relationships.

Question 2

Define Case Studies

Answer 2

Case Studies:
An in-depth investigation of an individual, group, or event over a long period of time. Case studies often use a combination of methods like interviews and observations and provide rich, detailed information, but may not be easily generalized.

Question 3

Define Correlational study

Answer 3

Correlational Studies:
A research method used to measure the relationship between two or more variables without manipulating them. Correlational studies can show whether a relationship exists, but not if one variable causes changes in another.

Question 4

Define observational study

Answer 4

Observational Studies:
A research method where behavior is watched and recorded without interfering with the participants. Observations can be naturalistic (in real-world settings) or controlled (in structured environments), and they help understand behavior as it naturally occurs.

Question 5

Define interviews

Answer 5

Interviews:
A research method where participants are asked questions directly by a researcher, either face-to-face, over the phone, or online. Interviews can be structured (fixed questions), semi-structured (guided but flexible), or unstructured (open conversation).

Question 6

Define surveys/questionnaires

Answer 6

Surveys/Questionnaires:
A research method where participants answer a set of written or online questions. Surveys and questionnaires are useful for collecting large amounts of data quickly but may be affected by self-report biases.