PYC3704
EXAM PACK
Solutions, Explanations, workings, and references
+27 81 278 3372
, ∑(𝑥−𝑥̅ )2 104.4 104.4
𝑠= √ =√ =√ = √11.6 = 3.406 (rounded off).
𝑛−1 10−1 9
Note how it takes many words to explain this process, and that it can be difficult to express it in a very
exact way in words. The formula is a very concise and exact expression of the process, which is why we
need to use it.
2. Feedback for Assignment 01 of the first semester of 2023
Each question is given, followed by the appropriate answer and an explanation of the correct response.
Work your way systematically through these, comparing them with your answer. Even if you chose the
correct alternative, you may find that the explanations we give are useful. Try to understand the
explanations. Many of the questions require insight, not just factual knowledge. You will not pass this
course if you try and memorise the questions and answers!
Question 1
The goal of quantitative research in psychology is best described as aiming to - - - - -.
1. develop appropriate statistical tests which can be used to determine the relationships among
psychological variables that occur at a level greater than chance
2. develop theories that helps us to explain human experience and behaviour
3. formulate clear hypotheses based on insights about human experience and behaviour
4. convert theoretical constructs into measurable variables through operationalisation
➔ Answer: Option 2 gives the correct answer.
The goal of research is to develop theories which can explain aspects of human behaviour and experience.
Options 3 and 4 refer to stages in the process of doing quantitative research but these are not the goals
of the research. The goal of the research is also not to develop statistical tests, as implied in option 1.
These tests are developed by statisticians and are used by researchers in social and other scientific
research, but developing the tests is not part of the goal of the research.
Question 2
The aim of psychological research is to - - - - -
(a) establish relationships among constructs for the purpose of developing a theory.
(b) draw definite conclusions about a population of interest based on sample statistics.
(c) test an existing theory.
(d) predict how constructs are likely to interact in general using relevant theoretical underpinnings.
1. (a)(b) and (c)
2. (a)(c) and (d)
3. (b)(c) and (d)
4. All of the above
➔Answer: The correct choice would be Option 2.
We can only draw inferences about a population from sample statistics and not definite conclusions.
4
EXAM PACK
Solutions, Explanations, workings, and references
+27 81 278 3372
, ∑(𝑥−𝑥̅ )2 104.4 104.4
𝑠= √ =√ =√ = √11.6 = 3.406 (rounded off).
𝑛−1 10−1 9
Note how it takes many words to explain this process, and that it can be difficult to express it in a very
exact way in words. The formula is a very concise and exact expression of the process, which is why we
need to use it.
2. Feedback for Assignment 01 of the first semester of 2023
Each question is given, followed by the appropriate answer and an explanation of the correct response.
Work your way systematically through these, comparing them with your answer. Even if you chose the
correct alternative, you may find that the explanations we give are useful. Try to understand the
explanations. Many of the questions require insight, not just factual knowledge. You will not pass this
course if you try and memorise the questions and answers!
Question 1
The goal of quantitative research in psychology is best described as aiming to - - - - -.
1. develop appropriate statistical tests which can be used to determine the relationships among
psychological variables that occur at a level greater than chance
2. develop theories that helps us to explain human experience and behaviour
3. formulate clear hypotheses based on insights about human experience and behaviour
4. convert theoretical constructs into measurable variables through operationalisation
➔ Answer: Option 2 gives the correct answer.
The goal of research is to develop theories which can explain aspects of human behaviour and experience.
Options 3 and 4 refer to stages in the process of doing quantitative research but these are not the goals
of the research. The goal of the research is also not to develop statistical tests, as implied in option 1.
These tests are developed by statisticians and are used by researchers in social and other scientific
research, but developing the tests is not part of the goal of the research.
Question 2
The aim of psychological research is to - - - - -
(a) establish relationships among constructs for the purpose of developing a theory.
(b) draw definite conclusions about a population of interest based on sample statistics.
(c) test an existing theory.
(d) predict how constructs are likely to interact in general using relevant theoretical underpinnings.
1. (a)(b) and (c)
2. (a)(c) and (d)
3. (b)(c) and (d)
4. All of the above
➔Answer: The correct choice would be Option 2.
We can only draw inferences about a population from sample statistics and not definite conclusions.
4
