Field Methods PDF

FIELD METHODS Case study Observational COURSE OUTLINE 1. Nature and Overview of Field Methods in Psychology II. Three Main Types of Psychological Research – Correlational Research – Descriptive Research – Experimental Research IlI. Common Research Designs a...

FIELD METHODS Case study Observational COURSE OUTLINE 1. Nature and Overview of Field Methods in Psychology II. Three Main Types of Psychological Research – Correlational Research – Descriptive Research – Experimental Research IlI. Common Research Designs and Data Collection Methods ○ Archival Research ○ Case Study ○ Computer Simulation (Modelling) ○ Content Analysis ○ Experiment (Design of Experiments) ○ Interview (can be structured or unstructured) ○ Meta-analysis ○ Neuroimaging and other psychophysiological methods ○ Observational Study, can be naturalistic (see natural experiment), participant or controlled IlI. Common Research Designs and Data Collection Methods ○ Archival Research ○ Case Study ○ Computer Simulation (Modelling) ○ Content Analysis ○ Experiment (Design of Experiments) ○ Interview (can be structured or unstructured) ○ Meta-analysis ○ Neuroimaging and other psychophysiological methods ○ Observational Study, can be naturalistic (see natural experiment), participant or controlled ○ Quasi-experiment ○ Self-report inventory ○ Survey, often with a random sample IV. Research Designs vary according to the period(s) of time over which data are collected:  ○ Retrospective Cohort Study ○ Prospective Cohort Study – Cross-sectional Study – Longitudinal Study V. Research in psychology has been conducted with both animals and human subjects: ○ Animal study ○ Human subject research _______________________________ August 17, 2024 FIELD METHODS IN PSYCHOLOGY This course covers both qualitative and quantitative field methods. It includes the design and administration of surveys, interviews, and focus group discussion. Learners will also be oriented on the use of secondary data and observations. Field Methods (formerly Cultural Anthropology Methods) publishes articles about methods used by field investigators from the social and behavioral sciences in the collection, management, analysis and presentation of data about human thought and/or human behavior in the natural word. It is a method of collecting qualitative data with the aim to understand, observe, and interact with people in their natural setting. It requires specialized market research tools. Field methods in psychology involve studying behavior and mental processes in natural, real- world settings rather than controlled laboratory environments. These methods are essential for understanding how psychological phenomena occur in everyday life and offer insights that might not be captured through laboratory studies alone. What is the nature and purpose of field studies? As the term suggests, field studies are learning experiences outside of the classroom. Field studies allow students to gather their own (primary) data, provide opportunities to extend classroom learning through direct observation and experience, and allow for scientific research through field experiments. Nature of Field Methods in Psychology 1. Real-World Context: – Field methods take place in natural settings where individuals naturally live and interact, such as schools, workplaces, homes, or community spaces. This allows researchers to observe behavior in contexts where it typically occurs. 2. Ecological Validity: – One of the main advantages is high ecological validity, meaning the findings are more likely to  – generalize to real-world situations because they are observed in the environments where they naturally happen. 3. Flexibility: – These methods often allow researchers to adapt their approaches based on the context and emerging insights, providing a more dynamic understanding of psychological phenomena. Overview of Field Methods in Psychology 1. Naturalistic Observation: Definition: Researchers observe and record behavior in its natural environment without interference. Strengths: High ecological validity and the ability to capture behavior as it naturally occurs. Limitations: Limited control over variables and potential observer effects (where the presence of the observer may influence behavior). 2. Participant Observation: Definition: Researchers immerse themselves in the setting they are studying, often becoming part of the group or environment. Strengths: Provides deep, insider perspectives and insights into group dynamics and behaviors. Limitations: Potential for researcher bias and ethical concerns regarding informed consent and the impact of the researcher's presence. 3. Field Experiments: Definition - Conducting experiments in natural settings while manipulating variables to observe their effects on behavior. Strengths - Combines the control of experimental methods with the ecological validity of field research. Limitations - Less control over extraneous variables and potential ethical concerns. 