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Three research strategies for scientific investigation:
• Survey
• Case study
• Experiment
Surveys
The survey technique involves the collection of primary data about subjects, usually by selecting a representative sample of the population or universe under study, through the use of a questionnaire. It is a very popular since many different types of information can be collected, including attitudinal, motivational, behavioral & perceptive aspects.
Disadvantages: How questions are worded & who asks the questions can cause errors.
Advantages: quick & easy collection of information & gives the ability to identify problems & evaluate treatment programs.
Case Study
A Personal case study, is a.k.a. a testimonial.
Disadvantages: Only applies to one individual & a great potential for error & bias can occur from;
• the personal beliefs of the person doing the study.
• a self fulfilling prophecy involves having a strong belief or making a statement about a future behavior & then acting, usually unknowingly to fulfill or carry out the behavior.
Advantages: may provide detailed information that allows greater understanding of a particular person's life. Case studies can point the way to other research solutions.
Experiment
An experiment is a method for identifying cause & effect relationships by following a set of rules &
guidelines that minimize the possibility of error, bias & chance occurrences.
• Disadvantage: Information obtained in one experimental situation or laboratory situation may not apply in other situations.
• Advantage: Identifies cause & effect.
Conducting an experiment: seven rules:
- Rule 1: ask (hypothesis)
- Rule 2: identify variables
- Independent variable (treatment)
- Dependent variable (resulting behavior)
- Rule 3: choose subjects (random selection)
- Rule 4: assign subjects randomly
- Experimental group
- Control group
- Rule 5: manipulate independent variable
- administer treatment
- Use double-blind procedure
- Rule 6: measure resulting behavior (dependent variable)
- Rule 7: analyze data
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