MCJ Comprehensive Exam: Research Methods

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These composite sets of comprehensive examination questions on
methodology require that you respond with: (1) evidence- the
presentation of data and evidence drawn from theoretical and empirical
articles that you have read; and (2) integrative analysis- a study of
the merit of your data and evidence and your evaluation of such. Your
work will be evaluated on the quality of the evidence presented, and
also on the thoughtfulness of your integrative analysis
1. Foundations for Your Study
2. The Research Topic Area: Identify and state a topic area for which
you will design a well-crafted research study in the field of criminal
justice. For example the topic area may be, “Adaptation issues among
Mexican immigrants,” or “Family adaptation issues among new immigrants
to the U.S.,” etc.

MCJ Comprehensive Exam: Research Methods

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3. The Population: To focus your research design, identify a target
group or population and define this group in terms of: race/ethnicity,
age group, gender, community or region of residency, immigration or
other aspects of social status (e.g., low social class, incarcerated
populations, and adjudicated youth), etc.
4. The Research Question: State the major research question that will be
the focus of your study and that you seek to answer via your study.
5. The Research Hypotheses: State two or more research hypotheses that
you will seek to test or otherwise evaluate via your study.
6. Methodology: Questions, Issues, Challenges and Solutions
Using the elements above that define the scope of your proposed research
study, please answer the following methodology questions. Although the
approach here involves the design of a study and thus touches on
substantive issues, the focus of your responses should be to address the
methodological concerns raised by these questions.

MCJ Comprehensive Exam: Research Methods

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1. What type of theory-based methodology would be best suited to
addressing your proposed research question and hypotheses?
2. What research design might you utilize in conducting your proposed study?
3. Describe the concept(s) proposed for analysis and any linking
propositions that might be used to connect the concepts.
4. Assess the operationalization of the concepts in terms of reliability
and internal validity.
5. Identify the independent variable(s) used in your inquiry.
6. Identify the dependent variable(s) used in your inquiry.
7. How will the independent variable(s) be measured?
8. How will the dependent variable(s) be measured?
9. Describe sampling techniques to be used, sources of data gathering,
and analysis plan.
10. What are the possible limitations of your proposed research design?
How would you address or control for those limitations?
11. Discuss all human subjects’ issues and concerns such as voluntary
participation of subjects, compensation of subjects, and research with
minors, data storage and safety monitoring plan, and any other pertinent
ethical aspects related to your research.