Measurement Scales

Week 3 – Discussion 1

Measurement Scales

Conducting psychological research generally involves collecting a large amount of data. In order to summarize and draw conclusions about the data, we must first have some knowledge about the various statistical concepts. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics are what we use to describe or summarize the data and make conclusions and predictions about a population. How variables are defined and measured is critically important in order to evaluate the validity of the research.

Instructions:

· Provide one example (your own) of each measurement scale and provide an example (your own) of how a variable might be measured by different scales.

· Explain which of these you found most challenging to identify and why.

Your post should be at least 300 words.

Introduction: Apply Theory

During Week 3, we will be shifting the focus to provide an introduction to quantitative research methods.

In Week 3, you will focus on descriptive methods in quantitative research. Through this week’s readings and discussions, you will explore the basics of statistical methods and the four types of measurement scales utilized in quantitative research, as well as examine hypothesis testing and how to minimize type 1 and type 2 errors. This week’s reading will help you build foundational knowledge about quantitative research and how to interpret data and make predictions about a population. You will also develop a comprehensive literature review on a topic of interest.

Resources

Required Text

Malec, T. & Newman, M. (2013). Research methods: Building a knowledge base. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. ISBN-13: 9781621785743, ISBN-10: 1621785742. Section 1.6: Writing a Research Proposal Chapter 2: Research Design, Measurement, and Testing Hypotheses Appendix: Example of a Research Proposal

Required References

Ijalba, E. (2014). Using qualitative and quantitative methods to conduct research in parent education with immigrant families of children with autism spectrum disorders. London: SAGE Publications Ltd. doi: 10.4135/978144627305014533926

Recommended References

Anderson, J. D. (2006). Qualitative and quantitative research. Available at  http://web20kmg.pbworks.com/w/file/fetch/82037432/QualitativeandQuantitativeEvaluationResearch.pdf (Links to an external site.)

Park, J., & Park, M. (2016).  Qualitative versus quantitative research methods: Discovery or justification?   Journal Of Marketing Thought, 3(1), 1-7.