MET n (MET 03) Briefing, debriefing & pilot studies

Explain the purpose of using a briefing in research (2)

* To obtain informed consent from pps

* To inform them of anything that might affect their willingness to participate

Explain the purpose of using a debriefing in research (3)

* To complete the pps understanding of the study

* To obtain permission (retrospective consent) to use their data

* To identify any potential negative effects on pps and offer to support hem if necessary

Explain the importance of balancing consent and validity in a briefing (2)

* Must obtain informed consent for ethical reasons...

* ...but too much information could increase demand characteristics and reduce validity

Explain what a pilot study is and what it involves doing (5)

• Small scale version of investigation

• Occurs before the real investigation to pre-empt any problems

* Ensure the study is valid, practical and ethical

• Check that the procedure, materials, measuring scales /equipment work well

• Therefore, researcher can identify potential issues and fix them, saving time and money

Explain some things that can be checked during pilot studies using experiments, self- reports and observations (3x2)

Experiments

* Check that experimental tasks are clear...

* ...and work properly, timings are right

Self-report methods

* Help re-word ambiguous questions if misleading

* Train researchers, esp interviewers

Observations

* Check coding systems

* Train observers