AQA A-level Psychology Research Methods

Questions and Answers

What is assessed to determine the reliability of observational techniques?

External validity

Internal validity

Inter-observer reliability (correct)

Intra-observer reliability

What is inter-observer reliability?

The extent to which there is agreement between two or more observers involved in observations of a behavior.

What does reliability refer to in research methods?

The consistency of measurements.

What is test-retest reliability?

The consistency in results every time a measure is used. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to assess reliability when using observational techniques?

Observers can be biased and so data needs to be checked before it is released so it doesn't cause any harm. Signup and view all the answers

How can reliability be improved when using observational techniques?

Make the categories clearer and operationalise them further. Give observers more practice at using the categories. Signup and view all the answers

How is the validity of self-report techniques assessed?

Through test-retest methods or inter-interviewer comparisons. Signup and view all the answers

How is the reliability of self-report techniques improved?

By reducing ambiguity in questions. Signup and view all the answers

What does the reliability of experiments concern?

Consistency of the method throughout the experiment. Signup and view all the answers

How do you improve experimental validity?

By ensuring standardization of procedures for all participants. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Observational Techniques and Reliability

Assessing reliability in observational techniques involves calculating inter-observer reliability using a correlation coefficient from observers' data; a score of 0.80 or above indicates good reliability.
Inter-observer reliability measures the agreement among multiple observers when assessing the same behavior.

Fundamental Concepts of Reliability

Reliability refers to the consistency of measurements across different instances.
Test-retest reliability evaluates whether results are consistent when the same measure is applied on different occasions.

Importance of Assessing Reliability

Evaluating reliability in observational methods is crucial due to potential biases from observers, ensuring that the data released is trustworthy and does not cause harm.

Enhancing Reliability in Observations

To improve reliability, observers should further operationalize categories and receive more practice in applying these categories.

Validity Assessment in Self-Report Techniques

Test-retest methods assess validity by administering the same test to the same participants on two occasions, allowing time for forgetting. Similarity in scores indicates higher reliability.
Inter-interviewer validity compares responses from the same participant with different interviewers or the same interviewer over a week apart.

Improving Reliability of Self-Report Techniques

Reducing ambiguity in questions is vital, as unclear questions can lead to varying interpretations that affect data consistency.

Reliability in Experimental Settings

The reliability of experiments focuses on maintaining consistency in methods used throughout the experiment.

Enhancing Experimental Validity

Standardization ensures that procedures are uniformly applied to all participants, allowing for valid comparisons of results.

Description

Explore key concepts of reliability in observational techniques with these flashcards. Understand inter-observer reliability and learn how to measure agreement among observers effectively. Perfect for AQA A-level psychology students looking to reinforce their knowledge of research methods.