A classmate proposes throwing out a classic theory of cognitive development because their recent class experiment failed to support one of its hypotheses. In one to three sentences, advise the student on why they should reconsider, mentioning at least one specific methodological issue that could explain their results.
Question: A classmate proposes throwing out a classic theory of cognitive development because their recent class experiment failed to support one of its hypotheses. In one to three sentences, advise the student on why they should reconsider, mentioning at least one specific methodological issue that could explain their results.
Sample answer: You should not immediately discard the theory because a single disconfirmation often stems from a flawed research design rather than a false theory. Before abandoning it, you must consider whether your independent variables were improperly manipulated or your dependent variables were improperly measured.
Key points:
- The student should not immediately abandon the scientific theory.
- The failed hypothesis could be due to a flawed research design.
- Specific methodological issues could include improperly manipulated or improperly measured variables.
Rubric: Awards full credit if the response advises against abandoning the theory and correctly applies at least one methodological concept from the text, such as a flawed design, improper measurement, improper manipulation, or a Type II error.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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