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Synthesis Paper
Psychology is defined as the scientific study of the mind and behavior (Editors of
Merriam-Webster, 2020). The science of psychology requires the use of different research
methods along with a solid understanding of legal and ethical concerns that can hinder research.
Scholarly sources can be used to obtain information on a given topic and findings from research
must always be presented in the format of the American Psychological Association. This paper
will focus on what was learned about psychological research at an introductory level.
Knowledge Gained From Introduction to Research
Scholarly Sources
Scientific knowledge can be obtained through the use of scholarly sources. These sources
include journal articles, books, conferences, personal research, and the media (Crawford, 2018).
When one obtains information through the media it is important to be aware that information
may not always be presented accurately because of the misuse of psychological language
(Crawford, 2018). The information can also be presented in a balanced manner which sometimes
lends credibility to non scientific viewpoints (Crawford, 2018). To avoid this type of
misinformation, one can obtain original sources and be wary of correlational findings (Crawford,
2018).
APA Writing Style
The importance of a way to communicate effectively within the field of psychology was a
valuable lesson learned in this course. Research can only be complete when it has been shared
with the scientific community so that it can be reproduced or disputed to further its validity
(American Psychological Association, 2019). The APA style of writing is a consistent format
that ensures readers can find information properly and quickly (American Psychological
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Association, 2019). Along with allowing authors to report their findings in a clear, concise
manner, APA format ensures that credit is given to appropriate references (American
Psychological Association, 2019).
Types of Research Methods
Non-experimental
Non-experimental research does not rely on the manipulation of variables; it is used to
determine relationships between variables (Crawford, 2018). Variables can be positively
correlated when they vary in the same direction or negatively correlated when they vary in
opposite directions (Crawford, 2018). Examples of non-experimental research are case studies,
naturalistic observation, ethnography, survey research, and archival research (Crawford, 2019).
Ethnography is a type of qualitative research that can be used to describe an entire culture in
detail (Crawford, 2018). Qualitative research adds a human perspective because it gives insight
through in-depth observation (Crawford, 2018).
Experimental
Experimental research is used when one or more variables act on the dependent variable
(Crawford, 2018). Researchers can manipulate the independent variable to see its effect. This
type of research can fall into the quantitative category because it often results in numbers and
data that can be analyzed objectively (Crawford, 2018).
Factorial Research Design
There are several different research designs that a researcher can use depending on the
type of study they are conducting. Factorial research involves multiple independent variables
each having varying levels (Crawford, 2018). This type of research is useful in studying
situations that are difficult to evaluate pragmatically (Teti et al., 2016).
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Between Subjects
A between subjects design is used when the participants are exposed to only one level of
the independent variable (Crawford, 2018). The advantages of this type of study are the
participants are less likely to tire from the experiment and so they are more likely to finish
(Crawford, 2018).
Within Subjects
A within subjects design has more than one independent variable but every participant in
the study is exposed to all levels of the variable (Crawford, 2018). Since all participants
experience all treatment conditions there is a smaller number of participants but they are more
likely to tire and drop out of the design (Crawford, 2018).
Single Case
A single case design focuses on an individual or small group and has a high internal
validity (Crawford, 2018). The AB design measures before and after the participants are exposed
to the independent variable (Crawford, 2018). In an ABA design, measurements are taken before
and after exposure to the independent variable and then again after the independent variable has
been removed (Crawford, 2018).
Christian Perspective of Research
Before this class I never considered research methods to be godly or ungodly. I never
even really thought about scripture in relation to science. I’ve learned that God wants us to be
inquisitive and search out the truth. Proverbs 14:15 states, “The simple believes everything, but
the prudent gives thought to his steps” (English Standard Version Bible, 2001). With this
knowledge we can make more sound decisions in everyday life and further glorify God.
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Research is the tool we use to draw nearer to God but maintaining a healthy level of skepticism
can help guide us to the correct path.
Process Used For This Paper
I wanted to include all the major points learned in this course so I went directly to the
main source of information which was Dr. Crawford’s Introduction to Research textbook. I
looked at the information that was broken into chapters and decided to include level two and
level three headings for most of the topics. I then looked at the bold faced definitions and the
chapter summaries to get the information I thought was relevant to the headings. When I needed
additional clarification or information I turned to the APA Publication Manual and the Jerry
Falwell Library. Looking through previous discussion board posts also highlighted information
that seemed pertinent.
Conclusion
This introductory course to research opened my eyes to the way research can be
presented. I’ve learned to pay attention to reports from the media and to watch for balanced
reporting by using critiquing thinking. I’ve learned the importance of reporting findings in the
APA style in order to maintain order and clarity. The different types of research design have
their own advantages and limitations but understanding them will allow me to continue in my
vocation without stumbling over research babble. Above all, I’ve learned the importance that
God places on truth and knowledge and it is our job as Christian researchers to give clear thought
to our steps.
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References
American Psychological Association. (2019). Publication Manual of the American
Psychological Association: 7th Edition, 2020 Copyright (Seventh ed.). American
Psychological Association.
Crawford, R. A., III. (2018). Introduction to Research: Less Fright, More Insight: A Customized
Version of Research Methods: Are You Equipped? Second Edition by Jennifer Bonds-
Raacke and John Raacke. Designed specifically for Ray (3rd ed.). Kendall Hunt
Publishing.
Editors of Merriam-Webster. (2020). Webster’s Dictionary for Students, Sixth Edition, Newest
Edition (6th, Newest Edition ed.). Federal Street Press.
English Standard Version Bible. (2001). ESV Online. ESV Online - Literal Word
Teti, A., Gross, C., Knoll, N., & Blüher, S. (2016). Feasibility of the Factorial Survey Method in
Aging Research: Consistency Effects Among Older Respondents. Research on Aging,
38(7), 715–741. https://doi.org/ 10.1177/0164027515600767
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