Research Methods
Scientific Method
•Not only search for truth
•Not just mathematics
BUT also…
•collecting data
•constitute for fact
• repeatable data and can be publicly observable
in some forms
• science involved assumption
Scientific Method
Theory Hypothesis Research
Theories and Hypotheses
Theory
~ an explanation of why an event or outcome occurs
Hypothesis
~ a specific prediction about what should occur if the
theory is valid
Operational definition
~ transform our conceptual variables into operational
variables
Method of getting information
Naturalistic observation:
~ participants are observed as they behave in
real-world settings
~ But inner thoughts could not be observed
Participant observation:
~ sometimes researchers participate in the same
behaviors as the people they are observing
Method of getting information
Interview/ Questionnaire:
~ get inner thoughts information
~ assumes people are able and willing to report on
their own behavior
~ socially desirable responding
~ sampling error
~ wording, reliability, validity are key considerations
