Research Methods (1)

Research Methods (1)

1. Variables

   • Independent: manipulates/change
   • Dependent: measured

2. Hypothesis

   • Is a statement which specifies what is going to be tested and predicts the effect of the IV on the DV
   • Must be Operationalised
   • An experiment hypothesis: predicts effect of IV on DV
     • Null hypothesis: states no effect of IV on DV
   • Directional (one-tailed) predicts direction of outcome
   • Non-directional (two-tailed) only state some kind of difference

3. Extraneous variables

   • Caused by environoment e.g. light, noise
   • Participant variables: mood, intelligence, anxiety
   • Situational variables: temperature, light
   • Participant effect: when participants seek cues about how they should behave because they want to help or are unsure

4. Social Desirability

   • When particiapnts resond in which they believe the researcher would desire rather than how they truly feel