Module 5 - The Scientific Method of Description

Question 1

Theory

Answer 1

An explanation using an integrated set of principles that organizes observations and predicts behavior or events

Question 2

Hypothesis

Answer 2

A testable prediction, often implied by a theory

Question 3

Operational Definition

Answer 3

A carefully worded statement of the exact procedures (operations) used in a research study. For example, human intelligence may be operationally defined as what an intelligence test measures

Question 4

Replicate

Answer 4

Repeating the essence of a research study, usually with different participants in different situations, to see whether the basic finding can be reproduced

Question 5

Case Study

Answer 5

A descriptive technique in which one individual or group is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles

Question 6

Naturalistic Observation

Answer 6

A descriptive technique in which one individual or group is studied in depth in the hope of revealing universal principles

Question 7

Survey

Answer 7

A descriptive technique for obtaining the self-reported attitudes or behaviors of a particular group, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of the group

Question 8

Sampling Bias

Answer 8

A flawed sampling process that produces an unrepresentative sample

Question 9

Population

Answer 9

All those in a group being studied, from which samples may be drawn

Question 10

Random Sample

Answer 10

A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion