aims, hypothesis and variables

Question 1

aim?

Answer 1

what the researcher intends to find out in the research study

Question 2

hypothesis?

Answer 2

prediction based on an explanation, model or theory. good hypothesis is written clearly and precisely stating what you expect should happen.

Question 3

directional hypothesis?

Answer 3

states how one variable will affect another. Example = stress will increase the number of days off sick. Also known as one tailed hypothesis

Question 4

non-directional hypothesis?

Answer 4

how a variable will affect another but we do not know how. Example = there will be a difference between number of days off sick by people who are stressed.

Question 5

null hypothesis?

Answer 5

no difference or relationship between variables.

Question 6

independent variable?

Answer 6

variable that the researcher manipulates or changes

Question 7

dependant variable?

Answer 7

the variable that changes as a direct result of manipulating the IV. the variable that the researcher measures.

Question 8

operationalising variables?

Answer 8

working out ways of measuring mental processes based on behavioural processes.

Question 9

extraneous variables?

Answer 9

have an effect on everyone. example = time of day, noise and temperature of the room

Question 10

confounding variables?

Answer 10

affects one or a few participants. example = Home life