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Explain why the recorded heart rate data in this study qualifies as empirical evidence, and how the psychologist should use this data to address their hypothesis.
Case context: A psychologist wants to test the hypothesis that a new breathing exercise reduces anxiety during public speaking. They set up an experiment where they measure the heart rates of 40 participants before and after the exercise using medical-grade monitors, recording the data systematically under controlled conditions.
Question: Explain why the recorded heart rate data in this study qualifies as empirical evidence, and how the psychologist should use this data to address their hypothesis.
Sample answer: The heart rate data qualifies as empirical evidence because it is information systematically collected through direct observation and scientific research. The psychologist should use this objective data to evaluate the alternatives (whether the exercise reduces anxiety or not) and validate the claim about the breathing exercise's effectiveness.
Key points:
- Data is systematically collected
- Collected via direct observation and scientific research
- Serves as objective evidence
- Used to evaluate alternatives and validate the claim/hypothesis
Rubric: Grading Rubric: - Explains that the data is empirical because it is systematically collected through direct observation/scientific research. - Mentions that the data serves as objective evidence. - Describes using the data to evaluate the alternative possibilities and validate the hypothesis.
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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU
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