Scientific Method
Theory
Hypotheses
Data
Verification
Convergent Validity
Things overlap where other also overlap (expected overlapping)
Discriminant validity
A weak relationship on something that isn’t related (different from the things it should be different from)
Internal Validity
Did the experiment really work the way we think?
Ex. If test scores went up, was it really because of the new teaching method, and not something else?
External Validity
Can the results work in other places or with other people?
Ex. If it worked in one classroom, will it also work in another school?
Advantages of Observational Research
Depth
Breadth
Richness
Spontaneity
Realism
Disadvantages of Observational Research
Lack of control
Small # of cases
Hawthorne Effect
Correlational Research
Research that measures variables precisely and examines their relationships, without making any changes to the research setting.
Eg.
Survey
Interview
Existing data
Temporality
X must come before Y
You study before you get good grades, not after.
Contingency
Only X explains Y
Ex. Your grades improved because you studied, not because of another reason (like an easier test).
Correlational Research Advantages
Easy to get data large number participants
Precision of measurement
More control
Correlational Research Disadvantages
No way to establish causality
Less breadth and richness
Experimental Research Advantages
More powerful at establishing causality
