, TESTBANK FOR Evidence-Based Practice Third Edition Hall
Important Notes
The file includes the complete test bank, organized chapter by chapter.
A sample of selected pages has been provided for preview.
All available appendices and Excel files (if included in the original resources) are
provided.
Quizzes, Midterm and final exams are included (if available in the original resources).
We continuously update our files to ensure you receive the latest and most accurate
editions.
New editions are added regularly – stay connected for updates!
⚠️Note on Answer Keys: If the answer key is not included within the chapter
questions, you will find the complete answers and solutions at the end of each
chapter.
✅ Why Buy From Us?
📚 Complete & organized chapter-by-chapter – no missing content, no guessing.
⚡ Instant digital delivery – get your file the moment you pay, no waiting.
📅 Always up to date – we track new editions so you always get the latest version.
💬 Friendly support – real humans ready to help, anytime you need us.
🔒 Safe & secure – thousands of satisfied students trust us every semester.
🛡️Our Guarantees
💰 Money-Back Guarantee: Not satisfied? We offer a full refund – no questions asked.
🔄 Wrong File? No Problem: Contact us and we will replace it immediately with the
correct version, free of charge.
⏰ 24/7 Support: We are always here – reach out anytime and expect a fast response.
,P A R T I : Critical Appraisal of Research to Support Scholarship
Chapter 1: Quantitative Research
1. The ________ is the one of primary interest to the research, also called the outcome.
a. dependent variable
b. independent variable
c. confounding variable
d. conceptual variable
Answer: a
Rationale: The dependent variable is the variable of primary interest to the researcher; it also
may be called the outcome. An independent variable is manipulated by the researcher to
influence the dependent variable; it also may be called the predictor variable. The confounding
variable is an extraneous third variable that influences the relationship between the independent
and dependent variables. Conceptual variables have attributes or characteristics that differ in
quantity or quality and describe people or things (Babbie, 2012), and they must be
operationalized.
2. Which method is a type of nonprobability sampling?
a. Stratified sampling
b. Quota sampling
c. Cluster sampling
d. Systematic sampling
Answer: b
Rationale: There are two types of sampling: probability sampling and nonprobability sampling.
Probability sampling means that all participants have the same chance of being chosen in the
sample. Four probability sampling methods are simple random sampling, stratified sampling,
cluster sampling, and systematic sampling. Nonprobability uses methods such as convenience
sampling, quota sampling, purposive sampling, and snowball sampling.
3. The term “______” means a standardized measurement instrument appears to measure what
the researcher intended to measure.
a. construct
b. internal validity
c. face
d. reliability
Answer: c
Rationale: Face means the instrument appears to measure what the researcher intended.
Reliability measures the consistency and stability of responses over time in a standardized
measurement instrument. Reliability does not ensure that measures are accurately measuring
what researchers think they measure. Construct is when validity is convergent when results
correspond to the results of methods measuring the same concept. It has discriminant validity
when results do not highly correspond to other constructs as they do with measures of the same
construct. Internal validity is the degree to which we can confidently conclude that the
treatment caused the outcomes observed.
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,4. The _______ group design is considered weak because there is no control, and therefore no
point of comparison.
a. quasi-experimental
b. time-series
c. nonequivalent comparison
d. one-shot case study
Answer: d
Rationale: Despite the weakness of this study design, one-shot case studies are used quite
frequently. In higher education, student evaluations of teaching are an example of this design.
Many hospitals and social service agencies use this design to ask patients or participants about
their knowledge or skills gained from a service. The problem with this design is that there are no
points of comparison. Quasi-experimental-design involve assignment to two groups without
randomization or the use of a comparison group in place of a control group. Although less
rigorous than an experimental design, quasi- experimental designs are an improvement over
preexperimental designs. Time series design allows the research to examine the question of
whether there was a trend in the data both before and after the intervention. Opinions differ as to
how many pretests and posttests are needed in a time-series design. In some designs, the
dependent variable is measured four times before the intervention and four times after. The
nonequivalent comparison group is a type of quasi-experimental design, but more rigorous. It
gets the same number of observations of the dependent variable in the same time frame but does
not receive the intervention. The multiple time-series design addresses the concern that an
external event occurring simultaneous to the intervention could have influenced the dependent
variable.
