pilot studies

• pilot studies pt 1:

  • small scale trial run of actual investigation - smaller group to road test + check investigation runs smoothly
  • not restricted to experiments (self report studies) - trying out questions in advance, removing or rewording id ambiguous or confusing
• pilot studies pt2:

  • in observational studies - provides a way of checking coding systems before real investigation
  • identify issues or modify design/procedure - saves time + money in long term
• single blind procedures:

  • participant is unaware of details of experiment e.g aim/condition allocation
  • controls CVs + demand characteristics
• double blind procedures:

  • neither participant or researcher are aware of aims of investigation
  • controls CVs, demand characteristics, investigator effects