Jargon Buster 

Research that looks at numbers and facts. It tells us how many, how often, or what percentage. Think of it like counting things or measuring patterns.

Research that looks at people’s experiences, feelings, and stories. It helps us understand the why and how, not just the numbers.

A smaller group of people chosen to take part in research, which represents a bigger group (like a taste-test before making a big meal).

The information researchers collect — this could be numbers, stories, answers to questions, or observations.

A researcher’s “best guess” or idea they want to test. It’s like saying, “I think this might happen, let’s check.”

Something that can change in a study like age, sleep, or screen time. Researchers look at how variables affect each other.

A group in an experiment that doesn’t get the new thing being tested, so researchers can compare results fairly.

When results are unfairly influenced by something (for example, if only one type of family is asked, the findings might not apply to everyone).

When two things seem linked (like more screen time and less sleep), but it doesn’t always mean one causes the other.

Research that follows the same people over a long time to see how things change.

When other experts check a study before it’s published, to make sure it’s trustworthy and high quality.

If research is reliable, it means the results would come out the same if repeated - like a scale that gives you the same weight each time.

If research is valid, it means it really measures what it says it’s measuring (like a maths test actually testing maths skills, not reading skills).

The rules researchers follow to make sure people are treated fairly, safely, and with respect.

When someone agrees to take part in research, knowing what it involves. Parents often give consent for their children.

Keeping people’s names and personal details out of research findings, so no one knows who said what.

Making sure any personal information given to researchers is kept private and not shared with others.

A detailed look at one person, family, or small group to understand their experiences in depth.

A small group of people brought together to talk about a topic, so researchers can learn from their discussion.

A list of questions given to lots of people to quickly gather opinions or information.

When researchers watch what people do (for example, in a classroom or playground) to learn from real-life behaviour.

​A set of written questions people fill in to share their views or experiences.

A one-to-one conversation where a researcher asks questions to understand someone’s thoughts or experiences.

What the researchers discovered after looking at all the information they collected.

The main message or “takeaway” from the research - what the study shows overall.

Ideas from researchers about what should happen next, based on what they found.

An explanation or “big idea” that helps make sense of patterns researchers see in the world.

A summary of what other studies have already said about a topic, before starting new research.

The things that might affect how much we can trust or apply the findings (like a small sample size).

When findings from a smaller group (sample) are used to say something about a larger group.

The money that pays for research - often from charities, universities, or government.