STA630 Final Term Notes

Lesson 19 RESEARCH DESIGN

MCQs:

Q1. Which of the following best describes a research design?

1. The outcome of a research project
2. A blueprint outlining data collection and analysis methods
3. The conclusion drawn from data analysis
4. The selection of research participants

Answer: B) A blueprint outlining data collection and analysis methods

Q2. Which element of research design determines the level of methodological rigor?

1. Sampling design
2. Time dimension
3. Purpose of the study
4. Unit of analysis

Answer: C) Purpose of the study

Q3. What distinguishes a descriptive study from an explanatory study?

1. The use of sophisticated sampling methods
2. The level of statistical analysis involved
3. The objective of understanding "why"
4. The duration of data collection

Answer: C) The objective of understanding "why"

Q4. In research, what does the "unit of analysis" refer to?

1. The primary hypothesis of the study
2. The primary research question
3. The level of data aggregation for analysis
4. The sampling technique used

Answer: C) The level of data aggregation for analysis

Q5. Which study design involves data collection at multiple time points?

1. Cross-sectional study
2. Longitudinal study
3. Correlational study
4. Experimental study

Answer: B) Longitudinal study

Q6. In an experimental study, what does the researcher attempt to control?

1. The selection of research participants
2. The variables in the study
3. The data analysis techniques
4. The research hypothesis

Answer: B) The variables in the study

Q7. Which research design involves manipulating variables in a controlled setting?

1. Ex post facto design
2. Correlational design
3. Longitudinal design
4. Experimental design

Answer: D) Experimental design

Q8. What is a common observation tool used in social research?

1. Survey instrument
2. Laboratory equipment
3. Physical measurements
4. Test scores

Answer: A) Survey instrument

Q9. Which mode of observation involves direct interaction with subjects in their natural setting?

1. Experiment
2. Survey
3. Field observation
4. Case study

Answer: C) Field observation

Q10. What is the purpose of sampling in research?

1. To reduce the number of variables
2. To select the most convenient data collection method
3. To draw conclusions about a larger population
4. To control the independent variables

Answer: C) To draw conclusions about a larger population

Q11. Which step involves testing the survey instrument on a small group before full implementation?

1. Planning data recording
2. Selecting the sample
3. Pilot testing