PSY 2105 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Scientific Method, Context-Dependent Memory, Cultural Psychology

• School: University of Ottawa
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSY 2105
• Professor: Brenda Baird

Document Summary

Developmental psychologists utilize the scientific method (the system of rules used by scientists in conducting and evaluating their research) in designing, conducting, evaluating, and communicating about research projects. The scientific method is a system of rules for investigation that can be used in many disciplines. A theory is a set of statements describing the relation between a phenomenon and the factors assumed to influence it. A theory supported by considerable research evidence is a law or principle, while a hypothesis postulates an as yet unsubstantiated relationship that will be tested in an experimental investigation. A critical element in theory-guided scientific research is objectivity (the requirement that the procedures and subject matter of investigation should be formulated so that they could, in principle, be agreed on by everyone). Use of objective methods allows other scientists to replicate a study, and it reduces bias (e. g. , expectancy). Objectivity is enhanced by focusing on behaviours that are observable, measurable, and quantifiable.