L5 - Aims, Hypotheses and Pilot Studies

Question 1

What is an aim?

Answer 1

It’s a precise statement about the purpose of the study and what it intends to find out.

The aim should include what is being studied and what the study is trying to achieve

Question 2

What is a hypothesis?

Answer 2

It’s a specific, testable statement about the expected outcome of a study. The hypothesis should also be operationalised.

Question 3

What is causation?

Answer 3

The researcher predicts a difference in the DV because of the manipulation of an IV.

Question 4

What is the ‘null hypothesis’?

Answer 4

This states that the IV will have NO effect on the DV.

Question 5

What is the ‘alternative hypothesis’?

Answer 5

This predicts that the IV WILL have an effect on the DV

Question 6

What are the two categories of the alternative hypothesis?

Answer 6

Non-Directional Hypothesis - This DOES NOT state the direction of the predicted differences between conditions.

Directional Hypothesis - This DOES state the direction of the predicted difference between conditions.

Question 7

What affects whether we choose to use Directional or Non-Directional hypotheses?

Answer 7

If previous research has been done in the field of the study, then we use a directional hypothesis. This is because previous research will enable us to predict the direction of the results.

Question 8

What are pilot studies?

Answer 8

• They are small scale investigations conducted before research.
• They are useful as they help identify whether there needs to be any modifications in the design of the planned study.
• They also help to determine whether there is a need to carry out a full-scale study.