MP

1. Aim, Hypothesis & variables

Aim

a statement outlining the purpose of the investigation

  • single sentence to short paragraph

  • clear and concise

  • ensure describes purpose of investigation

  • closely relates to research question if provided

  • if more than one aim, ensure related

  • compares two relations→ IV and DV and CV

eg/

  • to compare the tase sensitivities on a adolescent with those of a very old person.

  • the aim of this experiment is to asses the effects of food colour on perception of taste

Formula: The aim of this experiment is to assess [IV] on [DV]


Research Hypothesis

testable prediction of the relationship between two or more variables (events or characteristics)

  • expectations of results based on theory or model

characteristics:

  • variables → IV DV CV

  • states existence of relationship between two or more variables

  • states expected relationship

  • comparison

  • include population

  • indication of strength → increase, decrease, improve, worsen, show more

  • written in past tense

  • if-then

  • supported or refuted

Formula
it is hypothesised that -[IV]-[strength/direction]-[DV]-[Population]-[Comparison]-[Control]

THEORY MODEL

  • gap-filling function→ how findings and ideas fit together

  • used to formulate research hypothesis

  • testable theories and models can be confirmed, revised or refuted → judged on usefulness not accuracy

Theory
general (broad) explanation of a set of observation/concepts about behaviour and or mental processes

Model
focus on representing HOW behaviour/processes could,should or does occur.

→ graphic or representation

→used for stuff hard to visualise

Controlled experiment → a experimental investigation to test relationship between IV and DV whilst controlling all other variables

Variables → something that can change (‘vary’) in amount or type and is measureable

Independent variable (manipulated)

  • variable that changes

  • viewed as the cause

Dependant variable (measured)

  • variable that is measured

  • view as the effect

  • quantitative or qualatative in value

Extraneous variables

  • variables outside the IV and DV that can affect the results/validity of the study

  • when experimenting, must consider all EV to control