Research Methods And Statistics Midterm

A descriptive study is one that discovers answers to the questions who, what, when, where, or how much. This type of study aims to provide a detailed and comprehensive understanding of a particular phenomenon or population by collecting and analyzing data. It focuses on describing and summarizing the characteristics, behaviors, or attitudes of individuals or groups, rather than explaining causality or making inferences about a larger population. Descriptive studies often use surveys, observations, or existing data to gather information and present it in a clear and systematic manner.

Studies that are conducted in the field occur under actual environmental conditions, meaning that they take place in real-world settings rather than in controlled laboratory environments. This allows researchers to observe and measure variables of interest in a natural and authentic context, providing a more accurate representation of how these variables behave in real life. By conducting studies in the field, researchers can better understand the complexities and nuances of the environment being studied, leading to more reliable and applicable findings.

Snowball sampling is a nonprobability sampling technique in which participants are chosen and then refer others with similar or different characteristics. This means that the initial participants are selected based on certain criteria and then asked to refer other individuals who also meet those criteria. This method allows researchers to reach a wider range of participants who may not have been easily accessible through other sampling methods.

Researchers should provide incentives to participants in order to encourage their participation in a study. Incentives can include monetary compensation, gift cards, or other rewards. Providing incentives helps to ensure that participants are willing to take part in the study and that they are not being coerced or unduly influenced. However, it is important for researchers to explain the benefits of the study, explain participants' rights, explain the steps taken to protect participants, and obtain informed consent. These measures are necessary to ensure the ethical treatment of participants and protect their rights and well-being.

Self-esteem is an abstract psychological concept that cannot be directly observed or measured. It is a subjective evaluation of one's own worth and value. Constructs are theoretical concepts that are used to explain and understand phenomena that cannot be directly observed. In this case, self-esteem is a construct because it is a theoretical concept used to explain Bill's feelings of insecurity and his behavior of buying expensive items to boost his self-esteem.

To satisfactorily answer a research question, researchers must first answer investigative questions. These questions are designed to gather information, investigate different aspects of the research topic, and explore potential answers or solutions. By conducting investigations and gathering relevant data, researchers can then analyze and draw conclusions that address the main research question effectively. Investigative questions play a crucial role in the research process as they guide researchers in their exploration and help them uncover valuable insights and findings.

When researchers consider the explicit or hidden agenda of an information source, they are evaluating the source's purpose. The purpose refers to the reason or intention behind the creation of the information source. By understanding the purpose, researchers can assess the potential biases or motivations that may influence the information provided by the source. This evaluation allows researchers to critically analyze the reliability and credibility of the information presented.

A telephone interview is not an example of a monitoring study because it involves gathering information through direct communication with individuals, rather than observing or recording specific events or behaviors. Monitoring studies typically involve systematic observation or measurement of specific variables or activities, such as counting traffic at an intersection, recording license plates in a parking lot, mystery shopping in a competitor's store, or documenting interactions between customers and a call center. Telephone interviews, on the other hand, are a form of data collection method used in research or market research to gather information through verbal communication.

Qualitative research seeks to build theory, meaning it aims to develop new theories or concepts based on the data collected. On the other hand, quantitative research tests theory, which means it uses data to evaluate or validate existing theories or hypotheses.

Providing incentives for respondents is not considered an unethical activity. In fact, it is a common practice in research and surveys to offer incentives to encourage participation and ensure accurate data collection. Incentives can include rewards such as gift cards, cash, or discounts, and they are used to motivate individuals to take part in the study. This helps researchers gather a representative sample and enhances the validity of the findings.

Institutional Review Boards concentrate on two key areas. One is the guarantee of obtaining complete, informed consent from participants. The other key area is risk/benefit analysis. This means that the boards assess the potential risks and benefits of the research being conducted to ensure that the benefits outweigh the potential harm or discomfort to the participants. This analysis helps to protect the welfare and rights of the participants involved in the research.

Deduction is a form of argument that purports to be conclusive because the conclusion must necessarily follow from the reasons given. In deductive reasoning, the conclusion is derived from specific premises or statements that are assumed to be true. This type of argument is often used in mathematics and logic, where the conclusion is seen as a logical consequence of the premises. Deductive reasoning is characterized by its certainty and the ability to provide a definitive answer based on the given information.

