Glossary: Research

Unit of Analysis

The thing being observed, analyzed, and for which data are collected in the form of variables.

Validity

The degree to which a study accurately reflects or assesses the specific concept that the researcher is attempting to measure. A method can be reliable, consistently measuring the same thing, but not valid.

Variable

Any characteristic or trait that can vary from one person to another [race, gender, academic major] or for one person over time [age, political beliefs]. Variables are used to measure, describe, and analyze various aspects of social phenomena, behaviors, attitudes, or attributes.

Variance

A measure of variation within a distribution, determined by averaging the squared deviations from the mean of a distribution.

Variation

The dispersion of data points around the mean of a distribution. Variation is often quantified using statistical measures such as variance, standard deviation, range, or coefficient of variation.

Verisimilitude

Having the semblance of truth; in research, it refers to the probability that the research findings are consistent with occurrences in "real world" situations.

Weighted Scores

Scores in which the components are modified by different multipliers to reflect their relative importance. In weighted scoring systems, each item or component is assigned a weight or multiplier that reflects its significance or relevance within the context of the overall assessment or evaluation.

White Paper

An authoritative report that often states the position or philosophy about a social, political, or other subject, written by a group of researchers. A white paper seeks to contain unbiased information and analysis regarding a business or policy problem that the researchers may be facing.