7.2: Pilot studies

Question 1

Researchers decided to study the behaviour of a young girl who experienced disruption to attachment when she had to go into hospital for a few days. Naturalistic observation of the girl before and after the separation was conducted, with each period of observation lasting for two hours.

Explain why a pilot study might be carried out before the main observation (2 marks)

Answer 1

A pilot study might be carried out before the main observation to check for errors in the procedure

Question 2

Researchers decided to study the behaviour of a young girl who experienced disruption to attachment when she had to go into hospital for a few days. Naturalistic observation of the girl before and after the separation was conducted, with each period of observation lasting for two hours.

Explain why a pilot study might be carried out before the main observation (2 marks).
A pilot study might be carried out before the main observation to check for errors in the procedure, so that what?

Answer 2

A pilot study might be carried out before the main observation to check for errors in the procedure, so that if any were identified they could be changed before the main study took place

Question 3

Explain one reason why research should undergo peer review (2 marks)

Answer 3

One reason why research should undergo peer review is to ensure that it is scrutinised by experts to such an extent that it can be judged to be scientifically acceptable

Question 4

Explain one reason why research should undergo peer review (2 marks).
One reason why research should undergo peer review is to ensure that it is scrutinised by experts to such an extent that it can be judged to be scientifically acceptable.
What does this do?

Answer 4

This ensures that flawed research does not become accepted as fact

Question 5

Explain the role of peer review in scientific research (2 marks)

Answer 5

The role of peer review in scientific research is to ensure that it is scrutinised by experts to such an extent that it can be judged to be scientifically acceptable, which ensures that flawed research does not become accepted as fact.
Peer review also allows for funding approval