Unit 1 Modules 4-6 Flashcards
Why can’t we solely rely on intuition and common sense?
Hindsight bias, overconfidence, and our tendency to perceive patterns in random events.
What is hindsight bias?
After learning an outcome, you feel as though you would have foreseen it.
What is critical thinking?
Thinking that does not blindly accept arguments and conclusions. Examines assumptions, assess the source, discerns hidden values, evaluates evidence, assess conclusions.
Define theory
An explanation using an integrated set of principles that organizes observations and predicts behaviors or events.
Define hypothesis
A testable prediction, often implied by a theory
Define operational definitions
Statements of the exact procedures used in a research study.
Define replicate
Repeating the essence of a research study. Usually with different participants in different situations, to see whether the basic finding extends to other participants and circumstances.
Define scientific method
is a self-correcting process for evaluating ideas with observation and analysis. If the data supports the predication, the theory works. If the prediction fails, the theory must be rejected or revised.
Describe descriptive methods
A way to test a hypothesis: Descriptive methods describe behaviors, often by using case studies, surveys, or naturalistic observations
Describe correlational methods
A way to test a hypothesis: Correlational methods associate different factors, or variables.
Describe experimental methods
A way to test a hypothesis: Experimental methods manipulate variables to discover their effects.
What are case studies?
A descriptive technique in which one individual or group is studied in depth in hope of revealing universal principles
What are the advantages of doing a case study as your research method?
Sometimes very revealing. Show us what CAN happen. Often suggest directions for further study.
What are the disadvantages of doing a case study as your research method?
Misleading if the individual is atypical. Unrepresentative information can lead to mistaken judgements and false conclusions.
What is a naturalistic observation?
Observing and recording behavior in naturally occurring situations without trying to manipulate and control the situation.
What are the advantages of using naturalistic observation as your research method?
Describes behavior and offers interesting snapshots of everyday life.
What are some of the disadvantages of using naturalistic observation as your research method?
Doesn’t control all variables that may influence behavior.
What are surveys?
A technique for ascertaining the self-reported attitude or behaviors of a particular group, usually by questioning a representative, random sample of the group.
What is sample bias?
A flawed sampling process that produces an unrepresentative sample.
What are some advantages of using a survey as your research method?
Looks at more cases. Good for estimating the attitudes or reported behaviors of a whole population.
Define a random sample
A sample that fairly represents a population because each member has an equal chance of inclusion
Define population
All those in a group being studied, from which samples may be drawn. (except national studies)
What are some disadvantages of using a survey as your research method?
Wording is very important. Looks at cases in less depth. Must be wary of unrepresentative cases.
What is correlation?
A measure of the extent to which two variables change together, and thus how well either variable predicts the other. Correlation indicates the possibility of a cause-effect relationship but does not prove such.
