Part 2- Chapter Two Flashcards
Theoretical significance
Do the empirical findings support a theory or no?
Statistical Significance
Are the results random or due to chance? Always start here before moving to theoretical significance.
Falsification:
To find a theory to be false. We can’t “prove” anything but we can have confidence in things.
Testability
Real tests afford the possibility of negative results.
Reliability
Results should be consistent, never random events.
Validity
Are the measures valid? Is it a true measure for what it claims to be measuring?
Heuristic Value
Is it useful? Can the theory solve problems or provide solutions closest to the best solution? Does it work? Good theory inspires.
Parsimony
Reducing a theory to its simplest form.
Logically consistent:
Make sure the principles of the theory are related and consistent with one another.
Revolution:
Describes moments when we realize our theory is completely wrong!
Extension:
Theory grows by adding knowledge/new concepts.
Intension:
Intensifying an existing variable.
Exercise + diet is not enough, intension would be running, weights, and diet.
Extension+ intension:
Theories can change by a combination of both.
Reductionistic:
Theory organizes experience.
Explanation:
Understanding how an event occurs.
“Why?”
Prediction:
Answers the question when
Control
Ability to alter elements to achieve a specified outcome given certain situational factors in the future.
Philosophical Normative Approach
We approach our own behavior with a subjective bias. We can’t study ourselves without bias.
Sociopsychological-
Psychologically we all share the same traits while communicating. What’s going on in our minds is the same.
Cybernetic
Maximizes signal: lessens the amount of noise in the channel.
Rhetorical
Speakers using right language at right time to persuade or motivate their audience.
Ex- Martin Luther king I have a dream.
Phenomenological
2 assumptions.
1- we could never know what it’s like to be someone else.
2. the only thing that gives us a chance to understand someone else is communication.
Sociocultural
Collection in community.
Ex- Santa pictures at Christmas, hand over heart during national anthem.
Critical
How communication facilitates power imbalances or other major crisis. Moments where communication doesn’t work in our favor.
