Research methods.

Research methods.

1. Aim.

   • The purpose of an investigation.

2. Hypothesis.

   • Directional.
   • Non directional.

3. Variables.

   • Independent variable - thing you change.
   • Dependent variable - what you measure.
   • Extraneous variable - variable that affect the DV other than the IV.

4. Design

   • Independent group - different participants take part in different conditions.
     • + Time saving.
   • Repeated measures - same group of participants do both conditions.
     • + Each participants does all the conditions.
       • - Takes long, participant becomes aware.
   • Matched pairs - each participant is watched with another participant in the same physical and mental shape as them.
     • + Participant variables are controlled.

5. Methods.

   • Lab
     • Well controlled environment
     • + Easy to replicate.
     • + Allows precise control of extraneous and IV.
     • - Setting charges how they act.
     • - Demand characteristics.
   • Natural
     • Everyday situation. No control over IV.
     • + More likely to reflect real life reactions.
     • + No demand characteristics.
     • - More expensive/time consuming.
     • - No control over extraneous variables.
   • Field.
     • Everyday situation. Experimenter manipulates IV.
     • + More likely to reflect real life reactions.
     • + No demand characteristics.
     • - Less control over extraneous variables.

6. Sampling.

   • Random sampling.
     • + Target population.
       • - Hard to achieve.
   • Opportunity
   • Volunteering.