Research Methods Flashcards
Exam 1
What is Homer’s Guide to the Scientific Method?
Hypothesize
Operationalize
Measure
Evaluate
Revise/Replicate
What is a theory?
An integrated set of principles that explain and predict observed events
What is a hypothesis?
Testable prediction about the conditions under which an event will occur
How do we know a good theory?
1) Can summarize a wide range of observations
2) Makes clear predictions we can use to confirm the theory and create new research
3) Suggests practical applications for the researcher
What is basic research?
Goal is to increase understanding of human behavior, often by testing a particular hypothesis (asking for the sake of asking)
What is applied research?
Goal is to use social psychology theories to understand world events and social problems
What is a conceptual definition?
General, abstract definition of a variable (dictionary definition)
What is an operational definition?
Specific description of a variable that allows it to be measured and/ore manipulated
What are observational studies?
Watching behavior in real-life situations
What are archival studies?
Existing data are used to test a hypothesis
What are surveys?
A representative sample of people are asked questions about various topics
What is random sampling (selection)?
Everyone in population of interest has an equal chance of being selected
What is correlational research?
Examine the extent to which 2 variables are associated, related, or linked
What is experimental research?
Manipulate one or more variables, while controlling for others, in order to test for cause and effect relationships
What 2 things are necessary in experimental research?
1) Manipulation of independent variable
2) Random assignment of participants to conditions
What is an independent variable?
Variable that is manipulated to determine whether it affects the dependent variable
What are subject variables?
When characteristics of participants are treated like independent variables (can’t be changed but can be measured) EX: gender, religion, traits
What is a dependent variable?
Variable that is measured to determine whether it is affected by the IV
What is random assignment?
Randomly sorts participants into 2 groups (experimental and control) so that participants have an equal chance of being in either group
What is an experimental group?
Group that receives treatment
What is a control group?
Does not receive treatment manipulation
What is internal validity?
Degree to which you are certain that the independent variable caused the change in the dependent variable (good random assignment)
What is external validity?
Degree to which you are certain that the results of a study could be generalized to other populations
Which type of validity is prioritized in social psychology?
Internal validity is prioritized
