2021-PSYC-3600-Experimental-Psychology-Lecture-Notes-Converging Evidence PDF

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Methods in Behavioral Sciences PSYC 3600 - Lecture Notes

Converging Evidence

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The Connectivity Principle

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Critical experiments and theoretical advances may sometimes occur but progress in sciences operates on the principle of connectivity. o

New advances must not only explain new facts but also account for old ones.

o

Explanatory power must be widened.

o

Old and new theories contend until a new synthesis makes them all obsolete.

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Beware of violations of connectivity.

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Converging Evidence

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No experiment in psychology is perfectly designed. o

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No single experiment can establish a theory.

Psychology depends upon converging evidence – a preponderance of studies that establish a theory. o

This permits progress despite flaws in studies.

o

Theories must be disconfirmed by converging evidence, not just confirmed by it.

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Methods and Convergence

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We should expect many different methods to be used in studying topics.

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Methods in Behavioral Sciences PSYC 3600 - Lecture Notes

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Each method has strengths and weaknesses.

o

Convergence across methods strengthens a theory.

Convergence across settings is important: o

Naturalistic observation vs lab experiments.

o

Maintaining a balance in psychology is needed.

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Conference Presentations

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Useful for communicating work in progress. o

Feedback from peers before formal publication permits addressing potential criticisms.

o

Knowledge of new findings can guide other researchers’ work in progress.

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Forums for exchanging ideas and making contacts. o

Science is collaborative not competitive.

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Kinds of Presentations

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Invited talks – 1 hr long, made by senior researchers, summarize a career’s work.

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Panels – several researchers all working on a similar topic: o

10-20 minutes, present empirical studies

o

Moderated, discussant clarifies points of controversy.

Posters – present detailed research, author is present to explain & interact with peers. 2

Methods in Behavioral Sciences PSYC 3600 - Lecture Notes

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Posters

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Keep it simple. o

Use large type font.

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Follow the same format as a research report (APA-style paper).

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Illustrate with pictures of stimuli, graphs, tables.

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Be able to explain everything appearing on the poster, either briefly or in detail.

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Short Talks

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You will typically only have 10-15 minutes plus 5 minutes for questions.

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Follow the same outline as the APA-style report, but with less detail.

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Keep overheads uncluttered, simple, with large type.

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If someone asks a question you cannot answer, admit it – don’t fake it.

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