Concepts are more abstract, while constructs are more concrete. This means that concepts are ideas or mental representations that are not physical or tangible, while constructs are concrete and tangible representations of those concepts. In other words, concepts are more theoretical and general, while constructs are more specific and observable.

A conceptual scheme refers to a framework or system that illustrates the connections and relationships between various concepts and constructs. It provides a structure for organizing and understanding these ideas, allowing for a clearer understanding of how they relate to each other. This term accurately describes the interrelationships between concepts and constructs, making it the correct answer.

The first step in conducting a literature search is to define the management dilemma or question. This is important because it helps to narrow down the focus of the search and identify the specific information needed. By clearly defining the dilemma or question, researchers can ensure that they are searching for relevant and useful information. Once the management dilemma or question is defined, the researcher can proceed to the next steps of the literature search process.

Census data is considered a primary source of information because it is collected firsthand from the population being studied. It provides direct and original data about a specific population, such as demographics, economic status, and social characteristics. Census data is typically gathered through surveys or interviews conducted by government agencies, ensuring its accuracy and reliability. This makes it a valuable and trustworthy source for researchers and policymakers to understand and analyze various aspects of a population.

A directory is a comprehensive listing that contains contact information for professional organizations and companies in a specific field. It serves as a useful resource for individuals who are looking to connect with or gather information about these entities. Unlike an index, which typically only provides a list of keywords or topics, or a bibliography, which focuses on reference materials, a directory specifically focuses on providing contact information. Therefore, a directory is the most appropriate option for finding contact information for professional organizations and companies in a field.

A statistical study attempts to capture a population's characteristics by making inferences from a sample's characteristics and testing resulting hypotheses. This means that the study collects data from a smaller group (the sample) and uses that data to draw conclusions about the larger group (the population). By testing hypotheses based on the sample data, researchers can make predictions or generalizations about the population as a whole.

Quantitative research involves the use of numerical data to measure and analyze behavior, knowledge, opinions, or attitudes. It focuses on obtaining precise measurements and statistical analysis to draw conclusions. This type of research aims to provide objective and measurable data, often through surveys, experiments, or structured observations. It is different from qualitative research, which focuses on understanding and interpreting subjective experiences and meanings. Exploratory research aims to explore new topics or phenomena, while cross-sectional research examines a specific population at a particular point in time. Longitudinal research involves studying the same individuals or groups over an extended period.

Communication is the most appropriate data collection method for Jason's project because it allows him to directly interact with the wine drinkers and gather information about their past consumption behavior and intentions for future behavior. This method can involve surveys, interviews, or focus groups, which would enable Jason to ask specific questions and obtain detailed responses from the participants. Communication also allows for clarification of any ambiguous responses and provides an opportunity for Jason to build rapport with the participants, potentially leading to more accurate and reliable data.

Deception is considered inappropriate unless there are valid justifications for its use. These justifications can include situations where the study's value outweighs the ethical concerns associated with deception, when there are no feasible alternatives to achieve the research objectives, when it is necessary to protect a third party involved in the study, or when the respondents' bias could significantly impact the results. Therefore, all of the above reasons can be valid justifications for the use of deception in certain research contexts.

Deduction is the correct answer because it is a form of argument that presents a conclusion based on reasons or proof. In deduction, the conclusion is derived from general principles or premises, and it follows logically from those premises. This form of argument is often used in mathematics, logic, and philosophy to establish the validity of a conclusion based on a set of premises or evidence.

Validity is a requirement for a deduction to be considered correct because it ensures that the logical structure of the deduction is sound and that the conclusion follows logically from the premises. A deduction is valid if the conclusion necessarily follows from the given premises, regardless of the truth or falsity of the premises themselves. In other words, a valid deduction guarantees that if the premises are true, then the conclusion must also be true. Therefore, for a deduction to be considered correct, it must meet the criterion of validity.

Departmental budgeting means that research budgets are determined by the contributions of various departments to fund department-specific projects. This approach allows each department to have a say in how much funding they allocate towards research initiatives that are specific to their own needs and goals. By involving multiple departments in the budgeting process, it ensures that resources are distributed in a way that aligns with the priorities and objectives of each department.

