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- Descriptive Research | Definition, Types, Methods & Examples

Descriptive Research | Definition, Types, Methods & Examples
Published on May 15, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on October 10, 2022.
Descriptive research aims to accurately and systematically describe a population, situation or phenomenon. It can answer what , where , when and how questions , but not why questions.
A descriptive research design can use a wide variety of research methods to investigate one or more variables . Unlike in experimental research , the researcher does not control or manipulate any of the variables, but only observes and measures them.
Table of contents
When to use a descriptive research design, descriptive research methods.
Descriptive research is an appropriate choice when the research aim is to identify characteristics, frequencies, trends, and categories.
It is useful when not much is known yet about the topic or problem. Before you can research why something happens, you need to understand how, when and where it happens.
Descriptive research question examples
- How has the Amsterdam housing market changed over the past 20 years?
- Do customers of company X prefer product X or product Y?
- What are the main genetic, behavioural and morphological differences between European wildcats and domestic cats?
- What are the most popular online news sources among under-18s?
- How prevalent is disease A in population B?
Descriptive research is usually defined as a type of quantitative research , though qualitative research can also be used for descriptive purposes. The research design should be carefully developed to ensure that the results are valid and reliable .
Survey research allows you to gather large volumes of data that can be analyzed for frequencies, averages and patterns. Common uses of surveys include:
- Describing the demographics of a country or region
- Gauging public opinion on political and social topics
- Evaluating satisfaction with a company’s products or an organization’s services
Observations
Observations allow you to gather data on behaviours and phenomena without having to rely on the honesty and accuracy of respondents. This method is often used by psychological, social and market researchers to understand how people act in real-life situations.
Observation of physical entities and phenomena is also an important part of research in the natural sciences. Before you can develop testable hypotheses , models or theories, it’s necessary to observe and systematically describe the subject under investigation.
Case studies
A case study can be used to describe the characteristics of a specific subject (such as a person, group, event or organization). Instead of gathering a large volume of data to identify patterns across time or location, case studies gather detailed data to identify the characteristics of a narrowly defined subject.
Rather than aiming to describe generalizable facts, case studies often focus on unusual or interesting cases that challenge assumptions, add complexity, or reveal something new about a research problem .
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Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology
Student resources, multiple choice questions.
Revise your knowledge with these multiple choice quiz questions.
Chapter 2: Research in Psychology: Objectives and Ideals
Chapter 3: Research Methods
Chapter 4: Experimental Design
Chapter 5: Survey Design
Chapter 6: Descriptive Statistics
Chapter 7: Some Principles of Statistical Inference
Chapter 8: Examining Differences between Means: The t -test
Chapter 9: Examining Relationships between Variables: Correlation
Chapter 10: Comparing Two or More Means by Analysing Variances: ANOVA
Chapter 11: Analysing Other Forms of Data: Chi-square and Distribution-free Tests
Chapter 12: Classical Qualitative Methods
Chapter 13: Contextual Qualitative Methods
Chapter 14: Research Ethics
Chapter 15: Conclusion: Managing Uncertainty in Psychological Research
Chapter 4 Quiz

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What is the difference between the cash basis and the accrual basis of accounting?
Explain whether each of the following events increases, decreases, or has no effect on long-run aggregate supply.
The United States experiences a wave of immigration.
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An Adventure in Statistics: The Reality Enigma
Student resources, multiple choice questions.
Quizzes are available to test your understanding of the key concepts covered in each chapter. Click on the quiz below to get started.
1. What does a significant test statistic tell us?
- There is an important effect.
- That the test statistic is larger than we would expect if there were no effect in the population.
- The hull hypothesis is false.
- All of the above.
The correct answer is b) That the test statistic is larger than we would expect if there were no effect in the population.
2. What is the relationship between sample size and the standard error of the mean? ( Hint : The law of large numbers applies here: the larger the sample is, the better it will reflect that particular population.)
- The standard error decreases as the sample size decreases.
- The standard error is unaffected by the sample size.
- The standard error increases as the sample size increases.
- The standard error decreases as the sample size increases.
3. What symbol is used to represent the standard error of the mean?
4. Which of the following statements is true?
- The standard error is calculated solely from sample attributes.
- The standard deviation is calculated only from sample attributes.
- The standard error is a measure of central tendency.
The correct answer is a) The standard error is calculated solely from sample attributes. This is because the standard error can be computed from a knowledge of sample attributes – sample size and sample statistics.
5. There are basically two types of statistics – descriptive and inferential. Which of the following sentences are true about descriptive statistics? ( Hint : The answer is in the name descriptive statistics).
- Descriptive statistics enable you to make decisions about your data, for example, is one group mean significantly different from the population mean?
- Descriptive statistics describe the data.
- Descriptive statistics enable you to draw inferences about your data, for example does one variable predict another variable?
The correct answer is b) Descriptive statistics describe the data. Some examples are the mean and standard deviation.

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Educational Updates
Top 20 Research Design MCQ With Answers

Below given are top 20 important Research Design MCQ with answers. These updated multiple choice questions on research design are helpful for BBA, B Com, MBA, MMS, BMS, B Sc, Engineering, PGDM, M Phil and Ph D students and researchers. These MCQs will help for UGC NET, SET, MPSC, UPSC and other competitive entrance exams.
_______research is based on the measurement of quantity or amount.
A. Qualitative
B. Descriptive
C. Quantitative
D. Numerical
______ describes the present state of affairs as it exists without having any control over variables.
A. Analytical research
B. Descriptive research
C. Applied research
D. Distinctive research
In the _______research, the researcher has to use facts or information already available .
A. Analytical
D. Distinctive
__ ___ research is concerned with qualitative phenomena.
______ is related to some abstract ideas or theory.
A. Contextual research
B. Conceptual research
C. Ideal research
D. Empirical research
______ is data-based, coming up with conclusions that are capable of being verified, by observation or by experiment.
The objective of ______ is the development of hypotheses rather than their testing .
A. Laboratory research
B. Diagnostic research
C. Exploratory research
A ________ refers to some difficulty that a researcher experiences in either a theoretical or practical situation
A. research hypothesis
B. research experience
C. research problem
D. research crisis
_______ as a testable statement of a potential relationship between two or more variables.
Research design is a _________for conducting the marketing research project.
A. strategy
B. framework
C. blueprint
D. both B & C
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Lesson 1: Introduction to Epidemiology
Self-assessment quiz.
Now that you have read Lesson 1 and have completed the exercises, you should be ready to take the self-assessment quiz. This quiz is designed to help you assess how well you have learned the content of this lesson. You may refer to the lesson text whenever you are unsure of the answer.
Unless instructed otherwise, choose ALL correct answers for each question.
