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A cognitive psychologist investigates memory strategies by testing a convenience sample of 12 students from their own lab class, using a self-report questionnaire. Apply the characteristics of survey research to explain whether this study fully qualifies as survey research.

Question: A cognitive psychologist investigates memory strategies by testing a convenience sample of 12 students from their own lab class, using a self-report questionnaire. Apply the characteristics of survey research to explain whether this study fully qualifies as survey research.

Sample answer: This study does not fully qualify as survey research because it only satisfies one of the two primary characteristics. While it utilizes the first characteristic by gathering data via a self-report questionnaire, it fails to satisfy the second characteristic because it uses a small convenience sample of 12 students rather than emphasizing a large random sample.

Key points:

  • The study satisfies the first characteristic by using a self-report questionnaire to measure variables.
  • The study fails the second characteristic because it uses a small convenience sample of 12 students.
  • To fully qualify as survey research, the study must emphasize rigorous sampling techniques, typically favoring large random samples.

Rubric: The response must evaluate the scenario using both defining characteristics. It should explain that the study meets the self-report criterion (using a questionnaire) but fails the sampling criterion (using a small convenience sample instead of a large random sample).

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Updated 2026-05-26

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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