Intro To Other Research Methods Flashcards
Define Observations.
What are the 3 distinctions?
The study of observable behaviour - must be able to see it.
This is a research method in itself.
It is also used in experiments to collect data.
3 distinctions:
- naturalistic/controlled
- overt/covert
- participant/non-participant
Define Self-report.
What are the 2 types?
A way to capture thoughts and feelings, non-observable behavior.
It is a research method in itself.
It can also be used to collect data in an experiment.
2 types:
- questionnaires - written questions answered by the participants themselves
- interviews - face to face or over the phone - 3 types are structured, semi-structured and unstructured
Define Acquiescence Bias.
More likely to answer positively/agree (human nature).
Define Social Desirability Bias.
Answer in a way that makes you look better as a person.
Evaluate the questionnaire Vs the interview.
Strengths:
- the best way to record people’s thoughts and feelings
- less demand characteristics and more likely to be honest, last social desirability bias than interviews
Weaknesses:
- could be subjective as people interpret (or misunderstand) the questions differently
- can’t probe for more information or more detail like in an interview
Define Correlations.
A way of studying the relationship between two variables (co-variables).
No variable is manipulated.
Two variables are measured, both on a continuous scale.
Define Content Analysis.
A way of analysing data that is not numbers, such as pictures or words.
The pictures or words can be put into categories and counted.
Define Case Studies.
In-depth studies usually of just one person (sometimes a small family group).
The person is probably unusual in some way - may have suffered brain damage or have unusual life circumstances. The sample will be unrepresentative but still believed to have value as it may suggest directions for further research.
