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5 Steps of the Scientific Method
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1. Identification of the
problem to be studied 2. Hypothesis formulation- something that can be
tested
3. Data collection
4. Statistical analysis & conclusions
5. Public dissemination
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Descriptive Research
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Tells us that something happens, but not why. Initial step for future research.
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Correlational Research
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Determination of the degree & strength of relationship between to variables. Does not imply causation.
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Experimentational Research
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Determination of cause and effect relationships due to direct manipulation of independent variable.
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Independent Variable
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Manipulated variable in a research study
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Dependent Variable
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Variable that changes because of the influence of the independent variable
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Longitudinal Investigation
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A large group measured over long time. Very expensive. Attrition (loss of participants over time). Repeated testing. Time investment.
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Cross-Sectional Design
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People from different age groups studied simultaneously with # of discrete groupings within time. Cohort effect problem.
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Cross-Sequential Design
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Combo of longitudinal and cross-sectional design. Small groups for shorter amount of time & allows to check for cohort effects.
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Microgenetic Studies
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Single, small group of individuals are tested repeatedly during a short period of time. See development as it occurs. Expensive due to multiple measurements.
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Case Studies
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Single individual examined in extreme detail. Many different measures utilized. Generates new lines of research. Individual is usually deviant from the norm.
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Cross-Cultural Studies
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Culture is the independent variable. Ex: How culture influences aggressive tendencies. Helps with nature vs nurture debate.
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Comparative Studies
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Examine similarities across species. Give insight into human development, although question of ethics and assumption that findings can be generalized.
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Quantitative Development
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A change in the number or amount of a particular "something" (vocab, height, weight). Non-stage theories emphasize gradual, incremental & continuous development such as this.
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Qualitative Development
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Change in underlying organization of a particular ability (speaking, walking) Such shifts most addressed in stage theories.
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