- Control measures
- Risk factors
- Describing the demographic characteristics of persons with acute aflatoxin poisoning in District A
- Prescribing an antibiotic to treat a patient with community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection
- Comparing the family history, amount of exercise, and eating habits of those with and without newly diagnosed diabetes
- Recommending that a restaurant be closed after implicating it as the source of a hepatitis A outbreak
- Biologically plausible hypothesis
- Comparison of a health outcome among exposed and unexposed groups
- Multivariate statistical model
- Recommendation for public health action
- Diagnosing whether a case of encephalitis is actually due to West Nile virus infection
- Soliciting case reports of persons with symptoms compatible with SARs from local hospitals
- Creating graphs of the number of dog bites by week and neighborhood
- Writing a report on trends in seat belt use to share with the state legislature
- Disseminating educational materials about ways people can reduce their risk of Lyme disease
- Use of an appropriate comparison group
- Laboratory confirmation of the diagnosis
- Publication in a peer-reviewed journal
- Statistical analysis using logistic regression
- Clinical criteria, plus specification of time, place, and person
- Clinical features, plus the exposure(s) you most suspect
- Suspect cases
- The nationally agreed standard case definition for disease reporting
- Is likely to include only (or mostly) true cases
- Is considered “loose” or “broad”
- Will include more cases than a sensitive case definition
- May exclude mild cases
- Conducting surveillance for communicable diseases
- Deciding how many doses of immune globulin are needed
- Estimating subgroups at highest risk
- Telling physicians which strain of influenza is most prevalent
- Endemic curve
- Epidemic curve
- Seasonal trend
- Secular trend
- Spot map by assigned dinner seating location
- Spot map by cabin
- Shaded map of United States by state of residence
- Shaded map by whether passenger consumed ship’s ice or not
- Age of passenger
- Detailed food history (what person ate) while aboard ship
- Status as passenger or crew
- 1-year age groups
- 5-year age groups
- 10-year age groups
- Depends on the disease
- Experimental
- Observational
- Case-control
- Clinical trial
- Subjects are enrolled or categorized on the basis of their exposure status in a cohort study but not in a case-control study
- Subjects are asked about their exposure status in a cohort study but not in a case-control study
- Cohort studies require many years to conduct, but case-control studies do not
- Cohort studies are conducted to investigate chronic diseases, case-control studies are used for infectious diseases
- It usually provides information on prevalence rather than incidence
- It is limited to health exposures and behaviors rather than health outcomes
- It is more useful for descriptive epidemiology than it is for analytic epidemiology
- It is synonymous with survey
- Agent, host, environment
- Time, place, person
- Source, mode of transmission, susceptible host
- John Snow, Robert Koch, Kenneth Rothman
Figure 1.27 Natural History of Disease Timeline
Image Description
- ____ Onset of symptoms
- ____ Usual time of diagnosis
- ____ Exposure
- An asymptomatic human
- A symptomatic human
- The environment
- Droplet spread
- Mosquito-borne
- Doorknobs or toilet seats
- Eliminating the reservoir
- Eliminating the vector
- Eliminating the host
- Interrupting mode of transmission
- Reducing host susceptibility
- ____ Disease 1: usually 40–50 cases per week; last week, 48 cases
- ____ Disease 2: fewer than 10 cases per year; last week, 1 case
- ____ Disease 3: usually no more than 2–4 cases per week; last week, 13 cases
- Point source
- Continuous common source
- Intermittent common source
- Person-to-person
Figure 1.27
Description: Item “A” occurs between the stage of susceptibility and the stage of subclinical disease. Item “B” occurs during the stage of subclinical disease. Item “C” occurs between the stage of subclinical disease and the stage of clinical disease. Item “D” occurs shortly after the stage of clinical disease begins. Item “E” occurs at the end of the stage of clinical disease. Return to text.
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Multiple Choice Questions
- Person perception is:
A. the process of how we manage, experience, and adjust our emotions
B . the process by which we form impressions and process information about people
C. the process by which we adjust to different cultural situations
D. the process by which we learn cultural norms and standards of behavior
- In his work in person perception with Oriya an American participants, Richard Shweder concluded:
A. many Oriya use abstract thinking models
B. many Americans make sense of their social worlds using concrete terms and behaviors
C. each participant group described the same type of individuals when asked to describe a close acquaintance
D. the position of an individual in society shapes the way that individual thinks about person perception in his or her daily social interactions
- Jill is having a conversation with her best friend. She is revealing how she sees herself and includes her attributes, characteristics and qualities. Jill is revealing information about her:
A . self-concept
B. self-definition
C. the independent self
D. the interdependent self
- Which of the following is true about our self-descriptions?
A. age is not a factor that shapes our self-descriptions
B. cognitive abilities do not connect to our self-descriptions
C. cultural heritage does not shape our self-descriptions
D . our cultural experiences shape the way we see ourselves and our self-descriptions
- In one study, Loving explored how cultural values and parental goals shape the adjectives Mexican participants used to describe the self. Findings from this study suggest that:
A. most participants generally focused upon how they see themselves
B. many participants included adjectives that related to material possessions
C. participants provided adjectives such as polite and courteous which connected to important cultural values
D. many participants described themselves in terms of the work that they did
- In her study which compared the self-definitions of Chinese children and European American children, Wang found:
A. Chinese children included more information about their personal preferences than European-American children did
B. Chinese children boasted more about their abilities than European American children did
C. Chinese children described themselves in more positive terms than European-American children did
D . Chinese children’s self-descriptions focused more upon social roles and responsibilities than European-American children did
- Children learn their cultural values and beliefs from their participation in cultural routines. Which of the following examples would not highlight this position?
B. a teacher helping a child with a difficult lesson
C. several children negotiating conflict during a game
D . a child watching an animal in its natural habitat
- Which of the following is a popular measure used to discover differences in people’s self concepts?
A. The Interdependent Independent Self Test
B . The Twenty Statements Test
C. The Self-Definition Test
D. The Self-Concept Test
- One reason people use the 20 statements test in research is that:
A. it is quick and easy to use
B. it can be given in any language
C . it has few cultural biases
D. participants respond to hypothetical situations with provided adjectives
- In their cross-cultural study, Church and Katigbak asked college students from diverse cultural communities to complete the 20 questions test and other measures. They found:
A. all participants focused on group traits
B. self-concepts contained elements of either exclusively the interdependent or the independent self
C . all participants focused upon personal traits
D. self-concepts may relate more to cultural worldviews than particular geographic areas
- In this model of the self, the self stands alone. It is bounded, separate from its surroundings, in personal attributes are central to it. Cultural values that connect to this self include uniqueness and autonomy. It is the:
A. the interdependent self
B. the independent self
C. the relational self
D. the encompassing self
- In this model of the self, the self is sensitive to relationship changes, is situationally defined, social roles are more important to it than personal attributes, and emphasis is placed upon behaving according social norms. It is:
A . the interdependent self
B . the independent self
- Julius this in the cultural community where there is a social hierarchy based on age. In this community elders are accorded respect and accept the role of protecting and taking responsibility for others well-being. In this community which of the following models of the self is dominant:
- Mascolo and colleagues conducted a cross-cultural comparison of Indian and American self- descriptions. Which of the following is true regarding their study?
A. Indian participants focused upon personal attributes more than American participants did
B. American participants focused more upon relational attributes then Indian participants did
C . participant self-descriptions from both cultural groups included both personal and relational attributes
D. Indian and American self-descriptions that supported independent self-construals contained similar content
- Chung-Fang used an indigenous approach to study the Chinese conception of self. In her work, she notes the Chinese worldview of the Yin and Yang connects to the concept of self.
Which of the following is central to the Yin/Yang model?
A. the use of categories to organize the world
B. the notion that Yin and Yang are independent constructs
C. the use of similar word pairs to process information
D. the importance of situations and relationships
- In developing a Chinese conception of self, and individual strives to:
A . achieve pleasant relationships with people
B. achieve a social distance from others
C. achieve a sense of pride
D. achieve a sense of accomplishment to increase one’s self-esteem
- Chung-Fang used an indigenous approach to study the Chinese conception of self. Which of the following is a metaphor that many Chinese live by and help them shape the way they think about themselves and others?
A. Yin/Yang
B . Da Wo/Xiao Wo
C. the squeaky wheel gets the grease
D. a nail sticking up should be hammered down
- Chung-Fang used an indigenous approach to study the Chinese conception of self. Which of the following is true regarding the Chinese conception of self?
