Research Methods in Psychology

Block-1 Introduction to Research in Psychology [4]

Unit-1 Introduction to Psychological Research: Objectives and Goals,

Problems, Hypothesis and Variables
Unit-2 Introduction to Psychological Experiments and Tests
Unit-3 Steps in Research
Unit-4 Types of Research and Methods of Research

Block-2 Research Designs [4]

Unit-1 Definition and Description Research Design, Quality of Research

Design

Unit-2 Experimental Design (Control Group Design and Two Factor Design)
Unit-3 Survey Design
Block-1 Introduction to Research in Psychology

Block-3 Tools of Data Collection [4]

Unit-1 Observation Method

Unit-2 Interview and Interviewing
Unit-3 Questionnaire Method
Unit-4 Case Study

Block-4 Report Writing [6]

Unit-1 Report Writing

Unit-2 Review of Literature
Unit-3 Methodology
Unit-4 Result, Analysis and Discussion of the Data
Unit-5 Summary and Conclusion
Unit-6 References in Research Report
UNIT 1 INTRODUCTION TO
PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH
OBJECTIVES AND GOALS,
PROBLEMS, HYPOTHESIS AND
VARIABLES
Structure
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Nature of Psychological Research
1.3 The Context of Discovery
1.3.1 Role of Theories, Hypothesis and Paradigm in Psychological Researches
1.3.2 Research Biases
1.4 Context of Justification
1.4.1 Scientific Attitudes and Values
1.4.2 Objectivity Safeguards
1.5 Characteristics of Psychological Research
1.6 Goals and Objectives of Psychological Research
1.6.1 Description
1.6.2 Explanation
1.6.3 Prediction
1.6.4 Control
1.6.5 Application
1.7 Problem
1.7.1 Nature and Meaning
1.7.2 Characteristics of a Scientific Problem
1.7.3 Ways in Which a Problem is Manifested
1.7.4 Identifying a Research Problem
1.7.5 Considerations in Selecting a Research Problem
1.7.6 The Importance of Formulating a Research Problem
1.8 Hypothesis
1.8.1 Definition of Hypothesis
1.8.2 Characteristics of a Hypothesis
1.8.3 Functions of a Hypothesis
1.9 Variables
1.9.1 Meaning of Variable
1.9.2 Classification of Variables
1.9.2.1 From the Viewpoint of Causation
1.9.2.2 From the Viewpoint of Study Design
1.9.2.3 From the View Point of Unit of Measurement
1.10 Let Us Sum Up
1.11 Unit End Questions
1.12 Glossary
5
1.13 Suggested Readings
Introduction to Research in
Psychology 1.0 INTRODUCTION
Let us start our journey into the realm of human mind. A scientific quest for understanding
will be the foremost in our journey. We want to know why we think, feel and behave as
we do. What makes each of us different from all other people? Why do we often
behave as alike in some situations ?
Psychologists try to answer these questions, develop the principles to explain them,
and use those principles to solve various problems. The range of application of
psychology is very wide. A cognitive psychologist may like to know the causes of
forgetting.Anorganisationalpsychologistmaytrytofindoutnatureofresistanceamong
the employees to introduction of new performance appraisal system. A health
psychologist may like to examine the relationship between smoking behaviour and
coronary heart disease.
While evaluating major areas of psychological researches, a psychologist uses the
principles and practices of scientific methods. This unit attempts to acquaint you with
nature and relevance of psychological research. This is followed by the process of
psychological research within the context of discovery and context of justification as
well as distinctive goal of psychological researches.
Finally, the unit deals with indispensable stages of psychological research, i.e. statement
of problem, formulation of hypothesis and identifying variables. All the three stages are
considered as foundation pillars of psychological research in terms of research design.
Precisely, without traveling through these stages the journey for achieving goal via
psychological research can not be concluded.

1.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
Describe the research process in terms of how to conduct sound research and
how to evaluate critically the research of others;
Understand why people behave as they do;
Discuss how to maintain objectivity and minimize the research bias in psychology
research;
Tell others the role of theory, hypothesis and paradigm in psychological research;
Discuss the primary objectives and goals of psychological research;
Identify some of the problems one encounters in trying to do reliable and valid
research;
Discuss how to identify and formulate a problem and know the ways in which
problem is manifested;
Enlist the characteristics of good hypothesis and functions of hypothesis; and
Identifying the variable, types of variable and understand the cause and effect
relationship through the manipulation of variables.
Psychology aims at gaining knowledge about behaviour and mental functions.
Psychologists are dedicated to theory building and applications for problem solving.
The results of empirical studies help verify the prepositions of a theory and may lead to
6
its modifications. The fruits of psychological research are used in problem solving, in Introduction to
Psychological Research:
personal, professional and societal contexts. Objectives and Goals,
Problems, Hypothesis and
Variables
1.2 NATURE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH
Importanceandrelevanceofpsychologicalresearchiswellrecognisedalmostinevery
sphere of human life. Notable progress has been reported in the field of organisational
behaviour, applied aspects of human being, medical sciences and education, through
application of psychological research findings.
Empirical and theoretical researches in psychology are taking place in various fields,
such as learning, motivation, perception, concept learning and memory and so on. In
the quest of psychological facts, laws and theories, psychologists have found research
studies very helpful in gauging human and animal behaviour.
Psychological research attempts to understand why people and animals behave as they
do. Psychologists usually define behaviour as overt activities, such as eating, recalling
stories, and so on. What about covert psychological processes, such as thinking and
feeling? Although thoughts and feelings are not directly observable, they influence such
aspects of behaviour as reaction time and blood pressure, which are often used to
measure these covert processes.
Practical gains of psychological research are many, yet include discoveries such as
improved methods of treating psychologically disordered people, better designs of
vehicles to make them easier and safe to use, and new ways of enhancing the performance
and happiness of workers.
Before we examine what researchers have found in the major areas of psychology, we
need to identify the ways psychologists gather data about behaviour and mental
processes. You may be a daily consumer of mass media reports on research findings.
Some of these are valuable, some are worthless, and others are confusing and misleading.
You will become a wiser consumer of research-based conclusions as you develop your
understanding of how psychological research is conducted and why the scientific view
of knowledge dictates such methods. Let us turn now how psychologists know what
they know.
Recall that psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and mental functioning of
individuals. It is scientific because it uses the principles and practices of the scientific
method.
Empirical investigation in any field requires the use of the scientific method to observe,
measure, and experiment. Even if you never do any scientific research in your life,
mastering information on psychological research will be useful. You can improve your
critical thinking skills by learning how to ask the right questions about behaviour and
how to evaluate the answers you find.
Psychological research process can be divided into two major categories that usually
occur in sequence, that is (i) getting an idea [context of discovery] and then (ii) testing
it [context of justification].

