Exam (elaborations)
Possible Long Questions Psychology 243
- Course
- Psychology 243
- Institution
- Stellenbosch University (SUN)
Psychology 243: Possible Long Questions - Answers for the Exam (for Chapters 1, 2, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 13)
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Research Design in Psychology (243)Chapter 1
What the scientific method assumes (16 marks):
Assumption Explanation
Presumes order + regularity in natural and
social events. Independent of observer +
1. Existence of natural + social laws
describe way phenomena interact/social
events occur.
Although humans part of nature + subject to
laws, can still discover these laws.
2. Laws can be discovered by human Observations certain regularities – indicate
beings natural events proceed according to our
expectations based on our understanding of
those events.
Scientific understandings based on
3. Natural phenomena have natural parsimony of ideas – explanations for
causes phenomena based on as few assumptions
possible.
Invention new instruments of investigation
4. New knowledge is accumulated + new approaches to studying problem –
gradually + sequentially advances. New understandings demonstrate
limitations of previous knowledge.
Observations made basis of senses
constitute evidence – sophisticated
5. Knowledge + truth are founded on instruments developed to observe + measure
evidence social phenomena when observations may
be inaccurate. Scientific claim made – need
evidence, if not, merely hypothesis.
6. Scientific statements must be
Common-sense statements result of non-
distinguished from common-sense
scientific observations (no take into
statements
1
, consideration variables at stake). Lack
systematic investigation.
Result of observation is independent of
single observer. Corresponds to description
7. Scientific observation is objective made by anyone examining same
phenomenon. More accurate description is,
greater objectivity of observation.
Possibilities considered one at time in
logical order.
Example: buy new car – think all cars road
8. Scientific observation is systematic
are same as yours (been queued to look for
this car) > scientific observation NOT work
in this random way.
Characteristics of scientific research (10 marks):
Each step based on observation (aim know
1. Empirical + understand reality). Reality exists outside
observer.
Certain logical order must follow > only be
2. Systematic + logical done once description given + explanation
of observed phenomenon found.
Anyone placed in exact same circumstances
can observe same event + by reasoning
3. Replicable + transmittable arrive at same explanation + prediction. Can
also transmit knowledge in form of
report/journal article.
All details not essential omitted BUT
4. Reductive reductionism must be done great care – can
lead significant bias.
Scientific claim must be stated in such way
can be demonstrated to be false. Claim must
5. Falsifiable
be testable. Making a prediction – should
not only tell us what should happen but also
2
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