The given answer states that all of the above statements are true. This means that the selection of alternatives is indeed determined by the decision variable chosen and the decision rule used. Additionally, each alternative must be explicitly stated, and a decision variable is defined by an outcome that may be measured. Lastly, a decision rule is determined by which outcomes may be compared. Therefore, all of these statements are accurate and none of them are false.

The primary concern with using qualitative techniques is that qualitative data are subjective. This means that the data collected through qualitative methods may be influenced by personal biases, opinions, and interpretations of the researcher or participants. Unlike objective data, which is based on measurable and observable facts, subjective data can vary from person to person and can be more difficult to analyze and interpret accurately. Therefore, the subjective nature of qualitative data is a potential drawback and limitation of using qualitative techniques.

The correct answer is the privacy act. The privacy act was the first law to guarantee Americans the right to privacy. This act was enacted in 1974 and it establishes certain privacy rights for individuals, such as the right to access and correct personal information held by the government. It also regulates the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information by federal agencies. The Bill of Rights, privacy protection act, and civil rights act do not specifically guarantee the right to privacy.

Induction is a form of reasoning that involves drawing a conclusion based on specific facts or evidence. It involves taking a limited number of observations or examples and generalizing them to make a broader conclusion. In this process, the conclusion may not be certain or absolute, but rather a probable or likely outcome based on the available evidence. Deduction, on the other hand, involves deriving specific conclusions from general principles or premises. Empiricism refers to the belief that knowledge is gained through sensory experience. Logic is the study of reasoning and argumentation. Association refers to the connection or relationship between two or more things.

A construct is an image or abstract idea specifically invented for a given research and/or theory-building purpose. Constructs are used in research to represent complex ideas or concepts that cannot be directly observed or measured. They are created to help researchers understand and study phenomena that are not easily tangible or measurable. Constructs are often defined and operationalized through the use of variables, which are observable and measurable indicators or manifestations of the construct. Constructs play a crucial role in the development and testing of theories and hypotheses in research.

Cost is not a factor that is typically used to evaluate a source. When evaluating a source, factors such as purpose, scope, authority, and audience are considered to determine its reliability, credibility, and relevance. Cost is not relevant in determining the quality or usefulness of a source. Therefore, it is not a factor that is typically used in evaluating a source.

A case study is a research method that focuses on a detailed and in-depth analysis of a few events or conditions and their interrelations within a specific context. It aims to understand the complexities and nuances of the subject matter by examining it within its full context. This approach allows researchers to gain comprehensive insights and develop a rich understanding of the case being studied.

Semistructured interviews have certain specific questions that are asked of all participants, similar to structured interviews. However, they also allow the interviewer the freedom to probe the respondent based on their specific answers. This means that while there is a general structure to the interview, the interviewer can ask additional questions or seek clarification based on the respondent's responses. This flexibility allows for a deeper understanding of the participant's thoughts and experiences, making semistructured interviews a valuable research tool.

Complete informed consent requires that participants are competent to give consent, that consent is voluntary, that participants are adequately informed to make a decision, and that participants know the possible risks associated with the research. However, participants do not necessarily need to be able to consult legal counsel if they wish. Legal counsel is not a requirement for informed consent, but participants should still have the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification about the research.

Debriefing is associated with more positive feelings about the value of research because it allows participants to understand the purpose and significance of the study. By providing a thorough explanation of the research objectives and procedures, participants are more likely to appreciate the importance of their involvement and feel that their contribution was meaningful. This can help foster a sense of satisfaction and positive attitudes towards the research process.

Departmental budgeting allocates a portion of total expenditures in the unit to research activities. This form of budgeting involves dividing the organization into different departments or units and assigning budgets to each department based on their specific needs and objectives. By allocating a portion of the budget to research activities, the organization can ensure that sufficient resources are dedicated to conducting research and development, which is crucial for innovation and staying competitive in the market.

Probability sampling is a type of sample that provides a group of participants who are most representative of the target population. This sampling method ensures that every member of the target population has an equal chance of being selected, which increases the likelihood of obtaining a sample that accurately reflects the characteristics of the population. By using probability sampling, researchers can minimize bias and increase the generalizability of their findings to the larger population.

