Exam material Flashcards
Variables
Something in the world that can vary and that we can manipulate/measure or be counted
Independant variable
Explain or predicts change or variations. Stands alone and isnt changed by the other variables you are trying to measure
Dependant variable
Measures change or variation. Depends on other variables
Diffrence between I.V and D.V
The I.V is the one the researcher initially changes or controls. The D.V is the factor that the researcher measures. It changes in response to the I.V it depends on it.
Study design
The design of a study is the set of decisions regarding how a research question will be answered, depending on the terms of the structure in which data will be collected.
Correlation
When one variable provides information about the other variable. There is a realationship between variables.
Positive correlation
Realationship between two variables in which both move in the same direction. E.g height and weight taller people tend to be heavier
Negative correlation
One variable goes up another goes down. E.g height above sea water and temperture. higher in height lower in temperture.
Zero correlation
No realationship between the two variables.E.g no realtionship between the amount of tea drunk and intelligence.
The scientific method: Empirical evidence
Does not rely on argument or beliefs, the view that all knowledge is based on direct observation and experience
Scientific method
step by step process to determine if there is a realationship betweentwo or more variables
Step by step
Only queation hoe emma ate cookies
1.Observation
2.Question
3.Hypothesis
4.Experiment data
5.Analysis data
6.Conclusion
Quantitive Research
Formal, objective, systematic process in which numerical data are used to obtain information. Phenomenons which can be observed but not measured such as language. E.g using closed questions
Qualitative research
Process of collecting analysing snd interpreting non numerical data such as language. This can be collected using diary accounts or in depth interviews.
Internal validity
Refers to the degree to which a study can establish a cause and effect realationship between the I.V and the D.V. Change happened due to the I.V and not any other confounding variables
To increase internal validity:
To anticapate extraneous variables taht are threats to internal validity.
To design the study in a way that reduces or eliminates the impact of these variables on the realationship between the I.V and the D.V.
Selectin biases
Occurs when diffrences exist between the groups being studied prior to the I.V being manipulated.
External validity
The extent tp which the study results can be generilized to other populations and settings beyond the specific research context
Main concern of E.V
Can results be expected to apply to other settings, populations, times
Validity tradeoff
The more an experiment prioritieses internal validity, the less generalisable it is.
The more an experiment prioritises external validity the greater the change of bias affecting the outcome.
