Ch. 2 Flashcards
What is the Scientific Method?
A systematic, organized series of steps that ensure maximum objectivity and consistency in researching a problem.
What are the 5 steps of the Scientific Method?
1) Defining the problem
2) Reviewing the literature
3) Formulating the hypothesis
4) Selecting the research design and the collecting and analyzing data
5) Developing the conclusion
What is an Operational Definition?
An explanation of an abstract concept that is specific enough to allow a researcher to assess the concept.
Why do we Review the Research as a step in the scientific method?
Examining relevant scholarly studies helps refine the problem in the study, clarify possible techniques for collecting data, and to eliminate or reduce avoidable mistakes during the study.
What is a Hypothesis?
A speculative statment about the relationship between two or more factors known as variables.
What is a Variable?
A measurable trait or characteristic that is subject to change under different conditions.
What is an Independant Variable?
The variable that is hypothesized to cause or influence another.
What is a Dependant Variable?
The variable that depends on the influence of the independent variable in order to cause change.
What is Casual Logic?
The relationship between a condition or variable and a particular consequence, with one leading to the other.
When does a Correlation exist?
When a change is one variable coincides with a change in the other.
It is important to remember that correlation does not necessarily mean causation.
What is a Sample?
A selection from a larger population that is statistically representative of that population.
What kind of sample is most frequently used by social scientists?
A Random Sample.
What is a Random Sample?
In a random sample, every member of an entire population being studied has the same chance of being selected.
What is Applied Sociology?
The use of the discipline of sociology to yield practical applications for human behavior and organizations.
What is a Control Group?
The subjects in an experiment who are not introduced to the independent variable by the researcher.