Research Fundamentals: Questions, Instruments, and Frameworks

Research Fundamentals

Problem: A question being asked about reality.

Instrument: A mechanism that allows us to obtain information.

Indicator: Survey questions.

Variables: Choices within a question in the survey.

Tab: The process by which information is extracted from our research tool.

Matrix of Research: Where information is deposited.

Hypothesis: A tentative answer to a question. Variables are drawn, including behavior problems, causal variables, and behavior.

Problems guide our investigation. These are

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Understanding Visual Impairment, Intellectual Disabilities, and Learning Disabilities

Visual Impairment

Anatomic or functional disturbances in the sense of vision affecting visual acuity, field of vision, color perception, or binocular visual function. This refers to persons with visual acuity ranging from 20/70 to 20/200.

Definitions

Legally blind: 20/200 in best eye with corrected vision, or <20% visual field (norm is 140-160).

Causes

  • Diabetic retinopathy (#1 cause; 80% of juvenile-onset diabetes will experience diabetic retinopathy)
  • Glaucoma
  • Head trauma
  • Macular degeneration
  • Cataracts
  • Retinitis
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Humanistic Psychology & Behavioral Psychology

Humanistic Movement: Carl Rogers

One of the key figures in humanistic psychology, Carl Rogers, developed his theories based on his extensive clinical experience. A central work in his theory is his book, Client-Centered Therapy. In 1961, the American Psychological Association recognized humanistic psychology. Key tenets of Rogers’ approach include:

  • The subjective importance of individual experience.
  • A belief that every living being strives towards positive goals.
  • Emphasis on personal responsibility
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Organizational Behavior: Key Concepts and Applications

Organizational Behavior: Key Concepts

Part 1: Introduction to Organizational Behavior

1) Organizational Behavior (OB) is a field of study that seeks to do all of the following except:

  • e) Improving technical skills of interpersonal skills.

2) The tasks of a manager include:

  • e) All of the previous

3) Which of the following players is not substantially certain to research OB?

  • e) Most all of the above are not substantially certain

4) Which of the following is not a challenge or an opportunity for managers today?

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Understanding Research Methods: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed

Research Methods: Key Concepts

Research: Scientific inquiry or investigation; a way to find answers to questions. Research is an exploration of experience, sometimes formal and technical, but not necessarily so.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research

Qualitative Research:

  • Focuses on questions that are not easily quantifiable.
  • Often uses an interpretative approach.
  • Common in sociology.
  • Deals with complex problems.

Quantitative Research:

  • Relies on numerical data and analysis.
  • Seeks generalizable findings.
  • Often
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Understanding Memory: Encoding, Storage, and Retrieval

Understanding Memory: Key Concepts

Encoding: The process of organizing and transforming incoming information so that it can be entered into memory, either to be stored or to be compared with previously stored information.

Memory Storage

Storage: The process of retaining information in memory.

Memory Store: A set of neurons that serves to retain information over time.

Memory Retrieval

Retrieval: The process of accessing information stored in memory.

Types of Memory Stores

Modality-Specific Memory Store:

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