PSY-260 Introduction to Psychological Research and Ethics
Study/Reading Guide Exam 1 – Part 1
Chapters 1-2
1. Describe the difference between consumers and producers of research.
Producers- study, document, administer, observe, or analyze data then write up results
and present them.
Consumer- reading about research so they can later apply it to their work, hobbies,
relationships, or personal growth.
2. Define the Theory-Data Cycle.
Theory, research questions, research design, hypothesis, data. If the data is non-
supporting, revise the theories or improve research design. If the data is supporting, it
strengthens the theory.
3. Identify examples that illustrate ways that scientists tackle applied and basic problems.
(Chapter 1, figure 1.8)
Applied research is done with a practical problem in mind. Might be looking for better
ways to identify those who are likely to do well at a particular job.
Basic research is intended to enhance the general body of knowledge. Basic researchers
might want to understand the structure of the visual system, the capacity of human
memory, the motivations of a depressed person, or the limitations of the infant attachment
system. Basic researchers do not gather facts at random.
4. Describe the significance of a peer review.
Before a study is published in a scientific publication, it must be reviewed by peers, other
scientists who have the expertise to carefully evaluate the research and recommend
whether the research should be published. This review process ensures that research with
major flaws will not become part of the scientific lecture.
5. Define availability heuristic, the availability heuristic, cherry-picking of evidence,
confirmatory hypothesis testing, and overconfidence.
© 2020. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
Study/Reading Guide Exam 1 – Part 1
Chapters 1-2
1. Describe the difference between consumers and producers of research.
Producers- study, document, administer, observe, or analyze data then write up results
and present them.
Consumer- reading about research so they can later apply it to their work, hobbies,
relationships, or personal growth.
2. Define the Theory-Data Cycle.
Theory, research questions, research design, hypothesis, data. If the data is non-
supporting, revise the theories or improve research design. If the data is supporting, it
strengthens the theory.
3. Identify examples that illustrate ways that scientists tackle applied and basic problems.
(Chapter 1, figure 1.8)
Applied research is done with a practical problem in mind. Might be looking for better
ways to identify those who are likely to do well at a particular job.
Basic research is intended to enhance the general body of knowledge. Basic researchers
might want to understand the structure of the visual system, the capacity of human
memory, the motivations of a depressed person, or the limitations of the infant attachment
system. Basic researchers do not gather facts at random.
4. Describe the significance of a peer review.
Before a study is published in a scientific publication, it must be reviewed by peers, other
scientists who have the expertise to carefully evaluate the research and recommend
whether the research should be published. This review process ensures that research with
major flaws will not become part of the scientific lecture.
5. Define availability heuristic, the availability heuristic, cherry-picking of evidence,
confirmatory hypothesis testing, and overconfidence.
© 2020. Grand Canyon University. All Rights Reserved.
