Y2 - Research Methods Flashcards
What are the features of a report
Abstract
Intro
Method
Results
Discussion
References
What is in the abstract
A summary of the study around 200 words which allows readers to get a quick picture of the study and results
What is in the introduction
Begins with a review of previous research and reasons for the study
Should end with the aims, research predictions and hypothesis
What is in the method
Detailed description of what the researcher did providing enough information for the study to be replicated (design, participants, procedure, ethics)
What is in the results
Details about what the researcher found
Quantitative - descriptive statistics including tables and graphs, inferential statistics including statistical tests
Qualitative - categories and themes are described with examples
What is in the discussion
Interpretation of the study and consider their implications for future research as well as suggesting real life applications
What is in the references
Full details of any journal or book articles that are mentioned in the report and the format changes depending on the type of source
What is a case study
An in depth investigation, description or analysis of a single individual, group or institution with unique qualities or characteristics
What are the methods / sources used in case studies
Interviews with individuals
Medical records
Observations
Interviews with other people
School reports
IQ test
What is a strength of case studies
Collect rich and detailed data. Allows researchers to develop high levels of understanding and insight. Explanatory (why) not descriptive (what)
What is another strength of case studies
Often study rare and unusual cases which helps our understanding of less typical behaviour and often have real life applications (e.g. HM - localisation of brain function). These can be used to support or contradict existing theories
What is a limitation of case studies
As case studies are rare and unusual it is often difficult to generalise the findings because case studies are unique
What is another limitation of case studies
Researcher bias - often case studies take months or years (longitudinal) and in this time a researcher can become too involved or lose insight. This can be highly subjective therefore can lack validity as information is collected and is prone to inaccuracy
What is content analysis
A research technique that allows an indirect study of behaviour by examining the communications that people produce (e.g. text messages)
What is quantitative content analysis
It generates numerical data by turning qualitative (words) into quantitative data
May involve just counting how many times a word or phrase is used
