Research Methods Flashcards
Theory
An idea designed to explain existing facts and make predictions about yet to be discovered facts
Empirical Research
Theory testing and generate hypothesis
Null Hypothesis
The hypothesis that there is no significant difference between specified populations, any observed difference being due to sampling or experimental error.
Research hypothesis
x causes y
Scientific Method
Process of basing one’s confidence in a idea on systematic, direct observations, usually with research studies
Theory-Data cycle
Scientific method cycle. Allows the collection of data to either confirm or disconfirm a theory.
Hypothesis
Specific prediction about a variable’s behaviour in a study if correct
Replication
Repeating the essence of a research study, usually with different participants in different situations, to see whether the basic finding extends to other participants and circumstances
To conclude causation…
- Two variables must be correlated
- One variable must come before the other
- No other reasonable alternative explanation
Confounds
Factors that undermine the ability to draw causal inferences from an experiment.
Random Assignment
Assigning participants to experimental and control conditions by chance, thus minimizing preexisting differences between those assigned to the different groups
* Combats confounds
Within-subjects Research Design
Same group does multiple conditions
Between-subjects Research Design
Different groups do multiple conditions
Bias
When the data is skewed because of influence
Demand Characteristics
Cues form experimenter or context that tell participants how to behave
Reducing bias
- Inform participants how data will be used
- Single-blind study/double-blind study
Manipulated variable
A researcher controls the levels a participant is exposed to
Descriptive Research
Describes the typical
* One measured variable at a time
* Often self-report or observational
Correlational Research
How two or more variables relate to each other
Operationalizing
How was the variable measured?
Experimental Research
Can support causal claims
* Manipulating the variable and assessing the result
Random sampling
Every person in the population has an equal chance of being selected
Validity
The accuracy of a claim
Checking validity
- How well did the researchers operationalize the variable?
- Is the sample representative of the population?
- Can we rule out the most plausible alternate explanations?
