hypotheses & variables

Question 1

define theory

Answer 1

a suggested explanation for behavior

Question 2

in order name the 4 processes before we test a theory

Answer 2

1. formulating an aim, 2. variables, 3. operationalising variables, 4. formulating a testable hypothesis

Question 3

define aim

Answer 3

a general statement that explains the purpose of the study

Question 4

define variables

Answer 4

anything that can vary or change within an investigation

Question 5

what are the 2 key types of variables

Answer 5

independent variable, dependent variable

Question 6

define independent variable

Answer 6

the thing that is varied in an experiment- either deliberately changed by the experimenter or varies naturally, there are different levels of the IV- which are called the conditions of the experiment

Question 7

define dependent variable

Answer 7

the thing that the researcher measures in an investigation, any changes in the DV should depend on the IV and the IV alone.

Question 8

define operationalisation of variables

Answer 8

making a variable clear and precise, make it measurable

Question 9

define formulating a testable hypothesis

Answer 9

a testable statement that states the relationship between the two variables

Question 10

what is the general rule when writing a testable hypothesis

Answer 10

relationship (difference or relationship) + DV + two levels (conditions) of IV

Question 11

define hypothesis

Answer 11

a clear, precise, testable statement written at the beginning of an investigation, it states the relationship between the variables being investigated

Question 12

define alternative hypothesis

Answer 12

a statement of the relationship (correlation or difference) between variables

Question 13

define null hypothesis

Answer 13

a statement of no relationship (correlation or difference) between variables