9.1.8 - Additional research methods and techniques Flashcards
Define “content analysis” and its 3 steps.
The process of identifying and counting categories, themes, phrases or keywords that may occur in the data
Example:
1. Analysing the recording of an observation study
2. Identifying categories
3. Allocating each observation to each one of the categories
Define the 3 types of correlation.
Positive - as the value of one variable increases/decreases, the value of the other variable tends to also increase/decrease
Negative - as the value of one variable decreases, the value of the other variable tends to increase and vice versa
No - there is no linear trend between the two variables
Define ‘falsifiability’.
The capacity for a theory or hypothesis to be proven wrong
Define ‘empirical research’.
Primary data gathered directly through experimental and observational methods
Define ‘research review’.
A comprehensive and concise summary of research done on a particular topic with an emphasis on integration and interpretation of primary research articles
What is a longitudinal study? (2 points)
An observational research method which takes place over a long period of time - sometimes 10 to 20 years
Involves tracking the same participants through a period of development
How does a longitudinal study work? (3 points)
Participants will be visited several times for data to be collected and any changes in behaviour will be recorded
They are given the same type of tasks each time they are visited to check on any improvements in performance
The data of each test is compared to see how the passage of time affects whatever it is being tested for
What are the 2 advantages of longitudinal studies?
Increased internal validity - participant variables do not affect the data as same participants used throughout the study
Increased reliability - same data tests are repeated at regular intervals
What are the 2 disadvantages of longitudinal studies?
Lack of consistency in results - subject to research bias as researchers may change over the years
Duration of the study varies (weeks, months, years), causing sample attrition as participants may withdraw over time - disrupts the sample size and data collection
What is a cross-sectional study? (3 points)
A study that looks at different participants over a short period of time
Takes place at one specific moment in time and compares different groups of people at that time
The participants are tested once, usually to find a simple relationship between one variable and another
What are the 2 advantages of cross-sectional studies?
Less time-consuming and more cost-effective - participants only need to be tested once
Less impacted by sample attrition - easier to retain participants as the study is short and commitment over a long period is not required
What are the 2 disadvantages of cross-sectional studies?
Reduced internal validity:
+ Participants used are not the same so the results are subject to participant variables
+ Data is less rich and insightful as it is for a snapshot in time - harder to analyse developmental trends over long periods
What is a meta-analysis? (2 points)
Can be thought of as ‘conducting research about previous research’
A study about studies to get an integrated result
How does a meta-analysis work? (2 points)
A researcher reviews previously published studies on a topic and analyses the various results to find general trends across the studies
Researchers pool data on a particular topic using secondary data because the data studied are not gathered first-hand
What are the 2 advantages of meta-analyses?
Less time-consuming and less expensive - no need for new studies to recruit ppts/ find a lab/equipment
Fewer ethical considerations due to no direct contact with patients - no need to abide by BPS
