Question 1

Which of the following is not a type of purposive sampling?

Accepted Answer

Probability sampling is not a type of purposive sampling because purposive sampling involves selecting participants based on specific characteristics or criteria relevant to the research question, whereas probability sampling involves random selection of participants to ensure each member of the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample.

Question 2

The minimum sample size for qualitative interviewing is:

Accepted Answer

The minimum sample size for qualitative interviewing is hard to determine because it depends on the purpose of the study, its design, and the richness of the data collected. Unlike quantitative studies, qualitative research does not rely on statistical power to determine sample size but rather on the concept of saturation, where no new information is being discovered.

Question 3

Apart from people, what else can purposive sampling be used for?

Accepted Answer

Purposive sampling can be applied to documents, timing of events, and context, as it involves selecting specific elements that are most informative or relevant to the research purpose.

Question 4

What can be generalized from a purposive sample?

Accepted Answer

Purposive sampling is designed to select specific individuals who are deemed to represent a larger group. While it can provide insights into broadly similar cases due to the deliberate choice of sample characteristics, it does not allow for generalizations to the entire population because it lacks random selection, making it impossible to ensure that the sample accurately represents the entire group's diversity.

Question 5

Which of the following is a problem associated with survey research?

Accepted Answer

Survey research can suffer from the problem of omission, where important questions or response options are left out, leading to incomplete data.

Question 6

The key advantage of structured observation over survey research is that:

Accepted Answer

Structured observation allows for the direct observation of behavior, providing data on what actually occurs rather than relying on self-reported information, which can be biased or inaccurate.

Question 7

It may not be possible to use a probability sample to observe behaviour in public places because:

Accepted Answer

It is not feasible to construct a sampling frame of interactions in public places because the population of interest (e.g., all interactions occurring in a public place) is constantly changing and can be virtually impossible to list or enumerate fully, which is necessary for creating a probability sample.

Question 8

Which of the following is not a type of sampling used in structured observation?

Accepted Answer

Emotional sampling is not a recognized type of sampling method in structured observation. Structured observation typically involves methods like focal, scan, and behavior sampling to systematically record observations of subjects' behaviors.

Question 9

One of the criticisms often levelled at structured observation is that:

Accepted Answer

Structured observation often involves using specific criteria to observe and record behavior, which can limit the observer's ability to interpret the reasons or intentions behind the observed behaviors. This method focuses more on the observable aspects rather than the underlying intentions or motivations.

Question 10

What is a research design?

Accepted Answer

Research design is a framework that guides how data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted. It encompasses the methodology and procedures used to conduct the research, ensuring that the study is systematically planned and executed.

Question 11

Cross cultural studies are an example of:

Accepted Answer

Cross-cultural studies compare different cultures to understand how they affect human behavior, making them an example of comparative design.

Question 12

What is a 'grand theory'?

Accepted Answer

Grand theories are characterized by their high level of abstraction and broad generalizations about the social world, aiming to explain large-scale social processes and institutions.

Question 13

An inductive theory is one that:

Accepted Answer

Inductive theory development involves the generation of theories from the observation of data, allowing patterns, themes, and categories to emerge from the data itself, rather than testing pre-existing hypotheses.

Question 14

The qualitative research strategy places a value on:

Accepted Answer

Qualitative research focuses on understanding social phenomena from the perspective of the participants, often generating theories through inductive processes and emphasizing the meanings people attach to their experiences, rather than relying on numerical data and statistical analysis.

Question 15

An important practical issue to consider when designing a research project is:

Accepted Answer

The amount of time and money available are crucial practical considerations in designing a research project, as they directly impact the scope, methodology, and feasibility of the project.

Question 16

You can manage your time and resources best, by:

Accepted Answer

Managing time and resources effectively involves planning and organizing, which includes working out a timetable (A), identifying available resources (B), and budgeting for expenditures (C). Therefore, all of the mentioned strategies contribute to better management of time and resources.

Question 17

How can you tell if your research questions are really good?

Accepted Answer

Good research questions guide your literature search, help construct a coherent argument, and narrow the scope of your research, indicating a comprehensive approach to formulating research objectives.

Question 18

Which of the following should be included in a research proposal?

Accepted Answer

A research proposal should include your choice of research methods and reasons for choosing them, as it outlines how you plan to conduct the research.

Question 19

Which of the following should you think about when preparing your research?

Accepted Answer

All of the options listed are important considerations when preparing research. You need to plan your sampling strategy, consider ethical issues, and negotiate access to your research setting.

Question 20

What practical steps can you take before you actually start your research?

Accepted Answer

All of the options listed are practical steps to take before starting research. Understanding institutional requirements ensures compliance, familiarity with tools prevents technical issues, and ethics clearance is often necessary for research involving human subjects.

Quiz 2: Legal Education and Risk Management (RM) 2: Sampling, Strategies, and Practical Considerations