5. How Science Works Flashcards
Cause and Effect
Where research can show that one factor actually caused a change in behaviour (effect).
E.g. In Bandura et al., it is concluded that the behaviour of the adult model did cause a change in the behaviour of the child. The more standardised and controlled a study is, the higher the level of showing cause and effect.
Deduction
When you create a hypothesis and then conduct research to prove or disprove this. However it is often hard to prove that one variable is the only thing affecting the behaviour, e.g. in Milgram’s research, not every participant went up to 450 volts.
Induction
The concept of having results or observing behaviour and then developing a hypothesis from this.
Hypothesis Testing
Once a theory has been identified based on observation or a research question, a scientific enquiry with a hypothesis is created and this can then be tested using empirical research.
Manipulation of Variables
The idea that the IV must be manipulated so we can see its effects on the DV.
Standardisation
Keeping the test conditions the same for every participant. It is a method of controlling situational variables, or environmental factors which might influence participant behaviour.
Replicability
To be able to repeat and therefore support or refute the findings from another piece of research.
Controls
For us to establish cause and effect, other extraneous variables have to be eliminated as far as possible.
Quantifiable Measurements
Quantitative data, which is observable and objective should be used to identify the impact of the independent variable.
Objectivity
Allowing personal theories or expectations to cloud judgement in research will make it less scientific and so all sources of bias should be eliminated.
Falsification
This is when you are able to prove a theory false.
