1.6 How science works Flashcards
What are the 10 principles of science in Psychology?
-Cause and effect
-Falsification
-Replicability
-Objectivity
-Induction
-Deduction
-Hypothesis testing
-Manipulation of variables
-Control and standardisation
-Quantifiable measurements
What is inductive reasoning?
When a conclusion is reached based on previous observations so explanations are proposed based on experience
How does inductive reasoning relate to psychology?
May involve making conclusions based on evidence shown from several similar, pre-existing studies to explain the results of your study
What is deductive reasoning?
A way of deducing whether there is evidence for accepting or rejecting an explanation from data by predicting consequences
How does deductive reasoning relate to psychology?
May involve making predictions based on assumptions that can be applied to the study at hand
What is falsification?
The idea that good scientific research should aim to falsify hypotheses instead of proving them. It involves disproving a hypothesis or statement, to therefore prove an alternative
How does falsification relate to psychology?
Eg. you can prove that not all swans are white not by checking all swans, but by finding one black swan
What is objectivity?
A way of avoiding bias when investigating in order to not influence or interpret data wrongly based on experience or views.
How does objectivity relate to psychology?
Psychology is known to be subjective as a science. Biological and neuropyschology can use objective measurement tools, however, social psychology must employ concept such as inter rater reliability and replicability in order to ensure objectivity and accuracy.
What is hypothesis testing?
Involves deriving a prediction from a theory at the beginning of an experiment. These are stated in order to clearly demonstrate the researchers thoughts on what will happen in the investigation.
How does hypothesis testing relate to psychology?
At the start of an experiment, a null and alternate hypothesis will be proposed. One of these is accepted depending on the significance of results. This makes it scientific as hypothesis testing allows a clear and standard way of making predictions.
What is replicability?
It is important that the method is operationalised and clear enough that the study can be repeated to test for similar results.
How does replicability relate to psychology?
Social psychology involves the most extraneous variables as personality, lifestyle, and upbringing are all huge influences on behaviour. Thus, it is important for the method to be highly standardised and clear in order for replications to occur. Stronger evidence if the same results are found in different environments, times, or cultures.
What is standardisation?
Where extraneous variables are controlled to ensure that these variables are not affecting the results. A standardised test has reliable measuring tools, detailed steps to carry out the investigation, and consistency.
How does standardisation relate to psychology?
Studies should be as standardised as possible. Extraneous variables will most likely be the greatest cause of inaccuracies or anomalies.
