Research methods in Psychology
Critique of the Asch study 1955
This essay requires you to thoroughly engage with one specific piece of research, agreed with the tutor in advance (A/C 2.1).
You will need to detail and critically evaluate the methods used and demonstrate knowledge of a wide variety of relevant and appropriate research terminology (A/C 1.1, 1.2). You could, for example, demonstrate understanding of the difference between a research question and a hypothesis, reliability/validity, qualitative/quantitative data, dependent /independent variables and comment on sampling method and size. You are required to demonstrate knowledge of the nature of statistical testing in psychological research (A/C 3.1) as well as commenting on the ethical implications of your chosen study (A/C 4.1).
1. Understand the different research methods available in Psychology
1.1 Evaluate experimental and non-experimental research designs
1.2 Demonstrate an awareness of the terminology used in psychological research
2. Understand the practical application of psychological research methods
2.1 Analyse how psychological research methods are applied in one specific area of interest
3. Understand the nature of statistical testing in psychological research
3.1 Evaluate statistical evidence in one current literature
4. Understand the ethical implications of psychological research
4.1 Analyse ethical guidelines associated with human participation in psychological research
This essay requires you to thoroughly engage with one specific piece of research, agreed with the tutor in advance (A/C 2.1).
• You will need to detail and critically evaluate the methods used and demonstrate knowledge of a wide variety of relevant and appropriate research terminology (A/C 1.1, 1.2). You could, for example, demonstrate understanding of the difference between a research question and a hypothesis, reliability/validity, qualitative/quantitative data, dependent /independent variables and comment on sampling method and size.
• You are required to demonstrate knowledge of the nature of statistical testing in psychological research (A/C 3.1) as well as commenting on the ethical implications of your chosen study (A/C 4.1).