PSYC 1010 Chapter 2: Chapter 2 Research Enterprise NOTES.docx

• School: York University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 1010
• Professor: Jennifer Steeves

Document Summary

Theory: a system of interrelated ideas used to explain a set of observations. Hypothesis: a tentative statement about the relationship between two or more variables. Variable: any measureable conditions, events, characteristics, or behaviors that are controlled or observed in a study. Translate a theory or idea into a testable hypothesis operational definition: describes the actions or operations that will be used to measure or control a variable. Establish precisely what is meant by each variable in the context of the study. Step 2: select the research method and design the study. How to put the hypothesis intro a empirical test. Must choose best method based on pros and cons of hypothesis participants/subjects: persons or animals whose behavior is systematically observed in a study. Select strategy that appears most appropriate and practical. Data collection: techniques, which are procedures for making empirical observations and measurements. Step 4: analyze the data and draw conclusions.