Research Methods Review Quiz

Which of the following is the independent variable in a study testing whether sleep affects test performance?

• Hours of sleep

• Test scores

• Study environment

• Random sample

The dependent variable in the same study (sleep and test scores) would be:

• Hours of sleep

• Test scores

• Caffeine intake

• Type of test

A hypothesis is best defined as:

• A proven fact

• An educated guess or prediction

• A research method

• A set of survey questions

A representative sample means:

• Any group of people the researcher chooses

• A group that reflects the larger population being studied

• A control group

• A group chosen randomly without purpose

Which statement shows causation?

• Ice cream sales and swimming pool attendance rise together.

• More exercise leads to lower cholesterol.

• People who like music often enjoy art.

• Tall people tend to weigh more.

An open-ended question is:

• “What do you like most about school?”

• “Do you like school? Yes or No”

• “Rate your school experience from 1–5.”

• “Which of these best describes your school?”

A closed-ended question is:

• “How do you feel about politics?”

• “Why did you choose your major?”

• “Which of the following best describes your opinion?”

• “Explain your goals after graduation.”

A quantitative variable is measured in:

• Words and meanings

• Numbers and amounts

• Personal experiences

• Cultural values

A qualitative variable is measured in:

• Numbers

• Experiments

• Words, categories, and descriptions

• Percentages

Ethics in research mainly require:

• The researcher always publishes findings

• Participants are treated fairly and not harmed

• Researchers share personal opinions

• Studies are conducted only in labs