research methods

• What is an independent variable (IV)?

  The variable that is manipulated to see the effect on another variable.
• What is a dependent variable (DV)?

  The variable that is measured to see if the IV affected it.
• What is an extraneous variable?

  A variable that affects the results of the experiment.
• What is the purpose of null and alternative hypotheses?

  To state the expected relationship or difference between variables.
• How can hypotheses be operationalised?

  By defining how variables will be measured in the study.
• What are the strengths and limitations of different sampling methods?

  Strengths:

  • Random sampling reduces bias.
  • Stratified sampling ensures representation.

  
  

  Limitations:

  • Convenience sampling may not represent the population.
  • Random sampling can be time-consuming.
• What are the strengths and limitations of different experimental methods?

  Strengths:

  • Controlled experiments allow for clear cause-effect relationships.
  • Field experiments provide real-world applicability.

  
  

  Limitations:

  • Laboratory experiments may lack ecological validity.
  • Field experiments can have uncontrolled variables.
• What are the strengths and limitations of different experimental designs?

  Strengths:

  • Repeated measures reduce participant variability.
  • Independent groups allow for less participant fatigue.

  
  

  Limitations:

  • Repeated measures can lead to order effects.
  • Independent groups require more participants.
• What are the strengths and limitations of questionnaires, interviews, observations, and case studies?

  Strengths:

  • Questionnaires can gather large amounts of data quickly.
  • Interviews provide in-depth insights.

  
  

  Limitations:

  • Observations may be subject to observer bias.
  • Case studies may lack generalizability.
• What is a scattergraph used for?

  To visually represent the relationship between two variables.
• What are the strengths and limitations of correlation?

  Strength: Identifies relationships; Limitation: Does not imply causation.
• How do standardised procedures help control extraneous variables?

  They ensure consistency across all aspects of the experiment.
• What is reliability in psychological research?

  The consistency of a measure across time and contexts.
• What is validity in psychological research?


  The extent to which a test measures what it claims to measure.
• What are the ethical considerations in psychological research?

  Informed consent, confidentiality, and the right to withdraw.
• What are the British Psychological Society guidelines?


  Ethical principles for conducting psychological research.
• What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?

  Qualitative data is descriptive; quantitative data is numerical.
• What is primary data?

  Data collected firsthand for a specific research purpose.
• What is secondary data?

  Data that has been previously collected for another purpose.
• How do you convert a fraction to a percentage?

  Multiply the fraction by 100.
• How do you calculate the mean of a dataset?

  Add all values and divide by the number of values.
• How do you calculate the median of a dataset?


  Arrange values in order and find the middle value.
• How do you calculate the mode of a dataset?

  Identify the value that appears most frequently.
• How do you calculate the range of a dataset?

  Subtract the smallest value from the largest value.
• What are the different ways to present data graphically?

  • Frequency tables
  • Bar charts
  • Histograms
  • Scatter graphs
• What is normal distribution?

  A probability distribution that is symmetric about the mean.
• What are the characteristics of normal distribution?

  It has a bell-shaped curve, with most values clustering around the mean.
• What is the aim of a research study?

  A statement of what the researcher intends to investigate.
• What is the role of standardised instructions in research?

  To ensure all participants receive the same information.
• How does randomisation help in research?

  It reduces bias by randomly deciding key aspects of the study.
• What is the purpose of counterbalancing in experiments?

  To control for order effects by varying the order of conditions.
• What is the difference between matched pairs and independent groups designs?

  Matched pairs use similar participants in each condition; independent groups use different participants.
• What are the strengths of natural experiments?

  They provide real-world applicability and measure effects of naturally occurring events.
• What are the limitations of field experiments?

  They have less control over extraneous variables compared to laboratory experiments.
• What is the purpose of using matched pairs in experiments?

  To control for participant variables by pairing similar individuals.
• What is the significance of using a control group in experiments?

  It allows for comparison against the experimental group to assess the effect of the IV.
• How does the order effect impact repeated measures designs?

  It can lead to changes in participants' performance due to practice or fatigue.
• What is the role of the researcher in controlling extraneous variables?

  The researcher must identify and manage variables that could affect the results.
• What is the importance of ethical considerations in psychological research?

  They ensure the welfare and rights of participants are protected.
• How can researchers ensure the validity of their findings?

  By using appropriate measures and controlling for extraneous variables.