5. Which statement indicates with a high degree of certainty that an explanatory relationship
exists between two variables?
a. The independent variable comes before the dependent variable chronologically.
b. The relationship between the independent and dependent variables is influenced by a third
variable.
c. The independent and dependent variables cannot be explained as being the result of an
empirical relationship with one another.
d. The dependent variable is associated with the independent variable in a nonequivalent control
group.
Answer: a
Rationale: There are three criteria that can produce a high degree of certainty that an explanatory
relationship exists: (1) The independent variable (cause) should come before the dependent
variable (effect) chronologically. (2) The independent and dependent variables should be
empirically related to each other. (3) The relationship between the independent and dependent
variables cannot be explained as the result of the influence of a third variable.
6. Which two techniques set an experimental design apart from preexperimental or quasi-
experimental designs?
a. Nonequivalent comparison groups and intervention
b. Control groups and randomization
c. Hypotheses and pretest-posttest design
d. Two nonrandomized groups and a comparison group
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,Answer: b
Rationale: Control groups and randomization. A control group is a set of research respondents
who resemble the experimental group in every way except that they do not receive the target
intervention of the research study. Randomization is the assignment of respondents to either the
experimental or control group at random. In a nonequivalent comparison groups and intervention
design, one group is exposed to a treatment, a nonequivalent group is not exposed to a treatment,
and then the two groups are compared. Hypothesis and pretest-posttest design assesses the
dependent variable before and after the stimulus or intervention is introduced. Without a control
group, it is not possible to rule out these alternative explanations. Two nonrandomized groups
and a comparison group design lack an experimental design because they are not randomized and
if outcomes are different, it cannot be ruled out that the possibility that demographic differences
between the groups led to the difference in outcomes.
7. In the Solomon four-group design respondents are divided into:
a. four experimental groups; each group is given one, two, or three pretests.
b. two experimental groups and two control groups; one experimental group and one control
group are pretested and the others are not.
c. three experimental groups and one control group; the control group is pretested and the
experimental groups are posttested.
d. four groups: experimental, quasi-experimental, preexperimental, and control.
Answer: b
Rationale: If researchers would like to know about pretest-posttest change but are concerned
about the problem of testing effects, they can use the Solomon four-group design. This is a
highly regarded research design that involves dividing respondents into four groups: two are
experimental, and two are control. One of the experimental groups and one of the control groups
are pretested but not the other.
8. Three faculty members are grading the same paper to establish interrater reliability. Which
scenario best determines interrater reliability?
A. Faculty A-80 Faculty B-82 Faculty C-85
B. Faculty A-95 Faculty B-100 Faculty C-70
C. Faculty A-97 Faculty B-96 Faculty C-94
D. Faculty A-93 Faculty B-84 Faculty C-88
Answer: c
Rationale: Interrater reliability is the degree of agreement or consistency between raters. Faculty
teaching across multiple sections of a course will typically grade the same paper using the same
rubric to determine they are all grading on the same level. This is known as establishing
interrater reliability. Faculty group C has most established interrater reliability-their scores range
from a 94 to a 97 (within 4 points). Faculty group A has a score range from 80-85 (within 5
points). Faculty group B has a score range from 70-100 (within 30 points). Faculty group D has a
score range from 84-93 (within 9 points).
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,9. _________ are commonly used in experiments on drugs so that participants will not know
whether they are receiving the drug or not. In psychosocial or health education interventions, an
alternative program that is not expected to affect the outcome can be used for the same purpose.
a. Pretest-posttest designs
b. Meta-analyses
c. Reactivity effects
d. Placebos
Answer: d
Rationale: Use of a placebo has become standard practice in drug studies, but it also can be used
in other types of intervention studies. Researchers who examine psychosocial or health education
interventions can introduce an alternative program that is not believed to have an impact on the
dependent variables of interest as a placebo for the control group. Pretest-posttest designs are
used to test the effectiveness of a drug or a program. A pretest would be administered prior to the
intervention and following the intervention to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.
Meta-analysis is “a set of statistical techniques for combining quantitative results from multiple
studies to produce a summary of empirical knowledge on a given topic” (Littell et al., 2008, pp.
1–2). Meta-analysis is used after data have been extracted in the systematic review process.
Reactivity effects is when a research participant changes the way they behave because they know
they're being observed.
