Managing Skils. Research Methods

Time for data collection and analysis is something you want to consider. An observation or interview method, so-called qualitative approach, helps you collect richer information, but it takes time. Using a survey helps you collect more data quickly, yet it may lack details. So, you will need to consider the time you have for research and the balance between strengths and weaknesses associated with each method (e.g., qualitative vs. quantitative).

Aims and Hypotheses

The aim of the study is a statement of what the researcher intents to investigate.

The hypothesis of the study is an idea, derived from psychological theory which contains a prediction which can be verified or disproved by some kind of investigation, usually an experiment.

A directional hypothesis indicates a direction in the prediction (one-tailed) e.g. ‘students with pets perform better than students without pets’.

A non-directional hypothesis does not indicate a direction in the prediction (two-tailed) e.g. ‘owning pets will affect students’ exam performances’.

Further Information

Sampling

• A sample is the participants you select from a target population (the group you are interested in) to make generalisations about.
• Representative means the extent to which a sample mirrors a researcher's target population and reflects its characteristics.
• Generalisability means the extent to which their findings can be applied to the larger population of which their sample was a part.
• A Volunteer sample is where participants pick themselves through newspaper adverts, noticeboards or online.
• Opportunity sampling, also known as convenience sampling, uses people who are available at the time the study is carried out and willing to take part. It is based on convenience.
• Random sampling is when every person in the target population has an equal chance of being selected. An example of random sampling would be picking names out of a hat.
• Systematic sampling is when a system is used to select participants. Picking every Nth person from all possible