Research methods and design in DP

what is developmental psychology?

study of changes and continuities in behaviour and psychological processes across development

why compare adult and children?

• to examine developmental differences

• to understand change across development

why is developmental level important in assessment?

it affects how assessment should be conducted and interpreted

what is important when collecting developmental data?

• use appropriate methods

• consider developmental level

why is rapport important?

helps participants engage with the assessment/research

what should communication take into account?

• developmental level

• language

• understanding

why are cultural factors important?

culture can influence communication, assessment and behaviour

why are language factors important?

language can affect understanding and responses

what are the three broad ways of obtaining information?

• watching

• asking

• testing

what does ‘watching’ involve?

observing behaviour

what does ‘asking’ involve?

obtaining information through questions/reports

what does ‘testing’ involve?

using assessment/testing procedures

what are research designs?

ways of structuring research to investigate psychological questions

what is important when interpreting developmental differences?

consider whether differences reflect genuine developmental change

why are ethical considerations particularly important with children?

• they are developing participants

• welfare and rights require consideration

what should researchers consider when communicating with children?

• developmental level

• language

• ability to understand