4. Ethnography Definition: A comprehensive study of a cultural or social group through immersion and detailed observation. Strengths: Provides a holistic understanding of cultural and social practices. _______________________________ August 24, 2024 Three Main Types of Psychological Research CORRELATIONAL RESEARCH – No treatment just observe The researcher uses the correlational method if he/she wants to examine the relationship between the two variables. It is to be noted that the researcher does not vary the independent variable as he is only concerned about whether the two variables are linked to each other or not. Example: If you are interested in finding the relation between yoga and the psychological health of the person, then you simply try to find the relationship between these two factors rather than manipulating anything. Example: A psychologist uses the survey method to study the relationship between balding and length of marriage. He finds that length of marriage correlates with baldness. However, he can't infer from this that being bald causes people to stay married longer. Instead, a third factor explains the correlation! both balding and long marriages are associated with old age. DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCH No percentage Survey only Descriptive research is a type of research that is used to describe the characteristics of a population. It collects data that are used to answer a wide range of what, when, and how questions pertaining to a particular population or group. " For example, descriptive studies might be used to answer questions such as: – What percentage of Head Start teachers have a bachelor's degree or higher? – What is the average reading ability of 5-year-old when they first enter kindergarten? – What kinds of math activities are used in early childhood programs? – When do children first receive regular child care from someone other than their parents? – When are children with developmental disabilities first diagnosed and when do they first receive services? EXPERIMENTAL-RESEARCH It is a study that strictly adheres to a scientific research design. It includes a hypothesis, a variable that can be manipulated by the researcher, and variables that can be measured, calculated and compared. EXAMPLE: Experimental Study on the Use of Human Urine for Selected Philippine Vegetable Crops: Assessment of Macronutrient Nutrient Content in Philippine Urine and Determination of Appropriate Urine Application Rates Common Research Designs and Data Collection Methods Experiment (Design of Experiments) One-shot Case Study Research Design – In this type of experimental study, only one dependent group or variable is considered. The study is carried out after some treatment which was presumed to cause change, making it a posttest study One-group Pretest-posttest Research Design: – This research design combines both posttest and pretest study by carrying out a test on a single group before the treatment is administered and after the treatment is administered. With the former being administered at the beginning of treatment and later at the end Static-group Comparison: – In a static-group comparison study, 2 or more groups are placed under observation, where only one of the groups is subjected to some treatment while the other groups are held static. All the groups are post-tested, and the observed differences between the groups are assumed to be a result of the treatment. – More than 2 groups Quasi-experimental Research Design – are studies that aim to evaluate interventions but that do not use randomization. v aim to demonstrate causality between an intervention and an outcome. True Experimental Research Design The posttest-only Control Group Design: – In this design, subjects are randomly selected and assigned to the 2 groups (control and experimental), and only the experimental group is treated. After close observation, both groups are post-tested, and a conclusion is drawn from the difference between these groups. The pretest-posttest Control Group Design: – For this control group design, subjects are randomly assigned to the 2 groups, both are presented, but only the experimental group is treated After close observation, both groups are post-tested to measure the degree of change in each group. Solomon four-group Design: – This is the combination of the pretest-only and the pretest-posttest control groups. In this case, the randomly selected subjects are placed into 4 groups. Common Research Designs and Data Collection Methods 1. Archival Research  – Archival research is a research method that involves examining existing records or documents to gather information and insights about a research topic. This type of research leverages data that has already been collected and archived, rather than gathering new data through experiments, surveys, or observations. Key Features of Archival Research 1. Sources: Data sources in archival research ilde historical, documents, records other pre- existing materials. 2. Purpose: Archival research is often used to study historical events, trends, or social phenomena. It can also be employed to validate or challenge existing theories, trace changes over time, or provide context for contemporary issues. 3. Data Collection: Researchers collect data by accessing and reviewing archived materials. This can involve physical access to libraries or archives, or digital access to online databases and repositones. 4. Analysis: Data analysis in archival research typically involves systematic examination of the content to identify patterns, themes, and trends. Researchers may use qualitative methods to interpret textual information or quantitative methods to analyze numerical data. Advantages: 1. Cost-Effective: It is generally less expensive than collecting new data, as the researcher does not need to invest in data collection tools or participant recruitment. 2. Access to Historical Data: Provides access to data from earlier periods or events that are not easily observable today, offering valuable insights into historical context and development. 