Define The Scientific Method Terms Flashcards

How Well Do You Know About Scientific Method Terms? Answer these quiz-based flashcards based on the Scientific Method Terms and check your knowledge. This flashcard is simple and easy to use and is more fun-oriented.  

83 cards   |   Total Attempts: 182
  

Cards In This Set

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5 Steps of the Scientific Method
1. Identification of the problem to be studied 2. Hypothesis formulation- something that can be tested 3. Data collection 4. Statistical analysis & conclusions 5. Public dissemination
Descriptive Research
Tells us that something happens, but not why. Initial step for future research.
Correlational Research
Determination of the degree & strength of relationship between to variables. Does not imply causation.
Experimentational Research
Determination of cause and effect relationships due to direct manipulation of independent variable.
Independent Variable
Manipulated variable in a research study
Dependent Variable
Variable that changes because of the influence of the independent variable
Longitudinal Investigation
A large group measured over long time. Very expensive. Attrition (loss of participants over time). Repeated testing. Time investment.
Cross-Sectional Design
People from different age groups studied simultaneously with # of discrete groupings within time. Cohort effect problem.
Cross-Sequential Design
Combo of longitudinal and cross-sectional design. Small groups for shorter amount of time & allows to check for cohort effects.
Microgenetic Studies
Single, small group of individuals are tested repeatedly during a short period of time. See development as it occurs. Expensive due to multiple measurements.
Case Studies
Single individual examined in extreme detail. Many different measures utilized. Generates new lines of research. Individual is usually deviant from the norm.
Cross-Cultural Studies
Culture is the independent variable. Ex: How culture influences aggressive tendencies. Helps with nature vs nurture debate.
Comparative Studies
Examine similarities across species. Give insight into human development, although question of ethics and assumption that findings can be generalized.
Quantitative Development
A change in the number or amount of a particular "something" (vocab, height, weight). Non-stage theories emphasize gradual, incremental & continuous development such as this.
Qualitative Development
Change in underlying organization of a particular ability (speaking, walking) Such shifts most addressed in stage theories.