AP Psychology Unit 0 - Research Methods

What is the goal of random assignment in research?

• To ensure that every participant has an equal chance of being assigned to any group.

• To help control for confounding variables and biases, ensuring that any differences between groups are due to the manipulation of the independent variable.

• To increase the sample size of the study for better statistical power.

• To allow researchers to manipulate the dependent variable effectively.

What is a confounding variable?

• A variable that has no effect on the dependent variable.

• A variable that influences both the dependent variable and independent variable, leading to a false association.

• A variable that is manipulated to observe its effect on the dependent variable.

• A variable that is kept constant to ensure valid results.

What is the difference between a case study and an experiment?

• A case study is a brief overview of a topic, while an experiment is a detailed analysis of multiple variables.

• A case study is an in-depth analysis of a single individual or group, while an experiment manipulates one or more variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships.

• A case study focuses on statistical data, while an experiment focuses on qualitative data.

• A case study is conducted in a controlled environment, while an experiment is conducted in natural settings.

Which research method is most likely to demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship?

• Survey

• Observation

• Experiment

• Case Study

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

What is a survey in psychological research?

• A method of gathering data by asking participants questions about their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.

• A technique for analyzing the brain's activity during experiments.

• A way to conduct experiments without human subjects.

• A process of observing behavior in a natural setting.

What is the purpose of a control group in an experiment?

• To serve as a baseline to compare the effects of the independent variable.

• To ensure that the experiment is conducted ethically.

• To manipulate the independent variable directly.

• To increase the sample size of the experiment.

What is informed consent in psychological research?

• The agreement given by participants to take part in a study after being informed of its purpose, procedures, risks, and their right to withdraw at any time.

• A document that participants sign to confirm their participation in a study.

• A verbal agreement made by participants before the study begins.

• A summary of the study's findings provided to participants after the research is completed.

What is the significance of peer review in research?

• Peer review ensures the quality and credibility of research before publication.

• Peer review is a method to increase the number of publications.

• Peer review allows researchers to bypass ethical standards.

• Peer review is primarily used for funding decisions.

What is a hypothesis?

• A testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables.

• A definitive conclusion based on empirical evidence.

• A random guess about an outcome.

• A statement that cannot be tested.

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative research?

• Qualitative research focuses on understanding concepts and experiences, while quantitative research focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis.

• Qualitative research is based on numerical data, while quantitative research is based on personal opinions.

• Qualitative research is more scientific than quantitative research.

• Qualitative research uses surveys, while quantitative research uses interviews.