Chapter 2 Flashcards
(19 cards)
5 steps in scientific method
- Define the problem
- Reviewing the literature
- Formulating hypothesis
- Selecting research design collecting and analyzing the data
- Coming to a conclusion
- Defining the problem
Operational definition
An explanation of an abstract concept that is specific enough to allow a researcher to assess this concept
What is a hypothesis?
A speculative statement about the relationship between two or more factors known as variables
What is a variable?
A measurable trait that is subject to change under different conditions
- independent: cause or influence another
- dependent: depends on independent
Causal logic
Relationship between a variable and a particular consequence with one event leading to the other
Correlation
An indication the causality may be present
Spurious correlation
When two variable are associated but not causally related
Validity vs. Reliability
Validity: the degree at which a measure reflects the phenomena
Reliability: the extent at which a measure provides consistent results
Quantitative vs. Qualitative
Quantitative: information that can he measured using numbers (survey)
Qualitative: quality no numbers
Ethnography
Study of an entire social setting
- observation or direct participation
Experiments
Artificially created situation that allows the researcher to manipulate the variables
Experimental group: exposed to independent variable
Control group: is not
Traditional knowledge
Cumulative body of knowledge developed by people with histories of interactions
Critical thinking
Asking targeted questions and assessing evidence
Types of questions
- Questioning facts
- Questioning basic values
- Questions about the power structures
- The status quo
Questioning facts
Questions the process by which knowledge is accepted as fact
Questioning basic values
Institutions such as families and schools enforce processes of socialization that normalize certain practices of the world
Questions about the power structure
Questions how historical processes have shaped a world system in which some people have more resources than others
Questioning status quo
Seeks solutions to improve the conditions of people
Hawthorne effect
The unintended influence that observers or experimenters can have on their subjects
