1B Scientific Research Methodologies

Which of the following best describes a role of the researcher with regard to variables?

• Researchers manipulate the indpendent variable.

• Researchers only measure all of the variables

• Researchers only manipulate the dependent variable.

The aim of a controlled experiment is

• To establish a causal relationship between variables.

• To understand the general relationships and associations between variables.

In psychology, what do investigation methodologies refer to?

I. Types of studies researchers can conduct. ​ ​ (a)  

II. Processes and techniques used by researchers to obtain data.​ (b)  

III. Only processes or techniques used during a study.​ (c)  

• True
• False

When choosing the most appropriate investigation methodologies to use, researchers should consider

I. the advantages and disadvantages of each methodology.​ (a)  

II. the specific subject matter or topic they are studying.​ (b)  

III. the nature of evidence required to answer the research question.​ (c)  

• True
• False

One important type of study and methodology in psychology is a controlled experiment. Compared to other investigation methodologies, controlled experiments generally involve

• more control of variables and conditions.

• less control of variables and conditions.

Because controlled experiments are so rigorous and strict, they all follow the same structure and approach.

• True

• False

Which of the following are types of fieldwork?

I. Controlled experiments. ​ (a)  

II. Within subjects.​ (b)  

III. Yarning circles.​ (c)  

IV. Focus groups.​ (d)  

V. Direct observation.​ (e)  

• Not fieldwork
• Fieldwork

Which of the following sentences is most correct?

A. A fundamental difference between experiments and correlational studies is that experiments involve active MANIPULATION of at least one variable, whereas correlational studies only involve MEASURING variables.​ (a)  

B. A fundamental difference between experiments and correlational studies is that experiments involve CHANGING at least one variable, whereas correlational studies only involve active RECORDING variables. ​ (b)  

• More correct
• Less correct

Which of the following sentences is most correct?

A. In a within-subjects experimental design, all participants complete all conditions of the experiment, whereas in a between-subjects design, they only complete one condition of the experiment. ​ (a)  

B. In a between-subjects experimental design, all participants complete all conditions of the experiment, whereas in a within-subjects design, they only complete one condition of the experiment.​ (b)  

• MORE CORRECT
• LESS CORRECT

Ziad is a budding researcher in the field of psychology. He is very passionate about the role family can play in education outcomes. He wants to know how much of an impact parents can have on their children’s attitudes toward school. Ziad has not done much research on it yet and isn’t sure where to start.

Which of the following would be an appropriate investigation methodology for Ziad to use at this stage of his research?

• A case study

• A literature review