Guide to using the learning objectives
1. Define1 operational
definition. Explain2 how operational definitions allow
psychology to be a science.
2. Discuss2 thedifference(s)
between bias and random error. Then, discuss2 the differences
between observer bias and random observer error.
3. Provide3 a list of methods
that can be used to minimize or reduce observer bias.
4. For each item you listed in response
to the above objective, defend4 the use of that method for reducing observer
bias.
5. Explain2 how random observer
error can be reduced.
6. Compare and contrast4subject
bias with random error due to the participant.
a.
How are they similar?
b. How are they different?
7. Define1 social desirability
bias and provide3 at least two examples.
8. Define1 subject bias.
9. Discuss2 at least two methods
for reducing subject bias.
10.
Explain2what
is meant by demand characteristics.
11.
Define1reliability.
Then, explain2 how you would measure reliability.
12.
Explain2
why reliability is a prerequisite to validity.
13.
Describe2
how you would determine whether a measure was sufficiently reliable.
14.
A
measureÕs reliability is too low. Describe2 the steps you could take
to determine the cause of the measureÕs low reliability.
15.
Distinguish4between
interobserver reliability and test-retest reliability.
16.
Explain2why
psychologists attempt to increase interobserver reliability.
17.
Define1internal
consistency, explain2 why low internal consistency is a problem,
describe2 two strategies used to increase internal consistency2,
and list1 three measures of internal consistency.
18.
Define1construct
validity. Distinguish4 between reliability and construct validity.
19.
List1three
strategies researchers can use to make the case for a measure's construct
validity.
20.
Distinguish4between
convergent and discriminant validity.
21.
Design5at
least three studies that would provide evidence that an aggression test had construct
validity. Rank6 your studies in order of importance andjustify6
your rankings.
22.
List1four
factors that can threaten both the validity of a measure and the validity of a
manipulation.
23.
Explain2how
using a placebo treatment and blind procedures can improve the validity of a
manipulation.
24.
Explain2why
researchers often used manipulation checks.
25.
Compare4and
contrast4 instructional manipulations, environmental manipulations,
and stooge manipulations. Be sure to address the advantages and disadvantages
of these three types of manipulations.
26.
Propose5a
method of manipulating participantsÕ moods. Identify1 the type of
manipulation (instructional, environmental, or stooge) you proposed and justify6
your use of that manipulation.