Research Methods: Pilot Studies Flashcards
What is meant by a pilot study?
A pilot study is a small scale trial run of the research before the real main scale research takes place to identify any problems and AMEND/ FIX them.
A pilot study is a _______? scale trial run of the research before the real main scale research takes place to identify any problems and AMEND/ FIX them.
Small
A pilot study is a small scale trial run of the research before the real main scale research takes place to identify any ___________ and _____________ them.
problems
fix/amend
When is a pilot study done?
Before the main real study is carried out
Is a pilot study a way of a researcher testing their hypothesis?
No - this is a misconception - they do NOT analyse the findings
Researchers will check the amount of time given to ppts is enough but to do what?
to complete the task (LINK TO THE SCENARIO, WHAT IS THE TASK??) eg) enough time to complete the memory task
For questionnaires or interviews the researcher need to make sure the questions are ?
clear (and easy to understand)
If giving instructions to ppts they need to make sure the instructions are what?
standardised
For observations the researcher need to check that the coding systems and behaviour categories what?
Are operationalised, measurable and understood. (eg) cant just say aggressive behaviour you would need to say eg) punch or a kick
Operationalise flirting behaviour
flicking hair, giggling, physical contact
Operationalise Helping behaviour in a classroom
Handing out books, putting pens away
What does doing a pilot study do to our final results
Makes them more valid, reliable and accurate
Ensuring questions are clear and understood in a pilot study when the researcher is using what methods?
interviews or questionnaires
Ensuring behaviour categories are operationalised and understood when using what method?
Observations
Extraneous variables can be identified and possibly eliminated
Give an example of an extraneous variable in research that is red bull vs no red bull on the effects of 100m sprint
How difficult the track is
The past experience of running
The fitness of the ppts