Final answer:
The researcher is most likely attempting to measure state anxiety by administering a brief survey instrument immediately prior to an actual classroom examination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The researcher in this study is most likely attempting to measure state anxiety by administering a brief survey instrument immediately prior to an actual classroom examination. State anxiety refers to the temporary feeling of anxiety experienced in a specific situation. By administering the survey instrument before the exam, the researcher hopes to capture the participants' anxiety levels at that moment.