10. Which term a set of statistical techniques to combine the quantitative results of many studies,
producing a summary of empirical knowledge on a given topic?
a. Meta-analysis
b. Systematic review
c. Quantitative research
d. Nonequivalent comparison
Answer: a
Rationale: Meta-analysis has been defined as “a set of statistical techniques for combining
quantitative results from multiple studies to produce a summary of empirical knowledge on a
given topic” (Littell et al., 2008, pp. 1–2). Meta-analysis is used after data have been extracted in
the systematic review process. A systematic review is a process of comprehensively locating and
synthesizing the research on a particular question using organized, transparent, and replicable
procedures (Littell et al., 2008). Quantitative research is the process of collecting and analyzing
numerical data. Nonequivalent comparison is a quasi-experimental design which has not been
randomly assigned to conditions.
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,P A R T I : Critical Appraisal of Research to Support Scholarship
Chapter 2: Qualitative Research
1. The term “_______” refers to the fundamental concept that a qualitative researcher is
investigating, and includes subjective experiences such as physical and emotional sensations.
a. phenomenon
b. subject
c. fieldwork
d. observations
Answer: a
Rationale: A phenomenon is identified as the fundamental concept that the researcher is
investigating. A phenomenon is the awareness that subjects are experiencing in the study and
also involves emotional concepts such as pain, unhappiness, rage, irritation, and love. A subject
is an individual participating in research. Fieldwork refers to the closely controlled method of
questioning that allows an ethnographer to personally gather data over a broad period.
Observations are behaviors the researcher sees of a subject during an interview.
2. Researchers using qualitative designs need flexibility in the way they gather their data. For
instance, in a(n) _______ design, data is gathered over a long period of time.
a. cross-section
b. longitudinal
c. extended
d. phenomenological
Answer: b
Rationale: Researchers have the choice of two different time frames when using qualitative
research design: cross-sectional or longitudinal. Data are gathered from one place in cross-
sectional design, whereas a qualitative longitudinal time frame allows for data gathering for a
longer period. Although the time period is extended, the appropriate term is not an extended
design, but longitudinal. Phenomenological research is the method of discovering and structuring
the meaning of human incidents through interviews with people actually involved in the real-life
experience (Creswell, 2007; Polit & Beck, 2017).
3. The way to determine an appropriate sample size for a qualitative research study depends on
the purpose of the study. For instance, _______ involves participants recruiting others to
participate in the study.
a. convenience sampling
b. purposive sampling
c. snowball sampling
d. theoretical sampling
Answer: c
Rationale: Snowball sampling involves participants referring other individuals to enroll in the
study. Convenience sampling refers to individuals volunteering their time to participate in the
study. Purposive sampling involves the researcher’s intentional choice of individuals or groups
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,of people who will help the study (Polit & Beck, 2017). Theoretical sampling involves selecting
groups as needed based on theoretical significance for the purpose of allowing categories to
emerge from the data (Polit & Beck, 2017). The sample selection is based on the probability of
representing a theoretical construct (Patton, 2002).
4. When analyzing data from a focus group, the researcher discovers that the focus group
participants were mostly in agreement on the topic discussed, but one person sat with his arms
folded over his chest and shook his head while the others were talking. Which statement
describes the correct action for the researcher to take?
a. Repeat the study with different participants until everyone in one focus group is in agreement.
b. Take the participant aside and discuss the topic again, in case he changes his mind.
c. Recalculate the data without this participant, because he is an outlier.
d. Make note of the nonverbal communication and disagreement of this participant and include
the data in the results.
Answer: d
Rationale: It is paramount to the trustworthiness of the study that the researcher conscientiously
focus on not only the topics discussed by focus groups but also the agreement or disagreement on
the topics among focus group participants. Likewise, opinions that differ from those of the
majority of the focus group should not be ignored, but analyzed. In addition, participants often
give communications nonverbally; these actions are important and should be included in the
analysis.
5. Which qualitative research method uses unstructured interviews with individuals living with
or experiencing the phenomenon in question, and in which the collection and analysis of data
happen at the same time?
a. Phenomenological research
b. Ethnographic research
c. Historical research
d. Grounded theory research
Answer: a
Rationale: In phenomenological research, data is collected through unstructured interviews with
individuals; new questions emerge as the data evolve. Data collection and analysis occur
simultaneously. In ethnographic research, data is collected through documentation, interviews,
and observation. Data for historical research is collected through interviewing individuals with
firsthand accounts in addition to pictures and newspaper articles. Grounded theory research data
is collected through interviews and observation.