A. The self is a group making process
B. the self causes a person’s behavior
C. a person’s actions do not connect to the self and particular situations
D. a person does not act to achieve self enhancement
- Chung-Fang used an indigenous approach to study the Chinese conception of self. In the Chinese worldview the person making process should result in:
A . a moral, interdependent, and social human being
B. a moral, independent, and social human being
C. a moral, relational, and social human being
D. a moral, encompassing, and social human being
- Self-esteem is:
A. our personal attributes
B. the descriptive component of the self
C . the evaluative component of the self
D. our personal preferences
- Which of the following is true about the working self-concept?
A. the working self-concept functions like working memory
B. the working self-concept operates when we are asleep
C. the working self-concept is not active during social situations
D. the working self-concept operates when we are unconscious
- Kanagawa and colleagues explored the connection between situational changes and self- conceptions. Working with Japanese and American college students, they asked participants to complete The Twenty Questions Test using four different situations. They found:
A. no similarities between American and Japanese college students responses
B. Japanese self-descriptions included more material on social roles and physical attributes than American self-descriptions did
C. socialization practices in interdependent cultural contexts encourage children to distinguish the self from others and expressed their own wants and desires
D. among Japanese participants relationships were considered private and not like possessions or something you might have.
- Kanagawa and colleagues explored the connection between situational changes and self- conceptions. They found that American women viewed themselves more positively than Japanese women did whereas Japanese self-descriptions varied with the situation. What might explain this outcome?
A. Japanese women develop the self-concept that is bounded in one in which the self is separate from others
B . Japanese women develop a self-concept that is flexible and situationally dependent
C. Japanese women have difficulty developing self-esteem
D. American women develop a self-concept that is flexible and situationally dependent
- When a golfer shoots a hole in one in Japan, it is often customary that the golfer buys the entire golf party gifts. This behavioral script connects to which of the following cultural values:
A. uniqueness
B. self-expression
C . humility
D. autonomy
- Kitayama and Imada suggest that participation in cultural tasks helps individuals acquire the tools they will need to construct their self-concepts. If you live in a community that supports an independent self which of the following tasks might help you accomplish that goal?
A. obeying an authority figure
B. conforming to group norms
C . seeking out a leadership role on the team
D. volunteering to become a team member to help individuals in need
- Self-efficacy connects to which of the following?
A. self-esteem
B. leadership
C . confidence
D. persuasion
- Bandura believed that we could accomplish self-efficacy through all of the following EXCEPT :
A. mastery experiences
B. social modeling
C. social persuasion
D . social values
- Michael has been working hard on taking apart and putting together a computer. He experienced satisfaction after completing the task. According to Bandura this will help Michael acquire self-efficacy. Michael’s accomplishment illustrates which of the following?
A . mastery experiences
D. social values
- Amanda and her sister make bracelets together all the time. Their caregivers often complement them for how nice their products look. According to Bandura, when someone similar to us is able to complete a task, our confidence to do the same task increases. This is an example of:
B . social modeling
- Rosa believes that she will be successful in college. Her belief illustrates which of the following concepts?
B. self-efficacy
C. college self-efficacy
D. parenting self-efficacy
- Aguayo and colleagues explored Mexican-Americans self-efficacy as it relates to the college experience. What did they find?
A. all second and third generation participants had high college self-efficacy
B. participants who did not embrace mainstream American values had high self-efficacy
C. only first generation participants had high college self-efficacy
D. participants who embrace mainstream American values and also maintain strong ties to the traditional heritage had greater college self-efficacy
A. A. all second and third generation participants had high college self-efficacy
D. bicultural participants had higher self-efficacy in part because they could bridge the gap between cultural practices at home and school
- Suzuki and colleagues compared parenting self-efficacy and Japanese and American mothers. In their study they emphasized one way in which we acquire self-efficacy. What was it?
- Suzuki and colleagues compared parenting self-efficacy and Japanese and American mothers. What did they find?
A. American mothers reported lesser parenting self-efficacy than Japanese mothers did
B. American mothers reported lesser satisfaction with their husbands’ social support than Japanese mothers did
C. Japanese mothers were less satisfied with their husband support than American mothers were
D. Japanese and American mothers had different perceptions of their mothers’ social support
- The concept of face connects to all of the following EXCEPT :
A. the way others see us
B. the way others evaluate us
C. the social roles individuals fulfill in their society
D . our confidence
- The Chinese conception of phase has two components. Lien refers to:
A. the respect people bestow upon you for behaving in moral ways
B. how we gain our reputation for success
C. how we draw attention to ourselves through our wealth and power
D. our self-image
- Which cultural community uses “the shield” to help individuals preserve their honor?
A. Japanese
C . Kampucheans
D. Taiwanese
- There is great deal of cultural variability in the importance and definition of the concept face. Among many Japanese, the conception of face refers to:
A. gaining a reputation for success
B. drawing attention to one’s wealth and power
C. self-image
D . respect a person can claim for himself from others
- The sociologist Erving Goffman believed people acquire meaning about themselves and others in their social world through:
A. the concept of face
B . their ‘performance’ in the presence of others
C. integrity
- There is a great deal of cultural variability in the the definition of the concept, face. According to Goffman face is:
D . the strategies people used to protect our relationships with others
- Katie uses a great deal of impression management strategies to present her best self to others at work. She is polite, mannerly, and behaves appropriately. According to Goffman, Katie is illustrating:
A. the ‘back’ stage
B . the ‘front’ stage
C. performance
D. the private self
- In Goffman’s view, the private self operates in the area:
A . the ‘back’ stage
B. the ‘front’ stage
D. the public self
- The motivation for face in China relates to:
A. social pressure for fulfilling one’s obligations
B . taking pride in one’s qualities as they relate to relationships
C. honor and shame
D. a person’s accomplishments
- If a person has ‘no face’, this person has:
A . no social standing
B. a sense of belonging
C. a sense of being part of the group
D. a person who matters
- Which of the following examples illustrates helping someone save face?
A. establishing a social relationship
B. making another child feel inferior
C. helping another child during an embarrassing moment
D. praising a child in public for his or her accomplishments
- Why would an individual want to give face?
A. for personal gain
B. to obtain group approval
C. to stand out among your peers
D. to pay off a debt
- Kim, Cohen, and Au explored the connection of face to the way we construct our self-concepts. Face communities:
A . emphasize the importance of how others evaluate the self
B. emphasize dignity
C. emphasize self-reflection
D. emphasize self-evaluation
- Kim, Cohen, and Au explored the connection of face to the way we construct our self-concepts. Dignity communities:
A. emphasize the importance of how others evaluate the self
B. emphasize the opinions of others in judging the self
D. behave to preserve group harmony
- Eric Erickson believed that this was a major crisis and task associated with the development of an individual’s personality. It is:
A. cultural identity
B. bicultural identity
C . identity formation
D. fluid identity
- Kerry is working on a process in which she incorporates the characteristics, attitudes, beliefs, and values from individuals in the groups to which she belongs. This is an example of:
A. socialization
B. enculturation
C. acculturation
D. identification
- Louis was born in Portugal but when people ask him about his cultural heritage he says he is Brazilian. Louis derives his sense of belonging from the relationships with people he shares common traditions, language, beliefs, and heritage which for him connects to Brazil. For Lewis being Brazilian connects to his:
A . cultural identity
C. identity formation
- Wagner and colleagues compared the importance of wearing the veil among Muslim women in Indonesia and in India. Which of the following is not true based on their findings?
