Research methods

Which of the following does NOT describe a random error

• It is predictable

• It causes extraneous variables

• Can be minimized by random allocation

• Happens due to lack of standardization

• Equally impacts all conditions within a study

Ways to operationalize variables

• Define the variables

• Explain how manipulation would be done

• Explain how it would be measured

• Simply state the variable

1 Strength + 1 weakness of Laboratory experiments (try not to repeat with others)

1 strength + 1 weakness of field experiment (Try not to repeat)

1 strength + 1 weakness of field experiment (Try not to repeat)

Observing participant's likelihood of shocking another participant with/without another person present is an example of controlled observation

• Yes

• No

Observing how people study in different classrooms at school is an example of naturalistic observation

• Yes

• No

Strength+limitation of covert observations

• More valid results

• Ethically considered

• Lack of informed consent

• Unnatural behaviour of participants

strength + limitation of overt observations

• More valid results because of natural behaviour being observed

• Ethically considered, participants gave consent

• Unnatural behaviour because they know they are being watched

• Lack of informed consent

Standing in the queue for entering a shop to observe shoppers behaviour

• participant observation

• non-participant observation