Lab and Order
What is a case study?
A detailed examination of a single individual or group.- typically over a longer period of time.
What does a positive correlation indicate?
As one variable increases, the other variable also increases.
A group of students is studying the effects of different study techniques on their test scores. Half of the group uses flashcards to study, while the other half reads their textbook. After a week, both groups take the same quiz to see which method was more effective.
What is the independent variable?
The study technique (flashcards vs. reading the textbook).
What is the range of a data set?
The difference between the highest and lowest values in the data set.
What is informed consent?
The process of providing participants with information about a study and obtaining their agreement to participate.
What is naturalistic observation?
Observing behavior in a natural setting without intervention.
What is the third variable problem?
The possibility that an unmeasured variable influences the variables/outcome being studied.
A group of students is studying the effects of different study techniques on their test scores. Half of the group uses flashcards to study, while the other half reads their textbook. After a week, both groups take the same quiz to see which method was more effective.
What is the dependent variable?
The test scores of the students after the quiz.
What are measures of central tendency? Define each.
Mean, median, and mode are measures that summarize the central point of a data set.
Mean: The average of the set of numbers
Median: The middle number.
Mode: The most repeated number.
What is debriefing?
The process of informing participants about the true nature and purpose of a study after their participation.
What is a retrospective study?
A study that analyzes data collected from the past, often using existing records.
How is correlation measured?
Using the correlation coefficient (r).
What is the difference between descriptive and inferential statistics?
Descriptive statistics summarize data, while inferential statistics allow for making predictions about a population based on a sample.
Define standard deviation and its significance in data analysis.
Standard deviation measures the amount of variation or dispersion of a set of values. A low standard deviation indicates that the values tend to be close to the mean, while a high standard deviation indicates that the values are spread out over a wider range.
What are confederates?
Individuals who are part of the study but are working with the researchers.
What are the strengths of descriptive research?
It provides detailed information and insights into a subject, allowing for hypothesis generation and understanding of complex phenomena.
What is the difference between a correlation and causation?
Correlation indicates a relationship between two variables, while causation indicates that one variable directly affects the other.
Describe how you would ensure the reliability of the test scores in this study.
To ensure reliability, I would use the same quiz for both groups, administer it under similar conditions, and ensure that the scoring criteria are consistent and clear.
What is regression to the mean?
When extreme scores tend to get closer to the average when measured again. This happens because extreme scores are often due to temporary factors, not lasting characteristics.
Discuss the ethical implications of using deception in research.
Using deception can sometimes be necessary to prevent bias in participants’ responses, but it raises ethical concerns about trust, informed consent, and potential psychological harm.
What is a longitudinal study, and how does it differ from a cross-sectional study?
A longitudinal study follows the same subjects over a long period to observe changes, while a cross-sectional study looks at different subjects at one point in time.
What does a correlation coefficient of -0.85 suggest about the relationship between two variables?
It indicates a strong negative correlation, meaning that as one variable increases, the other variable decreases significantly.
What are potential extraneous variables that could impact the results? Name at least 2.
Factors such as prior knowledge of the subject, study environment, or various levels of motivation among the students.
How do effect sizes enhance the interpretation of research findings?
Effect sizes quantify the magnitude of a phenomenon, allowing researchers to understand the practical significance of their findings beyond mere statistical significance, thus providing a clearer picture of the impact of the independent variable.
What are the steps of submitting a research proposal to the IRB (in order)?
Proposal Submission: Researchers submit their research proposal to the IRB for review.
Initial Review: The IRB conducts an initial review to ensure the proposal meets ethical guidelines and regulations.
Ethical Assessment: The IRB evaluates the proposed research's potential risks and benefits to participants.
Feedback and Revision: If necessary, researchers may need to revise their proposal based on feedback from the IRB.
Final Approval: Once satisfied with the revisions, the IRB grants final approval for the research to proceed.
Ongoing Oversight: The IRB continues to monitor the research to ensure ongoing compliance with ethical standards.