A. for Indonesian women the experience of wearing the veil connects to modesty and fashion
B. for Indian women the experience of wearing the veil is a symbol of cultural identity
C. when Muslim women are a minority, they construct their cultural identity in ways that both separate them from the dominant population and draw them closer to their own in the group
D . when Muslim women are a majority they constantly feel the need to reaffirm their cultural identity and experience wearing the veil in this way
- Jean Phinney developed a model to explain how we learn our cultural identity. Which of the following is not one of the three stages included in that model?
A. unexamined cultural identity
B. cultural identity search
C. cultural identity achievement
D. bicultural identity search
- Jean Phinney developed a model to explain how we learn our cultural identity. In which stage do individuals explore their own identity and think about their own cultural traditions, beliefs and attitudes?
B . cultural identity search
D . bicultural identity search
- Jean Phinney developed a model to explain how we learn our cultural identity. In which stage does an individual show no interest in cultural differences and readily accepts the cultural attitudes and beliefs of caregivers and other socializing agents?
- Which of the following statements is true?
A. cultural identity is permanent
B. cultural identity is fixed at birth
C. an individual can only have two cultural identities
D . cultural identity is fluid
- The process of identity shifting is similar to the linguistic process of:
A. changing identities
B. becoming bicultural
C. speaking multiple languages
D. code switching
- Globalization is a factor that may also shape a person’s identity development. In the work Factory Girls , Chang describes the changes taking place among:
A. young Taiwanese woman
B. young Vietnamese women
C. young Korean women
D . young Chinese women
A. many young women leave rural villages to find work in the cities
B. many of these young women do not adopt values such as autonomy and self-expression that connect to global cultures
C. many young women come to realize traditional values will not help them to become successful in global cultures
D. many of these women become bicultural existing into worlds, the global culture and that of their local communities
- Richard Shweder’s view of cultural psychology has emphasized that culture creates minds and mind creates culture. Which of the following statements supports this view as it relates to personality?
A. individual personalities are culture specific
B. an individual may have more than one personality
C. individual personalities shape culture and culture shapes the personality traits we express
D. personalities are not able to adjust and change with each situation
- Which of the following is a popular framework psychologists used to study personality traits:
A. the FACS
B . The Five Factor Model
C. The Cultural Display Role Model
D. the DSM-5
- Which of the following IS NOT one of the personality dimensions included in the Five Factor Model of personality?
A. openness
B. conscientiousness
C. extroversion
D. introversion
- Ella is reliable, responsible, hard-working, and able to stay on task. According to the five factor model of personality this connects to which of the following dimensions?
B. agreeableness
D. conscientiousness
- Brian has difficulty in controlling his impulses. According to the five factor model of personality this connects to which of the following dimensions?
B . neuroticism
D . conscientiousness
- In their cross-cultural studies on personality McCrae and colleagues found:
A. culturally diverse participants organized their responses around seven factors the same way Americans did
B. among American samples the five factors remained stable across the lifespan
C. culturally diverse participants organized their responses around six factors the same way Americans did
D . among American samples the five factors increase and decrease across the lifespan
- Hřebičková and colleagues explored whether groups that share linguistic and cultural similarities also share personality traits. In their work with Czech, Polish, and Slovak adolescents, they found:
A. no distinct cultural differences
B. Czech teenagers should score higher on openness and conscientiousness
C . Slovak teenagers should score higher on extroversion
D. Polish teenagers would score higher on neuroticism
- Which country uses the NEO-PI-3 as an occupational screening tool for determining candidates for law enforcement careers?
B. New Zealand
C. Australia
- Countries use the NEO-PI-3 for different purposes. Which country has utilized this measure to help clinicians diagnose personality disorders?
B . New Zealand
- Cheung and her research team explored indigenous personality research. Which of the following IS TRUE about the Interpersonal Relatedness factor?
A. it is not a very important personality trait to Chinese individuals
B. it does not connect to local Chinese meanings and behaviors when uses and social interactions
C. this factor appears to be unique to the Chinese personality
D. this factor appears in the Five Factor Model
- Church and his research team studied indigenous Filipino personality traits and terms. Which of the following is an indigenous personality factor that Church and his research team identified?
A. social curiosity
B. interpersonal relatedness
C. openness
D. neuroticism
- Which of the following IS TRUE about the study of personality across cultures?
A. the Five Factor Model is relevant in all cultural communities
B. there are only five personality factors in the human experience
C. indigenous models and the Five Factor Model are identical
D . indigenous studies support the importance of using culturally relevant measures to study personality

- 11 Types of Multiple Choice Question +[Examples]

Multiple choice questions (MCQ) are popularly known to help in survey questionnaires and education exams. When gathering data for research , we think about two things—the kind of questions to ask and what tool should be used to ask these questions.
One of the major tools used for data collection is the questionnaire. Questionnaires are research instruments consisting of a set of questions to collect relevant information or data from respondents. In other words, they can be simply defined as a written interview.
There are different types of questionnaires used in research, and they are classified based on the type of questions they contain. In this article, we will be reviewing the Multiple choice question types and how they are used for research purposes.
What is a Multiple Choice Question (MCQ)?
A multiple-choice question is a type of questionnaire/survey question that provides respondents with multiple answer options. Sometimes called objective response questions, it requires respondents to select only correct answers from the choice options.
MCQs are mostly used in educational testing, customer reviews, market research, elections, etc. Although they take different forms depending on their purpose, they have the same structure.
Parts of Multiple Choice Questions
A multiple-choice question consists of the following parts:
1. Stem: A stem is a question. The questionnaire should make sure the question is straightforward, error-free and is relevant.
2. Answer: This is the correct answer to the question. The correct answer may be determined by the questionnaire, respondent or some set down rules both the questionnaire and respondent do not influence.
3. Distractors: The distractors in multiple-choice questions are the other incorrect responses added to make up the choice options.
11 Types of Multiple Choice Questions + [Examples]
1. image multiple choice questions.
This is a multiple-choice question type that uses images as choice options. It is best used for questions that require visual identity. A common example is ReCaptcha, a security measure that confirms human identity or a picture quiz question.
It can also be used for educational testing purposes. Below is an image multiple choice question that asks respondents to identify a cat.
This question asks respondents to identify wild animals. It is multiple select questions, while the former is a single select.
- It creates a visually appealing interface and is highly interactive.
- Improves understanding and decreases survey abandonment rate by giving a visual representation of words respondents don’t understand.
- Visually impaired people cannot respond to image choice questions.
- It takes up a lot of space on forms.
2. Radio Multiple Choice Questions
This is the most popular multiple choice question type among questionnaires. It uses radio buttons to list the various choice options. In most cases, radio buttons are used for single select questions.
Here is an example of a radio multiple-choice question used in collecting nominal data .
Here is a binary example of a radio MCQ that takes nominal data of the respondent’s gender.
- Easy to use on touch screen devices
- Arranges the options in an organized list.
- Gets cumbersome when dealing with a long list of options.
- It doesn’t give visual representations
3. Checkbox Multiple Choice Questions
Checkbox questions are multiple-choice questions type that uses a list of checkboxes as options. They are the most ideal for questions in which multiple answers can be selected.
Checkbox MCQs are mostly used for multiple answer questions. Let us consider this example which takes data of the devices a respondent has.
It can also be used for single-answer questions by creating a maximum response validation with Formplus.
- Most ideal for multiple answer questions.
- Displays all the options at once.
- Not ideal for a large list of options.
- It is not very interactive
4. Single Select Choice Questions
This is a multiple-choice question that allows respondents to select a single option from a dropdown list. Single select is not only used for questionnaires but also website menus. The dropdown menu is an example of a single select choice question.
