1. What is the difference between quantitative and qualitative research methods? Give an example of
each.
- Quantitative research methods involve collecting and analyzing numerical data to test hypotheses or
measure outcomes. For example, a randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness of two
drugs.
- Qualitative research methods involve collecting and analyzing non-numerical data to explore
meanings, experiences or perceptions. For example, a focus group interview to understand the barriers
and facilitators of medication adherence.
2. What are the main components of a research proposal? Explain the purpose of each component.
- A research proposal typically consists of the following components: introduction, literature review,
research question, research design, data collection and analysis, ethical considerations, and timeline.
- The introduction provides the background and context of the research topic, identifies the knowledge
gap, and states the aim and objectives of the study.
- The literature review summarizes and evaluates the existing literature on the research topic, identifies
the strengths and limitations of previous studies, and demonstrates the significance and originality of
the proposed study.
, - The research question specifies the main question or problem that the study intends to address, and
may also include sub-questions or hypotheses.
- The research design describes the overall approach and strategy of the study, such as experimental,
observational, descriptive, or exploratory. It also specifies the type and size of the sample, the sampling
method, the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the intervention or exposure if applicable.
- The data collection and analysis section describes the methods and tools that will be used to collect
and analyze the data, such as surveys, interviews, observations, tests, or statistics. It also explains how
the validity and reliability of the data will be ensured, and how the potential biases and confounding
factors will be controlled or minimized.
- The ethical considerations section identifies and addresses the ethical issues that may arise from the
study, such as informed consent, confidentiality, anonymity, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and
respect for autonomy. It also describes how the ethical approval will be obtained from the relevant
authorities or committees.
- The timeline section provides a realistic and feasible schedule for completing each stage of the study,
such as literature review, data collection, data analysis, report writing, and dissemination.
3. What are some common types of bias in scientific research? Give an example of each type and how it
can be avoided or reduced.
- Bias is any systematic error or deviation from the truth that affects the results or conclusions of a
study. Some common types of bias are:
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