Module 0.3 Flashcards
The Scientific Method
What is the Scientific Method?
A self-correcting process meant to be used in evaluating ideas through observation and analysis . The science of psychology welcomes theories that sound good and tests them.
Peer Reviewers?
Scientific experts who evaluate the theory of a researchers article, its originality, and its accuracy. Once this is done the journal editor uses their review to decide if the research deserves publication. This is a vital piece to the Scientific Method.
What is the difference between a working theory and a non working theory?
Working Theory (data supports predictions) = better for the theory
Non- working theory (predictions fails)= revision or rejection.
What is a theory?
A theory is an explanation that uses a set of integrated principles that organize observations and predict behaviors or events. Theories often use deeper principles to organize isolated facts. Its main goal is to summarize and simplify.
What is a Hypothesis?
A prediction that is testable. These are often implied from a theory. They specify which results either support or dis-conform it. (If-then statements). Hypothesis’s have to tested no matter what.
What does it mean if something is falsifiable?
The possibility that an idea hypothesis or theory can be disproved by either observation or experimentation.
What does the Falsifiable of a hypothesis mark?
The amount of strength it has. (Could the Hypothesis be proven wrong?)
What makes a theory useful?
If it…
1. Organizes observations
2. implies predictions that anyone can use to check the theory or derive practical applications.
What are Operational Definitions?
Carefully-worded statements of the exact procedures (operations) used in a research study. These are used so that way the experiment can be repeated. Two examples might be qualitative and quantitative research methods.
What is Replication?
Replication is repeating the essence of a research study, this is usually done with different participants in different situations. This is done so one can see if what was founded can be repeated/reproduced. This can be done by using operational definitions. Once the results are repeated only then they can be generalized
What do experimental methods do?
manipulate variables to see their effects.
What are three examples of non-experimental methods?
- Case Studies
- Naturalistic Observations
- Surveys and Interviews.
What are Case Studies?
In depth analysis of individuals or groups. They examine one individual or group in depth in hopes of revealing something about everyone. These suggest directions for further studies.
What are some Pros and Cons of Case Studies.
Pro: Great when you can and have a opportunity to do them.
Cons: not often do you get an opportunity and case Studies cant be generalized.
What is the Hawthorne Effect?
Is when the group that is being observed behaves differently because they know that they are being observed. These behaviors are changing because the observation group is acting in a way that they think will please the observer.
What is Naturalistic Observation?
A non-experimental technique of observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate and control the situation.
What are some Pros and Cons of naturalistic observation?
Pro: Can describe behavior, descriptions can be revealing
Con: cant explain behavior
What is Courtesy Bias?
Participants respond trying to please or look good to the researcher. This happens in Surveys.
What is a Survey?
a non-experimental technique for obtaining the self-reported attitudes of behaviors of a particular group, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of a group. These look at cases in less depth because of the self-reporting concept. Sometimes people may shade their answers towards a socially desirable direction.
What are Forming/wording effects?
The way a question is worded can bias an answer.
What is Social Desirability Bias?
when people answer in a way that they think will please the researcher. Similar to Courtesy Bias.
What is self-report bias?
when people don’t accurately report or remember their behaviors.
What is Random Sampling?
A sample that fairly
