A2 RESEARCH METHODS - FEATURES OF A SCIENCE

Question 1

List the 5 features of a science

Answer 1

• Objectivity and the empirical method
• Replicability
• Falsifiability
• Theory construction and hypothesis testing
• Paradigms and paradigm shifts

Question 2

Describe objectivity and the empirical method as a feature of a science

Answer 2

We should use controlled and scientific methods in order to remain objective in research and not allow personal opinions or beliefs influence the findings. Data collection should be based on sensory experience. Examples include lab exps, controlled observations and brain scanning techniques

Let down by the psychodynamic approach due to use of case study of Little Hans as the foundation of its evidence

Question 3

Describe replicability as a feature of a science

Answer 3

If scientific theory is to be trusted, it must be shown to be repeatable over a no. of diff contexts and circumstances; improves the validity and reliability of the research as it helps us to see if it can be generalised. Std.ised procedures and clear scientific reporting are essential to replicability. See Popper’s hypothetico-deductive method in textbook

Let down by the psychodynamic approach due to use of case studies; can’t really replicate the findings from Little Hans

Question 4

Describe falsifiability as a feature of a science

Answer 4

Foundation of Popper’s hypothetico-deductive model; idea that theories can never be proven right, but they can always be proven wrong - argues that a theory that seems to be true just hasn’t been proven wrong yet. Things that can be falsified are considered to be “good science” and anything that can’t be falsified is “pseudoscience” i.e. fake science

Let down by psychodynamic approach due to lack of falsifiability of the unconscious mind

Question 5

Describe theory construction and hypothesis testing as a feature of a science

Answer 5

Theory = a general set of laws of human beh. Constructing theories comes from testing hypotheses by gathering evidence with experiments and either supporting (but not proving) or refuting the theory

Let down by the humanistic approach as it takes an idiographic approach; doesn’t attempt to make general laws of human beh

Question 6

Describe paradigm and paradigm shifts as a feature of science.

Answer 6

To be a science, a shared set of assumptions and goals is needed within the subject; psychology doesn’t have this due to the many different approaches, so cannot really be considered a science

Let down by the different approaches for not sharing the same viewpoints/attitudes