(6) Descriptive Methods & Research Methods (Video Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on research methods, data types, survey design, and biases.

Operational definition

A measurable, observable definition of a concept used in research to ensure replicability (e.g., aggression defined in observable, countable terms).

Replication

Repeating a study with different subjects or settings to test whether findings generalize to the broader population.

Descriptive Methods

Research approaches that describe behaviors and phenomena, including case studies, surveys, and naturalistic observation.

Case Study

An in-depth examination of one person or a small group to reveal underlying truths.

Survey

A method of collecting self-reported information about a population from respondents, often via questionnaires.

Naturalistic Observation

Observing behavior in the subject's natural environment without manipulation.

Quantitative Data

Data expressed as numbers; used to measure quantity and identify patterns.

Qualitative Data

Non-numerical data used to gain deeper insight into experiences and behaviors.

Correlational methods

Research methods that examine relationships between variables without manipulating them.

Experimental methods

Research methods that manipulate one or more variables to determine causal effects.

Wording effects

Changes in survey results due to how questions are phrased.

Social desirability bias

A tendency for respondents to answer in a way they think will be viewed favorably.

Sampling bias

A bias that occurs when the sample is not representative of the population.

Random sampling

Sampling where every member of the population has an equal chance of selection, producing an unbiased sample.

Likelihood scale (Likert scale)

A multi-point scale used to measure attitudes or opinions, typically from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree.

Structured interviews

Interviews with predetermined questions asked in the same order to all participants.

Big data

Large-scale data analysis (e.g., social media data) used to study patterns in human behavior at scale.

Social facilitation

People may change their behavior when they know they are being observed.

False consensus effect

The tendency to overestimate how much others share our beliefs or opinions.