Unit 2 Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is introspection in the context of developing a research question?
Self observation and reflection
Introspection involves examining one’s own thoughts and feelings.
What does it mean to operationalize a concept?
Define specifically for the study
Define a hypothesis.
An educated guess
Hypotheses are not always formally established in research.
What is a research hypothesis?
Based on knowledge (current state of research)
It states what the researcher thinks will happen.
What is the difference between a null hypothesis and an alternative hypothesis?
Null hypothesis is always the same; alternative hypothesis states a difference is expected.
What is the significance of a P-value lower than 0.05?
Indicates an allowed level of error in a conclusion
True or False: Statistical significance equals meaningful significance.
False
What is a deductive hypothesis?
Based on a general definition of a theory
It deduces from theory to narrow down to outcome.
What is an inductive hypothesis primarily based on?
Experimental findings
It involves examining patterns displayed in research papers or public health data.
Define scientific law.
Statement based on repeated experimental observation
How does psychology rely on theories compared to laws?
Psychology relies much more on theories than laws
What are the two requirements of a theory?
- Must accurately describe a large class of observations
- Must make definitive predictions about future observations
What does the principle of parsimony state?
Problem solving favors the simplest explanation
What is a conceptual definition?
General definition of a variable
What is an operational definition?
Definition of a variable in context
Where are hypotheses often found in research studies?
In the last paragraph of the introduction
True or False: It is uncommon for studies to have multiple hypotheses.
False
What is an independent variable?
Variable being manipulated or under control of researcher
What is a dependent variable?
Outcome variable that will be measured
What is the difference between experimental designs and non-experimental designs?
- Experimental designs involve manipulation
- Non-experimental designs involve natural observation
What is random sampling?
Data is randomly pulled from research participants
What are qualitative variables?
Variables that classify participants based on characteristics
What are quantitative variables?
Variables that assign a number to a measure obtained from a participant
Fill in the blank: Research must have _______.
variables
