The multiple-choice paper – Module 1

HI, CAPESTERS. Last week, we looked at research, sampling and data collection methods. This week, we will be looking at how research features in your exam.

In order to effectively answer the questions on research, you must be cognizant of the following:

■ Types of research

■ Sources of information

■ Sampling – types, advantages, disadvantages

■ Data collection tools – types, advantages, disadvantages

The research section of the exam normally consists of eight questions. Let us look at some questions and see how you do.

Read the following scenario carefully then answer items 1 – 4.

There have been several newspaper reports in your territory which have indicated that a large number of teenagers spend a considerable amount of time on their cell phones and neglect their studies. A group of students from Rexton High School in your country has decided to research this behaviour as it relates to their school.

1. Apart from the students, which of the following persons would be the BEST source of information for this research? a. The newspapers b. The parents c. The teachers d. Cell phone providers

2. Two data-collection methods that the students could use to gather data for the research are: a. Focus groups and interviews. b. Observation and focus group. c. Document review and questionnaire. d. Case study and document review.

3. The students found the following article, titled ‘Cell phones: A Danger to Student Learning’. This could be useful to their research as it would provide a source of a. Primary information b. Secondary information c. Tertiary information d. Interesting information

4. Why would the students NOT be able use this research to generalise about all students in his country? a. The sample is not representative. b. The school is not government-owned. c. The students were too young. d. They were not official researchers.

5. Which of the following is a MAIN advantage of the interview? a. Wide geographic coverage. b. Cost effectiveness. c. Collection of in-depth information. d. Data is easily analysed.

6. Which of the following activities are essential when conducting research? i. Identifying the type of research. ii. Selecting a sample. iii. Conducting interviews. iv. Choosing data collection method(s).

a. i, ii and iii ONLY. b. ii, iii and iv ONLY. c. i, iii and iv ONLY. d. i, ii and iv ONLY.

7. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of expository writing? a. Primarily of a connotative vocabulary. b. Is technical/scientific in nature. c. Very objective in style. d. Appeals to intellect rather than emotions.

Before I close off, there is another aspect of research that I must touch on. It has to do with the evaluation of sources. Sources must always be valid and reliable. Reliable sources are dependable and trustworthy, they will basically yield the same results or information as other persons in their field. Valid sources are error-free and logical, and are relevant to the research being undertaken.

When evaluating sources:

■ Check the authority of the writer/organisation.

■ Test the reliability of the information/ source of information.

■ Consider the validity of the arguments.

■ Look for evidence of bias.

■ Note the use of facts versus the use of opinions.

Pay keen attention to this information as it is quite relevant for your oral presentations. I hope that you now have a clearer understanding of the topic Research and will be ready to tackle any questions on it.

See you next week, when we move on to the topic Listening.