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Steps of scientific investigation:

1. Formulate hypothesis with clearly defined variables. Once you define your hypothesis you have to decide how to design your study. What behavior are you measuring and how will you measure it. Need to define VARIABLES ( something that varies or changes and can be measured and manipulated.

OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF VARIABLES: This is a definition given to a variable that allows it to be quantified so that it can be measured. The operational definition also allows other researchers to know what is being measured and should allow them to replicate your study.

2. Select research method and design a study. There are three basic research methods employed by psychologists.

a) Experimental Research Design: Involves the manipulation and measurement of variables

b) Correlational Research Design: Examines the relationship between variables ( environmental, physical, social) to explain observed behaviors.

c) Descriptive Research Design: Sometimes referred to as observational research, it involves describing behavior as it occurs in naturalistic setting. There is no manipulation of variables. Observational research also includes case studies which investigate individual subjects in an attempt to establish a relationship between past events and present behavior.

3. Data collection. Maybe through questionnaires, direct observation, interviews, psychological tests, physiological recordings or examination of archival data.

4. Analyze data. Use statistical analysis to draw conclusions which support or refute hypothesis.

5. Report and/or publish findings. Reporting of findings allows information to be shared and critiqued. Usually scientific research is published in a scientific journal relevant to the area of research. JOURNALS are periodicals that publish technical and scholarly material, usually in a narrowly defined area of study.

The two main advantages of the scientific approach are:

a) Clarity and precision. Clearly defined objectives and measures

b) Intolerance of errors. Peers will be very critical. Data must objective and documentation thorough. Also experiment should be reproducible. In other words other scientists should be able to test the same hypothesis in the same way and come up with the same findings.

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What is critical thinking and why is it important to the field of psychology?

Critical thinking is firstly having the knowledge of the biases human cognitions are prone to and to objectively way up evidence and not simply swallow information whole. This is important in the field of psychology as psychologists need to think like a judge and assess evidence to come to a conclusion about causality in human behaviour. Moreover everyone is a lay psychologist making theories about human behaviour, however employing scientific methods and critical thinking allows psychologists to draw confident causality and sets pseudo psychology apart from psychological science.


Sample of research methodology paper?

You can find these papers online to help come up with ideas. A simple keyword search can help you find the papers that you want.


Why does drawing a conclusion come to end of a research process?

Drawing a conclusion marks the end of a research process because it involves synthesizing all the data and analysis to make a definitive statement or decision based on the findings. Once a conclusion is reached, it signifies that the research objectives have been achieved and the researcher can summarize the results and implications of the study.


Distinguish the difference between research method and research methodology?

Method is a particular way of solving a specific problem. it is therefore unlikely that your research will just have 'a method' as the whole research will probably draw on different ways (methods) of proving/solving discrete aspects of the research. Methodology, therefore, means the collection of methods you used in a particular piece of research. However, N.B.! The term methodology is confusing, because it can often be used to refer to the underlying 'methodology' (or ideology/principles/set of beliefs) which led you to opt for one set of methods rather than another. E.g. if you believe that number crunching does not come up with worthwhile results, you will go for indepths interviews etc. that is part of your 'methodology' and it's based on your assumptions/mindset


Where did this quote come from The greatest discovery of your generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind William James?

The quote is from William James, a prominent American psychologist and philosopher in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. James emphasized the importance of mindset and attitude in shaping one's life and achievements.

Related Questions

What are some important questions to ask when evaluating scientific conclusions?

Who did the research? Where did the research come from? What conclusions were made? Was this research sponsored by anyone? Why does the conclusion matter? Is the conclusion biased?


Which element of the research essay sets it apart from book reports?

In a research essay, you are expected to synthesize information and come to a conclusion.


List and explain scientific processes?

Define a Question to Investigate. As scientists conduct their research, they make observations and collect data. Make Predictions. Based on their research and observations, scientists will often come up with a hypothesis. Gather Data. Analyze the Data. Draw Conclusions. HOPE THIS HELPS :)


What does it mean the extent of research interference?

The extent of research interference refers to the degree to which external factors or influences impact the integrity and validity of a research study. This interference can come from various sources such as bias, funding sources, political pressure, or conflicts of interest, leading to compromised results and conclusions. Researchers must strive to minimize interference to maintain the credibility and reliability of their research findings.


How did Robert W Wood come to his conclusions?

by giving up to do the N-rays


When using the scientific method which come last?

Draw conclusions based on results.


What distinguishes a research essay from for example a historical report?

There are several differences between a report and a research essay, the most important of which is that while a research essay is meant to give the conclusions of the writer, the report summarizes the conclusions of others whom the report is investigating. Stylistically, a report is always objective. The format of a report breaks it into sections and subsections, while an essay usually does not require such sectioning. It is always best, when writing for an institution or organization, to request a style guide.


Where does information come from?

Information can come from various sources such as books, articles, research studies, personal experiences, conversations, and the internet. It is gathered and processed through observation, experimentation, analysis, and communication to provide knowledge and insights on a particular topic.


When using scientific method which steps come last?

Draw conclusions based on results.


What opportunities are available for PhD students to apply for a research grant to support their studies and projects?

PhD students have various opportunities to apply for research grants to support their studies and projects. These grants can come from government agencies, private foundations, universities, and other organizations. Students can seek funding for specific research projects, travel expenses, conference attendance, and other academic needs. It is important for students to actively search for and apply to these grants to help fund their research and advance their academic careers.


What is the quickest way to become a psychologist?

graduate early from high school and go to college. It's simple. Do some research and think about different colleges/schools you would like to go to. It won't come handed to you on a platter. You are going to have to work to get what you want.


My son is 22 with Agoraphobia will not get helpi am 53 don't know what to do He will not let my get him help?

He will need to see a psychologist. However the psychologist will probably need to come to you as he's afraid to leave the house.