exam 1: research methods. chapter 2

representative sample

techniques are used to ensure that the sample is representative

ex) If most cars on the street are red, showing one red car is a representative example

convenience sample

sampling subjects based on their availability

ex) Asking friends in your class about their favorite snack because they are easy to reach.

difference in representative sample vs connivence sample

Representative sample: Reflects the whole group fairly.

Convenience sample: Uses whoever is easiest to reach.

non-experimental method

A way of studying behavior without manipulating variables, just observing or measuring

experimental method

A way of studying behavior by changing one variable to see its effect on another

difference in non-experimental method vs experimental method

Non-experimental method: The Researcher only observes or measures; no changes are made

Experimental method: The Researcher changes variables to see cause and effect.

case study

Focuses on a single/ or a few individuals and gathers extensive information about them

ex) Studying one student’s learning habits in detail over a semester.

observational method

systematically observes and records behavior

survey method

Using a questionnaire and interviews to ask people questions on a variety of topics

What is the most common research method?

surveys

Naturalistic observation (observational method)

observe individuals in their natural environment

ex) observing at a shopping center

Laboratory observation

Observing behaviors in a controlled setting

ex) Watching how children solve puzzles in a lab room.

limitations on observation method

Certain topics are difficult or impossible to observe

ex) feelings

It does not allow for prediction and explanation

ex) Watching people in a park shows what they do, but can’t explain why they do it or predict future behavior