3. Longitudinal Analysis: Enables the study of changes over time by analyzing historical records. 4. Non-Intrusive: Does not interfere with the subjects of study, as it relies on data that has already been collected. Limitations: 1. Data Limitations: The researcher is constrained by the availability and quality of the archived data. Missing, incomplete, or biased records can limit the scope and accuracy of the research. 2. Lack of Control: Researchers cannot control how data was collected or recorded, which may affect its reliability and relevance to the current research question. 3. Time-Consuming: Sifting through large volumes of archived material can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. 4. Interpretation Issues: The researcher must carefully interpret the context and meaning of archival data, which can be challenging, especially if the data is from a different time period or cultural context. Applications: 1. Historical Research: Investigating historical events, societal changes, and historical figures. 2. Longitudinal Studies: Examining long-term trends and developments over time.  3. Policy Analysis: Assessing the impact of past policies or interventions using historical records. 4. Case Studies: Providing context and background for specific cases or events by examining archival materials. 2. Case Study – The case study method is a research approach in psychology that involves an in-depth, detailed examination examination of a single individual, group, or event. This method is particularly useful for exploring complex phenomena that are difficult to study using other methods. Purpose and Objectives Case studies are often used to explore rare or unique psychological conditions or phenomena. For example, scudying a rare mental illness or a unique behavioral pattern. They provide a thorough understanding of the subject's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Case studies can help develop and refine theories by providing detailed insights and identifying new variables or patterns. Methodology 1. Selection of Case: ○ The case is usually selected based on its relevance to the research question, uniqueness, or its ability to provide insights into the phenomenon being studied 2. Data Collection ○ Multiple sources of data are collecled, including: ○ Interviews ◆ Conversations with the individual, family members, or other significant people. ○ Observations. ◆ Direct observation of the individual's behavior in natural or controlled settings. ○ Documents and Records ◆ Review of medical records, personal diaries, or other relevant documents. – Can found in guidance ○ Psychological Testing: ◆ Use of standardized lests or assessments to gather more data. 3. Data Analysis: ○ The data is analyzed qualitatively to identity patterns, themes, and insights. his often involves narrative analysis and the development or case histones. Advantages 1. Detailed Insight: Provides a comprehensive view of the subject, allowing for an understanding of complex issues that might be missed with other methods. 2. Rich Data: The method yields rich, qualitative data that can uncover nuances in the subject's experiences and behaviors.  3. Theory Generation: Useful for generating hypotheses and theories that can be tested in future research. Limitations 1. Generalizability: Findings from a single case may not be generalizable to other individuals or situations. The unique characteristics of the case might not apply to broader populations. 2. Subjectivity: The case study method can be influenced by the researcher's biases, and the subjective nature of the analysis can affect the objectivity of the conclusions. 3. Time-Consuming: Conducting a thorough case study is often time-consuming and requires extensive data collection and analysis. Applications 1. Clinical Psychology – Understanding and treating psychological disorders or unusual cases (e.g., the case of Phineas Gage in understanding brain injury). 2. Developmental Psychology – Studying individual developmental trajectories and the impact of early life experiences. Psychology? 3. Cognitive Psychology – Exploring unique cognitive processes or phenomena in specific individuals. Sino ang author at bakit nya ginawa? _____________\_____________ September 07, 2024 What Are Computer Simulations in Psychology? Computer simulations in psychology are a powerful tool for understanding complex processes and phenomena. They can model cognitive functions, behavior, and interactions in a controlled, virtual environment. Computer simulations involve creating detailed, computer-based models that replicate psychological processes or behaviors. These models can simulate individual cognition, group dynamics, social interactions, and more. They help researchers test hypotheses, predict outcomes, and explore scenarios that might be difficult or impossible to study in real life. Types of Simulations 1. Cognitive Models:  – These simulate mental processes like memory, perception, and problem-solving. Examples include models of working memory or visual attention. 2. Behavioral Simulations – These focus on predicting and analyzing behavior under various conditions. They might simulate how people interact in social situations or respond to different stimuli. 3. Agent-Based Models – These simulate interactions among autonomous agents (e.g., individuals in a social network) to understand collective behavior and dynamics. Applications 1. Experimentation: – Simulations allow researchers to conduct virtual experiments where variables can be controlled precisely and manipulated to observe effects. 