Non-Experimental Methods

Question 1

Self Report Interviews and Questionnaires

Answer 1

Both are based on a set of questions - interviews involve a face to face meeting with the participant, questionnares can be filled in face to face but are more likely to rely on their paper base. They can be postal and not requre contact with the researcher

Question 2

Self Report Interviews and Questionnaires Advantages

Answer 2

Interviews can gather information through non verbal communication. It allows for clarification for answers. If questions are open ended, then it can be a source of vast data. Participants could provide unanticipated information. Structured interviews have pre-set questions and are a quick way of getting information.

Question 3

Self Report Interviews and Questionnaires Disadvantages

Answer 3

Interviews have a lot of demand characteristics.
Participants may adjust their answers.
Answers can relfect social desirability as well.
Researcher bias can be a problem as definding the answers to fit results and conclusions can be difficult.
It’s difficult to write questionnares to suit a range of readers and avoid a cue answer.

Question 4

Observation Techniques

Answer 4

Watching and recording the behavior of others.

Two types - structured and naturalistic.

Question 5

Observation Techniques Advantages

Answer 5

As behaviors are occuring in the natural environent there is high validity.
Some situations could not be stimulated.
Observation is needed when participants cannot be responsive to other methods.

Question 6

Observation Techniques Disadvantages

Answer 6

Ethical issues.
If participants know theyre being watched, they may change their behavior.
Observing without a scheduel makes the results ess reliable.
Data will need editing and behavior not fitting the hypothesis may be ignored.

Question 7

Correlational Analysis

Answer 7

Variables are in a quantitative form and are processed statistically to determine if they are related to each other.

Question 8

Correlational Analysis Advantages

Answer 8

Can be used as a precursor to a study - if no relationship exists investigation would waste resources.
Secondary data can be used - can be economic as researchers can use others results.
Can relate variables which maybe unethical to manipulate.

Question 9

Correlational Analysis Disadvantages

Answer 9

Although variables may appear to be related/unrelated - a cause and effect relationship cannot be assumed - it is not experimental.
The relationship maybe the result of an ‘unknown’ third variable.
Correlational analysis cannot account for non-linear relationships.