While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:Dr. Sarah Chen developed the Modified Observation Protocol in 2019.The...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:
- Dr. Sarah Chen developed the Modified Observation Protocol in 2019.
- The protocol provides standardized procedures for behavioral research studies.
- Chen created it to reduce observer bias in data collection.
- The protocol requires multiple independent observers to record the same behavioral events.
- Research teams using the protocol must complete inter-rater reliability testing.
- Studies implementing Chen's protocol have shown significantly improved data consistency.
The student wants to specify the reason Dr. Chen developed the Modified Observation Protocol. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
Dr. Chen developed the Modified Observation Protocol to reduce observer bias in data collection.
Created in 2019, the Modified Observation Protocol requires multiple independent observers to record behavioral events.
The Modified Observation Protocol provides standardized procedures and has improved data consistency in research studies.
Dr. Chen's Modified Observation Protocol includes inter-rater reliability testing for research teams.
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Dr. Sarah Chen developed the Modified Observation Protocol in 2019. |
|
| The protocol provides standardized procedures for behavioral research studies. |
|
| Chen created it to reduce observer bias in data collection. |
|
| The protocol requires multiple independent observers to record the same behavioral events. |
|
| Research teams using the protocol must complete inter-rater reliability testing. |
|
| Studies implementing Chen's protocol have shown significantly improved data consistency. |
|
Part B: Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Dr. Chen's Modified Observation Protocol was created to address observer bias through standardized procedures and has proven effective in improving research data quality.
Argument Flow: The passage establishes the basic facts about the protocol's creation, then specifies its core purpose of reducing observer bias, details the methods it employs to achieve this goal, and concludes with evidence of its success in improving data consistency.
Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely
What's being asked? The specific motivation or purpose behind the protocol's creation
What type of answer do we need? A statement that directly identifies why Chen created the protocol
Any limiting keywords? The word specify means we need the explicit purpose, not just features or results
Step 3: Prethink the Answer
- Looking at our analysis, the third sentence explicitly states the reason: Chen created it to reduce observer bias in data collection
- This is the direct answer to why she developed the protocol
- The right answer should directly state that Dr. Chen developed the protocol specifically to reduce observer bias in data collection
Dr. Chen developed the Modified Observation Protocol to reduce observer bias in data collection.
✓ Correct
- States exactly what the passage says - Dr. Chen developed it to reduce observer bias in data collection
- This directly answers the question about the reason for development
Created in 2019, the Modified Observation Protocol requires multiple independent observers to record behavioral events.
✗ Incorrect
- Focuses on when it was created and what it requires, but doesn't address why Chen developed it
- This represents the trap of confusing procedural requirements with purpose
The Modified Observation Protocol provides standardized procedures and has improved data consistency in research studies.
✗ Incorrect
- Describes what the protocol provides and its results, but doesn't specify the reason for its development
- This represents the trap of confusing what something does with why it was created
Dr. Chen's Modified Observation Protocol includes inter-rater reliability testing for research teams.
✗ Incorrect
- Mentions one feature of the protocol but doesn't explain why Chen developed it in the first place