Exam 10: Quantitative Methodology: Noninterventional Designs and Methods

A researcher designs a study that tallies how many days the schoolchildren living in Illinois must stay inside at recess because of inclement weather. The researcher's intent is to generalize study findings to all public schools in Illinois, as a justification for a larger and better indoor multipurpose room for any new or remodeled schools in the state. What strategies on the part of the researcher would help achieve this level of generalizability? Assume that all schools in the sample will receive a copy of the plans for the study, with a statement emphasizing the possible benefits to the area schools through participation in the study.

A researcher conducts a correlational study to determine the relationship between strict discipline in one's home of origin and anxiety disorders. At the beginning of the study the researcher defines the study variables, both conceptually and operationally. Which type of validity demands careful definition of study variables?