Evaluating Evidence Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is empirical research based on?
Observation and experiment
Empirical research contrasts with research based on opinion or speculation.
Define internal validity in research.
The study accurately shows cause-and-effect
Internal validity assesses whether the independent variable truly affects the dependent variable.
What is external validity?
Results generalise to other settings/populations
External validity determines the applicability of study findings beyond the specific study conditions.
List three threats to internal validity.
- History
- Maturation
- Testing effects
Other threats include instrumentation, attrition, and selection bias.
What does internal validity measure?
The extent to which a study shows that the intervention caused the outcome
It is crucial for establishing causal relationships in research.
What is empirical evidence?
Data obtained through observation or experimentation
This type of evidence is preferred in scientific research over theoretical or opinion-based evidence.
Identify a factor that can compromise conclusions about causality.
History
History refers to events outside the study that may influence results.
Fill in the blank: __________ refers to participant changes over time.
Maturation
Maturation can affect study outcomes as participants may naturally change.
What is regression to the mean?
Extreme scores returning to the average
This phenomenon can mislead conclusions if not accounted for in research.
What does selection bias refer to?
Non-random sample differences
Selection bias can result in a sample that does not accurately represent the population.
What impact does attrition have on research results?
Dropout of participants affecting results
High attrition can skew data and affect the validity of the findings.
True or False: Diffusion of treatment occurs when the control group is exposed to the treatment.
True
This can compromise the integrity of the control group in experimental designs.