6. Which statement best describes ethnographic research?
A. The researcher learned Spanish and moved to Mexico to conduct the study.
B. The researcher reviews a letter written by an individual who was stationed at Pearl Harbor.
C. The researcher interviews older adults about their experience with depression.
D. The researcher is investigating the quality of life of parents of children with cerebral palsy.
Answer: a
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,Rationale: Ethnographic research involves researching a particular culture. The researcher may
immerse themselves in the culture by learning the language or moving to the country to conduct
the research. Reading a letter written by a soldier is an example of historical research.
Interviewing older adults about their experience with depression is an example of
phenomenological research. Grounded theory studies communication in particular social groups;
investigating quality of life of parents of children with cerebral palsy is an example of grounded
theory research.
7. Historical research includes gathering data from many sources. Which statement would be
considered a primary source of information about a Civil War battle?
a. A diary written by a soldier’s wife after he returned home and talked about his experiences.
b. A button that has been handed down in a family for generations, along with the story that it
came from the uniform of a soldier who died in the battle.
c. A letter written the next day in the hospital by a soldier who survived the battle.
d. A newspaper account of the battle published the next week, based on hospital interviews with
survivors.
Answer: c.
Rationale: Primary sources include eyewitnesses to the historical event. Primary sources are
expected to supply researchers with more trustworthy information than a secondary source. A
letter written by a soldier who survived the battle is a primary source. Secondary sources supply
data that have been conveyed to them about the phenomenon. The further an informant is from
being an eyewitness to an event, the more untrustworthy the information becomes. A diary
written by a soldier’s wife, a button handed down in a family for generations with a story that it
came from a uniform of a soldier who died in battle, and a newspaper account of a battle based
on hospital interviews with survivors are secondary sources.
8. Which of the four criteria for trustworthiness, indicate that the strength or reliability of the
data holds up over time or in different circumstances?
a. Transferability
b. Confirmability
c. Credibility
d. Dependability
Answer: d
Rationale: Dependability is the strength or reliability of data through time and circumstances.
Credibility cannot be achieved if dependability is absent. Transferability is related to the findings
being applicable in other locations or groups of people. Confirmability is the comparison
between at least two researchers regarding the accuracy, significance, or meaning of the data
Confirmability is related to the data representing the information the participants described
(Lincoln & Guba, 1985).
9. One strategy that can be used to increase the quality of qualitative research is _________,
which involves the use of multiple references to establish truth and data, as well as cross-
checking conclusions.
a. triangulation
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
, b. prolonged engagement
c. persistent observation
d. peer debriefing
Answer: a
Rationale: Triangulation uses multiple references to establish truth and data, and conclusions can
be cross-checked. In the data analysis phase, different viewpoints are provided regarding the
same phenomenon; this enhances credibility by strengthening the conclusions. Prolonged
engagement includes the researcher spending quality time during the data collection process to
increase his or her knowledge of the participants and guarantee data saturation. Persistent
observation includes the researchers paying attention to the specific details of a discussion
among participants significant to the study (Lincoln & Guba, 1985). Peer debriefing includes
meetings between the researchers and their peers to evaluate the characteristics of the study.
10. A researcher is analyzing data using systemic coding. Which type of research has been
conducted given the method used to analyze the data?
A. Case study research
B. Grounded theory research
C. Phenomenological research
D. Historical research
Answer: B
Rationale: Data analysis for grounded theory research involves systemic coding. The researcher
begins data analysis by using collected data for open coding. Open coding requires the researcher
to use data collected from informants and observations and create about six categories that will
develop into major themes in the research study (Strauss & Corbin, 1990). Any category not
directly related to the phenomenon of concern is not included in the coding process (Wuest,
2007). Data analysis for case study research involves examining recorded data and connecting
relationships among data collected from all resources, and beginning to develop significance of
data, the case study story begins. Phenomenological research findings are presented to the reader
in an explanatory narrative that both justifies the use of the qualitative research and explains the
phenomenon studied through the experiences of participants (Liehr & LoBiondo-Wood, 2006).
Data analysis for historical research involves using internal and external criticism.
