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Based on the concept of informal observations as research inspiration, describe how researchers use everyday events to generate research questions. In your description, identify the two primary categories of informal observations and list at least two examples of non-scientific sources that can provide secondhand observations.
Question: Based on the concept of informal observations as research inspiration, describe how researchers use everyday events to generate research questions. In your description, identify the two primary categories of informal observations and list at least two examples of non-scientific sources that can provide secondhand observations.
Sample answer: Researchers use informal observations to notice interesting behavioral patterns in everyday life or current events, which then inspire research questions. The two primary categories of informal observations are: (1) direct observations of our own and others' behavior, and (2) secondhand observations. Examples of non-scientific sources that provide secondhand observations include newspapers, books, and blogs.
Key points:
- Informal observations inspire research questions from everyday life or current events.
- Direct observations consist of noticing our own and others' behavior.
- Secondhand observations come from non-scientific sources.
- Sources of secondhand observations include newspapers, books, or blogs.
Rubric: To receive full credit, the response must: 1) Explain that informal observations inspire research questions by revealing interesting behavioral patterns in everyday life or current events. 2) Correctly name and distinguish between direct observations (own/others' behavior) and secondhand observations. 3) Provide at least two correct examples of non-scientific sources for secondhand observations (newspapers, books, or blogs).
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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Based on the concept of informal observations as research inspiration, describe how researchers use everyday events to generate research questions. In your description, identify the two primary categories of informal observations and list at least two examples of non-scientific sources that can provide secondhand observations.
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