learning unit 2: research methods in psychology

Question 1

what is the aim of scientific method

Answer 1

the aim of scientific method is to make observations of phenomena in order to collect data and improve the quality of human lives

Question 2

what is a hypothesis

Answer 2

a statement about a relationship between 2 or more variables

Question 3

what are the 8 steps in scientific investigation

Answer 3

identify a problem
state the rationale
develop a research question
formulate a hypothesis
develop a research design
collect data
analyse the data
report the results

Question 4

what is the quantitative research approach

Answer 4

this approach aims to test hypotheses, asses cause-and-effect relationships and makes predictions. they have larger samples and data is based on numbers

Question 5

what is the qualitative research approach

Answer 5

the qualitative research approach aims to understand and interpret social interactions. they have smaller sample sizes, data based on open ended responses and they provide researchers with in depth knowledge

Question 6

what are the two types of data collection methods

Answer 6

primary and secondary methods

Question 7

name two quantitative data collection methods

Answer 7

standardised tests and questionnaires

Question 8

name 3 qualitative research data collection methods

Answer 8

interviews, documents and naturalistic & laboratory observation