Scientific Processes Flashcards
What is peer review?
Process by which psychological research papers, before publication, are subject to independent scrutiny by other psychologists working in a similar field who consider the research in terms of its validity, significance and originality
What is face validity?
The extent to which test items look like what the test claims to measure
- only requires intuitive measurement
What is concurrent validity?
Establishing validity by comparing performance in an existing test or questionnaire with the one you are interested in. Similar results should be expected if there is concurrent validity
How can validity be improved based off of concurrent and face validity?
Poor face validity = revise questions/items to relate more to topic
Poor concurrent validity = remove questions which seem irrelevant and check again
What is meant by random sampling?
A sampling technique where a participant sample is produced using random techniques and every member of a target population has an equal chance of being selected.
What is systematic sampling?
Gaining a sample where every nth member of a target population is selected, using a predetermined system (e.g every 3rd person). A degree of randomness can be obtained by randomly sampling the first person and selected every nth person after that
What is stratified sampling?
Sampling method where target population is divided into subgroups (strata) based on a specific characteristic. A proportional number of participants from each subgroup are randomly selected, ensuring the sample reflects the population structure.
What is a confounding variable?
Variables that aren’t the IV that vary systematically with the IV and may affect the DV, making it difficult to determine the true source of changes in the dependent variable
What are extraneous variables?
Variables that don’t vary systematically with the IV (they are a separate thing) so don’t act as an alternative IV but may have an effect on the dependent variable, making it more difficult to detect a significant effect
What is a confederate?
Individual who is not a real participant but is part of the research study and instructed to behave in a certain way by the researcher. Their role is to manipulate the social situation for the real participants without their knowledge
What is a directional hypothesis?
Predicts the specific direction of the relationship between two variables/groups/conditions or the outcome of an experiment based on previous research. It states not only a difference or relationship, but also the direction of the effect
What is a non-directional hypothesis?
Predicts that there is a difference between two conditions or groups of participants, without stating the direction of difference
What is a pilot study?
A small-scale version of an investigation that is carried out before main research. The purpose is to test procedures, materials, and identify any potential issues, so modifications can be made to improve the validity and reliability of the main study
What is mundane realism?
How a study reflects the real world. Scientific research environments should be realistic to a degree where experiences in the research environment will also occur in the real world
What is the difference between mundane realism and ecological validity?
Ecological validity focuses on how the RESULTS reflect the real world, but mundane realism focuses on how the research ENVIRONMENT reflects the real world
