Research Methods 2 (Midterm)

An Operational Definition explains a concept solely in terms of the observable procedures used to produce and measure it.

Refers to the truthfullness of a measure; does it measure what it claims to measure?

The consistency of a measure.

Approach to research that seeks to establish broad generalizations or laws that apply to large groups of individuals.

Intensive study of an individual with an emphasis on both individual uniqueness and lawfulness.

When two different measures of the same people, events, or things vary together.

Covariation of events, time-order relationship, and the elimination of plausible alternatives

Occurs when two potentially effective independent variables are allowed to covary simultaneously; it is then impossible to determie what variable is responsible for any obtained difference in performance.

Reseach done in order to change people's lives for the better; can be applied to real life.

A logically organized set of propositions that serve to define events, describe relationships among these events, and explain the occurence of these events.

Research that seeks to increase understanding of behavior and mental processes and to test theories.

A subjective evaluation of the risks and the benefits of a research project to determine whether the research should be conducted.

Potential risks include risk of physical injury, social injury, and mental or emotional stress.

Procedures or activities in the study are similar to those experieced by participants in their everyday life.

Cannot be obtained from mentally impaired, emotionally disturbed, young children, and those who have a limited ability to understand the nature of the research