During the exploratory phase of the research process, secondary sources are used to gather existing information and gain insights into the topic. Research studies, case studies, books, and information from an organization's database are all types of secondary sources commonly used. However, group discussions are not considered a type of secondary source. Group discussions involve primary data collection through interactions with individuals or groups, rather than relying on pre-existing information or sources.

The Congressional Directory is the correct answer because it is a source of information that lists members of congress and congressional committees, as well as key personnel throughout the U.S. government. It provides comprehensive and up-to-date information about the government's structure and the individuals involved in it.

Boolean operators are used in search queries to combine terms or sets of terms. By using operators such as AND, OR, and NOT, users can narrow down or broaden their search results by including or excluding specific terms. This allows for more precise and efficient searches, as it helps to retrieve information that is relevant to the user's query.

An experimental study involves manipulating one or more variables to determine the effect on another variable. This means that the researcher intentionally changes certain factors or conditions in order to observe the impact on a specific outcome or dependent variable. By manipulating variables and observing the resulting effects, researchers can establish causal relationships and determine cause-and-effect relationships between variables. This is a key characteristic of experimental studies and distinguishes them from other types of research designs.

The recording of physical actions or movements of participants is referred to as nonverbal observation. This type of observation focuses on capturing and analyzing nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures, rather than verbal or behavioral aspects. Nonverbal observation helps researchers gain insights into nonverbal communication and behavior patterns.

IRBs, or Institutional Review Boards, are responsible for ensuring ethical standards are upheld in research studies. One of the key aspects of ethical research is obtaining complete, informed consent from participants. This means that participants must fully understand the purpose, risks, and benefits of the study before agreeing to participate. By guaranteeing complete, informed consent, IRBs protect the rights and well-being of participants, ensuring they are not coerced or misled into participating in research. This helps maintain the integrity and ethical standards of the research process.

The scientific method involves a systematic approach to solving problems and gaining knowledge through observation, experimentation, and analysis. Puzzles can be used to describe the scientific method because they require logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and experimentation. By analyzing patterns, testing different strategies, and making observations, individuals can apply the scientific method to solve puzzles and gain insights.

Abstract concepts such as personality, need for variety, and materialism are often called constructs. Constructs are theoretical concepts that are not directly observable but are used to explain and understand certain phenomena. They are created to represent these abstract concepts and are used in research and psychological theories to study and measure them. Constructs provide a framework for understanding and organizing these abstract concepts, allowing researchers to study and analyze them systematically.

The correct answer is "Management-research-question hierarchy". The process described in the question involves breaking down a basic dilemma into more specific questions, which is a key step in developing a hierarchy of research questions in the field of management. This hierarchy helps in organizing and structuring the research process, allowing researchers to address the main dilemma effectively by addressing specific aspects of it through different research questions.

If a probability sampling design is chosen, the process for choosing the sample must give every person within the target population a known nonzero chance of selection. This means that each individual in the population has an equal opportunity to be selected for the sample, and the selection process is based on random chance rather than personal judgement or specific criteria. This ensures that the sample is representative of the entire population and reduces the potential for bias in the results.

Data editing involves reviewing and correcting collected data to ensure consistency among respondents, locate any omissions, and reduce errors in recording. This process helps to improve the quality and accuracy of the data before it is used for analysis. By identifying and resolving any inconsistencies or errors, data editing helps to ensure that the final dataset is reliable and can be confidently used for further analysis and decision-making.

Tertiary information sources are typically indexes, bibliographies, and Internet search engines that provide interpretations of secondary sources. These sources help users locate and access relevant information by organizing and categorizing the content found in secondary sources. Unlike primary and secondary sources, tertiary sources do not present original research or firsthand accounts of events but rather provide summaries and compilations of existing information.

A good handbook typically includes various useful resources and information to assist the reader. Statistics, directory information, a glossary of terms, and references are all commonly found in a good handbook as they provide valuable support and enhance the reader's understanding. However, lists of consultants in the field are not typically included in a handbook as they are more specific and may not be relevant to all readers.

Activity observation is a type of behavioral observation where an individual's actions and behaviors are observed and recorded. This type of observation focuses on what the person is doing and how they are engaging in different activities. It involves observing and documenting specific behaviors, movements, and actions exhibited by individuals in different contexts. This type of observation can provide valuable insights into an individual's behavior patterns, preferences, and abilities.

