Conducting Research

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Research Process:

  1. Identify a topic/problem.

  2. Conduct a literature review.

  3. Theoretical framework.

  4. Formulate a research question or hypothesis.

  5. Choose a suitable method and design.

  6. Collect data.

  7. Analyze data.

  8. Report results/findings.

  9. References.

Formulating a Research Question:

  1. A broad open-ended question guiding the research.

  2. To explore or identify a pattern.

  3. Research questions: why? what? who? how?

Forming Effective Research Questions:

  1. Use academic but clear language.

  2. Avoid vague or broad topics.

  3. Connect questions to measurable variables.

  4. Consider relevance to psychological theory.

  5. Ex: Why do people feel bad → How does daily social media usage influence self esteem in students.

Formulate a research hypothesis:

A specific and testable prediction about the relationship between 2 variables.

To confirm or refute a proposed explanation or expectation.

Choosing a strong Research Topic:

  • Should be specific and meaningful.

  • Based on existing gaps in literature.

  • Feasible in terms of time, resources, and participants.

  • Aligned with ethical guidelines and scope of study

Variables in Research:

Critical components that researcher measure, control or manipulate to observe their effects on other variables.

It aims to answer research question or hypothesis.

Reliability:

Consistency of measurement over time.

Test-retest Reliability:

Assesses the consistency of a measure over time when applied to the same individuals.

Validity:

Accuracy in measuring what is intended.

  1. Content validity:

    • The extent to which a measurement tool accurately represents the specific construct it aims to measure.

    • it ensures accurate measurement and valid results.

    • Ex: Does the questionnaire cover all aspects of social anxiety?

  2. Construct validity:

    • The extent to which a measurement/test actually accurately assesses the theoretical construct it’s intended to measure.

    • It’s a critical component of establishing the overall validity of a research method.

  3. Criterion Validity:

    • Assesses how well a test/measure predicts a specific outcome or correlates with an established standard.

    • It is an accurate measure, effective assessment, and provides evidence of validity.