It mostly uses a hamburger button as the stem (i.e. question). In the image above, pricing, features, templates, blog, and login are the choice options. The answer is determined by the respondent.
Here is another example of a single select MCQ that is used in questionnaires.
- It is ideal for a large number of options.
- Easy to use on touch screen devices. The respondent can easily scroll through options.
- It is restricted to only a single answer.
- It doesn’t fully display the options which may mislead the respondents to think there are no more options.
5. Multiple Select Choice Questions
This is used to select multiple answers from a list of options. It is mostly used for questionnaires or surveys and cannot be used as a website menu.
It may be used by restaurants to take orders from customers like in this case. The respondents have the opportunity to choose more than one option from the list.
Multiple select choice questions also have the “Select All” option that allows respondents to easily select all options without having to go through the stress.
- It is ideal for a large number of options
- It allows the respondents to choose more than one option.
- It doesn’t fully display the options which may mislead the respondents to think there are no more options
- It may be stressful going through the long list to select answers.
6. Star Rating Multiple Choice Questions
Star rating is an interactive multiple-choice question type that takes answers on a rating scale. This rating option is used to take ordinal data.
It is mostly used by businesses to get customer reviews on their products or service. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt (Taxify) use a star rating to rate their drivers. Google and Apple play store also use a star rating to indicate reviews on mobile apps.
A restaurant trying to improve its service may use a star rating to gather data on customer views on specific parts of its service.
- It is highly interactive
- It gathers data that can easily be analyzed.
- The data gathered from the star rating is not usually detailed. The restaurant in the above example, for instance, will not know why the customer thinks the chef deserves a 3 star.
7. Heart Rating Multiple Choice Questions
Heart rating is also an interactive multiple-choice question type. It uses the heart or love symbol as a rating scale.
This rating scale uses a more personal approach to collecting data. It is mostly used for reviews by businesses who want to have an emotional connection with their customers.
In this example, the questionnaire uses the word “love” in the question, appealing to the emotion of the respondent.
Event planners may also use the heart rating scale to get data on how people feel about the panel sessions at the event.
- It is highly interactive.
- It is emotionally appealing
- It doesn’t give a detailed account of the emotion behind the responses.
- The respondents may get carried away with the emotional tone and give emotionally driven rather than correct answers.
8. Rating Scale Multiple Choice Questions
The rating scale is a type of multiple-choice question that takes input from respondents using a linear scale. The scale can either be vertical or horizontal depending on the questionnaire.
The above is a vertical example of a rating scale that asks respondents to rate their excel skills. Here is a horizontal or inline example of a linear rating scale.
- It does not take up much space on the form.
- It does not define each level of the scale. For instance, the example above does not define what is in between “Very Hot” and “Very Cold”.
- The linearity of the scale may be difficult for respondents to understand.
9. Matrix Point Rating Multiple Choice Questions
This is a multiple-choice question type that uses a table to ask questions and list options. The example below collects ordinal data of customer feedback using radio buttons. It is a 3 point Likert scale example .
The matrix scale options can be further increased into a 5 point Likert scale . The first row contains a list of the choice options while the first column contains the questions. The other cells in the table contain the radio buttons.
A matrix scale can be used to ask multiple questions at a time. That is, it can have two or more stems.
- It can be used to ask multiple questions at a time.
- It gathers data that can be easily analyzed.
- The multiple questions and radio buttons may confuse the respondents.
10. Smiley Rating Multiple Choice Questions
This highly interactive multiple choice question type uses emojis/smileys as a rating scale. It collects data of the respondent’s mood and allows them to visualize their emotions.
A weight is assigned to each smiley on the scale, and used in the analysis of the data gathered.
Many organizations use smiley ratings because of their interactive nature and emotional feel.
- It is interactive.
- It visualizes the display of emotion.
- It does not capture the reason behind the respondent’s answer.
11. Thumbs Multiple Choice Question
This multiple-choice question type collects binary data, which in this case is the thumbs up and thumbs down. The thumbs MCQ is also a rating scale question.
The option includes an emoji or image representing the thumbs up and thumbs down, which means like and dislikes respectively.
Do you like Formplus?
👍 👎
Like it Dislike it
- It is restricted to only binary questions
- It does not give a detailed explanation of the reason behind the respondent’s choice.
How to Use Formplus Multiple Choice Features for Surveys/Quizzes
Multiple-choice questions are the most common type of question used in surveys/quizzes. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to use the multiple-choice features on Formplus.
Step 1 – Select Feature
There are various multiple-choice question features on Formplus and they fall under two main categories, namely; ratings and choice options. In this example, we will be using the Choice Options.
- Click the “Choice Options” tab in the form builder menu.
- Click on the Radio button.
Step 2 – Edit Form
We will edit our form into anything we want. In this guide, we will be creating a quiz that asks respondents to identify a non-continent.
- Click on the edit button to edit the form.
- Add the questions and choice options.
- Click save and preview the quiz.
Step 3 – Customise
You can also customize the forms in the Customise section. Formplus allows you to change colors, add images and even personalize your forms.
For rating options :
- Click on the ‘Ratings’ tab in the form builder menu.
- Click on Star rating.
Go to the next step, which is editing.
- Click on the edit option and edit the form as you please.
Uses of Multiple Choice Questions
Data collection is an integral part of the research, and there are various tools used in collecting data. One of those tools is online and offline surveys/questionnaires.
Surveys are mostly used to collect categorical (qualitative) data, and one of the techniques used by researchers are multiple-choice questions. Multiple choice questions help researchers easily gather data from respondents.
MCQ can be used for both scientific and marketing research. Let us consider this competitive market research example:
Which of the following phone brands are you familiar with?
This example is multiple select choice options.
Multiple choice questions are mostly used in the objective section of tests and/or exams. It is a common technique for student evaluation in the US and other parts of the world.
Benjamin D. Wood developed the multiple-choice question in the early 20th century to test students . It became more popular in the mid-20th century when scanners and data-processing machines were developed to check the results.
Although there are arguments about whether multiple-choice questions is a good technique for educational testing, it is still commonly used. Below is an example of a multiple-choice question in education.
If x+2=5, what is the value of x?
- Online Registration
Online registration forms are known for using multiple choice questions for data collection. It is used in all online registration process.
When registering on a website, for instance, a respondent is required to input details like country, title, gender, etc. These questions are mostly asked using a drop-down menu. Consider the following examples:
- Indicate your title
b. What gender are you?
- Transgender
- Human Resources
It is also used by Human Resources Managers during the employment process. Each stage of the application collects data through multiple-choice questions.
During the first application stage, they ask applicants to enter details like their highest level of education. For example:
What is your highest level of education?
- High School
During the prescreening stage, they give applicants aptitude tests to test their ability. This ranges from the test of maths, business, language, listening, etc. For example:
How would you react if a customer complains about the meal?
- Get angry. How dare he/she?
- Call the security
- Apologize and pacify the customer with a better meal.
When attending to patients, psychologists need to collect data about the patient. They use different multiple-choice question types to ask questions from the patient.
This is very necessary for the psychologist to have a proper understanding of the patient and determine the type of illness and; ake proper diagnosis and treatment.
Which of the following emotions do you feel often?
Advantages of Multiple Choice Questions
Multiple choice questions are less time-consuming for respondents and as such increase response rate. With MCQ, respondents don’t have to go through the pain of typing responses.
It aids researchers in asking straightforward questions.
- Easy to analyze
The data collected from multiple-choice questions are easy to analyze because questionnaires don’t have to deal with irrelevant data. Factors like illegible handwriting, clarity of presentation, etc. are eliminated.
