HDFS 361 (Chapter 1 Notes)

These flashcards cover key concepts, methods, and terminology from Chapter 1 of Gravetter & Forzano (2018), providing a comprehensive study aid for understanding behavioral science research.

Ways of Knowing

Various methods through which individuals acquire knowledge.

Method of Tenacity

Accepting information because it has always been believed.

Method of Intuition

Knowledge based on a 'gut feeling' or instinct.

Method of Authority

Accepting information because an authority figure claims it is true.

Method of Faith

Complete trust in an authority without questioning.

Rational Method (Rationalism)

Knowledge gained through logical reasoning.

Empirical Method (Empiricism)

Knowledge gained through direct observation.

Scientific Method

A systematic approach that includes observation, hypothesis formation, and testing.

Quantitative Research

Research that produces numerical data and uses statistical analysis.

Qualitative Research

Research that produces narrative descriptions and focuses on meaning and context.

Hypothesis

A tentative answer to a research question.

Operational Definition

A specific, measurable definition of a variable.

Participants

Humans who take part in a study.

Subjects

Nonhuman research participants.

Research Strategy

The general approach used to answer a research question.

Research Design

The specific methods and procedures used in a study.

Replication

Repeating a study to verify results.

Pseudoscience

Claims that appear scientific but lack essential features of true science.

Induction

Using specific observations to form general conclusions.

Deduction

Using general principles to make specific predictions.

Variable

A characteristic that can change or vary.

Statistical Analysis

The process of collecting and analyzing data to identify trends or patterns.

Empirical Knowledge

Knowledge based on systematized observation.

Objective Knowledge

Knowledge that minimizes personal bias.

Public Knowledge

Science that must be shared for verification.

Self-correcting

The ability of science to be open to revision and improvement.

10-Step Research Process

A structured approach guiding researchers from idea formation to study refinement.

Step 1: Find a Research Idea

Identifying a topic of interest based on existing literature.

Step 2: Form a Hypothesis

Creating a testable prediction grounded in prior research.

Step 3: Define and Measure Variables

Operationalizing how each variable will be measured in a study.

Step 4: Identify Participants and Plan Ethical Treatment

Determining who will participate and ensuring their rights.

Step 5: Select a Research Strategy

Choosing the general approach for the research question.

Step 6: Select a Research Design

Choosing specific methods for manipulating and measuring variables.

Step 7: Conduct the Study

Implementing decisions to collect data.

Step 8: Evaluate the Data

Using descriptive and inferential statistics to interpret results.

Step 9: Report the Results

Making research findings public for evaluation and replication.

Step 10: Refine or Reformulate the Research Idea

Adjusting research ideas based on results and new questions.

Key Theme: Everyday Knowledge Flaws

Everyday ways of knowing are often flawed.

Key Theme: Science as a Systematic Method

Science provides a systematic, objective method for gaining knowledge.

Key Theme: Continuous Evolution of Scientific Knowledge

Scientific knowledge evolves through continuous questioning and refinement.