Research Methods

Chapter 1:

Differentiating good research from bad research

Actual science

  • evidence gathered from systematic observations

  • testable + refutable

  • Always evolving; sometimes can seem contradictory

  • Grounded in past research

  • Offers alternative explanations on the data even when the data supports the original hypothesis

Pseudoscience

  • “evidence” is based on belief that ideas are connected

  • Reflects on anecdotal evidence + testimony

  • Outcomes + conclusions are stagnant and unchanged

  • Not connected to past research


Chapter 2:

  1. Find a research idea

        Identify a ground topic of interest

  • false confessions

  • Do they exist?

  • If so, what are predictors?

            Cognitive- IQ, Memory, disability

            Personality- compliance/defiance

            Social pressure- Interviewer

Naturally the subject will narrow down as you read

  1. gather background information to assess what is already known about the topic.

  2. After settling on an idea, search for literature (Use psych info from library website)

  • DO NOT USE GOOGLE SCHOLAR

  • find a handful of studies that give info directly related to your topic

  • There should be primary sources(finished reports of research studies written by the author)

Primary sources- empirical journal articles

A. Experiment will have literature review, method, results, discussion, references section, it is not empirical.

B. Secondary sources- book chapter, textbook, any other secondhand observations.