Discussion Questions By The Due Date Assigned Post Yo 471180

Discussion Questionsby The Due Date Assigned Post Your Response To Th

Discussion Questions By the due date assigned, post your response to the assigned discussion questions in the below Discussion Area. It is important to support what you say with relevant citations in the APA format from both the course materials and outside resources. Include the South University Online Library in your research activities utilizing not only the nursing resource database, but also those pertaining to education, business, and human resources. No later than by the end of the week, review and comment on the discussion question responses posted by at least two of your peers. Be objective, clear, and concise. Always use constructive language. All comments should be posted to the appropriate topic in this Discussion Area.

Discussion Question Please begin by responding to the following questions. Search and locate an existing instrument that will be used to address your research question. Post the title of the instrument selected and the level of measurement on the tool. Next, post a description of the type of scale used in the instrument. Include a brief discussion of data collection procedures that will be presented in your proposal. Provide constructive, supportive feedback to your classmates’ posts. Start a New Thread Discussion Filter by:All Threads Sort by:

Paper For Above instruction

The discussion assignment revolves around selecting an appropriate research instrument to address a specific research question, describing its measurement level, the type of scale used, and outlining data collection procedures. Additionally, students are expected to review peer responses and provide constructive feedback, emphasizing clarity, objectivity, and scholarly support through APA citations. The goal is to demonstrate understanding of research tools and procedures, leveraging course and external resources, including the South University Online Library, to substantiate choices.

Introduction

In research, selecting a valid and reliable instrument is fundamental to obtaining accurate data to answer specific research questions. An instrument’s level of measurement, the type of scale used, and the data collection method significantly influence the interpretation and validity of research findings (Creswell, 2014). This discussion facilitates understanding these components by requiring students to identify an existing instrument aligned with their research inquiries, thereby enhancing their ability to design and critique research methods effectively.

Selection of an Instrument and Its Level of Measurement

The process begins with selecting an existing instrument that best suits the research question. For example, if the research focuses on measuring patient satisfaction, the "Patient Satisfaction Survey" might be appropriate. The level of measurement of this instrument can typically be identified as either nominal, ordinal, interval, or ratio. Most patient satisfaction surveys use ordinal scales, where respondents rate their satisfaction on a scale from "very dissatisfied" to "very satisfied" (Fitzpatrick, 1992). Determining the measurement level is crucial as it guides the statistical analyses that can be conducted later in the research process.

Type of Scale Used in the Instrument

The scale type within the instrument often aligns with its measurement level. For instance, Likert scales, which are common in social and health sciences, are ordinal scales that allow respondents to express degrees of agreement or satisfaction, such as a 5-point scale ranging from "strongly disagree" to "strongly agree" (Likert, 1932). These scales are valuable for capturing nuances in attitudes or perceptions and are relatively easy to administer and analyze. The choice of scale influences data sensitivity and interpretability.

Data Collection Procedures

The data collection procedures outline how information will be gathered using the selected instrument. Typically, this involves administering surveys either in person, online, or via mailed questionnaires, ensuring ethical considerations like informed consent and confidentiality are met (Dillman, Smyth, & Christian, 2014). The procedures must specify the sampling method—whether random, convenience, or purposive—and detail the steps for distributing, collecting, and analyzing the data. For example, online surveys can be distributed via email, with reminders sent to maximize response rates, and data can be entered directly into statistical software for analysis.

Conclusion

In sum, selecting an appropriate instrument with a clear understanding of its measurement level and scale type is essential for accurate data collection and analysis. By thoughtfully outlining data collection procedures, researchers can ensure reliability and validity in their research findings. Critical engagement with peer responses further enhances understanding and application of research design principles, supported by scholarly and practical resources.

References

  • Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (4th ed.). Sage Publications.
  • Dillman, D. A., Smyth, J. D., & Christian, L. M. (2014). Internet, phone, mail, and mixed-mode surveys: The tailored design method. John Wiley & Sons.
  • Fitzpatrick, R. (1992). Surveys of patient satisfaction: I—Important general considerations. BMJ, 305(6847), 1127–1130.
  • Likert, R. (1932). A technique for the measurement of attitudes. Archives of Psychology, 22(140), 5–55.
  • Polit, D. F., & Beck, C. T. (2012). Nursing research: Generating and assessing evidence for nursing practice (9th ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
  • Schutt, R. K. (2012). Investigating the social world: The process and practice of research (7th ed.). Sage Publications.
  • DeVellis, R. F. (2016). Scale development: Theory and applications (4th ed.). Sage Publications.
  • Fowler, F. J. (2014). Survey research methods (5th ed.). Sage Publications.
  • Marczyk, G., DeMatteo, D., & Katz, J. (2005). Essentials of research methods: A guide to social science research. Wiley.
  • Patten, M. L. (2014). Understanding research methods: An overview of the essentials. Pyrczak Publishing.