Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts and terms from the lecture on research methods in psychology.

Quantitative Research

Research that focuses on quantifying relationships, behaviors, and phenomena using statistical techniques.

Descriptive Statistics

Statistical methods that summarize and describe the characteristics of a data set.

Correlation

A statistical measure that indicates the extent to which two variables fluctuate together.

Reliability

The consistency of a measure; a reliable measure yields the same results under the same conditions.

Validity

The accuracy of a measure; a valid measure accurately captures the concept it is intended to assess.

Qualitative Research

Research that seeks to understand human behavior through in-depth analysis of non-numerical data.

Ethics of Research

Considerations regarding the moral implications and responsibilities researchers must adhere to in conducting studies.

T-tests

Statistical tests used to compare the means of two groups to determine if they are significantly different from one another.

Operationalizing Variables

Defining and measuring a variable in practical, quantifiable terms.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction about the relationship between variables.

Null Hypothesis (H0)

A statement predicting no effect or no relationship between variables.

Alternative Hypothesis (Ha)

A statement predicting an effect or a relationship between variables.

Cross-sectional Design

A study design that collects data at a single point in time from all participants.

Longitudinal Design

A study design that collects data from the same subjects repeatedly over time.

Between-Subjects Design

An experimental design where different participants are assigned to different conditions.

Within-Subjects Design

An experimental design where the same participants are used in all conditions.

Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT)

An experiment where participants are randomly assigned to treatment or control groups to test the efficacy of an intervention.

Quasi-experimental Design

Research that resembles experimental design but lacks random assignment to conditions.