Module 2 Flashcards
scientific method
Learning about the world through the application of critical thinking and tools such as observation, experimentation, and statistical analysis.
researcher bias
When researchers selectively notice evidence that supports their hypotheses or expectations.
critical thinking
Thinking that does not blindly accept arguments and conclusions. It examines assumptions, discerns hidden values, evaluates evidence, and assesses conclusions.
participant bias
When participants in research respond differently than they normally would because they know they are being observed or they believe they know the researcher wants.
naturalistic observation
Observing and recording behaviour in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate and control the situation.
case study
A research technique in which one person is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles.
correlation study
A research project designed to discover the degree to which two variables are related to each other.
survey method
A research method designed to discover self-reported attitudes or behaviours of people through the use of questionnaires or interviews.
population
All the cases in a group, from which samples may be drawn for a study.
random sample
A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion.
longitudinal study
Studying the same group of individuals over a long period of time.
cross-sectional study
Comparing individuals from different age groups at one time.
experiment
A research method n which the researcher manipulates one or more factors (IV) to observe the effect on another variable (DV) while confounding variable remain controlled.
hypothesis
An investigator’s testable prediction about the outcome of research.
operational definition
A specification of the exact procedure used to make a variable specific and measurable.
independent variable
The research variable that is hypothesized to cause a change in the dependent variable.
dependent variable
The behaviour or mental process where the impact of the independent variable is measured.
experimental group
The participants in an experiment who are exposed to the treatment (IV).
control group
The participants in an experiment not exposed the the IV and are used as a comparison for the experimental group.
random assignment
Assigning participants to experimental and control groups by chance
confounding variable
A variable other than the IV, that could influence the DV.
double-blind procedure
An experimental procedure in which both the research participants and the researchers are blind to the expected outcome of the research.
placebo
A nonactive substance that may be administered instead of a drug (fake pill)
replication
Repeating a research study to see whether the results can be reliably reproduced. Unless a study can be replicated, the results are likely to be a fluke occurrence.