GLOSSARY OF TERMS IN PR1

1. APA Citation: APA Citation refers to the citation style developed by the American
Psychological Association. It is commonly used in social sciences for citing sources in
research papers and articles.

2. Audio-visual materials: Audio-visual materials refer to any content that combines

audio and visual elements for communication purposes. They can include videos,
presentations, and multimedia resources.

3. Case study: A case study is a research method that involves an in-depth study of a
specific individual, group, or event. It provides detailed insights and analysis of a
particular case.

4. Citation: Citation is the process of referencing or acknowledging the sources of

information used in research. It helps in giving credit to the original authors and avoiding
plagiarism.

5. Cluster sampling: Cluster sampling is a sampling technique where the population is

divided into clusters, and a random sample of clusters is selected for research purposes.
It is useful when the population is geographically dispersed.

6. Consent form: A consent form is a document that explains the research study to
participants and obtains their voluntary agreement to participate. It highlights the
purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits of the study.

7. Content analysis: Content analysis is a research method used to analyze textual,

audio, or visual content systematically. It involves categorizing and interpreting the
content to identify patterns and themes.

8. Data collection: Data collection refers to the process of gathering information or data
for research purposes. It can involve various methods such as surveys, interviews,
observations, and existing databases.

9. Ethnography: Ethnography is a qualitative research method used to study and

understand cultures and social groups. It involves immersive fieldwork and participant
observation to gain insights into the context.

10. Focus groups: Focus groups are a qualitative research technique where a small group
of participants discusses specific topics or issues under the guidance of a moderator. It
aims to gather diverse perspectives and insights.

11. Grounded theory: Grounded theory is a qualitative research approach that involves
developing theories or concepts based on empirical data. It emphasizes the inductive
analysis of data to generate new insights.
12. Hawthorne effect: The Hawthorne effect refers to the phenomenon where
individuals modify their behavior or performance when they are aware of being
observed in a research study. It can impact the validity of research results.

13. Immersion: Immersion in research refers to deep engagement or involvement in the

study context. It involves spending significant time in the field, observing, and
interacting with participants to understand their experiences.

14. Information bias: Information bias occurs when there are errors or inaccuracies in
the data collected for research, leading to biased results. It can affect the validity and
reliability of study findings.

15. Interview: An interview is a research method where a researcher asks questions to

participants to gather information, insights, or opinions on a specific topic. It can be
structured, semi-structured, or unstructured.

16. Literature review: A literature review is a critical analysis of existing research and
publications relevant to a research topic. It helps in understanding the current state of
knowledge, identifying gaps, and providing a theoretical framework for the study.

17. Methodology: Methodology refers to the systematic approach or set of methods

employed in a research study to conduct research, collect data, analyze findings, and
draw conclusions. It outlines the procedures and techniques used in the research
process.

18. Narratology: Narratology is the study of narrative structures and storytelling

techniques. In research, it can be used to analyze how narratives are constructed and
interpreted in various contexts.

19. Non-probability sampling: Non-probability sampling is a sampling technique where

the selection of participants is based on convenience or judgment rather than random
selection. It may introduce bias but can be practical in certain research scenarios.

20. Observer bias: Observer bias occurs when researchers' expectations or beliefs
influence their observations or interpretations of data. It can lead to subjective
conclusions and affect the reliability of study results.

21. Omitted variable bias: Omitted variable bias occurs when a relevant variable that
should be included in the analysis is left out, leading to biased or incorrect results in the
research study. It can affect the validity of findings.

22. Phenomenology: Phenomenology is a qualitative research approach focused on

understanding and describing individuals' lived experiences and perceptions of a
particular phenomenon. It aims to explore subjective realities and meanings.

23. Primary source: A primary source is an original piece of information or data that is
directly related to the topic of study. It includes first-hand accounts, documents,
artifacts, or data collected from the original source.
24. Purposive sampling: Purposive sampling is a non-probability sampling technique
where researchers deliberately select participants based on specific criteria, expertise,
or characteristics relevant to the research study. It is used to ensure the inclusion of
diverse perspectives.

25. Quantitative research: Quantitative research is a research method that focuses on

collecting and analyzing numerical data to understand relationships, patterns, and
trends. It involves statistical analysis and aims for objectivity and generalizability.

26. Qualitative research: Qualitative research is a research method that aims to explore
and understand complex phenomena through description, interpretation, and context. It
involves in-depth data collection and analysis to uncover rich insights.

27. Qualitative sampling: Qualitative sampling refers to the process of selecting

participants or cases for qualitative research based on criteria such as relevance,
diversity, or information richness. It aims to capture the depth and complexity of the
phenomenon under study.

28. Recall bias: Recall bias occurs when participants in a research study inaccurately
remember or report past events or experiences. It can introduce errors in data collection
and affect the validity of study findings.

