RESEARCH METHODS Flashcards
(16 cards)
Aim
A statement on what the research is trying to find out
Hypothesis
A statement made at the start of the study about the assumed relationship between variables
What are the two types of hypothesis?
Directional and Non directional
Directional Hypothesis
The researcher makes a sort of difference that is anticipated between the conditions (comparison).
-Predicts the direction
“There will be an increase/decrease…”
Non-Directional Hypothesis
States that there will be a difference between both conditions
-There is no direction
“There will be a significant difference…”
When do you use a directional hypothesis?
When the findings of previous research have a particular outcome
When do you use a non-directional hypothesis?
There is no previous research or the findings of a study are contradictory.
Independent variable
A variable manipulated by the research so the effect of the DV can be measured.
Dependent variable
The variable measured by the researcher
Operationalized
Defining variables so they can be measured (Number)
How to write a hypothesis
- Operationalise the IV + DV
- State the relationship between the IV+DV (not aim)
- State the appropriate hypothesis
Cofounding Variables
A variable under study that is not the IV
Validity
Refers to whether an observed effect is a genuine one
Internal Validity
The degree to which an observed effect was due to the experimental manipulation rather than other factors
External Validity
The degree to which a research finding can be generalized to other settings over time.
Control
Refers to the extent to which any variable is held constant or regulated by a researcher
