Research Methods: Pilot Studies, Single Blind, Double Blind And Control Flashcards
What are pilot studies
Small scale trial run of an investigation that takes place before the real investigation
What are characteristics of a pilot study
Involves handful of participants rather than whole number
Can be used in self report
Try out questions in advance
What is the purpose of pilot study
Allows researcher to identify any potential issues and to modify the design or procedure saving time and money in the long run
Before large scale investigation
what are the strengths of a pilot study
Save time and money in long term
Data collected is valid
Allows the researcher a chance to practice
What are limitations of pilot studies
More participants required
Could be a waste of time if no changes are required
Could lead to studies being shared and results
What is single blind and double blind trials
Single when the participants doesn’t know what condition they are in or if there is another condition at all
Double blind trial - neither participants or researcher who conducts the study is aware of aims or which condition each participant is getting
What is control condition
A baseline
Purpose of comparison
Change of behaviour in experimental condition is significantly greater that that of control we can conclude cause of effect was the independent variable
