*Pilot Studies Flashcards
What is the aim of piloting in research?
To conduct a small-scale trial run of an actual investigation
Piloting helps identify potential issues before a full-scale study.
What does a pilot study typically involve?
A handful of participants
This small sample size allows for manageable testing of procedures.
What is the purpose of a pilot study?
To check if the investigation runs smoothly
It allows researchers to make adjustments before the full study.
Why should pilot studies include self-reporting measures?
To ensure these measures are effective and reliable
Self-reporting can often introduce bias, which needs to be evaluated.
In observational studies, what is the role of a pilot study?
To check coding systems before the actual study
This ensures data collection methods are accurate.
What advantage does piloting provide to researchers?
It helps save time and money
Identifying issues early can prevent costly mistakes later.
What is a single blind procedure?
Participants aren’t told the aim at the beginning
This helps control for demand characteristics.
What information might be withheld in a single blind procedure?
Details such as which condition participants are in
This prevents participants from forming expectations.
What is the purpose of not revealing information until the end in a single blind procedure?
To control for demand characteristics
This reduces bias in participant responses.
What defines a double blind procedure?
Both participants and researchers are unaware of the aims
This adds an extra layer of control over bias.
Who typically conducts a double blind procedure?
A third party without knowledge of its purpose
This is crucial in maintaining objectivity.
In drug trials, what is the significance of double blind procedures?
They help ensure unbiased treatment administration
It prevents expectations from influencing outcomes.
What is the difference between an experimental condition and a control group?
The experimental condition receives the real drug, while the control group receives a placebo
Control groups provide a baseline for comparison.
What is the purpose of using a control group?
For comparison to assess the effect of the independent variable
Control groups help validate research findings.
What can be concluded if the change in behavior in the experimental condition is significantly greater than in the control condition?
The independent variable was the cause
This indicates a causal relationship.
