Basic vocabulary (research methods)

Question 1

Reliability

Answer 1

an experiment that is easy to replicate and is consistent

Question 2

validity

Answer 2

does it measure what it is supposed to?

Question 3

Generalisability

Answer 3

can it be generalized to a wider population

Question 4

Application

Answer 4

can it be used in everyday situations

Question 5

Ecological validity

Answer 5

how close is it to real life?

Question 6

variables

Answer 6

the factors that are controlled or cant be controlled by the experimenter

Question 7

Laboratory experiment

Answer 7

Takes place in a controlled environment,

and is useful in experiments that isolate the independent and dependant variables and focuses on exercising control.

Question 8

Natural experiment

Answer 8

Occurs in a real life environment,

The researchers do not manipulate the independent variables as they occur naturally.

Question 9

Field experiment

Answer 9

Conducted in a natural environment the independent variables can be manipulated by the researcher so that the dependent variables can be measured. Useful when studying behaviour.

Question 10

observation

Answer 10

A research method designed to observe how people act in certain situations

Question 11

case study

Answer 11

An in depth investigation into one group or a group of people

Question 12

twin studies

Answer 12

research done with twins to see if there are similarities