Specialty research firms typically dominate the small research firms operated by a single person or a small staff. These firms specialize in a specific area or industry, allowing them to provide specialized and niche research services to clients. Unlike full-service research firms that offer a wide range of research services, specialty firms focus on a specific expertise, making them well-suited for smaller operations with limited resources. They can provide in-depth knowledge and insights in their specialized field, making them an attractive choice for clients seeking targeted research solutions.

Specialty firms can establish expertise in methodology, process, industry, and geographic region because these areas are directly related to their core business operations. However, they may not be able to establish expertise in incentives as it is not a typical area of focus for specialty firms. Incentives are often determined by external factors such as government policies or market conditions, which may not align with the firm's specialization. Therefore, establishing expertise in incentives may not be a priority for specialty firms.

Deontology is an approach to ethics that advocates for ethical behavior to be guided by "duties" rather than the consequences or circumstances that may arise from that behavior. This means that individuals should act morally and fulfill their obligations regardless of any potential positive outcomes that may result from acting in contradiction to their duty. Deontologists believe that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of the consequences they may bring.

Inducements that are disproportionate to the task can be considered coercive. Coercion involves the use of force or pressure to make someone do something against their will. In this context, offering excessive inducements can be seen as a form of coercion because it may unduly influence participants to participate in research, even if they may not want to or if it poses risks to them. Therefore, the correct answer is "coercive."

Anne should include all of the following components in her introduction except an estimate of when the research study will be published. This is because providing an estimate of when the research study will be published is not necessary for obtaining oral consent from research participants. The other components, such as the research organization, promise of anonymity and confidentiality, sponsoring organization, and purpose of the research, are important for participants to understand before giving their consent.

The Nuremberg Code is a set of ethical principles that emerged from the Nuremberg Trials after World War II. It specifically addresses the issue of informed consent in medical research involving human subjects. The code emphasizes the importance of voluntary consent, the need for adequate information, and the requirement for subjects to have the ability to withdraw from the study at any time. Therefore, the guarantee of informed consent can be traced back to the Nuremberg Code.

An operational definition is a statement that defines a variable in terms of specific measurement and testing criteria. It provides clear and specific guidelines on how to measure or observe the variable in a scientific study. This allows researchers to ensure consistency and accuracy in their measurements and observations, which is crucial for the validity and reliability of their findings. By providing a clear definition, an operational definition helps to eliminate ambiguity and subjectivity in the research process.

A decision rule is a term that refers to a criterion for judging the attractiveness of two or more alternatives when using a decision variable. It is a guideline or principle that helps in making decisions by providing a systematic approach to evaluate and compare different options. A decision rule helps in determining the best course of action based on specific criteria or factors that are important for decision-making. It helps in reducing subjectivity and bias in decision-making processes and ensures that decisions are made based on objective and logical considerations.

Dell plans to survey every customer who has purchased a Dell computer in the last 5 years. This indicates that Dell intends to collect data from the entire population of customers who meet the specified criteria. A census involves gathering information from every individual or unit in a population, rather than selecting a sample. Therefore, the answer is census.

The U.S. Government Manual is a comprehensive guide that describes the function of every government agency. It is a useful resource for identifying key personnel and agency contacts at the local and regional levels.

A causal study is one that attempts to reveal why or how one variable produces changes in another. This type of study aims to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between variables by examining the relationship between them and determining the mechanisms or processes through which one variable influences the other. It seeks to understand the underlying reasons or mechanisms behind observed changes in variables, providing insights into the causal factors at play.

A cross-sectional study is used when political researchers assess opinions towards President Bush's plan for social security reform because it allows them to gather data from a specific point in time and analyze the opinions of a representative sample of the population. On the other hand, a longitudinal study should be used when political researchers want to assess the change in opinion towards the war in Iraq from the initial deployment of troops to the elections in Iraq. A longitudinal study allows researchers to track changes in opinions over an extended period of time, providing a more comprehensive understanding of how opinions evolve.

