Major Concepts and Behavioral Objectives

CONCEPT I: Gathering Data

Many methods are used by psychologists to gather data. Examining the methods psychologists use to gather data and measure variables gives us a better and more critical understanding of the conclusions that can be drawn from their research.

1. Define random sampling and representative sampling and discriminate between adequate and inadequate methods of sampling.

2. State the goals and discuss the purpose of psychological research.

3. Describe how an experiment is conducted and distinguish between experimental and control groups and independent and dependent variables.

4. Describe and list the advantages and disadvantages of the research methods discussed in the text (experiment, quasi-experiment, correlation, survey, naturalistic observation, case study).

5. Define validity and reliability and explain why they are important in scientific research.

6. Describe various techniques used in measuring variables, and suggest when each is most appropriate.

7. Distinguish between a longitudinal study and a cross-sectional study and assess the strengths and weaknesses of each.

CONCEPT II: Analyzing Data

After data have been collected, descriptive statistics are used to communicate the results in abbreviated form. Inferential statistics are used to ensure that the results are not simply due to chance. Meta-analysis provides a means of synthesizing results of many studies of the same phenomenon.

8. Describe what is meant by central tendency, define each of its three measures, and determine when each is appropriate.

9. Describe two measures of variability and explain how and why each is used.

10. Define the correlation coefficient, and discuss the kinds of relationships implied by positive (+1) and negative (-1) correlations.

11. Compare and contrast the use of descriptive and inferential statistics.

12. Describe how probability influences statistical significance and define what is meant by a significant result.

13. Describe meta-analysis and discuss how and why it is used.

CONCEPT III: Some Pitfalls in Psychological Research

Psychologists must continually be aware of possible sources of error in their research and take steps to minimize error and bias.

14. Discuss each of the methodological and measurement problems presented in the text, and indicate what steps can be taken to ensure that they do not occur.

15. Define replication and explain why is it done.

CONCEPT IV:The Ethics of Research in Psychology

Psychologists must consider the ethical implications of their work and conform to rules of conduct established by the American Psychological Association as well as those recommended by other organizations.

16. Summarize the ethical guidelines of the American Psychological Association for conducting human research.