Explain why a researcher attempting to understand the impact of learning addition and subtraction facts might develop a research question focused on the “accuracy of applying addition and subtraction facts” rather than on student “understanding of addition and subtraction facts.” How are these two ways of framing the problem different, and why is “accuracy” more useful than “understanding”?
What will be an ideal response?
Ans: “Accuracy” is preferred here because it is easier to measure accurate responses to addition and subtraction problems than it is to measure student “understanding,” which is a more ambiguous concept (noting here, however, that a researcher could define understanding in a specific way and then use understanding as a variable in an effective research study). It is critical that variables be observable and measurable, as this is what enables researchers to specify findings at the conclusion of a research project.
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A change in what is being taught or expected of a student
What will be an ideal response?
Research suggests that, in the United States, children from ethnic minority groups often have lower academic achievement when compared with children from the majority culture. Of the following, which one is not a likely reason for this disparity?
a. Children from minority groups experience environmental stresses associated with economic hardship. b. Many teachers have low expectations for children from minority groups. c. Children from minority groups selectively adopt customs of the majority culture rather than fully assimilate. d. Children from minority groups have limited access to good schools and educational opportunities.
An essay question that asks you to examine two or more things to find similarities will often use the verb _____.
A. compare B. contrast C. define D. discuss
A benefit of videotaping for data collection is:
a. it is unobtrusive. b. it lessens the effort of taking field notes. c. less effort is required in the analysis. d. a more holistic picture is provided than can be obtained by participant observers.