Qualitative research includes an array of interpretative techniques which seek to describe, decode, translate, and otherwise come to terms with the meaning of certain phenomena. Unlike quantitative research that focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis, qualitative research aims to understand the subjective experiences, perspectives, and meanings of individuals or groups. It involves methods such as interviews, observations, and analysis of textual or visual data to gain in-depth insights and generate rich descriptions of the research topic.

Structured interviews allow for direct comparability of responses because they involve asking the same set of predetermined questions to all interviewees. This standardized approach ensures that each participant is evaluated based on the same criteria, making it easier to compare their responses and make objective judgments. This method is commonly used in research and employment settings where consistency and fairness are important.

A structured interview would be the most appropriate choice for Jackson in this scenario. Structured interviews have a predetermined set of questions that are asked in the same order to each participant. This ensures a high degree of comparability among responses as all participants are being asked the same questions. Additionally, structured interviews have no question variability, meaning that the wording and order of the questions remain consistent. This helps to maintain consistency and comparability in the data collected. Finally, structured interviews also allow the interviewer to maintain their own neutrality during the interviews by following a standardized script and not introducing any bias into the questioning process.

A study of travel preferences among frequent fliers does not require signed consent forms from participants because it does not involve any sensitive or personal information. It is a study that focuses on gathering information about travel preferences, which is not considered a sensitive topic. Therefore, obtaining signed consent forms may not be necessary for this particular study.

The given question is asking for the correct pair of concepts to complete the sentence. The first blank should be filled with a concept that is related to automobiles, and the second blank should be filled with a concept related to service quality. The correct pair is "Objective, abstract." Automobiles are tangible objects that can be measured and evaluated objectively, while service quality is a subjective concept that is based on personal perceptions and experiences. Therefore, "Objective, abstract" is the correct answer.

In a research study, participants are typically asked measurement questions. Measurement questions are designed to gather specific data or information from participants, such as their opinions, attitudes, behaviors, or demographic characteristics. These questions help researchers quantify and analyze the data collected, allowing them to draw meaningful conclusions and make valid interpretations based on the participants' responses.

Percentage-of-sales budgeting involves determining the research budget by taking a fixed percentage of a particular criterion, such as sales. This method ensures that the research budget is directly proportional to the sales performance of the company. By using a percentage of sales as the basis for the budget, companies can allocate funds for research activities in a way that aligns with their financial performance and goals. This approach allows for flexibility in budgeting, as the research budget can increase or decrease depending on the sales volume.

Public Laws provide the texts of laws as they are passed. This database includes the actual legislation that has been enacted by Congress and signed into law by the President. It allows users to access and read the full text of public laws, including any amendments or revisions. The other options listed, such as U.S. Code, Federal Register, Congressional Bills, and Congressional Directory, may provide related information but do not specifically provide the texts of laws as they are passed.

This study is an example of a cross-sectional study. Cross-sectional studies gather data from a specific population at a particular point in time to analyze and understand the characteristics or preferences of that population. In this case, InZone Research is surveying fans attending one of the Final Four games to assess their preferences for pricing and products at concession stands. The study does not follow the same individuals over time or analyze changes over time, making it a cross-sectional study.

When studies are conducted under controlled conditions that do not simulate actual environmental conditions, the study is conducted under laboratory conditions. This means that the research is carried out in a controlled environment, such as a laboratory, where variables can be manipulated and closely monitored. By conducting the study under laboratory conditions, researchers can isolate and control specific factors to study their effects, which may not be possible in real-world or field conditions.

Qualitative research is focused on understanding and interpreting social phenomena, often through in-depth interviews, observations, and analysis of texts. Theory building is one of the main purposes of qualitative research, as it aims to develop new theories or refine existing ones based on the data collected. This type of research seeks to explore and generate insights, rather than making predictions or forecasts, which are more commonly associated with quantitative research methods. Therefore, theory building aligns with the goals and objectives of qualitative research.

Purposive sampling involves selecting participants based on specific criteria or characteristics that are relevant to the research question. This technique allows researchers to intentionally choose individuals who possess unique characteristics, experiences, attitudes, or perceptions that are important to the study. Unlike random sampling, where participants are selected randomly from the population, purposive sampling is a nonprobability sampling technique that focuses on selecting participants purposefully to meet the research objectives.