11 Questions
What is the primary focus of quantitative research methods?
Numerical data and statistical analysis to understand behavior.
What is the main difference between experimental and correlational design?
Manipulation of an independent variable in experimental design, whereas no manipulation of variables in correlational design.
What type of research design is used to collect self-reported data through questionnaires or interviews?
Survey design
What is the purpose of physiological measures in research?
To measure physiological responses, such as heart rate or brain activity.
What is the primary goal of a case study design?
In-depth examination of a single case or a small number of cases.
What type of data collection method involves the analysis of existing data?
Archival methods
What is the primary characteristic of random sampling?
Every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected.
What is the purpose of debriefing in research studies?
To explain the purpose and any deception to participants at the end of the study.
What is the main advantage of stratified sampling?
It ensures representation from different subgroups within the population.
What is the primary concern of risk minimization in research?
To minimize potential risks to participants.
What is the main limitation of convenience sampling?
It may not provide a representative sample of the population.
Study Notes
Types of Research Methods
- Quantitative Methods: Focus on numerical data and statistical analysis to understand behavior.
- Qualitative Methods: Focus on non-numerical data and interpretative analysis to understand behavior.
Research Designs
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Experimental Design: Manipulate an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable.
- Random assignment of participants to control and experimental groups.
- Example: Investigating the effect of caffeine on memory.
-
Correlational Design: Examine the relationship between two or more variables.
- No manipulation of variables.
- Example: Investigating the relationship between sleep and cognitive function.
-
Survey Design: Collect self-reported data through questionnaires or interviews.
- Example: Investigating attitudes towards mental health.
-
Case Study Design: In-depth examination of a single case or a small number of cases.
- Example: Investigating the effects of a traumatic event on an individual.
Data Collection Methods
- Self-Report Measures: Participants provide information about themselves through questionnaires, surveys, or interviews.
- Behavioral Measures: Observations of behavior, such as reaction time or performance tasks.
- Physiological Measures: Measurements of physiological responses, such as heart rate or brain activity.
- Archival Methods: Analysis of existing data, such as crime records or social media posts.
Sampling Methods
- Random Sampling: Every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected.
- Stratified Sampling: Divide the population into subgroups and randomly select participants from each subgroup.
- Convenience Sampling: Select participants based on ease of access, such as college students.
- Snowball Sampling: Participants recruit additional participants from their own social networks.
Research Ethics
- Informed Consent: Participants must provide informed consent before participating in the study.
- Debriefing: Participants must be debriefed at the end of the study to explain the purpose and any deception.
- Confidentiality: Participants' data must be kept confidential and anonymous.
- Risk Minimization: Researchers must minimize potential risks to participants.
Test your knowledge of research methods in psychology, including types of research, research designs, data collection methods, sampling methods, and research ethics.
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