29. Research ethics: Research ethics refers to the principles and guidelines that govern
the conduct of research involving human subjects or animals. It includes considerations
of consent, confidentiality, integrity, and respect for participants' rights.

30. Research Inquiry: Research Inquiry refers to the process of formulating research
questions, objectives, and hypotheses to guide a research study. It involves identifying
the scope, purpose, and direction of the research investigation.

31. Research questions: Research questions are specific inquiries or queries that define
the scope and focus of a research study. They guide the research process by directing
what information needs to be collected and analyzed.

32. Respondents: Respondents are individuals who participate in research studies by

providing information, answering questions, or sharing their experiences. They are key
participants in surveys, interviews, and other data collection methods.

33. Sampling bias: Sampling bias occurs when the sample selected for a research study is
not representative of the population, leading to skewed or inaccurate results. It can
result from non-random selection or underrepresentation of certain groups.

34. Secondary source: A secondary source is a document or information source that

interprets or analyzes primary sources. It includes textbooks, reviews, and scholarly
articles that discuss or reference original research findings.

35. Selection bias: Selection bias occurs when certain individuals or groups are
systematically excluded or included in a research study, leading to biased results. It may
arise from non-random sampling or participant recruitment methods.

36. Simple sampling: Simple sampling is a basic sampling technique where every
member of the population has an equal chance of being selected for the sample. It is
straightforward and suitable for small populations.

37. Social desirability bias: Social desirability bias occurs when participants in a research
study respond in a way that is socially acceptable or favorable rather than providing
honest or accurate information. It can distort the validity of study results.

38. Stratified random sampling: Stratified random sampling is a sampling technique

where the population is divided into subgroups or strata based on specific
characteristics, and a random sample is selected from each stratum. It ensures
representation of diverse groups in the sample.

39. Surveys: Surveys are research instruments comprising a series of questions used to
collect data and opinions from a sample of individuals. They are commonly used to
gather quantitative or qualitative information on attitudes, behaviors, or preferences.

40. Systematic sampling: Systematic sampling is a sampling method where every nth
member of the population is selected as part of the sample. It is a systematic and
efficient way to create a representative sample when there is a defined order or list of
the population.

41. Thematic analysis: Thematic analysis is a qualitative research method for identifying,
analyzing, and reporting patterns or themes within data. It involves systematically
coding and interpreting data to reveal underlying themes or concepts.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS IN PR1

1. APA Citation: APA Citation refers to the citation style developed by the American
Psychological Association. It is commonly used in social sciences for citing sources in
research papers and articles.

2. Audio-visual materials: Audio-visual materials refer to any content that combines audio
and visual elements for communication purposes. They can include videos, presentations,
and multimedia resources.

3. Case study: A case study is a research method that involves an in-depth study of a
specific individual, group, or event. It provides detailed insights and analysis of a particular
case.

4. Citation: Citation is the process of referencing or acknowledging the sources of

information used in research. It helps in giving credit to the original authors and avoiding
plagiarism.

5. Cluster sampling: Cluster sampling is a sampling technique where the population is

divided into clusters, and a random sample of clusters is selected for research purposes. It is
useful when the population is geographically dispersed.

6. Consent form: A consent form is a document that explains the research study to
participants and obtains their voluntary agreement to participate. It highlights the purpose,
procedures, risks, and benefits of the study.

7. Content analysis: Content analysis is a research method used to analyze textual, audio, or
visual content systematically. It involves categorizing and interpreting the content to
identify patterns and themes.

8. Data collection: Data collection refers to the process of gathering information or data for
research purposes. It can involve various methods such as surveys, interviews,
observations, and existing databases.

9. Ethnography: Ethnography is a qualitative research method used to study and

understand cultures and social groups. It involves immersive fieldwork and participant
observation to gain insights into the context.

10. Focus groups: Focus groups are a qualitative research technique where a small group of
participants discusses specific topics or issues under the guidance of a moderator. It aims to
gather diverse perspectives and insights.

11. Grounded theory: Grounded theory is a qualitative research approach that involves
developing theories or concepts based on empirical data. It emphasizes the inductive
analysis of data to generate new insights.

12. Hawthorne effect: The Hawthorne effect refers to the phenomenon where individuals
modify their behavior or performance when they are aware of being observed in a research
study. It can impact the validity of research results.

13. Immersion: Immersion in research refers to deep engagement or involvement in the

study context. It involves spending significant time in the field, observing, and interacting
with participants to understand their experiences.

14. Information bias: Information bias occurs when there are errors or inaccuracies in the
data collected for research, leading to biased results. It can affect the validity and reliability
of study findings.

15. Interview: An interview is a research method where a researcher asks questions to

participants to gather information, insights, or opinions on a specific topic. It can be
structured, semi-structured, or unstructured.

