SAMPLE Introduction to Psychology
Chapter 2: Research Learning Objectives
After completing this chapter, you should be able to:
● Discuss the importance of the scientific method and its steps ● Identify the different research designs and methods ● Differentiate between sample and population ● Explain the value of ethics in research
Researchmethodologiesinpsychologywillbediscussedbelow.Theresearchmethodologiesdelineated in this chapter are applied within thedomainsofgeneralanddevelopmentalpsychology.Thischapter explains the fundamental principles of research and the value of information gathering for improved patient care. Additionally, we will discuss different research methods, focusing ondatagatheringand analysis. A. The Scientific Method
The scientific method, whichhasbeenusedinscience sincethe17 th century,involvessystematic observation , experimentation , measurement , testing , hypothesis formulation , and hypothesis modification . The scientific method can be adjusted, reduced, or expanded depending on the profession, the question asked,andthefieldofscience.Herearethestepswith an example hypothesis: 1. Observation : In this initial step, scientists carefully observe andgatherinformationabout a specific phenomenon or problem. Observations can be made through direct observations or by analyzing existing data.
Example: Example: Plants in a particular area are growing taller than those in another area.
2. Question :Basedontheobservations,scientistsdevelopaspecificquestionorproblemthatthey want to address. The question should be focused and testable.
Example: Why are plants in one area growing taller? Is it related to the soil composition?
3. Hypothesis : A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for the observed phenomenon. It is an educated guess that can be tested through experiments.
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