Question

Match the following forms of research to their definitions: $$ \text {1. Archival research} \quad \quad \text {a. Directly asking a sample of people questions about their behavior} $$ $$ \text {2. Naturalistic observation} \quad \quad \text {b. Examining existing records to test a hypothesis} $$ $$ \text {3. Survey research} \quad \quad \text {c. Looking at behavior in its true setting without intervening in the setting} $$ $$ \text {4. Case study} \quad \quad \text {d. Doing an in-depth investigation of a person or small group} $$

Short answer

1-b Archival Research, 2-c Naturalistic Observation, 3-a Survey Research, 4-d Case Study

Step-by-step solution

Match Archival Research

The definition of Archival research involves examining existing records to test a hypothesis. Hence, Archival research matches with option b.

Match Naturalistic Observation

The definition of Naturalistic observation specializes in looking at behavior in its true setting without intervening in the setting. Therefore, Naturalistic observation matches with description c.

Match Survey Research

Survey research is defined as directly asking a sample of people questions about their behavior. The suitable match for the Survey research is description a.

Match Case Study

Case study is defined as doing an in-depth investigation of a person or small group. Therefore, the Case study is correctly matched with description d

Key concepts

Archival Research

Archival research is a method where existing records are analyzed to answer scientific questions or test hypotheses. Researchers use already collected data, which could include historical documents like letters, newspapers, or organizational reports.
This method is beneficial as it provides insights into how certain phenomena develop over time without collecting new data.

• Saves time as data collection has already occurred.
• Cost-effective because data is often public or requires little financial investment.
• The vast volume of available records can allow researchers to identify patterns or correlations.

A limitation is the potential for incomplete or biased records, which can affect the conclusions drawn. To better utilize archival research, verify the authenticity and reliability of the sources used.

Naturalistic Observation

Naturalistic observation entails studying behavior in its normal environment without interference. The goal is to gather authentic data in the context where the behavior naturally occurs.
This approach allows researchers to see behaviors unfold as they would without any influence from the observer.

• Provides a real-world aspect to research findings.
• Helps develop hypotheses for further research.
• Useful for studying phenomena that cannot be artificially recreated.

Nonetheless, one downside is the lack of control over external variables, which can complicate data interpretation. Consequently, researchers should be cautious about making causal conclusions from naturalistic observations alone.

Survey Research

Survey research involves asking people questions to understand their thoughts, behaviors, or characteristics. This can be performed through questionnaires or interviews and is vital for gathering data from a large population.

• Surveys can be distributed widely and allow for large sample sizes.
• They offer insights into people's attitudes and self-reported behaviors.
• Can be analyzed quantitatively to identify trends or associations.

However, survey responses may be affected by the wording of questions or social desirability bias. Crafting clear and neutral survey questions can help minimize these effects, ensuring more reliable and valid responses.

Case Study

A case study method is an in-depth exploration of an individual or a small group. This research is comprehensive and often involves multiple data sources, such as interviews, observations, and archival documents. Case studies aim to provide a detailed understanding of complex issues within real-life contexts, offering specific and holistic insights.

• Enables a thorough exploration of the subject matter.
• Provides detailed and nuanced understanding.
• Beneficial for generating hypotheses that can be investigated further.

One key limitation of case studies is their limited generalizability due to the focus on a small group or individual. Nonetheless, they are invaluable for exploring new or uniquely challenging phenomena.