16. Literature review: A literature review is a critical analysis of existing research and
publications relevant to a research topic. It helps in understanding the current state of
knowledge, identifying gaps, and providing a theoretical framework for the study.

17. Methodology: Methodology refers to the systematic approach or set of methods

employed in a research study to conduct research, collect data, analyze findings, and draw
conclusions. It outlines the procedures and techniques used in the research process.

18. Narratology: Narratology is the study of narrative structures and storytelling techniques.
In research, it can be used to analyze how narratives are constructed and interpreted in
various contexts.

19. Non-probability sampling: Non-probability sampling is a sampling technique where the

selection of participants is based on convenience or judgment rather than random
selection. It may introduce bias but can be practical in certain research scenarios.

20. Observer bias: Observer bias occurs when researchers' expectations or beliefs influence
their observations or interpretations of data. It can lead to subjective conclusions and affect
the reliability of study results.

21. Omitted variable bias: Omitted variable bias occurs when a relevant variable that should
be included in the analysis is left out, leading to biased or incorrect results in the research
study. It can affect the validity of findings.

22. Phenomenology: Phenomenology is a qualitative research approach focused on

understanding and describing individuals' lived experiences and perceptions of a particular
phenomenon. It aims to explore subjective realities and meanings.

23. Primary source: A primary source is an original piece of information or data that is
directly related to the topic of study. It includes first-hand accounts, documents, artifacts,
or data collected from the original source.

24. Purposive sampling: Purposive sampling is a non-probability sampling technique where

researchers deliberately select participants based on specific criteria, expertise, or
characteristics relevant to the research study. It is used to ensure the inclusion of diverse
perspectives.

25. Quantitative research: Quantitative research is a research method that focuses on

collecting and analyzing numerical data to understand relationships, patterns, and trends. It
involves statistical analysis and aims for objectivity and generalizability.

26. Qualitative research: Qualitative research is a research method that aims to explore and
understand complex phenomena through description, interpretation, and context. It
involves in-depth data collection and analysis to uncover rich insights.

27. Qualitative sampling: Qualitative sampling refers to the process of selecting participants
or cases for qualitative research based on criteria such as relevance, diversity, or
information richness. It aims to capture the depth and complexity of the phenomenon
under study.

28. Recall bias: Recall bias occurs when participants in a research study inaccurately
remember or report past events or experiences. It can introduce errors in data collection
and affect the validity of study findings.

29. Research ethics: Research ethics refers to the principles and guidelines that govern the
conduct of research involving human subjects or animals. It includes considerations of
consent, confidentiality, integrity, and respect for participants' rights.

30. Research Inquiry: Research Inquiry refers to the process of formulating research
questions, objectives, and hypotheses to guide a research study. It involves identifying the
scope, purpose, and direction of the research investigation.

31. Research questions: Research questions are specific inquiries or queries that define the
scope and focus of a research study. They guide the research process by directing what
information needs to be collected and analyzed.

32. Respondents: Respondents are individuals who participate in research studies by

providing information, answering questions, or sharing their experiences. They are key
participants in surveys, interviews, and other data collection methods.

33. Sampling bias: Sampling bias occurs when the sample selected for a research study is
not representative of the population, leading to skewed or inaccurate results. It can result
from non-random selection or underrepresentation of certain groups.

34. Secondary source: A secondary source is a document or information source that

interprets or analyzes primary sources. It includes textbooks, reviews, and scholarly articles
that discuss or reference original research findings.

35. Selection bias: Selection bias occurs when certain individuals or groups are
systematically excluded or included in a research study, leading to biased results. It may
arise from non-random sampling or participant recruitment methods.
36. Simple sampling: Simple sampling is a basic sampling technique where every member of
the population has an equal chance of being selected for the sample. It is straightforward
and suitable for small populations.

37. Social desirability bias: Social desirability bias occurs when participants in a research
study respond in a way that is socially acceptable or favorable rather than providing honest
or accurate information. It can distort the validity of study results.

38. Stratified random sampling: Stratified random sampling is a sampling technique where
the population is divided into subgroups or strata based on specific characteristics, and a
random sample is selected from each stratum. It ensures representation of diverse groups
in the sample.

39. Surveys: Surveys are research instruments comprising a series of questions used to
collect data and opinions from a sample of individuals. They are commonly used to gather
quantitative or qualitative information on attitudes, behaviors, or preferences.

40. Systematic sampling: Systematic sampling is a sampling method where every nth
member of the population is selected as part of the sample. It is a systematic and efficient
way to create a representative sample when there is a defined order or list of the
population.

41. Thematic analysis: Thematic analysis is a qualitative research method for identifying,
analyzing, and reporting patterns or themes within data. It involves systematically coding
and interpreting data to reveal underlying themes or concepts.