- Mobile Device Compatibility
They are said to be compatible with mobile devices because of their ease of filling. Respondents don’t need a keyboard to type responses.
They only have to tap and scroll through the form to answer multiple-choice questions. With the popularity of online forms, it is reported that 1 in 5 respondents fill forms on their mobile devices.
Considering the absence of a mouse or keyboard MCQs make it easy to fill these forms.
Disadvantages of Multiple Choice Questions
- Limited assessment scope
There is a limitation to the type of assessment or investigation that can be carried out through multiple-choice questions. It is best adapted for well-defined investigations.
When carrying out problem-solving and high order reasoning assessments in educational testing, for instance, it is better to use short answer or essay test
- Ambiguous interpretation
There is a possible ambiguity in the way a questionnaire interpreted the input. Since the responses are not descriptive, the questionnaire may fail to properly interpret the respondents’ intent.
This may lead to analyzing the wrong data and making wrong conclusions.
- Collects incorrect data
In most cases, questionnaires do not leave the respondents with the option of leaving the answer field empty when filling online forms. This may lead respondents to choose any random option which may be incorrect.
Let us consider multiple-choice questions used ]n educational testing. A student who doesn’t know the correct answer to the questions may take guesses and end up getting them right.
He/She may even score higher than the intelligent ones. Situations like this do not test for true knowledge.
Multiple-choice questions have many applications in education, election, scientific research, market research, etc. Until recently, it is mostly known to be used in educational testing only.
Despite the recent uproar about the need for it to be scrapped, Multiple Choice Questions remain very popular in educational testing. A lot of top educational institutions around the world use it to administer tests on students.
Its application to marketing and customer service has helped increase its popularity. Many brands now use interactive MCQs like smiley rating, star rating, etc. to get customer reviews and other relevant information.

Create multiple choice questionnaires, surveys and quizzes on Formplus
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Home Market Research
Descriptive Research: Definition, Characteristics, Methods + Examples

Suppose an apparel brand wants to understand the fashion purchasing trends among New York’s buyers, then it must conduct a demographic survey of the specific region, gather population data, and then conduct descriptive research on this demographic segment. The study will then uncover details on “what is the purchasing pattern of New York buyers,” but will not cover any investigative information about “ why ” the patterns exist. Because for the apparel brand trying to break into this market, understanding the nature of their market is the study’s main goal. Let’s talk about it.
Content Index
What is descriptive research?
Characteristics of descriptive research, applications of descriptive research with examples, advantages of descriptive research, descriptive research methods, examples of descriptive research.
Descriptive research is a research method describing the characteristics of the population or phenomenon studied. This descriptive methodology focuses more on the “what” of the research subject than the “why” of the research subject.
The method primarily focuses on describing the nature of a demographic segment without focusing on “why” a particular phenomenon occurs. In other words, it “describes” the research subject without covering “why” it happens.
Gather research insights
The term descriptive research then refers to research questions, design of the study, and data analysis conducted on that topic. We call it an observational research method because none of the research study variables are influenced in any capacity.
Some distinctive characteristics of descriptive research are:
- Quantitative research: It is a quantitative research method that attempts to collect quantifiable information for statistical analysis of the population sample. It is a popular market research tool that allows us to collect and describe the demographic segment’s nature.
- Uncontrolled variables: In it, none of the variables are influenced in any way. This uses observational methods to conduct the research. Hence, the nature of the variables or their behavior is not in the hands of the researcher.
- Cross-sectional studies: It is generally a cross-sectional study where different sections belonging to the same group are studied.
- The basis for further research: Researchers further research the data collected and analyzed from descriptive research using different research techniques. The data can also help point towards the types of research methods used for the subsequent research.
A descriptive research method can be used in multiple ways and for various reasons. Before getting into any survey , though, the survey goals and survey design are crucial. Despite following these steps, there is no way to know if one will meet the research outcome. How to use descriptive research? To understand the end objective of research goals, below are some ways organizations currently use descriptive research today:
- Define respondent characteristics: The aim of using close-ended questions is to draw concrete conclusions about the respondents. This could be the need to derive patterns, traits, and behaviors of the respondents. It could also be to understand from a respondent, their attitude, or opinion about the phenomenon. For example, understanding from millenials the hours per week they spend on browsing the internet. All this information helps the organization researching to make informed business decisions.
- Measure data trends: Researchers measure data trends over time with a descriptive research design’s statistical capabilities. Consider if an apparel company researches different demographics like age groups from 24-35 and 36-45 on a new range launch of autumn wear. If one of those groups doesn’t take too well to the new launch, it provides insight into what clothes are like and what is not. The brand drops the clothes and apparel that customers don’t like.
- Conduct comparisons: Organizations also use a descriptive research design to understand how different groups respond to a specific product or service. For example, an apparel brand creates a survey asking general questions that measure the brand’s image. The same study also asks demographic questions like age, income, gender, geographical location, etc. This consumer research helps the organization understand what aspects of the brand appeal to the population and what aspects do not. It also helps make product or marketing fixes or even create a new product line to cater to high growth potential groups.
- Validate existing conditions: Researchers widely use descriptive research to help ascertain the research object’s prevailing conditions and underlying patterns. Due to the non-invasive research method and the use of quantitative observation and some aspects of qualitative observation, researchers observe each variable and conduct an in-depth analysis. Researchers also use it to validate any existing conditions that may be prevalent in a population.
- Conduct research at different times: The analysis can be conducted at different periods to ascertain any similarities or differences. This also allows any number of variables to be evaluated. For verification, studies on prevailing conditions can also be repeated to draw trends.
Some of the significant advantages of descriptive research are:

- Data collection: A researcher can conduct descriptive research using specific methods like observational method, case study method, and survey method. Between these three, all primary data collection methods are covered, which provides a lot of information. This can be used for future research or even developing a hypothesis of your research object.
- Varied: Since the data collected is qualitative and quantitative, it gives a holistic understanding of a research topic. The information is varied, diverse, and thorough.
- Natural environment: Descriptive research allows for the research to be conducted in the respondent’s natural environment, which ensures that high-quality and honest data is collected.
- Quick to perform and cheap: As the sample size is generally large in descriptive research, the data collection is quick to conduct and is inexpensive.
There are three distinctive methods to conduct descriptive research. They are:
- Observational method
The observational method is the most effective method to conduct this research, and researchers make use of both quantitative and qualitative observations.
A quantitative observation is the objective collection of data primarily focused on numbers and values. It suggests “associated with, of or depicted in terms of a quantity.” Results of quantitative observation are derived using statistical and numerical analysis methods. It implies observation of any entity associated with a numeric value such as age, shape, weight, volume, scale, etc. For example, the researcher can track if current customers will refer the brand using a simple Net Promoter Score question .
Qualitative observation doesn’t involve measurements or numbers but instead just monitoring characteristics. In this case, the researcher observes the respondents from a distance. Since the respondents are in a comfortable environment, the characteristics observed are natural and effective. In a descriptive research design, the researcher can choose to be either a complete observer, an observer as a participant, a participant as an observer, or a full participant. For example, in a supermarket, a researcher can from afar monitor and track the customers’ selection and purchasing trends. This offers a more in-depth insight into the purchasing experience of the customer.
- Case study method
Case studies involve in-depth research and study of individuals or groups. Case studies lead to a hypothesis and widen a further scope of studying a phenomenon. However, case studies should not be used to determine cause and effect as they can’t make accurate predictions because there could be a bias on the researcher’s part. The other reason why case studies are not a reliable way of conducting descriptive research is that there could be an atypical respondent in the survey. Describing them leads to weak generalizations and moving away from external validity.
