What is a Hypothesis? RESEARCH METHODS

Scientific Process (G.A.D.D.I) 1.Identify a problem or question 2.Develop a hypothesis 3.Gather Data 4.Analyze the Data 5.Draw conclusions.

Research Methods 1.Case Study 2.Experiment 3.Sample Survey 4.Interview 5.Observation

Social Science experiments can range from simple to complex, but there are some basic terms and concepts that all students of the social sciences should understand. Start your studies by learning more about the different types of research, the basics of experimental design and relationships between variables.

Social Scientists use the scientific method to conduct studies and research in Psychology, Sociology & Anthropology. The basic process for conducting psychology research involves asking a question, designing a study, collecting data, analyzing results, reaching conclusions and sharing the findings

Which Line is longer A or B? A B

Choosing a topic, selecting research methods, and figuring out how to analyze the data you collect can be intimidating, especially if you have little or no background in experimental methods.

Correlational studies are one of the two major types of psychology research. Correlational studies are frequently used in psychology research to look for relationships between variables.

While correlational studies can suggest that there is a relationship between two variables, finding a correlation does not prove that one variable causes a change in another variable. In other words, correlation does not equal causation.

The simple experiment is one of the most basic methods of determining if there is a cause-and- effect relationship between two variables. A simple experiment utilizes a control group of participants who receive no treatment and an experimental group of participants who receive the treatment. Experimental Research Methods

Experimenters then compare the results of the two groups to determine if the treatment had an effect. Experimental Research Methods

Experimental Research Methods

Reliability Reliability is a vital component of a valid psychological test. What is reliability? How do we measure it? Reliability is an important part of any good psychological test.

Reliability Simply put, reliability refers to the consistency of a measure. A test is considered reliable if we get the same result repeatedly.

Validity When determining the merits of a psychological test, validity is one of the most important factors to consider. What is validity? Psychological assessment is an important part of both experimental research and clinical treatment. One of the greatest concerns when creating a psychological test is whether or not it actually measures what we think it is measuring.

The Rorschach inkblot test is a psychological projective test of personality in which a subject's interpretations of standard abstract designs are analyzed as a measure of emotional and intellectual functioning and integration. The test is named after Hermann Rorschach ( ) who developed the inkblots, although he did not use them for personality analysis.

Validity For example, a test might be designed to measure a stable personality trait, but instead measure transitory emotions generated by situational or environmental conditions. A valid test ensures that the results are an accurate reflection of the dimension undergoing assessment.

Ethical Guidelines Handout RESEARCH METHODS