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Research Methods Question Paper

Research Methods

Course:Doctor Of Philosophy In Education

Institution: Kenyatta University question papers

Exam Year:2010

KENYATTA UNIVERSITY
UNIVERSITY EXAMINATIONS 2010/2011
FIRST SEMESTER EXAMINATION FOR THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
PSY/PHD/803: RESEARCH METHODS
DATE: FRIDAY, 26TH NOVEMBER 2010 TIME: 9.00 A.M. - 12.00 P.M.
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INSTRUCTIONS: ANSWER QUESTION ONE AND ANY OTHER 2 QUESTIONS.

QUESTION ONE - (30 marks)
a) Differentiate between the following concepts as used in research using relevant examples or illustrations:
i) Descriptive statistics and descriptive research
ii) Participant observation and non-participant observation
iii) Inductive and deductive reasoning
iv) Pretest and pilot study
v) Random assignment and random sampling (10 marks)

b) Discuss the differences and similarities between the following:
i) Cross sectional surveys and longitudinal surveys.
ii) Stratified sampling and quota sampling
iii) Correlational and causal comparative designs
iv) Interviews and focused group discussions
v) True experiments and quasi experiments(10 marks)

c) Describe 4 characteristics of a good hypothesis (3 marks)

d) Differentiate between the null and alternative hypothesis. (3 marks)

e) What role does each type of hypothesis stated in (c) play in a scientific research?
(2 marks)

f) Differentiate between types I and II errors in hypotheses testing. (2 marks)

QUESTION TWO - (10 marks)
Select any two research designs appropriate in qualitative studies designed to study
“factors contributing to the increased violence in the country”
i) Describe each method explicitly.
ii) In your discussion describe the population, sampling techniques and the research
instruments for collecting data.
iii) How will you strive to enhance the validity of the study?

QUESTION THREE - (10 marks)
Assuming that you have been asked to carry out an experiment whose purpose is
“To find out the effects of induced anxiety on academic achievement.” Indicate how
you would go about doing this. In your discussion make sure you specify the following:
i) Independent and dependent variables;
ii) Operational definitions of induced anxiety and academic achievement;
iii) The alternative and null hypotheses;
iv) One possible interaction effect;
v) One possible serendipity;
vi) An appropriate statistical test to be used in the analysis of the obtained data;
vii) Degree of the internal and external validity of the obtained results.

Research Methods Question Paper

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