Research methods

Question 1

null hypothesis

Answer 1

suggests that there is no relationship between two variables

Question 2

alternate/experimental hypothesis

Answer 2

prediction on what will happen in the experiment

Question 3

random sampling

Answer 3

when each sample has an equal chance to get chosen
s: lack of bias, simple
W: gaining access to a large population is difficult

Question 4

stratified sampling

Answer 4

the division of a population into smaller sub groups known as stratas
S: precise estimates for all subgroups
W: analysing the datasets is complex

Question 5

volunteer sampling

Answer 5

individuals who have chosen to be involved
S: relatively convient and ethical
W: unrepresentative, bias

Question 6

oppurtunity sampling

Answer 6

simply selectring those who are available at the time
S: quick, convenient, economical (most common type)
W: unrepresentative, bias from researchers

Question 7

systematic sampling

Answer 7

creating a system to pick our sample
S: practical
W: doesn’t reduce bias the best

Question 8

experimental designs

Answer 8

how participants are allocated to different groups in an experiment.
- independent groups, matched pairs, repeated measures

Question 9

independent groups

Answer 9

different group of participants for each level of the IV
S: order effects are not a problem as the participants only do the experiment once
W: participant variables (can act as EVs)

Question 10

repeated measures

Answer 10

All participants take part in all levels of the IV
S: No participant variables, fewer participants so less expensive
W: Order effects reduce validity

Question 11

matched pairs

Answer 11

participants are matched based on key variables, or shared characteristics, relevant to the topic of the study. Then, one member of each pair is placed into the control group while the other is placed in the experimental group.
S: no order effects, fewer participants
W: takes time to match paticipants, doesn’t control all participant variables

Question 12

participant variable

Answer 12

any characteristic or aspect of a participant’s background that could affect study results, even though it’s not the focus of an experiment
E.g. sex, gender identity, age, educational attainment, marital status, religious affiliation

Question 13

order effects

Answer 13

refers to the well-documented phenomenon that different orders in which the questions are presented may influence respondents’ answers in a more or less systematic fashion.
Basically participants get bored and results reflect it.