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
Important Notes
The file includes the complete test bank, organized chapter by chapter.
A sample of selected pages has been provided for preview.
All available appendices and Excel files (if included in the original resources) are
provided.
Quizzes, Midterm and final exams are included (if available in the original resources).
We continuously update our files to ensure you receive the latest and most accurate
editions.
New editions are added regularly – stay connected for updates!
⚠️Note on Answer Keys: If the answer key is not included within the chapter
questions, you will find the complete answers and solutions at the end of each
chapter.
✅ Why Buy From Us?
📚 Complete & organized chapter-by-chapter – no missing content, no guessing.
⚡ Instant digital delivery – get your file the moment you pay, no waiting.
📅 Always up to date – we track new editions so you always get the latest version.
💬 Friendly support – real humans ready to help, anytime you need us.
🔒 Safe & secure – thousands of satisfied students trust us every semester.
🛡️Our Guarantees
💰 Money-Back Guarantee: Not satisfied? We offer a full refund – no questions asked.
🔄 Wrong File? No Problem: Contact us and we will replace it immediately with the
correct version, free of charge.
⏰ 24/7 Support: We are always here – reach out anytime and expect a fast response.
,P A R T I : Critical Appraisal of Research to Support Scholarship
Chapter 1: Quantitative Research
1. The ________ is the one of primary interest to the research, also called the outcome.
a. dependent variable
b. independent variable
c. confounding variable
d. conceptual variable
Answer: a
Rationale: The dependent variable is the variable of primary interest to the researcher; it also
may be called the outcome. An independent variable is manipulated by the researcher to
influence the dependent variable; it also may be called the predictor variable. The confounding
variable is an extraneous third variable that influences the relationship between the independent
and dependent variables. Conceptual variables have attributes or characteristics that differ in
quantity or quality and describe people or things (Babbie, 2012), and they must be
operationalized.
2. Which method is a type of nonprobability sampling?
a. Stratified sampling
b. Quota sampling
c. Cluster sampling
d. Systematic sampling
Answer: b
Rationale: There are two types of sampling: probability sampling and nonprobability sampling.
Probability sampling means that all participants have the same chance of being chosen in the
sample. Four probability sampling methods are simple random sampling, stratified sampling,
cluster sampling, and systematic sampling. Nonprobability uses methods such as convenience
sampling, quota sampling, purposive sampling, and snowball sampling.
3. The term “______” means a standardized measurement instrument appears to measure what
the researcher intended to measure.
a. construct
b. internal validity
c. face
d. reliability
Answer: c
Rationale: Face means the instrument appears to measure what the researcher intended.
Reliability measures the consistency and stability of responses over time in a standardized
measurement instrument. Reliability does not ensure that measures are accurately measuring
what researchers think they measure. Construct is when validity is convergent when results
correspond to the results of methods measuring the same concept. It has discriminant validity
when results do not highly correspond to other constructs as they do with measures of the same
construct. Internal validity is the degree to which we can confidently conclude that the
treatment caused the outcomes observed.
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,4. The _______ group design is considered weak because there is no control, and therefore no
point of comparison.
a. quasi-experimental
b. time-series
c. nonequivalent comparison
d. one-shot case study
Answer: d
Rationale: Despite the weakness of this study design, one-shot case studies are used quite
frequently. In higher education, student evaluations of teaching are an example of this design.
Many hospitals and social service agencies use this design to ask patients or participants about
their knowledge or skills gained from a service. The problem with this design is that there are no
points of comparison. Quasi-experimental-design involve assignment to two groups without
randomization or the use of a comparison group in place of a control group. Although less
rigorous than an experimental design, quasi- experimental designs are an improvement over
preexperimental designs. Time series design allows the research to examine the question of
whether there was a trend in the data both before and after the intervention. Opinions differ as to
how many pretests and posttests are needed in a time-series design. In some designs, the
dependent variable is measured four times before the intervention and four times after. The
nonequivalent comparison group is a type of quasi-experimental design, but more rigorous. It
gets the same number of observations of the dependent variable in the same time frame but does
not receive the intervention. The multiple time-series design addresses the concern that an
external event occurring simultaneous to the intervention could have influenced the dependent
variable.
