Chapter 8: Control

One question I had regarding this chapter is about statistical control. If I recall correctly from my 302 class, I think this would be referring to standardizing data results with z and t scores. The authors though in this book didn't quite make this point clear. If I can have a concrete example of an experiment that would call for this type of control I think it help me a lot more.

Chapter 5: Variables

One thing that still leaves me wondering more about is the issue of face validity. Is face validity something that is really crucial in psychological research? The book gave the example of the Rorschach test having low face validity but has true validity otherwise. It also seems that with many experiments that implement tests while using some type of deception have the dilemma of low face validity, but have high validity. When would this type of validity be of true concern for a researcher would be a true concern?

Chapter 7: Variability

For the most part the reading on this chapter wasn't too difficult to grasp. Two ideas that I could use some clarification is how to clearly distinct between internal validity versus construct validity. From my understanding internal validity is based on whether the IV does affect the DV, rather than construct validity as being that the measures used are appropriate.Yet, it seems that both can overlap at times.  .

Intro

What is your name?  

Bobby Fregoso

 

What is your favorite psychology class so far and why? (list course name not

number)

Social Psychology is my favorite class because of many myths and misconceptions it shed light on about society and how people function. It also shows that there is much work to be done and is a field that has many open possibilities for future research.

 

Of the classes you could have taken why are you taking this class? Be specific.

 Research Methods is crucial for the work of any psychologist to conduct research and studies that adhere to the scientific method to produce new, useful information to the world.

Any special thoughts on what you want to get out of this class?

I want to be able to critically examine the information that I come across in every day life, and be able to have clearer idea of how to conduct my own research for the future. 

 

What have you liked/disliked about statistics to this point in your life (this can be high school, other statistic courses or any encounter you have had with statistics)

Statistics has always challenged me to think a little more creatively about applying mathematics to psychology which has been both enjoyable, and on late nights of studying, infuriating.

Other interests, besides this program?

I have a great deal of interest in music and it's role in society. Precisely its ability to influence people's behavior and the enjoyment it brings.

Tell me about the worst teacher you ever had. What did s/he do that you didn’t like? (Please do not give any identifying information about the person.)

It's hard for me to think of a teacher I truly disliked. If any it was one that was not available to students and compassion to see all students reach their full potential.

 

Tell me about the best teacher you ever had. What did s/he do that you liked? (Please do not give any identifying information about the person.)

My favorite teacher had shown much interest in seeing their students succeeding and had a teaching style that help break down the difficult subject matter into pieces that almost anyone could easily understand.

 

How do you learn best? Visual examples? Exercises? Talking to class mates? Something else?

I learn best through exercises and visual examples. 

 Anything else you want to tell me?

I really am looking forward to this class.