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Explain the concept of pilot testing as an iterative process, outlining the sequence of actions a researcher must perform when an initial pilot test reveals design issues.
Question: Explain the concept of pilot testing as an iterative process, outlining the sequence of actions a researcher must perform when an initial pilot test reveals design issues.
Sample answer: Pilot testing is an iterative process of testing, refining, and re-testing. When an initial pilot test reveals problems with the experimental design, the researcher must solve those issues, modify the procedure, and then run another pilot test. This cycle continues until the procedure works flawlessly, at which point the researcher is ready to proceed with the actual study.
Key points:
- Pilot testing is an iterative process.
- A researcher must solve issues and modify the procedure when problems are identified.
- A new pilot test must be run after modifications are made.
- The cycle of testing, refining, and re-testing continues until the procedure works flawlessly.
- The actual study only begins after the procedure works flawlessly.
Rubric: Award full points if the student defines pilot testing as an iterative cycle, outlines the sequence of solving issues, modifying the procedure, and re-testing, and states that the cycle continues until the procedure works flawlessly before the actual study begins.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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