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Questions and Answers
What is the main focus of the course and lecture?
Why is psychology considered a science?
What is the main purpose of methodology in psychology?
What does Hugh Coolican define as science?
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What does the phrase 'READ THE SYLLABUS' indicate?
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What is the main benefit of using statistics in psychological research?
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What is the precise statement of assumed relationship between variables?
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Which term refers to the question a researcher is trying to answer in an investigation?
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What explains a concept solely in terms of the observable procedures used to produce and measure it?
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In a study examining children's ability to focus, what could be operationally defined as the number of minutes a child?
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Which term represents a phenomenon or construct assumed to exist and used to explain observed effects, but as yet unconfirmed?
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According to Popper (1959), what must theories be in order to be considered valid for scientific inquiry?
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What is the term for a prediction in precise terms about how variables should be related in the analysis of data if a hypothesis is to be supported?
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In psychology, what are often used for constructs that are assumed to exist but as yet unconfirmed?
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In a clinical study, what might depression be operationally defined as according to the text?
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Study Notes
Course Focus and Psychology as Science
- The course emphasizes understanding the key principles, methods, and applications of psychology.
- Psychology is regarded as a science due to its systematic approach to studying behavior and mental processes.
Methodology in Psychology
- The main purpose of methodology is to provide reliable and valid approaches for collecting and analyzing data in psychological research.
Definitions and Concepts
- Hugh Coolican defines science as a systematic body of knowledge that is based on empirical evidence and can generate testable predictions.
- The phrase "READ THE SYLLABUS" indicates the importance of understanding course expectations and requirements.
Statistics in Psychological Research
- The use of statistics in psychological research aids in interpreting data, drawing conclusions, and supporting or refuting hypotheses, thus enhancing the credibility of findings.
Relationships and Research Questions
- A precise statement of assumed relationship between variables is known as a hypothesis.
- The term "research question" refers to the specific inquiry the researcher aims to answer in an investigation.
Observable Procedures and Operational Definitions
- A concept explained solely in terms of the observable procedures used to produce and measure it is referred to as operational definition.
- In a study on children's focus, operational definition might include measuring the number of minutes a child can concentrate on a task without distraction.
Constructs and Scientific Validity
- A phenomenon or construct that is assumed to exist but is not yet confirmed is known as a theoretical construct.
- According to Karl Popper, theories must be falsifiable to be considered valid for scientific inquiry.
Predictions and Constructs in Psychology
- A prediction about how variables should relate in analysis is known as a hypothesis statement.
- Constructs that are assumed to exist but remain unverified are often referred to as hypothetical constructs in psychology.
Operational Definitions in Clinical Studies
- In a clinical study, depression may be operationally defined through specific criteria such as frequency of sad moods, duration, or other observable symptoms.
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Description
Explore the reasons and methods behind testing psychological theories using empirical research, and delve into the scientific nature of psychology. This quiz covers topics related to the advanced research methodology and the philosophy of teaching and studying.
