Question 1: Define the term 'objectivity' in the context of scientific research. Why is it important in psychology?

Answer: Objectivity means removing personal biases or opinions from research to ensure findings are based solely on evidence. It is important to prevent subjective influence from affecting results, ensuring accuracy and reliability in psychology.

Question 2: Describe one feature that distinguishes scientific research from non-scientific research.

Answer: One feature is the use of empirical evidence, meaning data collected through observation or experimentation rather than speculation or opinion.

Question 3: Explain what is meant by 'replicability' in scientific research and why it is essential.

Answer: Replicability refers to the ability of other researchers to repeat a study and obtain similar results. It is essential because it verifies the reliability and validity of findings.

Question 4: Identify and explain one limitation of using experiments in psychological research.

Answer: A limitation is that experiments can lack ecological validity because they are often conducted in controlled settings that do not reflect real-life situations.

Question 5: Describe a scenario in psychology where a researcher might use a correlational study instead of an experiment.

Answer: A researcher might use a correlational study to examine the relationship between hours of sleep and concentration levels without manipulating sleep, as it might be unethical or impractical to control sleep in an experimental way.

Question 6: Draw a simple flowchart illustrating the typical steps in a scientific research process in psychology. Label each step clearly.

Answer: A correct flowchart should include the steps: 1. Formulate a hypothesis, 2. Design the study, 3. Collect data, 4. Analyze data, 5. Draw conclusions, 6. Report findings.

Question 7: Explain why objectivity is more challenging in qualitative research compared to quantitative research.

Answer: Because qualitative research involves subjective interpretation of data like interviews or observations, personal biases can influence the analysis, making objectivity more difficult to achieve than in quantitative research which relies on numerical data.

Question 8: Identify one ethical consideration that scientists must take into account to maintain the integrity of their research.

Answer: Ensuring informed consent, meaning participants are aware of what the research involves and agree to participate voluntarily.

Question 9: Sketch a diagram that illustrates the concept of the scientific method in psychology. Your diagram should include at least three key components.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict a cycle including components such as hypothesis formulation, experimentation/data collection, analysis, and conclusion, arranged in a logical flow.

Question 10: Discuss one way in which psychology as a science differs from other sciences such as physics or chemistry.

Answer: Psychology often deals with complex human behaviors and mental processes, which can be variable and harder to measure precisely compared to the physical and chemical phenomena studied in sciences like physics or chemistry.