Key Concepts from the Lecture on Empirical Method and Research

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to empirical research methods and biases in reasoning.

Comparison Group

A group in an experiment whose levels on the independent variable differ from those of the treatment group.

Control Group

A level of an independent variable representing 'no treatment' or a neutral condition.

Inference

The process of drawing logical conclusions about unobservable factors based on evidence.

Confound

A potential alternative explanation for a research finding; a threat to internal validity.

Empirical Method

A systematic approach used in scientific research that involves a Theory Data Cycle.

Role of a Confederate

An actor directed by the researcher to play a specific role in a study.

Cognitive Bias

Thinking errors, such as only noticing information that supports one's existing beliefs.

Emotional Bias

Influence of feelings or a 'good story' on one's beliefs and reasoning.

Availability Heuristic

Bias resulting in incorrect estimates of frequency based on easily recalled instances.

Present/Present Bias

Tendency to incorrectly estimate relationships by focusing on present events and outcomes.

Cherry-Picking

The act of selectively gathering information that supports one's pre-existing beliefs.

Bias Blind Spot

The tendency to believe oneself less likely to exhibit biased reasoning compared to others.

Empirical Article

Original reports that detail the results of a research study, including methods and statistics.

Primary Source

An original study reporting new data for the first time, typically structured into sections.

Secondary Sources

Sources such as review papers or meta-analyses that discuss research conducted by others.

Main Effect

The effect of one independent variable in a study.

Interaction

The combined effect of two or more independent variables in a study.