Week 1 - What is a Classic Study?

Question 1

According to Brodish and Devine - What is a classic study (4)?

Answer 1

1. They ask BIG QUESTIONS
2. They use DEMANDING METHODS
3. They present CHALLENGING FINDINGS
4. They produce a BIG IMPACT

Question 2

What are the issues when classifying a study as ‘classic?’ (3)

Answer 2

1. Who decides which studies are included in a textbook?
2. What roles does a shared language and culture play in RECOGNISING research
3. Do we recognise the contributions of all authors of a study equally?

Question 3

Describe what Brodish and Devine mean when they say ‘Big Questions’

Answer 3

All classic studies address fundamental questions of human behaviour
–> They are often PHENOMENON-DRIVEN (historical events, changes in societal values, paradigm shifts in psychology)

Question 4

Describe what Brodish and Devine mean when they say ‘Demanding Methods’

Answer 4

Methods are often demanding for the participants and the researchers.

+: Innovative, high in drama, visually appealing

-: Not always rigorous, often some ethical issues, sample/statistical power issues

Question 5

Describe what Brodish and Devine mean when they say ‘Challenging Findings’

Answer 5

Produces findings that are challenging: they are often counter-intuitive –> could go against what has been previously found, could be controversial etc.

Question 6

Describe what Brodish and Devine mean when they say ‘Big Impact

Answer 6

The studies are often ATTENTION GRABBING. They are highly generative (inspires further work), and produce reflection/thought provoking

Question 7

It is arguably hard for modern studies to fit ‘classic’ features. What is considered MODERN criteria for successful research?

Answer 7

Citations - many researchers aim to get into journals
Complexities - because of rigour –> modern research is more complex to conduct (statistically driven)
Multiple studies
Large sample size - research is time and money intensive
Cost-efficient
Quick-turnaround (publish or perish)
Modern ethics
Measurable impact - how many times has the research been USED