Unit 0: Scientific Attitude, Critical Thinking, and Psychological Science Practices

Vocabulary flashcards covering key elements of the scientific attitude, critical thinking, and foundational scientific practices in psychology from Unit 0.

AP Science Practices

The four core skills incorporated throughout the AP Psychology course: Concept Application, Research Methods & Design, Data Interpretation, and Argumentation.

Curiosity

An element of the scientific attitude associated with asking "Does it work?" and checking if predictions can be confirmed when put to the test.

Skepticism

An element of the scientific attitude associated with asking "What do you mean? How do you know?" to sift reality from fantasy.

Humility

An element of the scientific attitude characterized by a willingness to be surprised, follow new ideas, and accept that people and animals will not always behave as predicted.

Critical Thinking

A scientific attitude and smart thinking practice that examines assumptions, appraises the source, discerns hidden biases, evaluates evidence, and assesses conclusions.

Scientific Approach

An approach that uses observation and testing to draw conclusions.

Psychology as a Science

The designation of psychology as a science because psychological researchers rely on observation and experimentation when testing claims.