Understanding Research Methods Outline
Topic 1: Intro to Empirical Research:
Empirical Approach
: knowledge based on observation, used by all in everyday living.
Uses:
Researchers try to avoid misleading results and poor interpretations.
Key: Why we want to make observations, whom they want to observe, as
well as how and why to observe.
Why to observe:
establishes the need for the study.
Hypothesis
: statement indicating what results are expected.
Whom to observe
: decide whether to observe a whole
population or a sample of the population. Sample is often observed,
must be not biased.
How to observe
: select available instruments such as objective
tests, interviews, and direct observation of behavior, with an eye to
selecting the most valid instruments. Most also decide when to use
these instruments.
Data
: The observations researchers make.
Quantitative
: data in the form of numbers, which are analyzed statistically.
Qualitative
: described in a narrative that point out themes and trends.
One of the most fundamental distinctions in scientific research is whether research is experimental or
non experimental.
Experimental
: treatments are given for the research purpose.
Non Experimental
: observations without the use of treatments.
Topic 2: Experimental vs. Nonexperimental studies
Experiments
: researchers give treatments and observe if they cause changes in behavior.
Experimental group
: group given treatment
Control Group
: Not given new treatment
True Experiment
: when participants are divided at random and uses manipulation.
Nonexperimental studies:
researchers do not give treatments, observe participants in order to
describe them as they naturally exist.
Survey: or poll
, one of most common nonexperimental studies
Instruments such as paper and pencil tests, interview schedules, and personality
scales are used in both types of studies.
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Purpose of experiment is to explore cause-and-effect relationships.
Topic 3: Experimental vs. Causal-Comparative Studies
When it is impossible to conduct an experiment to answer causal questions a researcher must settle for
information derived from nonexperimental studies.
Demographics
: background characteristics such as socioeconomic status.
Causal Comparative Study:
(ex post facto study) researchers observe and describe some current
condition, researchers look to the past to try to identify the possible causes of the condition.
Causal Comparative Method is a powerful scientific tool that provides data on many
important issues in all the sciences.

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- Fall '08
- Anderson
- researcher
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