Research methods and techniques: Practice Questions

In a study investigating the relationship between hours spent exercising and resting heart rate, a researcher calculates a Spearman’s Rho coefficient of \( r_s = -0.85 \). What does this value indicate about the correlation?

Which research method is characterized by a researcher manipulating an independent variable in a naturally occurring environment, such as a school or hospital, while still attempting to maintain some control over extraneous variables?

A researcher wants to study the natural interactions of children in a playground without interfering or making their presence known. Which type of observation would be most appropriate for this study?

A researcher is performing two separate studies. Study A uses a Mann-Whitney U test to look for a difference between two independent groups, and Study B uses a Spearman’s Rho test to look for a correlation. In both cases, the researcher compares their calculated value against a table of critical values at the \( p \le 0.05 \) level. Which of the following describes the correct criteria for rejecting the null hypothesis for both studies?

What type of experiment is conducted in a natural setting where the researcher directly manipulates the independent variable to observe its effect on the dependent variable?

Explain the difference between a structured observation and an unstructured observation in terms of the use of behavioural categories.