2. Training and Education: – Simulations can be used to train practitioners by providing realistic scenarios without the risks associated with real-life practice. 3. Theory Testing – Researchers can test and refine psychological theories by observing how well the simulations reflect real-world phenomena. Advantages 1. Controlled Environment – Simulations provide a controlled setting where variables can be manipulated systematically. 2. Replicability – Results from simulations can be replicated easily, which enhances the reliability of findings. 3. Ethical and Practical Feasibility – They allow for the exploration of scenarios that might be ethically challenging or impractical to study directly. Limitations 1. Simplification: Simulations often involve simplifying assumptions that might not capture all aspects of human psychology. 2. Data Dependency: The accuracy of simulations depends on the quality and quantity of data used to develop the models. 3. Generalizability: Results from simulations might not always translate directly to real-world situations due to the controlled nature of the environment. Summary  Computer simulations in psychology are a valuable method for modeling complex cognitive and behavioral processes. They provide controlled, repeatable environment for experimentation and theory testing, though they must be carefully designed and interpreted to ensure their relevance and accuracy. Example of a Computer Simulation in Psychology A classic example is the "ACT-R" (Adaptive Control of Thought-Rational) cognitive architecture, which models various aspects of human cognition, including memory, learning, and problem-solving. Researchers use ACT-R to simulate how people perform tasks and solve problems, providing insights into cognitive processes and informing the design of user interfaces and educational tools. CONTENT ANALYSIS Content analysis is a research method used in psychology and other fields to systematically analyze the content of various forms of communication, such as text, audio, or visual materials. This method helps researchers identify patterns, themes, and meanings within the content. Purpose and Applications 1. Understanding Communication Patterns – Content analysis helps researchers understand how people communicate and express themselves in different contexts. This can include analyzing conversations, written documents, social media posts, or even visual media. 2. Exploring Psychological Phenomena – Researchers can use content analysis to explore psychological concepts such as identity, emotion, attitudes, and behavior as expressed in various forms of content. 3. Assessing Trends and Changes – It can be used to track changes over time in societal attitudes, mental health issues, or responses to events, by analyzing historical or longitudinal data. Types of Content Analysis 1. Quantitative Content Analysis – This involves counting and measuring the frequency of certain words, themes, or phrases. For example, a researcher might count how often different emotions are expressed in therapy session transcripts. 2. Qualitative Content Analysis – This focuses on interpreting and understanding the meaning behind the content. Researchers look for patterns, themes, and insights rather than just counting occurrences. For instance, analyzing how individuals describe their experiences of anxiety might reveal underlying themes related to coping strategies. Steps in Content Analysis 1. Define the Research Question – Clearly state what you want to investigate and how content analysis can help answer your research question. 2. Select the Content – Choose the materials to be analyzed, which could be interview transcripts, social media posts, therapy notes, etc. 3. Develop a coding Scheme – Create a set of categories or codes that will be used to categorize and interpret the content. This involves deciding which themes or patterns to look for. 4. Code the Content – Apply the coding scheme to the content. This can be done manually or with the nelp or sortware tools. 5. Analyze the Data – Examine the coded data to identify patterns, themes, and relationships. This involves both quantitative analysis (e.g., counting occurrences) and qualitative interpretation. 6. Interpret and Report Findings – Draw conclusions from the analysis and report the implications for psychological theory or practice. This includes discussing how the results relate to the research question and the Strengths 1. Flexibility – Can be applied to various types of content and research questions. 2. Systematic – Provides a structured approach to analyzing large amounts of data. 3. Unbiased – Reduces the risk of researcher bias by using standardized coding procedures. Limitations 1. Context Loss – May overlook the broader context or nuances of the content being analyzed. 2. Subjectivity – Interpretation of codes and themes can be subjective, although coding schemes aim to minimize this. 3. Time-Consuming – Analyzing large volumes of content can be labor-intensive. Ethical Considerations 1. Confidentiality – Ensure that the content being analyzed does not compromise the confidentiality or privacy of individuals involved. 2. Consent – Obtain proper consent if using personal or sensitive content. 3. Accuracy – Strive for accurate and honest representation of the content to avoid misinterpretation.