research methods (Paper 2)

Answer 1

Experimental method - Involves the manipulation of an independent variable to measure the effect on the dependent variable. Experiments may be laboratory, field, natural or quasi.

Answer 2

Aim - A general statement of what the researcher intends to investigate; the purpose of the study.

Answer 3

Hypothesis - A clear, precise, testable statement that states the relationship between the variables to be investigated. Stated at the outset of any study.

Answer 4

Directional hypothesis - States the direction of the difference or relationship.

Answer 5

Non-directional hypothesis - Does not state the direction.

Answer 6

Variables - Any ‘thing’ that can vary or change within an investigation. Variables are generally used in experiments to determine if changes in one thing result in changes to another.

Answer 7

Independent variable (IV) - Some aspect of the experimental situation that is manipulated by the researcher - or changes naturally - so the effect on the DV can be measured.

Answer 8

Dependent variable (DV) - The variable that is measured by the researcher. Any effect on the DV should be caused by the change in the IV.

A01

Answer 9

Operationalisation - Clearly defining variables in terms of how they can be measured.

A01