AP Psychology: Research Methods in Design

Introduction

• Review of Practice 2 in AP Psychology CED.
• Focus on research methods and design.
• Guided notes available in the video description.

Experimental vs. Non-Experimental Methodologies

Experimental Methodology

• Goal: Test a hypothesis and establish causal relationships.
• Approach: Systematic, controlled conditions.
• Purpose: Explain behaviors.

Non-Experimental Methodologies

• Purpose: Describe behaviors; cannot explain or establish causation.
• Examples:
  • Case Studies: Detailed examination of an individual or group; risk of Hawthorne effect.
  • Correlational Studies: Insight into relationships between variables; correlation does not imply causation; risk of third variable problem.
  • Meta-Analysis: Combines results from multiple studies for conclusions.
  • Naturalistic Observations: Observe in real-world settings; risk of skewed data due to lack of context.

Designing a Study

Hypothesis

• Definition: Specific, testable prediction.
• Difference from Theory: A hypothesis is a testable prediction, while a theory is supported by data and explains phenomena.

Operational Definitions

• Outline procedures and measurements.
• Essential for replication by other researchers.

Variables

• Independent Variable (IV): Manipulated by the researcher.
• Dependent Variable (DV): Outcome that is measured.
• Confounding Variables: Uncontrolled factors affecting DV.

Population and Sample

• Population: Entire group studied.
• Sample: Selected group representing the population.
• Sampling Methods:
  • Random Sampling: Equal chance for all population members.
  • Stratified Sampling: Population divided into subcategories, random sample from each.
  • Convenience Sampling: Based on availability; risk of sampling bias.

Experimental and Control Groups

• Experimental Group: Receives the IV.
• Control Group: Receives a placebo.
• Random Assignment: Random allocation to control or experimental groups.

Procedures

Single Blind Procedure

• Participants unaware of group allocation.
• Prevents social desirability and placebo effects.

Double Blind Procedure

• Both participants and researchers unaware of group allocation.
• Prevents experimenter and social desirability biases.

Measurements

Qualitative Measures

• Non-numerical data; detailed insights into thoughts and behaviors.

Quantitative Measures

• Numerical data; allows statistical analysis.

Ethical Considerations

• Informed Consent: Participants must understand risks and agree to participate.
• Informed Assent: For participants unable to provide full consent (e.g., minors).
• Ethical Standards: Governed by APA, IRB, and IACUC.

Conclusions

Peer Review

• Evaluation by field experts for reliability and validity.

Replication

• Verification of findings through repeated studies.

Practice Resources

• Quizzes and resources available to reinforce understanding.
• Encouragement to engage with additional materials and quizzes.