Research Methods

Define: Experimental Method

The systematic procedures and steps followed in a research study to conduct experiments, gather data, and analyse results.

An ___ is a statement of a study’s purpose.

Aim

Define: Hypothesis

A clear statement of the relationship between an independent and dependent variable.

What is the difference between one-tailed and two-tailed hypotheses?

One-tailed states the expected direction of the results whereas two-tailed are non-directional statements of difference.

What hypothesis states there is no difference between the variables?

Null / alternative

Define: Variables

An element, feature, or factor, which is liable to change or vary.

An independent variable is ________ and effects the DV.

Manipulated

What is the variable that is measured?

Dependent Variable

Define: Control Group

A group of participants who do not receive experimental treatment, the IV does not influence the results, the group provides a baseline.

Define: Opertationalisation

Clearly defining the variables in terms of how they can be measured.

What is the difference between extraneous and confounding variables?

They both are any variable which potentially affects the DV other than the IV but confounding variables vary systematically.

Demand ________ are when participants respond in a certain way during an experiment due to clues about the aim.

Characteristics

Define: Social desirability

When participants want to look good so change their behaviour to best please societal expectations.

How can an investigator unintentionally influence the outcomes of their experiment?

Through investigator effects such as observer effects and experimenter bias.

What is it called when one gender is favoured over another and when can this happen?

Gender bias, during the experimental process or in the interpretation.

_____ bias occurs when one culture is favoured during the process or in the interpretation.

Culture

Define: Age Bias

When an age bracket is favoured over others.

Define: Bias

Only viewing things from one perspective ignoring any other possibilities.