5. Which statement indicates with a high degree of certainty that an explanatory relationship
exists between two variables?
a. The independent variable comes before the dependent variable chronologically.
b. The relationship between the independent and dependent variables is influenced by a third
variable.
c. The independent and dependent variables cannot be explained as being the result of an
empirical relationship with one another.
d. The dependent variable is associated with the independent variable in a nonequivalent control
group.
Answer: a
Rationale: There are three criteria that can produce a high degree of certainty that an explanatory
relationship exists: (1) The independent variable (cause) should come before the dependent
variable (effect) chronologically. (2) The independent and dependent variables should be
empirically related to each other. (3) The relationship between the independent and dependent
variables cannot be explained as the result of the influence of a third variable.
6. Which two techniques set an experimental design apart from preexperimental or quasi-
experimental designs?
a. Nonequivalent comparison groups and intervention
b. Control groups and randomization
c. Hypotheses and pretest-posttest design
d. Two nonrandomized groups and a comparison group
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,Answer: b
Rationale: Control groups and randomization. A control group is a set of research respondents
who resemble the experimental group in every way except that they do not receive the target
intervention of the research study. Randomization is the assignment of respondents to either the
experimental or control group at random. In a nonequivalent comparison groups and intervention
design, one group is exposed to a treatment, a nonequivalent group is not exposed to a treatment,
and then the two groups are compared. Hypothesis and pretest-posttest design assesses the
dependent variable before and after the stimulus or intervention is introduced. Without a control
group, it is not possible to rule out these alternative explanations. Two nonrandomized groups
and a comparison group design lack an experimental design because they are not randomized and
if outcomes are different, it cannot be ruled out that the possibility that demographic differences
between the groups led to the difference in outcomes.
7. In the Solomon four-group design respondents are divided into:
a. four experimental groups; each group is given one, two, or three pretests.
b. two experimental groups and two control groups; one experimental group and one control
group are pretested and the others are not.
c. three experimental groups and one control group; the control group is pretested and the
experimental groups are posttested.
d. four groups: experimental, quasi-experimental, preexperimental, and control.
Answer: b
Rationale: If researchers would like to know about pretest-posttest change but are concerned
about the problem of testing effects, they can use the Solomon four-group design. This is a
highly regarded research design that involves dividing respondents into four groups: two are
experimental, and two are control. One of the experimental groups and one of the control groups
are pretested but not the other.
8. Three faculty members are grading the same paper to establish interrater reliability. Which
scenario best determines interrater reliability?
A. Faculty A-80 Faculty B-82 Faculty C-85
B. Faculty A-95 Faculty B-100 Faculty C-70
C. Faculty A-97 Faculty B-96 Faculty C-94
D. Faculty A-93 Faculty B-84 Faculty C-88
Answer: c
Rationale: Interrater reliability is the degree of agreement or consistency between raters. Faculty
teaching across multiple sections of a course will typically grade the same paper using the same
rubric to determine they are all grading on the same level. This is known as establishing
interrater reliability. Faculty group C has most established interrater reliability-their scores range
from a 94 to a 97 (within 4 points). Faculty group A has a score range from 80-85 (within 5
points). Faculty group B has a score range from 70-100 (within 30 points). Faculty group D has a
score range from 84-93 (within 9 points).
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,9. _________ are commonly used in experiments on drugs so that participants will not know
whether they are receiving the drug or not. In psychosocial or health education interventions, an
alternative program that is not expected to affect the outcome can be used for the same purpose.
a. Pretest-posttest designs
b. Meta-analyses
c. Reactivity effects
d. Placebos
Answer: d
Rationale: Use of a placebo has become standard practice in drug studies, but it also can be used
in other types of intervention studies. Researchers who examine psychosocial or health education
interventions can introduce an alternative program that is not believed to have an impact on the
dependent variables of interest as a placebo for the control group. Pretest-posttest designs are
used to test the effectiveness of a drug or a program. A pretest would be administered prior to the
intervention and following the intervention to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.
Meta-analysis is “a set of statistical techniques for combining quantitative results from multiple
studies to produce a summary of empirical knowledge on a given topic” (Littell et al., 2008, pp.
1–2). Meta-analysis is used after data have been extracted in the systematic review process.
Reactivity effects is when a research participant changes the way they behave because they know
they're being observed.
