Key Takeaways and Exercises

What is the fundamental characteristic that defines non-experimental research?

What are the two main categories of non-experimental research described in the summary?

In terms of internal validity, how does correlational research generally compare to experimental and quasi-experimental research?

If a study finds a statistical relationship between two variables, X and Y, what conclusion is NOT justified based on the principle that 'correlation does not imply causation'?

Which of the following is an appropriate use of correlational research, even though it cannot establish causation?

What does the sign (positive or negative) of a correlation coefficient indicate?

What is the primary purpose of using techniques like partial correlation and multiple regression in complex correlational research?

How does qualitative research generally differ from quantitative research in its approach to data collection and analysis?

What is one described way that qualitative and quantitative research can be viewed as complementary?

Which observational research method involves analyzing data that has already been collected for another purpose?

Which type of observational research is characterized by the researcher becoming an active member of the group being studied?

What is the primary focus of a case study as a research method?

How is structured observation defined in the summary of observational research methods?

According to the summary, what does the numerical value of a correlation coefficient, irrespective of its sign, indicate?

Observational research is a type of non-experimental research where participants are observed and their behavior is recorded. What key action does the researcher avoid in this type of research?

Which research approach is generally ranked as being 'in between' experimental and correlational research in terms of internal validity?

What is the key characteristic of naturalistic observation?

If a researcher finds a relationship between variable X (e.g., exercise) and variable Y (e.g., happiness), the directionality problem means it is also possible that...

A correlation coefficient can range from -1 to +1. Which of these values represents the strongest relationship between two variables?

Which statement best captures the limitation of using complex correlational research with techniques like multiple regression?

A researcher studies the relationship between a city's ice cream sales and its crime rate, finding a positive correlation. The conclusion that a third variable, such as high temperatures, might be causing both to increase is an example of what problem?

Which of the following research questions would be best suited for a qualitative research approach?

Observational research in which the researcher focuses on quantifying a small number of specific behaviors is known as what?

A researcher wants to understand the daily lives of a remote, uncontacted tribe without influencing their behavior. Which research method would be most appropriate?

What is the primary drawback of correlational research when trying to understand cause-and-effect relationships?