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I. Research Strategies

I. Research Strategies. Module 02. A. Research Methodology. Method of asking questions then drawing logical supported conclusions Researchers need to be able to determine if conclusions are reasonable or not (critical thinking). 1. Scientific Method.

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I. Research Strategies

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  1. I. Research Strategies Module 02

  2. A. Research Methodology • Method of asking questions then drawing logical supported conclusions • Researchers need to be able to determine if conclusions are reasonable or not (critical thinking).

  3. 1. Scientific Method • Technique using tools such as observation, experimentation, and statistical analysis to learn about the world • Through its use, psychology is thereby considered a science.

  4. 2. Observation • Gathering of information by simply watching subjects a. Naturalistic Observation: subjects are observed in their “natural” environment (not aware they are being watched)

  5. 3. Bias • Occurs when a factor unfairly increases the likelihood of a researcher reaching a particular conclusion

  6. a. Researcher Bias • The tendency to notice evidence which supports one particular point of view or hypothesis

  7. b. Participant Bias • Tendency of research subjects to respond in certain ways because they know they are being observed • The subjects might behave unnaturally in trying to please the researcher

  8. B. Types of Research

  9. 1. Case Study • In depth study of one individual with the hopes of determining universal principles • Very open to bias • Not necessarily representative

  10. 2. Correlational Study • Research study designed to determine the degree to which two variables are related to one another

  11. How to Read a Correlation

  12. a. Positive Correlation • As the value of one variable increases (or decreases) so does the value of the other variable. • A perfect positive correlation is +1.0. • The closer the correlation is to +1.0, the stronger the relationship.

  13. b. Negative Correlation • As the value of one variable increases, the value of the other variable decreases. • A perfect negative correlation is -1.0. • The closer the correlation is to -1.0, the stronger the relationship.

  14. c. Zero Correlation • There is no relationship whatsoever between the two variables.

  15. d. Limits to Correlational Studies • DOES NOT prove cause and effect • Cannot determine why the two variables are related--just that they are related. • Helpful in making predictions.

  16. 3. Survey Method • Research method that relies on self-reports; uses surveys, questionnaires, interviews. • Efficient and inexpensive

  17. a. Population • The total large group being studied from which a sample is drawn for a study

  18. b. Random Sample • A sample that represents a population fairly: • Each member of the population has an equal chance of being included. • If a sample is not random it is said to be biased.

  19. 4. Developmental Studies • Psychologist studying how individuals change throughout their lifetime

  20. a. Longitudinal Study • Studying the same group of individuals for many years • Can be very expensive and difficult to conduct

  21. b. Cross-Sectional Study • Simultaneously studying many subjects from different age groups and then comparing the results • Cheaper, easier than longitudinal studies • CON: Group differences may be due to factors other than development.

  22. Longitudinal/Cross Sectional Study

  23. 5. Experiments Module 2: Research Strategies

  24. a. Hypothesis • A testable prediction of the outcome of the experiment or research

  25. b. Operational Definitions • A specification of the exact procedures used to make a variable specific and measurable for research purposes

  26. c. Independent Variable • The “cause variable” • The variable manipulated by the experimenter • Should change the dependent variable

  27. d. Dependent Variable • The experimental variable which is affected by the independent variable • The “effect variable” • The outcome of the experiment • The variable being measured

  28. C. Experimental Controls

  29. 1. Split the sample into 2 groups. • Experimental Group: The subjects in an experiment who are exposed to the treatment (independent variable) • Control Group: Are not exposed to the independent variable. Results are compared to the experimental group

  30. 2. Eliminate Confounding Variables • Variables, other than the independent variable, which could inadvertently influence the dependent variable

  31. a. Random Assignment • Assigning participants to the control and experimental groups by chance • Each participant should have an equal chance of being assigned into either group.

  32. b. Limit Environmental Differences • Make sure experimental and control groups are exposed to similar temperature, lighting, noise levels, distractions, etc.

  33. c. Reduce Expectation Effects • Changes in the results due to the subject anticipating certain outcomes to the experiment

  34. a. Blind procedure: research participants do not know (are blind to) the expected outcome of the experiment b. Double-Blind Procedure: both the participants and the researcher do not know the expected outcome

  35. d. Use a Placebo • A non-active substance or condition administered instead of a drug or active agent that is given to the control group

  36. D. Data Analysis Module 2: Research Strategies

  37. 1. Statistically Significant • Differences in results between the experimental and control groups could have occurred by chance is no more than 5 percent probable • Must be at least 95% certain the differences between the groups is due to the independent variable

  38. 2. Replication • Repeating the experiment to determine if similar results are found

  39. E. Ethics:Human Research(Four Basic Principles) Module 2: Research Strategies

  40. 1. Informed Consent • Participants must be informed, in advance, about: • the general nature of the research, and any potential risk. • Must have the right to refuse participation at any time.

  41. 2. Right to be Protected from Harm and Discomfort • Studies involving harm or discomfort may be conducted only under certain circumstances, and only with the informed consent of the participants.

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