10. Which term a set of statistical techniques to combine the quantitative results of many studies,
producing a summary of empirical knowledge on a given topic?
a. Meta-analysis
b. Systematic review
c. Quantitative research
d. Nonequivalent comparison
Answer: a
Rationale: Meta-analysis has been defined as “a set of statistical techniques for combining
quantitative results from multiple studies to produce a summary of empirical knowledge on a
given topic” (Littell et al., 2008, pp. 1–2). Meta-analysis is used after data have been extracted in
the systematic review process. A systematic review is a process of comprehensively locating and
synthesizing the research on a particular question using organized, transparent, and replicable
procedures (Littell et al., 2008). Quantitative research is the process of collecting and analyzing
numerical data. Nonequivalent comparison is a quasi-experimental design which has not been
randomly assigned to conditions.
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,P A R T I : Critical Appraisal of Research to Support Scholarship
Chapter 2: Qualitative Research
1. The term “_______” refers to the fundamental concept that a qualitative researcher is
investigating, and includes subjective experiences such as physical and emotional sensations.
a. phenomenon
b. subject
c. fieldwork
d. observations
Answer: a
Rationale: A phenomenon is identified as the fundamental concept that the researcher is
investigating. A phenomenon is the awareness that subjects are experiencing in the study and
also involves emotional concepts such as pain, unhappiness, rage, irritation, and love. A subject
is an individual participating in research. Fieldwork refers to the closely controlled method of
questioning that allows an ethnographer to personally gather data over a broad period.
Observations are behaviors the researcher sees of a subject during an interview.
2. Researchers using qualitative designs need flexibility in the way they gather their data. For
instance, in a(n) _______ design, data is gathered over a long period of time.
a. cross-section
b. longitudinal
c. extended
d. phenomenological
Answer: b
Rationale: Researchers have the choice of two different time frames when using qualitative
research design: cross-sectional or longitudinal. Data are gathered from one place in cross-
sectional design, whereas a qualitative longitudinal time frame allows for data gathering for a
longer period. Although the time period is extended, the appropriate term is not an extended
design, but longitudinal. Phenomenological research is the method of discovering and structuring
the meaning of human incidents through interviews with people actually involved in the real-life
experience (Creswell, 2007; Polit & Beck, 2017).
3. The way to determine an appropriate sample size for a qualitative research study depends on
the purpose of the study. For instance, _______ involves participants recruiting others to
participate in the study.
a. convenience sampling
b. purposive sampling
c. snowball sampling
d. theoretical sampling
Answer: c
Rationale: Snowball sampling involves participants referring other individuals to enroll in the
study. Convenience sampling refers to individuals volunteering their time to participate in the
study. Purposive sampling involves the researcher’s intentional choice of individuals or groups
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,of people who will help the study (Polit & Beck, 2017). Theoretical sampling involves selecting
groups as needed based on theoretical significance for the purpose of allowing categories to
emerge from the data (Polit & Beck, 2017). The sample selection is based on the probability of
representing a theoretical construct (Patton, 2002).
4. When analyzing data from a focus group, the researcher discovers that the focus group
participants were mostly in agreement on the topic discussed, but one person sat with his arms
folded over his chest and shook his head while the others were talking. Which statement
describes the correct action for the researcher to take?
a. Repeat the study with different participants until everyone in one focus group is in agreement.
b. Take the participant aside and discuss the topic again, in case he changes his mind.
c. Recalculate the data without this participant, because he is an outlier.
d. Make note of the nonverbal communication and disagreement of this participant and include
the data in the results.
Answer: d
Rationale: It is paramount to the trustworthiness of the study that the researcher conscientiously
focus on not only the topics discussed by focus groups but also the agreement or disagreement on
the topics among focus group participants. Likewise, opinions that differ from those of the
majority of the focus group should not be ignored, but analyzed. In addition, participants often
give communications nonverbally; these actions are important and should be included in the
analysis.
5. Which qualitative research method uses unstructured interviews with individuals living with
or experiencing the phenomenon in question, and in which the collection and analysis of data
happen at the same time?
a. Phenomenological research
b. Ethnographic research
c. Historical research
d. Grounded theory research
Answer: a
Rationale: In phenomenological research, data is collected through unstructured interviews with
individuals; new questions emerge as the data evolve. Data collection and analysis occur
simultaneously. In ethnographic research, data is collected through documentation, interviews,
and observation. Data for historical research is collected through interviewing individuals with
firsthand accounts in addition to pictures and newspaper articles. Grounded theory research data
is collected through interviews and observation.
