MET 03 - Briefing, debriefing and pilot studies

Question 1

What is a pilot study?

Answer 1

• A small-scale version of an investigation that takes place before the real investigation is conducted
• The aim is to check that procedures, materials, measuring scales and etc, work
• The aim is also to allow the researcher to make changes or modifications if necessary

Question 2

Is data from pilot studies included in the final data set?

Answer 2

Pilot study data will not be included in the final data set (it will have usually been collected under different circumstances due to changes)

Question 3

What is the significance of a pilot study?

Answer 3

• Often changes to a design are made because of a pilot study
• Pilot studies allow the researchers to identify potential issues and to modify the design or procedure, saving time and money in the long run (as it helps avoid flawed designs)

Question 4

What is a briefing?

Answer 4

• A briefing refers to the process of providing participants in a study with relevant information before they take part in a research experiment or study
• This typically includes explaining the aims and purpose of the study, what will happen during the study, any potential risks, and the rights of the participants (such as the right to withdraw)
• It ensures that participants are informed and can give their informed consent before participating

Question 5

What is a debriefing?

Answer 5

• A debriefing refers to the process that takes place after a research study has been completed, where participants are provided with full information about the study, its purpose, and any procedures that may not have been fully explained to them beforehand
• This is especially important when any form of deception has been used during the study
• The goal of debriefing is to ensure that participants leave the study with a clear understanding of what occurred and why
• Enables participants to leave the study in the same state in which they entered

Question 6

What are the key elements of briefing?

Answer 6

• Purpose of the Study: Explaining what the study is about and what the researcher hopes to investigate.
• Procedure/How long it will take: Describing what participants will be asked to do and for how long.
• Confidentiality: Ensuring that personal data will be kept private and explaining how data will be used.
• Right to Withdraw: Informing participants that they can leave the study at any time without penalty.
• Potential Risks: Mentioning any psychological or physical risks, and how these will be minimized.
• Contact Information: Providing details on who to contact if participants have questions after the study.
• Whether it hurts
• What the participant might get out of it
• Whether the task it too difficult or stressful

Question 7

What are the key elements of debriefing?

Answer 7

• Explanation of the Study’s Purpose: Researchers explain the aims of the study and how it contributes to understanding psychological concepts.
• Revealing and explaining Deception: If any deception was used (e.g., participants were misled about the true nature of the study), this is revealed and justified (if necessary) in an ethical context.
• Ensuring No Harm: Researchers confirm that participants have not been harmed during the study, either physically or psychologically, and provide support if necessary.
• Right to Withdraw Data: Participants are informed that they have the right to withdraw their data from the study if they choose, particularly in studies where consent was obtained before full details were provided.
• Encouragement to Ask Questions: Participants are given the opportunity to ask questions about the study or any aspects they did not understand.
• Monitor any unforeseen effects or consequences and offer Psychological Support: If the study involved sensitive topics, researchers may offer follow-up support or counselling to ensure the participants’ well-being.