Unit 1
2 pages
Any one
Correlational, descriptive and historical research are classified under one category known as
nonexperimental research. Explain how these types of research are the same and how they are
different.
2. Discuss the characteristics of a good research hypothesis. What distinguishes a null hypothesis
from a research hypothesis? How would you explain the difference between nondirectional
research and directional research hypotheses?
3. Discuss the different types of sources (i.e. general, primary, and secondary). What are the
differences among these sources? Why is it important that researchers utilize primary sources
when conducting a thorough review of the literature?
2 pages
Any one
1. Summarize the four levels of measurement first proposed by Stevens in 1951. Explain how
knowing the level of measurement for variables helps a researcher examine outcomes in a study.
Diagram the relationship of precision and levels of measurement.
2. Propose the reason that tests are so popular in the field of assessment and social research.
Consider the type of information they provide and how they could be misused.
3. Outline the fours steps in the data collection process. Explain why it is so important to be
systematic in collecting data.
Unit 3
Any one
Explain how the results of a study can be statistically significant but not meaningful. Propose an
example of when this might occur.
2. Illustrate what a visual inspection of your data through the use of a scatter plot can help you
determine. Summarize the relationship between data points on a scatter plot and a correlation
coefficient.
3. Distinguish qualitative research methods from those categorized as quantitative methods.
Outline what types of questions qualitative research addresses that cannot be addressed by
quantitative research.
Unit 4
Any one
Explain how the presence of a control group accounts for threats to internal validity. Summarize
the types of threats to internal validity that can be avoided by utilizing random assignment to
control and experimental groups.
2. Consider the tasks that every researcher should address when preparing for data collection and
analyses. Illustrate their importance.
3. Outline the basic rule of thumb that researchers follow when formatting a manuscript for
publication.