Research+Methods

=Research Methods =



==="In the broadest sense of the word, the definition of research includes any ===

for the advancement of knowledge" (Research).
- Martin Shuttleworth

// Why Research Is Important: // Research can be used in every area of life. Research is used to solve problems, expand knowledge, or introduce new ideas. Ideas will only be considered official theories or factual when they can be backed up with research.


 * Hypothesis ** : Official statement used in testing an idea or theory.
 * Strengths ** : The positives of this type of study, or what this study is good for.
 * Limitations ** : Reasons that this may not be the best type of study for this specific topic.
 * Reliability ** : Likelihood that an experiment can be repeated.
 * Validity ** : Accuracy of an experiment.

// What Goes into Experimental Research: // Before research can be completed, one must have developed a **theory**. A **theory** gives explanation to the **variables** involved in a study. Regardless of the type of experimental research, there is a set of **variables**. There are three types of variables—**independent** variables, **dependent** variables, and **controlled** variables. An **independent variable** is one that does not depend on any other variable in the study. A **dependent variable** is one that is contingent on other variables in the study. A **controlled variable** remains constant throughout the entirety of the study.

** Lab experiments ** are completed in controlled environments. These types of experiments are controlled by the researcher. Everything is planned out ahead of time, from the location, length of time, number of people, and procedures that will be used. Lab experiments are best for determining cause-and-effect interactions.
 * Strengths ** :
 * Allows for control
 * Minimal external interception
 * High validity
 * Limitations: **
 * Artificial design
 * May not represent “real life” due to the lab setting


 * Field Experiments ** are also known as naturalistic observation, and take place in a natural setting. Examples of locations for field experiments include schools, businesses, organizations, and outside environments.
 * Strengths ** :
 * Results are better for generalizing
 * Can be used for natural disasters and other tragedies that are unable to be repeated
 * Limitations ** :
 * Difficult to determine cause-and-effect
 * Random subject assignment or lack of control




 * Correlational Research ** is used to compare variables, and either provide support or lack of support for a relationship between the variables.
 * Strengths ** :
 * Identify relationships
 * Limitations ** :
 * Cannot determine cause and effect


 * [[image:http://ttlearning.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/psat-writing-section-300x199.jpg width="468" height="420" align="left"]]Surveys ** are used to identify the opinions or feelings of people. Surveys are ideal for determining correlations between variables. Surveys can be completed by telephone, in person, through paper mail, online, and more. Surveys can be used to target a specific sample of people. This method is best to gather general information on a larger group of people, rather than delving into the details of a singular person.
 * Strengths ** :
 * Mail in or online surveys may have more honest results
 * Can gather a lot of information at once
 * Limitations ** :
 * There is usually a small return rate for surveys not completed in person
 * Lack of response //may// cause the sample to be inaccurate for an entire population

A **Case Study** is an in depth examination of a particular person, place, or event. Case studies are often completed via interview, observation, follow-ups, or a combination of the three. **Limitations**:
 * Strengths ** :
 * Provides great detail on a small sample or individual
 * Hard to apply to a population


 * Resources (Information)**

Correlational Research Psychology Research Methods

Psychology Research Methods (Simply Psychology) Research

Types of Research

By Stacey Frizzell 10/7/2013


 * Resources (Images)**

http://startupweekend.org/2013/08/08/is-academic-research-on-entrepreneurship-worthwhile/ http://ttlearning.com/high-school-students-learn-about-the-psat-writing-section/ http://sgspsychology.webs.com/correlations.htm