Research Process Flashcards
Hypothesis
a testable statement predicting the outcomes of a study
types of hypothesis
Non-directional, directional and null
Non-directional hypotheses
predicts that there will be a relationship between the variables, but does not specify the direction of the relationship
Directional hypotheses
predicts that there will be a specific relationship between the variables
Null hypotheses
any relationship that is found between the variables are purely due to chance
Operationalisation
defining variables to accurately manipulate, measure, quantify, and replicate
Pilot studies
conducted to analyse the technical and financial risks and to assess the feasibility of the study
Standardised procedures
important to ensure that all participants undergo the same procedure. This helps to increase reliability and replicability.
types of Sampling methods
Opportunity sampling, Volunteer sampling & Random sampling
Opportunity sampling
participants are chosen because they are available
Opportunity sampling Strengths
Quicker and easier than other methods
Opportunity sampling Weakness
Likely to be non-representative, as people from the same area may be a biased sample
Volunteer sampling
participants are invited to participate. Those who reply will be part of the sample
Volunteer sampling Strengths
participants are likely to stay committed and would be willing to return for repeated testing
Volunteer sampling Weakness
Sample may be unrepresentative because people who respond may be similar (they may have free time)