- Survey research
In survey research, respondents answer through surveys or questionnaires or polls . They are a popular market research tool to collect feedback from respondents. A study to gather useful data should have the right survey questions. It should be a balanced mix of open-ended questions and close ended-questions . The survey method can be conducted online or offline, making it the go-to option for descriptive research where the sample size is enormous.
Some examples of descriptive research are:
- A specialty food group launching a new range of barbecue rubs would like to understand what flavors of rubs are favored by different people. To understand the preferred flavor palette, they conduct this type of research study using various methods like observational methods in supermarkets. By also surveying while collecting in-depth demographic information, offers insights about the preference of different markets. This can also help tailor make the rubs and spreads to various preferred meats in that demographic. Conducting this type of research helps the organization tweak their business model and amplify marketing in core markets.
- Another example of where this research can be used is if a school district wishes to evaluate teachers’ attitudes about using technology in the classroom. By conducting surveys and observing their comfortableness using technology through observational methods, the researcher can gauge what they can help understand if a full-fledged implementation can face an issue. This also helps in understanding if the students are impacted in any way with this change.
Some other problems and research questions that can lead to descriptive research are:
- Market researchers want to observe the habits of consumers.
- A company wants to evaluate the morale of its staff.
- A school district wants to understand if students will access online lessons rather than textbooks.
- To understand if its wellness questionnaire programs enhance the overall health of the employees.
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Research Methodology MCQs [Additional 35 Questions] for NTA NET and SLET Exam

Research Methodology MCQs Part 2 Additional 35 Questions Also useful for B.Com/M.Com, NTA NET / JRF and SET Exam
In this Post You will get Additional 35 Research Methodology MCQs which is very helpful for the students of B. Com, M. Com, NTA NET and SLET Exam . More than 200 MCQs are added including the first part and more questions will be added soon.
Research methodology Chapter wise MCQs are also available on our blog. Links are given below:
a) Research Methodology MCQs [Part 1] (40 Questions)
b) Research Methodology MCQS Part I1 (35 Questions)
c) Sampling MCQs (35 Questions)
d) MCQ on Research Problem and Research Plan (20 Questions)
e) Collection of data MCQs (33 Questions)
f) MCQ on Research Report Writing (30 Questions)
***********************************************
1. Ex Post Facto research means:
a) The research is carried out after the incident
b) The research is carried out prior to the incident
c) The research is carried out along with the happening of an incident.
d) The research is carried out keeping in mind the possibilities of an incident.
Ans: a) The research is carried out after the incident
2. Research ethics do not include:
b) Subjectivity
c) Integrity
d) Objectivity
Ans: b) Subjectivity
3. Controlled group condition is applied in:
a) Survey Research
b) Historical Research
c) Experimental Research
d) Descriptive Research
Ans: c) Experimental Research
4. A doctor studies the relative effectiveness of two drugs of dengue fever. His research would be classified as:
a) Descriptive Survey
b) Experimental Research
c) Case Study
d) Ethnography
Ans: b) Experimental Research
5. Which of the following research types focuses on ameliorating the prevailing situations?
a) Fundamental Research
b) Applied Research
c) Action Research
d) Experimental Research
Ans: c) Action Research
6. Which one of the following is a research tool?
b) Illustration
c) Questionnaire
Ans: c) Questionnaire
7. Research is not considered ethical if it
a) Tries to prove a particular point.
b) Does not ensure privacy and anonymity of the respondent.
c) Does not investigate the data scientifically.
d) Is not of a very high standard.
Ans: b) Does not ensure privacy and anonymity of the respondent.
8. A research paper is a brief report of research work based on:
a) Primary Data only
b) Secondary Data only
c) Both Primary and Secondary Data
d) None of the above
Ans: c) Both Primary and Secondary Data
9. In the process of conducting research ‘Formulation of Hypothesis” is followed by
a) Statement of Objectives
b) Analysis of Data
c) Selection of Research Tools
d) Collection of Data
Ans: c) Selection of Research Tools
10. The essential qualities of a researcher are
a) spirit of free enquiry
b) reliance on observation and evidence
c) systematization or theorizing of knowledge
d) all the above
Ans: d) all the above
11. Research is conducted to
I. Generate new knowledge
II. Not to develop a theory
III. Obtain research degree
IV. Reinterpret existing knowledge
Which of the above are correct?
a) I, III & II
b) III, II & IV
c) II, I & III
d) I, III & IV
Ans: d) I, III & IV
12. Which of the following phrases is not relevant to describe the meaning of research as a process?
a) Systematic Activity
b) Objective Observation
c) Trial and Error
d) Problem Solving
Ans: b) Objective Observation
13. Research has shown that the most frequent symptom of nervous instability among teachers is:
a) Digestive upsets
b) Explosive behaviour
Ans: b) Explosive behaviour
14. A common test in research demands much priority on:
a) Reliability
b) Usability
c) Objectivity
d) All of the above
Ans: d) All of the above
15. If a researcher conducts a research on finding out which administrative style contributes more to institutional effectiveness? This will be an example of:
a) Basic Research
b) Action Research
c) Applied Research
d) Fundamental Research
Ans: c) Applied Research
16. The research which is exploring new facts through the study of the past is called:
a) Philosophical research
b) Historical research
c) Mythological research
d) Content analysis
Ans: b) Historical research
17. The format of thesis writing is the same as in:
a) Preparation of a research paper/article
b) Writing of seminar presentation
c) A research dissertation
d) Presenting a workshop/conference paper
Ans: c) A research dissertation
18. In qualitative research paradigm, which of the following features may be considered critical?
a) Data collection with standardized research tools.
b) Sampling design with probability sample techniques.
c) Data collection with bottom-up empirical evidences.
d) Data gathering to take with top-down systematic evidences.
Ans: c) Data collection with bottom-up empirical evidences.
19. From the following list of statement identify the set, which has negative implications for ‘research ethics’:
I. A researcher critically looks at the findings of another research.
II. Related studies are cited without proper references.
III. Research findings are made the basis for policymaking.
IV. Conduct of practitioner is screened in terms of reported research evidences.
V. A research study is replicated with a view to verify the evidences from other researches.
VI. Both policy making and policy implementing processes are regulated in terms of preliminary studies.
Which of the below mentioned option is correct?
1. I, II and III
2. II, III and IV
3. II, IV and VI
4. I, III and V
Ans: 3. II, IV and VI
20. The problem of ‘research ethics’ is concerned with which aspect of research activities?
a) Following the prescribed format of a thesis
b) Data analysis through qualitative or quantitative techniques
c) Defining the population of research
d) Evidence based research reporting
Ans: d) Evidence based research reporting
21. Prime Minister Research Fellowship is for students pursuing Ph.D programme in :
a) State and Central Universities
b) Central Universities, IISc, IITs, NITs, IISERs and IIITs
c) IISc, IITs, NITs, IISERs, IIITs, State and Central Universities
d) IITs and IISc
Ans: d) IITs and IISc
22. In a research on the effect of child-rearing practices on stress –proneness of children in competing school projects, the hypothesis formulated is that ‘child rearing practices do influence stress- proneness’. At the data-analysis stage a null hypothesis is advanced to find out the tenability of research hypothesis. On the basis of the evidence available, the null hypothesis is rejected at 0.01 level of significance. What decision may be warranted in respect of the research hypothesis?
a) The research hypothesis will also be rejected.
b) The research hypothesis will be accepted.
c) Both the research hypothesis and the null hypothesis will be rejected.
d) No decision can be taken in respect of the research hypothesis.
Ans: b) The research hypothesis will be accepted.
