Module 3- Research Strategies (Definitions) Flashcards
Theory
An explanation using an integrated set of principles that organizes observations and predicts behaviors or events
Hypothesis
A testable prediction, often implied by a theory.
Operational Definition
A statement of the procedure (operations) used to define research variables.
For example: Human intelligence may be operationally defines as “what an intelligence test measures.”
Replication
Repeating the essence of a research study, usually with different participants in different situations, to see whether the basic finding extends to other participants and circumstances.
Case Study
An observation technique in which one person is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles.
Naturalistic Observation
Observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate and control the situation.
Survey
A technique for ascertaining the self-reported attitudes or behaviors of a particular group, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of the group.
Population
All the cases in a group being studied, from which samples may be drawn.
(Note: Except for national studies, this does not refer to a country’s whole population.)
Random Sample
A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion.
Correlation
A measure of the extent to which two factors vary together, and thus of how well either factor predicts the other.
Correlation Coefficient
A statistical index of the relationship between two things
Scatterplot
A graphed cluster of dots, each of which represents the values of two variables. The slope of the points suggests the direction the relationship between the two variables. The amount of scatter suggests the strength of the correlation (little scatter indicates high correlation)
Experiment
A research method in which an investigator manipulates one or more factors (independent variables) to observe the effect on some behavior or mental process (the dependent variable). By random assignment of participants, the experimenter aims to control other relevant factors.
Experimental Group
In an experiment, the group that is exposed to the treatment, that is, to one version of the independent variable
Control Group
In an experiment, the group that is not exposed to thee treatment; contrasts with the experimental group and serves as a comparison for evaluating the effect of the treatment.