1.
The independent variable in a research study is:
Correct Answer
C. The variable that is manipulated.
Explanation
The independent variable in a research study is the variable that is manipulated by the researcher. This means that the researcher has control over this variable and can change its value or condition to observe its effect on the dependent variable. The independent variable is typically the cause or predictor variable in the study, while the dependent variable is the outcome or response variable. The other options, such as the variable that is measured or a confounding variable, do not accurately describe the independent variable.
2.
If a researcher is studying the effect of using laptops in her classroom to ascertain their merit and worth, she is likely going to employ which type of research methodology?
Correct Answer
B. Experimental
Explanation
The researcher is likely going to employ the experimental research methodology. Experimental research involves manipulating variables and observing the effects of these manipulations on participants. In this case, the researcher would introduce laptops into the classroom and observe the impact on the students' learning outcomes or engagement. This methodology allows for the control of variables and the establishment of cause-and-effect relationships between the use of laptops and their effects in the classroom.
3.
An operational definition is:
Correct Answer
C. A definition of a concept in terms of specific, empirical measures.
Explanation
An operational definition is a definition of a concept in terms of specific, empirical measures. This means that it provides a clear and measurable way to identify and observe the concept in question. It helps to ensure that the concept is defined in a way that can be observed and measured objectively, allowing for consistent and reliable research and analysis.
4.
A researcher developed a measure of shyness and is now conducting a study asking whether this measure does in fact assess a person's true state of shyness. This is a question of:
Correct Answer
B. Construct validity.
Explanation
Construct validity refers to the extent to which a measure accurately assesses the theoretical construct or concept it is intended to measure. In this case, the researcher is specifically investigating whether the measure of shyness accurately captures a person's true state of shyness. Therefore, the question falls under the category of construct validity as it pertains to the accuracy of the measure in assessing the intended construct.
5.
After a researcher has stated the specific problem to be studied in an experiment, he must then develop a(n):
Correct Answer
C. Hypothesis.
Explanation
After a researcher has stated the specific problem to be studied in an experiment, he must then develop a hypothesis. A hypothesis is a tentative explanation or prediction that can be tested through further research and experimentation. It is based on the researcher's initial understanding of the problem and serves as a starting point for investigating and gathering evidence to support or refute it. A hypothesis helps guide the research process and provides a framework for designing experiments and collecting data.
6.
Increasing the size of the sample is likely to:
Correct Answer
C. Decrease both sampling error and non-sampling error.
Explanation
Increasing the size of the sample is likely to decrease both sampling error and non-sampling error. Sampling error refers to the discrepancy between the sample statistic and the true population parameter, and by increasing the sample size, we are reducing the likelihood of random sampling errors. Non-sampling error, on the other hand, includes errors that occur during data collection, processing, or analysis. Increasing the sample size can help minimize non-sampling errors by providing a more representative and reliable sample that better reflects the population characteristics. Therefore, increasing the sample size is expected to decrease both types of errors.
7.
In the statement "an examination of the effects of discretionary behavior on employee performance," employee performance is the:
Correct Answer
A. Dependent variable.
Explanation
In this statement, "an examination of the effects of discretionary behavior on employee performance," the focus is on studying the impact of discretionary behavior on employee performance. The term "dependent variable" refers to the variable that is being affected or influenced by another variable, which in this case is the employee performance. Therefore, employee performance is the dependent variable in this context.
8.
The most critical section of a research article to read is the:
Correct Answer
B. Results.
Explanation
The most critical section of a research article to read is the results section. This section presents the findings of the study and provides objective evidence to support or refute the research hypothesis. It includes the data collected, statistical analysis, and interpretation of the results. By reading the results section, readers can evaluate the validity and reliability of the study and determine if the research findings are significant and relevant to their own interests or research. The literature review and limitations sections are also important, but the results section directly presents the outcome of the study, making it crucial for understanding the research's impact and implications.
9.
Which of the following is not a legitimate research question as stated?
Correct Answer
C. What does it mean to be a child with a disability included in Ms. Amory's pre-kindergarten class?
10.
A one tailed hypothesis predicts:
Correct Answer
B. The direction of the effect.
Explanation
A one-tailed hypothesis predicts the direction of the effect. This means that it specifies whether the effect will be positive or negative. It does not provide information about the frequency of the effect or whether there will be no difference.