Scientific Process - Aims & Hypotheses Flashcards
What is the aim of a study?
A precise statement about the purpose of the study and what it intends to find out
What is a hypothesis?
A specific, testable statement which predicts the outcome of a study
What is a correlation?
A relationship between 2 co-variables
What is causation?
When a difference in the DV is due to the manipulation of an IV
What is a significant difference?
When the differences in the DV are a result of the manipulation of an IV - only if shown by inferential statistics (sign test…)
What are the 2 hypotheses in a study?
Null hypothesis
Alternative hypothesis
What is the null hypothesis?
The IV will have no effect on the DV
What is the alternative hypothesis?
The IV will have an effect on the DV
What are the 2 categories for the alternative hypothesis?
Directional and Non-Directional
What does directional hypothesis do?
States the direction of the predicted difference between conditions
What does the Non-Directional hypothesis do?
Doesn’t state the direction of the predicted difference between conditions
How do you choose whether to use a directional or non-directional hypothesis?
Look at if there is previous research:
- if yes, use a directional hypothesis based on the research
- in no, use a non-directional hypothesis
What things are needed to write a good hypothesis?
Is it a test of correlation or causation?
Is it a null, non-directional or directional hypothesis?
Is it in the correct tense?
Have all the variables been included?
Have all the variables been operationalised?
What is a pilot study?
A small scale investigation conducted before research to help identify any modification of design for the study - can help decide whether or not to do a full study
