1) Intro and Res Math Read pp 15-35 Flashcards
Why is a theory ever changing if it has concrete evidence?
Theory is a “hypothetical” explanation for natural phenomena meaning it’s imperfect, always undergoes process of revision with discovery of new evidence.Darwin/TOE/DNA
How are variables used to revise theories?
To test a theory, you choose an IV and make a testable prediction about how it affects the DV; results that challenge or align with the hypothetical explanation.
What is the second step in the scientific method?
Design the study and collect data
What is the first step in the scientific method?
Formulate a testable hypothesis
What if a standardized procedure is eliminated, how does it affect the study?
Reduces credibility. Standardized procedure removes bias by examining population and choosing a CG and EG which were formed through randomization [experimenter] and are representative sample[participant]
If an experiment used height as a variable, how would the experiment look if it used a longitudinal design vs cross-sectional design?
LD examines height in the same group over a span of 10 years, CD examines height in different aged groups in the current year.
If I am conducting a laboratory experiment, what type of research will I be conducting? Are there any downsides?
Experimental research because you manipulate a variable (IV) to arrive at a conclusion about the DV. Aren’t always realistic/generalizable.
How does a laboratory experiment differ from observing animals in the forest?
Laboratory experiments go hand in hand with causality, producing a result by using a IV. But observing animals involves identifying relationships between the animal and the environment, which is descriptive research.
How did scientists discover that the frontal lobes affected cognitive functions?
Case Study aka intensive study was conducted on Cage. Cage had a metal bar pass through his head and survive, discovery about cognitive functions were made possible through examining this extreme example which might have otherwise not been ethical to replicate.Not generalizable.
How do zookeepers know not to interfere in Panda birth?
Before encaged, they were observed in their natural environment and realized pandas were very shy. Behavior was generalizable because it wasn’t a biased sample.
Why might a census produce biased results?
The survey wasn’t sent to a representative sample, not answered truthfully, phrasing was difficult to understand. However it’s good because it’s cheap, quick, and gives insight into thoughts that can’t be observed.
If I am using a graph to analyze variable relationships, what type of research should I use?
Are these relationships definite and can produce a result?
Correlational research uses easy calculation to describe relationships between 2 variables.
Correlation doesn’t equal causation
What is the third step in the scientific method?
How do you analyze the data? What technique is used? Decide what data to use?
Analyze the data and draw conclusions
Apply statistics, meta-analysis(single analysis/large data),“statistically important”
WHat is the fourth step of the scientific method?
Report findings
