Foundations of Psychological Research

📋 Course Outline

1. Research Methodology
2. Hypotheses and Variables
3. Quantitative Methods
4. Qualitative Methods
5. Research Design Types
6. Sampling Techniques
7. Data Collection Methods
8. Data Analysis Techniques
9. Research Ethics
10. Reliability and Validity
11. Applications in Psychology

📖 1. Research Methodology

🔑 Key Concepts & Definitions

• Research Methodology: A systematic framework for designing, conducting, analyzing, and interpreting research to ensure validity and reliability of findings.
• Hypothesis: A specific, testable prediction about the expected relationship between variables in a study.
• Variables: Elements that can change or vary; includes independent variables (manipulated) and dependent variables (measured outcomes).
• Sampling: The process of selecting a subset of individuals from a population to participate in a study, aiming for representativeness.
• Operational Definitions: Precise descriptions of how abstract concepts are measured or manipulated, ensuring clarity and replicability.

📝 Essential Points