IB Psychology Paper 3

True/Lab Experiments

Quantitative methods. Controlled studies conducted in a laboratory setting to investigate the effects of variables on behavior, allowing researchers to establish cause-and-effect relationships

Field Experiments

Quantitative methods. Research studies conducted in natural settings, where variables are manipulated and behavior is observed, allowing for more generalizable results compared to lab experiments

Quasi Experiments

Quantitative methods. Research designs that lack random assignment to conditions, often used when randomization is impractical. They aim to understand the effect of an independent variable in naturalistic settings

Natural Experiments

Quantitative methods. Research studies where changes in the independent variable occur naturally rather than being manipulated by the researcher. These experiments exploit naturally occurring events to observe their effects on behavior.

Correlational Research

Quantitative methods. A non-experimental research method that examines the relationship between two or more variables without manipulating them. It assesses whether changes in one variable correspond to changes in another, but does not establish causation.

Surveys

Quantitative methods. Research methods used to collect data from participants through questionnaires or interviews, assessing attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors.

Case Study

Qualitative methods. Provides an in-depth exploration of a particular individual, group, or event, often using multiple sources of data such as interviews and observations.

Observation

Qualitative methods. A research technique that involves systematically watching behavior in a natural or controlled setting to gather detailed insights into actions and interactions. Can be participant or non-participant observation.

Unstructured Interviews

Qualitative methods. Characterized by open-ended questions, allowing participants to express their thoughts and feelings freely, providing depth and richness to the gathered data.

Semi-Structured Interviews

Qualitative methods. Combines a set framework of questions with the flexibility for additional probing and follow-up questions, allowing for in-depth exploration of participants' thoughts and feelings.

Structure Interview

Qualitative methods. A research technique used to gather detailed information from participants through direct questions, allowing for exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Focus Groups

Qualitative methods. Guided discussions with small groups of participants. This technique facilitates the exploration of shared opinions, experiences, and interactions among group members, often revealing insights that may not emerge from individual interviews.

Independent Measure Design

A research design where different participants are used in each condition of an experiment, helping to eliminate order effects and individual participant differences

Repeated Measures Design

A research design where the same participants are used in all conditions of an experiment, allowing for direct comparisons and reducing the impact of participant differences.

Matched Pairs Design

A research design that pairs participants based on specific characteristics, ensuring that each pair experiences different conditions in an experiment. This design helps control for participant differences while allowing for direct comparisons.

Alternative Hypothesis

A statement predicting that there is a significant effect or difference between groups in an experiment, providing a basis for statistical testing.

Null Hypothesis

A statement predicting that there is no significant effect or difference between groups in an experiment, serving as a foundation for statistical testing.

Independent Variable

A variable that is manipulated or varied by the researcher to observe its effect on the dependent variable in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is measured or observed in an experiment to determine how it is affected by changes in the independent variable.

Random Sampling

Sampling technique where every member of a population has an equal chance of being selected for the sample, minimizing bias. This method helps ensure that the sample is representative of the larger population, which enhances the generalizability of findings.

Convenience Sampling

Sampling technique where participants are selected based on their availability and willingness to take part in the study.

Volunteer Sampling

Sampling technique where participants self-select to be part of the study, often through advertisements or requests for participants. This method may introduce bias, as individuals who volunteer may have different characteristics than those who do not.

Purposive Sampling

Sampling technique where participants are selected based on specific characteristics or criteria relevant to the research question, ensuring targeted representation.

Snowball Sampling

Sampling technique where existing participants recruit future subjects from their acquaintances, often used in populations that are hard to reach.

Triangulation

A method in research that involves using multiple perspectives or sources of data to enhance the validity and reliability of findings, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic. Data, researcher, method.

Types of Researcher Bias

Confirmation Bias, Leading Questions, Question Order, Sampling Bias, Biased Reporting

Types of Participant Bias

Acquiescence Bias, Sensitivity Bias, Social Desirability, Dominate Respondent

Ethical considerations when conducting a study

informed consent, protection from harm, withdrawal from participation, debriefing, deception, anonymity & confidentiality

Ethical considerations when reporting data

Data fabrication, handling sensitive information, sharing research for verification, publication credit

Sample-To-Population Generalizability

The extent to which findings can be applied to the general public beyond those in the sample of the study

Theoretical Generalizability

The extent to which findings can be applied to specific settings outside of the context of the study

Case-to-Case Generalizability

The extent to which findings can be applied to similar research studies

Reflexivity

The process of examining how one’s own belief, judgments and practices may have influenced a research process

Iterative Questioning

Returning to a topic by rephrasing the previous question, testing for consistency and clarity

Thick Descriptions

Detailed accounts of behaviors, events or experiences that go beyond surface level observations in order to reveal the underlying meanings, motivations, and social context