Hypothesis:
- A testable theory with a dependent and independent variable.
- Experimental designs:
- Repeated measures
- Matched pairs
- Independent groups
- Standardised procedures:
- Random allocation
- Counterbalancing
- Extraneous variables (to be controlled if possible)
- Instructions (including briefing and debriefing)
- Sampling methods
- Opportunity sampling
- Random sampling
- Systematic sampling
- Stratified sampling
- Averages and range
- Mean – totals added and divided by number of values
- Mode – most recurring figure
- Median – the middle value
- Range – subtract lowest value from highest
- Survey methods
- Questionnaires (with closed and open questions)
- Interviews (face-to-face or telephone)
- Observation studies(in which the following may be used)
- A confederate
- Categories of behaviour
- Inter-observer checks
- Ethical considerations in research
- Confidentiality
- Informed consent
- Qualifications
- Professional Integrity
Hypothesis:
——————————————————
Test It!
- What is a hypothesis?
- What are the three experimental designs?
- What is meant by the terms ‘random allocation’, ‘counterbalancing’ and ‘extraneous variables’?
- What are the different sampling methods?
- How do you calculate the mean, mode and the median?
- What is an anomalous result and how can it be dealt with?
- Identity three ethical issues a psychologist may have to consider when conducting an experiment.
- What is the difference between a structured and an unstructured interview? Identify an advantage and a disadvantage of each.
- What is meant by the term ‘ecological validity’?
- What is a case study and what are its advantages?
——————————————————
Some top tips!
- Print out the Test It! Questions – it will allow you to replicate exam conditions and also allows you to give your eyes a rest from the computer screen whilst doing your crucial revision.
- Make a copy of the Remember It! Section and put in a place that you often look at. i.e. front of a journal, next to a mirror, on a kitchen cupboard door, etc. That way you can do some cheeky revision whilst doing those things you have to do!