23. A research intends to explore the effect of possible factors for the organization of effective mid-day meal interventions. Which research method will be most appropriate for this study?
a) Historical method
b) Descriptive survey method
c) Experimental method
d) Ex-post factor method
Ans: d) Ex-post factor method
24. Which of the following is an initial mandatory requirement for pursuing research?
a) Developing a research design
b) Formulating a research question
c) Deciding about the data analysis procedure
d) Formulating a research hypothesis
Ans: b) Formulating a research question
25. A researcher attempts to evaluate the effect of method of feeding on anxiety - proneness of children. Which method of research would be appropriate for this?
a) Case study method
b) Experimental method
c) Ex-post-facto method
d) Survey method
Ans: c) Ex-post-facto method
26. Which type of study is loosely structured and designed to expand understanding of a topic and provide insights?
c) Exploratory
d) Experimental
Ans: c) Exploratory
27. Which one of the following is not an essential element of report writing?
a) Research Methodology
b) Reference
c) None of these
d) Conclusion
Ans: c) None of these
28. What is self-plagiarism?
a) When a person lifts material that they have previously written and pass it off as their own work
b) Taking about yourself too much
c) Using somebody else's work and passing it off as your own
d) An epistemological stance
Ans: a) When a person lifts material that they have previously written and pass it off as their own work
29. Essence of both basic and applied research lies in:
a) Market orientation
b) Scientific method
c) Performance monitoring research
d) Costing methods
Ans: b) Scientific method
30. _______is a type of conclusive research that has as its major objective the description of something— usually market characteristics or functions.
a) Exploratory research
b) Conclusive research
c) Causal research
d) Descriptive research
Ans: d) Descriptive research
31. The following is a step in the process of historical research:
a) Identifying a research topic
c) Data collection
32. ________ Describes the present state of affairs as it exists without having any control over variables.
a) Analytical research
b) Descriptive research
c) Applied research
d) Distinctive research
Ans: b) Descriptive research
33. The main objective of _______ study’s to acquire knowledge
a) Exploratory.
b) Descriptive.
c) Diagnostic.
d) Descriptive and Diagnostic.
Ans: b) Descriptive.
34. Propositions which describe the characteristics are _______ Hypothesis
a) Descriptive.
b) Imaginative.
c) Relational.
d) Variable.
Ans: a) Descriptive.
35. Research objectives include:
a) Decision making
b) Build new concepts
c) Eliminates old concepts
d) Only a and b
Ans: d) Only a and b
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Descriptive research aims to accurately and systematically describe a population, situation or phenomenon. It can answer what, where, when and how questions, but not why questions. A descriptive research design can use a wide variety of research methods to investigate one or more variables.
Latest Descriptive Research MCQ Objective Questions Descriptive Research Question 1: Which of the following is a longitudinal design? Panel Cross-sectional Trend Both 1 and 3 are longitudinal designs Answer (Detailed Solution Below) Option 4 : Both 1 and 3 are longitudinal designs India's Super Teachers for all govt. exams Under One Roof FREE
Skills Practiced. Use this quiz and printable worksheet to help you practice the following skills: Knowledge application - use your knowledge to answer questions about descriptive research ...
5.0 (2 reviews) Term. 1 / 72. Which of the following statements are true about descriptive research: (multiple choice answer) A. Descriptive Research can tell us how happy people are. B. Descriptive Research cannot tell us what makes people happy. C. Descriptive Research cannot tell us why people are happy. D. Descriptive Research can't tell us ...
Revise your knowledge with these multiple choice quiz questions. Chapter 2: Research in Psychology: Objectives and Ideals. Chapter 3: Research Methods. Chapter 4: Experimental Design. Chapter 5: Survey Design. Chapter 6: Descriptive Statistics. Chapter 7: Some Principles of Statistical Inference. Chapter 8: Examining Differences between Means ...
Has statistical, descriptive, causal predictions A. Qualitative Research B. Content Analysis C. Debriefing Analysis D. In Depth Interview E. Quantitative Research E A well trained interviewer asks a subject a set of semi structured questions in a face to face setting A. Focus Group B. Bulletin Board C. In depth Interview
Multiple choice questions; Jig:Saw's puzzle solutions; Zach's facts; Flashcards; Reporting research, variables and measurement. Action plan; Learning objectives; Multiple choice questions; Jig:Saw's puzzle solutions; Zach's facts; Flashcards; Summarizing data. Action plan; Learning objectives; Multiple choice questions; Jig:Saw's ...
Descriptive research is the type of research that expands knowledge of a project or phenomenon by describing it according to its characteristics or concerning the population to answer the...
MCQ Below given are top 20 important Research Design MCQ with answers. These updated multiple choice questions on research design are helpful for BBA, B Com, MBA, MMS, BMS, B Sc, Engineering, PGDM, M Phil and Ph D students and researchers. These MCQs will help for UGC NET, SET, MPSC, UPSC and other competitive entrance exams.
In the definition of epidemiology, "determinants" generally includes: Agents Causes Control measures Risk factors Sources Epidemiology, as defined in this lesson, would include which of the following activities? Describing the demographic characteristics of persons with acute aflatoxin poisoning in District A
A theory is: A. the method by which you collect your data. B. statements or principles that help to explain the facts you gather. C. your hypothesis. D. the conclusions you draw about your findings. Oliver is pursuing a study that explores whether sleep affects academic performance.
Research Methodology MCQ 1) Who was the author of the book named "Methods in Social Research"? Kerlinger CR Kothari Goode and Hatt Wilkinson Show Answer Workspace 2) What is the major attribute of Correlation Analysis? Association among variables Difference among variables Regression among variables Variations among variables Show Answer Workspace
Multiple Choice Questions. A. the process of how we manage, experience, and adjust our emotions. B. the process by which we form impressions and process information about people. C. the process by which we adjust to different cultural situations. D. the process by which we learn cultural norms and standards of behavior.
Research methodology Question 1: In which study the researcher makes use of the meanings of behaviour, language, and interactions of the culture sharing group? Grounded Theory Study Narrative research designs Case Study Ethnography study Answer (Detailed Solution Below) Option 4 : Ethnography study
Descriptive research is the type of research that: a) Discovers ways of finding solution of an immediate problem. b) Gathers knowledge skill. c) Only describe the state of affairs as it exists today. It is a fact finding research. d) Is useful for formulating hypothesis or testing hypothesis.
11. Thumbs Multiple Choice Question. This multiple-choice question type collects binary data, which in this case is the thumbs up and thumbs down. The thumbs MCQ is also a rating scale question. The option includes an emoji or image representing the thumbs up and thumbs down, which means like and dislikes respectively.
Quantitative research: Descriptive research is a quantitative research method that attempts to collect quantifiable information for statistical analysis of the population sample. It is a popular market research tool that allows us to collect and describe the demographic segment's nature.
Research Design MCQ With Answers PDF: Research Design includes a set of activities through which inquiry is done, as well as concepts and theories guiding the inquiry. The design elements are also concerned with data collection. Below given are MCQs.
Ans: a) The research is carried out after the incident 2. Research ethics do not include: a) Honesty b) Subjectivity c) Integrity d) Objectivity Ans: b) Subjectivity 3. Controlled group condition is applied in: a) Survey Research b) Historical Research c) Experimental Research d) Descriptive Research Ans: c) Experimental Research 4.
385++ mcqs on research methodology Research Methodology MCQS by Mam UMERA ANJUM University Khyber Medical University Course Research Methodology Uploaded by Muhammad Ali Academic year2019/2020 Helpful? 35238 Comments Please sign inor registerto post comments. Prof. Dr. Nagalaxmi5 days ago