When discussing the credibility of data collection in physiological investigations, researchers must consider multiple factors.
Explain THREE factors that influence the credibility of data in an investigation measuring VO₂ max changes following an aerobic training program. (5 marks)
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Sample Answer – Any 3 of the following
Factor 1: Researcher Qualifications
- The reason for this is that researcher qualifications and expertise directly impact credibility when administering fitness tests.
- Proper protocol execution requires technical knowledge and experience with testing equipment to ensure accurate measurements.
- This leads to more reliable data collection and creates trustworthy results that other researchers can accept.
Factor 2: Equipment Quality
- This occurs because equipment reputation and calibration status significantly affects data credibility in fitness investigations.
- Validated, regularly calibrated equipment provides more trusted results compared to uncalibrated or consumer-grade alternatives.
- Therefore equipment quality influences whether other researchers will believe and use the investigation findings.
Factor 3: Sample Size and Selection
- Sample size and selection methods influence the credibility of aerobic training investigation findings significantly.
- Larger, representative samples with appropriate criteria yield more believable results than convenient or biased participant selections.
- This demonstrates that proper sampling methods enable stronger conclusions about aerobic training program effectiveness.
Factor 4: Reporting Transparency
- Transparency in reporting methods enhances credibility by allowing external scrutiny of investigation procedures.
- Detailed documentation of protocols and conditions enables other researchers to evaluate and replicate the aerobic training study.
- This creates opportunities for verification and builds confidence in the investigation’s findings and conclusions.
Show Worked Solution
Sample Answer – Any 3 of the following
Factor 1: Researcher Qualifications
- The reason for this is that researcher qualifications and expertise directly impact credibility when administering fitness tests.
- Proper protocol execution requires technical knowledge and experience with testing equipment to ensure accurate measurements.
- This leads to more reliable data collection and creates trustworthy results that other researchers can accept.
Factor 2: Equipment Quality
- This occurs because equipment reputation and calibration status significantly affects data credibility in fitness investigations.
- Validated, regularly calibrated equipment provides more trusted results compared to uncalibrated or consumer-grade alternatives.
- Therefore equipment quality influences whether other researchers will believe and use the investigation findings.
Factor 3: Sample Size and Selection
- Sample size and selection methods influence the credibility of aerobic training investigation findings significantly.
- Larger, representative samples with appropriate criteria yield more believable results than convenient or biased participant selections.
- This demonstrates that proper sampling methods enable stronger conclusions about aerobic training program effectiveness.
Factor 4: Reporting Transparency
- Transparency in reporting methods enhances credibility by allowing external scrutiny of investigation procedures.
- Detailed documentation of protocols and conditions enables other researchers to evaluate and replicate the aerobic training study.
- This creates opportunities for verification and builds confidence in the investigation’s findings and conclusions.