6. Which statement best describes ethnographic research?
A. The researcher learned Spanish and moved to Mexico to conduct the study.
B. The researcher reviews a letter written by an individual who was stationed at Pearl Harbor.
C. The researcher interviews older adults about their experience with depression.
D. The researcher is investigating the quality of life of parents of children with cerebral palsy.
Answer: a
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
,Rationale: Ethnographic research involves researching a particular culture. The researcher may
immerse themselves in the culture by learning the language or moving to the country to conduct
the research. Reading a letter written by a soldier is an example of historical research.
Interviewing older adults about their experience with depression is an example of
phenomenological research. Grounded theory studies communication in particular social groups;
investigating quality of life of parents of children with cerebral palsy is an example of grounded
theory research.
7. Historical research includes gathering data from many sources. Which statement would be
considered a primary source of information about a Civil War battle?
a. A diary written by a soldier’s wife after he returned home and talked about his experiences.
b. A button that has been handed down in a family for generations, along with the story that it
came from the uniform of a soldier who died in the battle.
c. A letter written the next day in the hospital by a soldier who survived the battle.
d. A newspaper account of the battle published the next week, based on hospital interviews with
survivors.
Answer: c.
Rationale: Primary sources include eyewitnesses to the historical event. Primary sources are
expected to supply researchers with more trustworthy information than a secondary source. A
letter written by a soldier who survived the battle is a primary source. Secondary sources supply
data that have been conveyed to them about the phenomenon. The further an informant is from
being an eyewitness to an event, the more untrustworthy the information becomes. A diary
written by a soldier’s wife, a button handed down in a family for generations with a story that it
came from a uniform of a soldier who died in battle, and a newspaper account of a battle based
on hospital interviews with survivors are secondary sources.
8. Which of the four criteria for trustworthiness, indicate that the strength or reliability of the
data holds up over time or in different circumstances?
a. Transferability
b. Confirmability
c. Credibility
d. Dependability
Answer: d
Rationale: Dependability is the strength or reliability of data through time and circumstances.
Credibility cannot be achieved if dependability is absent. Transferability is related to the findings
being applicable in other locations or groups of people. Confirmability is the comparison
between at least two researchers regarding the accuracy, significance, or meaning of the data
Confirmability is related to the data representing the information the participants described
(Lincoln & Guba, 1985).
9. One strategy that can be used to increase the quality of qualitative research is _________,
which involves the use of multiple references to establish truth and data, as well as cross-
checking conclusions.
a. triangulation
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
, b. prolonged engagement
c. persistent observation
d. peer debriefing
Answer: a
Rationale: Triangulation uses multiple references to establish truth and data, and conclusions can
be cross-checked. In the data analysis phase, different viewpoints are provided regarding the
same phenomenon; this enhances credibility by strengthening the conclusions. Prolonged
engagement includes the researcher spending quality time during the data collection process to
increase his or her knowledge of the participants and guarantee data saturation. Persistent
observation includes the researchers paying attention to the specific details of a discussion
among participants significant to the study (Lincoln & Guba, 1985). Peer debriefing includes
meetings between the researchers and their peers to evaluate the characteristics of the study.
10. A researcher is analyzing data using systemic coding. Which type of research has been
conducted given the method used to analyze the data?
A. Case study research
B. Grounded theory research
C. Phenomenological research
D. Historical research
Answer: B
Rationale: Data analysis for grounded theory research involves systemic coding. The researcher
begins data analysis by using collected data for open coding. Open coding requires the researcher
to use data collected from informants and observations and create about six categories that will
develop into major themes in the research study (Strauss & Corbin, 1990). Any category not
directly related to the phenomenon of concern is not included in the coding process (Wuest,
2007). Data analysis for case study research involves examining recorded data and connecting
relationships among data collected from all resources, and beginning to develop significance of
data, the case study story begins. Phenomenological research findings are presented to the reader
in an explanatory narrative that both justifies the use of the qualitative research and explains the
phenomenon studied through the experiences of participants (Liehr & LoBiondo-Wood, 2006).
Data analysis for historical research involves using internal and external criticism.
© 2021 Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company
