Research Methodology Terms

Controlled variable

• A variable that is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

• A variable that is held constant to ensure that the only influence on the dependent variable is the independent variable.

• A variable that is measured to determine the outcome of an experiment.

• A variable that is not relevant to the experiment.

Investigation methodology

• The specific techniques used to analyze data.

• The particular way you conduct the study in order to collect the data.

• The theoretical framework guiding the research.

• The statistical methods applied to interpret results.

Between subjects research design

• An investigation design in which participants are randomly allocated to either the control or the experimental condition.

• A design where the same participants are used in all conditions.

• A method that involves observing participants in their natural environment without manipulation.

• A design that compares different groups of participants without random assignment.

Mode

• The average of a set of numbers.

• The middle value in a set of scores.

• The most frequently occurring number in a set of scores.

• The highest number in a set of scores.

Quantitative Data

• The type of data that provides information on how much of something there is through the use of numbers.

• Data that describes qualities or characteristics without using numbers.

• Data that is collected through surveys and interviews.

• Data that is only applicable in scientific research.

Investigation aim

• The purpose of a study.

• A method of data collection.

• A hypothesis to be tested.

• The conclusion of the research.

Outlier

• A value that lies a long way from other results.

• A value that is the average of a data set.

• A value that is frequently repeated in a data set.

• A value that is the maximum in a data set.

Personal errors

• Include mistakes, miscalculations and observer errors made when conducting research.

• Are systematic errors that affect the validity of research results.

• Refer to errors that occur due to equipment malfunction.

• Are errors that can be easily corrected during data analysis.

Sample

• A method of data collection

• A small group of people selected for the study from the wider population

• A statistical analysis technique

• A type of research design

Participant

• The individual, or group of individuals, who are selected to take part in the study. Also referred to as a sample.

• A method of data collection used in research.

• A type of statistical analysis used to interpret data.

• A theoretical framework used to guide research.