Introduction

In this unit we look in detail at what makes Psychology a science and the methods psychologists use to scientifically study thinking and behaviour.

This unit should take you about 12 hours to complete.

Objectives

By the end of this unit, you should be able to: Define the scientific method Define and describe the characteristics of a scientific theory, explaining how theories are tested by research Compare and contrast descriptive, correlational, and experimental research designs Outline the principles of ethical psychological research and explain how the rights of participants (human and animal) are protected Apply what you have learned to critically evaluate real-world psychological research