Bioethics Lesson 6Elements of Research

Structures of Research

Types of Research Systematic Observation Controlled experiment Field study Models Simulations

Systematic Observation

Descriptive

No Independent Variable at beginning of investigation

Purpose to identify possible IV/DV relationships for further testing

Controlled experiment

Question

Hypothesis ( Independent Variable/Dependent Variable)

Isolation of Independent Variable (IV) Control other variables (CV)

Measurement of Dependent Variable (DV)

Reliability ( Can this experiment be reproduced?)

Validity ( Did the IV cause the change in the DV) Control Group

Field Study

Similar to Controlled experiment

In real world – more variables can interfere

May change the IV, or look for differences in IV already present in the environment

Models

Use of models when the real thing is “not possible” Expense Ethical concerns To many variables to control Time Magnitude (Global)

Problems with models Different from reality ( not as complex) Changes may not reflect reality

Simulations

Combination Models Controlled experiment

Analysis of an experiment

Read “Low glucose relates to greater aggression in married couples” Identify in the text:

Investigative Question Independent Variable Dependent Variable Controlled Variables Method for measuring Dependent Variable The authors’ conclusive statement Evidence the authors used to justify their conclusion

Evaluate the model

Describe the model used to determine aggressive impulses How is this model different from reality? Why might data collected from this model not

accurately reflect the authors’ conclusion?

Describe the model used to measure aggression How is this model different from reality? Why might data collected from this model not

accurately reflect the authors’ conclusion?

Skill Check

Develop a plan to investigate the following question (Class participation)

Would starting school at 9 am increase student test scores? Include :

Hypothesis ( Independent Variable/Dependent Variable) Isolation of Independent Variable (IV)

Control other variables (CV) Measurement of Dependent Variable (DV) Reliability ( Can this experiment be reproduced?) Validity ( Did the IV cause the change in the DV)