Column 1
In-depth investigation of a single person, group or event, where data are gathered from a variety of sources and by using several different methods (e.g. observations & interviews)
Case study
An extraneous variable that varies systematically with the IV so we cannot be sure of the true source of the change to the DV
Confounding variable
Analysis of data that helps describe, show or summarize data in a meaningful way
Descriptive statistics
Measure of central tendency calculated by adding all the scores in a set of data together and dividing by the total number of scores
Mean
An arrangement of a data that is symmetrical and forms a bell shaped pattern where the mean, median and mode all fall in the centre at the highest peak
Normal distribution
Questions where there are fixed choices of responses e.g. yes/no. They generate quantitative data
Closed questions
A group that is treated normally and gives us a measure of how people behave when they are not exposed to the experimental treatment (e.g. allowed to sleep normally).
Control group
Participants are not told the true purpose of the research and the experimenter is also blind to at least some aspects of the research design.
Double blind control
Measure of central tendency calculated by arranging scores in a set of data from lowest to highest and finding the middle score
Median
This means clearly describing the variables (IV and DV) in terms of how they will be manipulated (IV) or measured (DV).
Operationalising variables
The variables investigated in a correlation
Co-variables
A mathematical technique where the researcher looks to see whether scores for two covariables are related
Correlational analysis
Whether it is possible to generalise the results beyond the experimental setting.
External validity
A technique where rather than conducting new research with participants, the researchers examine the results of several studies that have already been conducted
Meta-analysis
A relationship exists between two covariables where as one increases, so does the other
Positive correlation
Comparing a new test with another test of the same thing to see if they produce similar results. If they do then the new test has ___________ validity
Concurrent validity
Also known as an undisclosed observation as the participants do not know their behaviour is being observed
Covert observation
This is a formal statement or prediction of what the researcher expects to find. It needs to be testable.
Hypothesis
An observation study conducted in the environment where the behaviour would normally occur
Naturalistic observation
Information that the researcher has collected him/herself for a specific purpose e.g. data from an experiment or observation
Primary data
Unless agreed beforehand, participants have the right to expect that all data collected during a research study will remain confidential and anonymous.
Confidentiality
The variable that is measured to tell you the outcome.
Dependent variable
In relation to experiments, whether the results were due to the manipulation of the IV rather than other factors such as extraneous variables or demand characteristics.
Internal validity
A relationship exists between two covariables where as one increases, the other decreases
Negative correlation
Is a false positive. It is where you accept the alternative/experimental hypothesis when it is false
Type 1 error