Research Methods Flashcards
Define objectivity
The ability to judge or interpret without being influenced by personal feelings, biases or prejudices. It ensures findings are based on facts and evidence rather than personal opinions. Not open to interpretation.
Define empirical method
A way of data collection techniques by direct and indirect observation or experience. It is gathered through evidence such as careful observation, experimentation and measurement.
Define replicability
The ability to repeat a study or experiment and obtain the same or similar results
Define falsifiability
The capacity for a hypothesis or theory to be proven wrong and can be contradicted by evidence.
What is theory construction?
The process of formulating theories to explain observed phenomena. This involves gathering empirical data and developing ideas that explain how and why certain events occur.
What is hypothesis testing?
The process of making and testing predictions derived from a theory. This is what you expect to happen in a study/experiment
Define paradigm
A set of beliefs, values and techniques that are accepted by a group of scientists. It guides what is studied, how research is conducted, and how results are interpreted
What is a paradigm shift?
A fundamental change in the basic concepts and practices of a scientific discipline. This occurs when new evidence or perspectives challenge the existing paradigm leading to a significant change.
What are demand characteristics?
These are cues in an experiment that might inform participants of the purpose of the study influencing their behaviour and potentially affecting the results. Researchers aim to minimise these to maintain the study’s validity.
What are investigator effects?
Any unintended influence that the researcher might have on the participants and the results of a study. Including body language, tone of voice etc
Define order effects
The potential influence that the sequence of presenting treatments or conditions in an experiment can have on results. When participants get better results after the first time or doing the study as they’re more confident/comfortable
What are behavioural categories?
Specific defined behaviours that researchers use when recording and coding behaviour during an observational study. These categories break complex behaviour down into measurable units
Define observation
A research method where behaviour is systematically watched and recorded. They can be structured or unstructured, overt or covert and may take place in a natural or controlled environment
What does overt and covert mean?
Overt is when participants know they’re being observed and covert is when they don’t know
Define correlation
A statistical method that measures the strength and direction of the relationship between variables. Correlations can be positive (both variable increase), negative (one increases and one decreases) or zero (no relationship).
