Chapter 2 - Use of Scientific Method

Question 1

What is the advantage of using a descriptive design approach?

Answer 1

Provides a relatively complete picture of what is occurring at a given time. Allows the development of questions for further study.

Question 2

What is the scientific method?

Answer 2

1. Develop general theories
2. Make observations
3. Thinking of interesting questions
4. Formulate hypotheses
5. Develop testable predictions
6. Gather data to test predictions

Question 3

What is a hypothesis?

Answer 3

A general statement about relationships between variables.

Question 4

What does operational definition refer to?

Answer 4

The measurement properties of a variable; operational definitions show exactly what is being measured.

Question 5

What are the 3 major research designs?

Answer 5

1. Descriptive
2. Correlational
3. Experimental

Question 6

What is the advantage of using an experimental design approach?

Answer 6

Allows conclusions to be drawn about the causal relationships among variables.

Question 7

What is the advantage of using a correlational design approach?

Answer 7

Allows testing of expected relationships between and among variables and the making of predictions. Can assess these relationships in everyday life events.