Basics of Research Methods 4

Induction

Moving from specific Data (observations) to form a general Theory.

Deduction

Moving from a general Theory to specific Hypotheses (predictions) that can be tested with data.

Theory / Թեորեմ

 A system of interrelated ideas used to explain a set of observations. A good theory must be testable. Sleep facilitates the consolidation of memory

Hypotheses

A specific, tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. It is a prediction from a theory.

Variable

Any measurable condition, event, characteristic, or behavior that is controlled or observed in a study.

Identify the Research Question

Start with an initial observation or question.

Formulate a Hypotheses

Translate a theory into a testable prediction. You must define variables clearly (Operational Definition).

Select Research Design

Choose the method (Experiment, Case Study, Survey, etc.).

Data Collection

Start the study and gather information.

Analyze Data

Use statistics to interpret the results.

Publication

Report findings in a scientific journal for peer review.

Replication

Other researchers try to repeat the study to see if the results hold true.

Correlational / Descriptive Research Design

describing behavior or finding links between variables (e.g., Case Studies, Surveys, Naturalistic Observation).

Experimental Research Design

Manipulating a variable to see if it causes a change in another.

Independent Variable

The variable you change/manipulate.

Dependent Variable

The variable you measure (the outcome)

Experimental Group

The ones that get the treatment,

Control Group

The ones that do not get the treatment (for comparison)