PSY1315 - Research in Psychology Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of quantitative research?

Emphasizes interpretations and meanings

Can be replicated easily (correct)

Focuses on individual experiences

Uses small samples for in-depth analysis

Which type of data emphasizes depth over breadth?

Quantitative data

Qualitative data (correct)

Biographical data

Historical data

Which of the following cannot typically be generalized to a population?

Qualitative research findings (correct)

Statistical analysis of trends

Surveys with large sample sizes

Experimental studies

What type of research would be used to explore why adolescents develop eating disorders?

Qualitative research Signup and view all the answers

Which of these examples produces quantitative data?

The number of violent acts shown on television Signup and view all the answers

How many of the following examples represent qualitative data? 'Why do women enjoy watching TV series?' and 'How many males experience depression?'

Only the first is qualitative Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of the course PSY1315?

Learning research methodologies and becoming informed consumers of research Signup and view all the answers

What is a common criticism of relying solely on quantitative data in psychology?

It overlooks individuals' experiences Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a topic covered in PSY1315?

Neuroscience Techniques Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about qualitative research is true?

It includes case studies and personal narratives. Signup and view all the answers

Which research method involves collecting qualitative data from participants through open-ended questions?

Interviews Signup and view all the answers

The importance of issues such as reliability and validity in research is primarily to ensure what?

The credibility and accuracy of the research results Signup and view all the answers

In the context of research designs, what distinguishes experimental designs from non-experimental designs?

Experimental designs allow for the manipulation of variables Signup and view all the answers

Which following aspect is highlighted as a necessary skill for students by the end of the course?

Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative research methods Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of conducting surveys in research?

They allow for quick data collection from larger populations Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the required readings for the course?

Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Traditions Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between experimental and non-experimental research methods?

Experimental research typically involves fewer confounding variables. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of data is primarily collected in quantitative research?

Statistical data that can be analyzed numerically. Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining feature of the scientific method in research?

Developing testable hypotheses from objective observations. Signup and view all the answers

What type of data collection methods can be used in non-experimental research?

Surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does research differ from everyday speculation?

Research questions are based on objective observations. Signup and view all the answers

What type of research can demonstrate causation?

Experimental research. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about confounding variables is true?

Non-experimental research often has more confounding variables. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common reason for conducting research according to the content?

To question and test existing theories. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

PSY1315 - Understanding Research in Psychology

Course title: Understanding Research in Psychology
Lecturer: Dr Lorleen Farrugia
Email: [email protected]
ECTS Value: 4 ECTS
Study Unit Type: Lectures
Attendance: Compulsory
Assessment: Research (compulsory), Examination – 1 hour multiple choice questions
Subject: Research in Psychology

Study Unit Outline

The research process
Research designs (experimental and non-experimental)
Research methods (experiments, surveys, interviews, focus groups, sampling, reliability and validity issues)

Short Course Description

The course aims to introduce students to foundational topics of scientific inquiry.
By the end of the course, students will:
- Demonstrate knowledge of research steps involved in carrying out research
- Understand issues related to reliability, validity, and sampling
- Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative methods
- Identify main research data collection tools

Required Text/Reading List

Langdridge, D., & Hagger-Johnson, G. (2009). Introduction to research methods and data analysis in psychology. London: Pearson Education
Creswell, J.W. (2007). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five traditions. London: Sage.
Creswell, J.W. (2008). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. London: Sage.

List of Topics

Introduction
Steps in Doing Research
Surveys I
Surveys II
Experiments I
Experiments II
Interviews I
Interviews II
Focus Groups I
Focus Groups II
Ethical Issues in Research
Reporting Research & the APA® Style

Introduction to Research Methods

Why do we carry out research?
- Understanding real-world phenomena
- Testing theories and hunches
- Gaining expertise in a specific area
- Applying skills learned in research to jobs
- Developing adaptability and flexibility

What is the difference between everyday speculation and research?

Research Methods

Everyday examples of asking about the behaviour of others and ourselves
Wanting to understand our own behaviours, motivations and interpretations
- Example: Why do people smoke?
- Why do young people use TikTok? etc

Types of Research Paradigms

There are many ways to classify research.
- Experimental/Non-experimental
- Quantitative/Qualitative

Experimental vs. Non-Experimental Research

Experimental: Usually lab-based, uses technical apparatus, assessments, observations, quantitative data, few confounding variables, can prove causation
Non-Experimental: Usually field-based, uses surveys, interviews, focus groups, both quantitative and qualitative data, many confounding variables, cannot prove causation

The Scientific Method

Research conducted using the scientific method:
- Based on objective observations/earlier research.
- Generates testable hypotheses (research questions).
- Evaluated through well-designed studies.
- Gathers quantitative and qualitative data.
- Reports results that can be analyzed, repeated, and extended by other researchers

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data

Quantitative: Numerical data (e.g., measuring variables, incidence rates). Broad overview, can be replicated, generalized to population
Qualitative: Interpretive, understanding experiences (e.g., why people are afraid to donate organs). Depth, cannot be replicated, generalization to population is limited

Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Quantitative: Large sample size, breadth of data, can be generalized to the population, replicable
Qualitative: Small sample size, depth of data, cannot be generalized to population, not replicable

The Research Process

(Diagram showing steps involved in conducting research).

Selection of the problem
Review of existing theories and research
Statement of research question/hypothesis
Determination of research design
Data collection
Analysis and interpretation of data
Presentation of results

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Description

Test your understanding of the research process in psychology with this quiz. Explore key topics such as research designs, methods, and issues of reliability and validity. Perfect for students looking to consolidate their knowledge in this essential area of study.