Using objective methods to collect quantitative data in ways which are controlled by the researcher and are replicable
Tests hypotheses using methods gained from direct observation/experiment
What does Objective mean?
A piece of research hasn’t been affected by subjectivity (e.g., researcher bias or opinions)
Objective data rules out the chance of confounding/extraneous variables
What does Controlled mean?
High control over variables allows the IV and DV to become isolated, enabling us to establish cause and effect, leading to high reliability
What does Replicable mean?
Means that a piece of research could be carried out again and again and it would show consistent results, which increase the reliability of the results – they show that the IV affects the DV
Procedure needs to be standardized (specific and detailed)
What does Theory construction mean?
Theories can be constructed by gathering empirical evidence via research support of the assumptions and principles
Deduction: starts with a theory and then carries out research
Induction: carries out research and constructs a theory
