Question 1: Define the term 'hypothesis' as used in psychological research.

Answer: A hypothesis is a clear, testable prediction about the relationship between variables in a study.

Question 2: Describe the purpose of conducting a pilot study before the main experiment.

Answer: A pilot study is a small-scale trial run of the main research to identify any issues with the methodology, procedures, or materials, ensuring the main study runs smoothly.

Question 3: Explain the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable in an experiment.

Answer: An independent variable is the variable that the researcher manipulates to observe its effect, while the dependent variable is the outcome that is measured and affected by the independent variable.

Question 4: Identify two key features that make a sample representative of a population.

Answer: Random selection and a sufficiently large sample size help ensure the sample accurately reflects the characteristics of the population.

Question 5: Describe how a researcher can ensure ethical standards are maintained when conducting an experiment involving human participants.

Answer: The researcher should obtain informed consent, ensure confidentiality, avoid harm, debrief participants, and allow withdrawal at any time.

Question 6: Explain the purpose of using a control group in an experiment.

Answer: A control group provides a baseline for comparison, helping to determine whether the independent variable has an effect.

Question 7: Draw a simple experimental setup involving two groups—an experimental group and a control group—and indicate where the independent variable would be introduced.

Answer: A sketch showing two separate groups of participants, with the variable being manipulated in the experimental group while the control group remains unchanged. The space should include labels for 'Experimental Group,' 'Control Group,' and 'Independent Variable.'

Question 8: Describe what constitutes a reliable psychological measurement and give one example.

Answer: A reliable measurement consistently produces the same results under the same conditions; for example, using a standardized IQ test.

Question 9: Outline the steps involved in analyzing qualitative data collected from open-ended survey responses.

Answer: Steps include coding responses into categories, identifying common themes, interpreting patterns, and summarizing findings to answer the research questions.

Question 10: Identify two potential sources of bias in psychological research and suggest how researchers can minimize them.

Answer: Selection bias and researcher bias; minimizing them can involve random sampling and blind or double-blind procedures.