1.3 THE CONTEXT OF DISCOVERY

This is the initial phase of research during which observations, belief, information, and
general knowledge etc., lead someone to come up with a new idea or a different way of
thinking about phenomena.
7
Introduction to Research in 1.3.1 Role of Theories, Hypotheses and Paradigms in
Psychology
Psychological Research
Psychological research focuses on four sets of concerns:
i) the stimulus events that cause a particular response to start, stop, or change in
quality of quantity;
ii) the structure of behaviour that links certain actions in predictable, orderly ways to
other actions;
iii) the relationships between internal psychological processes or psychological
mechanisms and observable behaviour patterns; and
iv) the consequences that behaviour has on the individuals social and physical
environment.
Researchers begin with the assumption of determinism, the idea that all events
(physical, mental and behavioural) result from specific causal factors. Researchers also
assume that behaviour and mental processes follow set patterns of relationships that
can be discovered and revealed through research.
Psychological theories, in general, attempt to understand how brain, mind, behaviour,
and environment function and how they may be related. Any particular theory focuses
on a more specific aspect of this broad conception, using a body of interrelated principles
to explain or predict some psychological phenomenon.
The value of a theory is often measured in terms of the new ideas, or hypotheses, that
can be derived from it and tested. A hypothesis is a tentative and testable explanation of
the relationship between two or more events or variables.
A variable is any factor that changes, or varies, in size or quality. To illustrate this mood
may be a variable, since peoples moods may vary from one situation to another. Test
performance is another variable, since a persons score may vary from one test to the
next.
A hypothesis is a testable explanation of the relationship between variables, it is a
tentative proposition based on observations, or it could be a hunch about how ideas go
together. An instructor, for example, may have a hypothesis about how varying teaching
techniques will cause changes in students test scores. Thus, instructor may have formed
this hypothesis by observing students; idea about better teaching techniques is also
generated from research in educational psychology.
Finally, our understanding of a complex process is also aided by using the correct
paradigm. A paradigm is a model of the functions and interrelationships of a process,
a way of thinking about the world and how to study it. Entire field of knowledge,
including psychology, can change directions when new paradigm challenges existing
ones. When paradigms shift, revolutions of knowledge usually follow (Kuhn, 1970).
Before a new theory, hypothesis, or paradigm makes a difference in science, it has to
undergo an ordeal of proof. Most often this happens when researchers publish (i.e.
make public) their findings, and other scholars investigate whether they find the same
patterns in their own data. This process of publication and communication moves scientific
research into the public eye, where ideas are tested and proven.

1.3.2 Research Biases

8
One of the challenges, while doing research is to remain objective and free from biases.
Most of your ideas and beliefs are probably linked with certain bias because they are
influenced by your opinions or values. A variety of biases have been found to distort Introduction to
Psychological Research:
peoples impressions of collected data. Objectives and Goals,
Problems, Hypothesis and
External influences such as ones culture or the media can influence people to accept a Variables
particular world view.
Personal bias distorts estimating or evaluating processes as a result of personal beliefs,
attributes, or past experiences.
Observer bias operates when ones biases act as filters through which some events
are noticed or seen as meaningful while others are not. It must be kept in mind that
researchers themselves were raised in certain cultures and societies. They also might
have been exposed to certain gender role expectations. These background factors can
all affect the way that researchers observe and interpret events in their lives.
Expectancy bias can affect observations of behaviour by triggering reactions to the
events being observed. Researchers sometimes expect to find specific outcomes, and
being only human, they may see what they expect to see rather than remain objective.
Unfortunately, if one is not alert to the possibility of expectancy bias, it may seem as
though the observed events are being discovered instead of created by the observers
expectations.
Finally, placebo biases operate when people strongly want to believe a treatment is
successful. Believing in the treatment may make an ineffective treatment appear effective.
For example, many people may claim to feel better after taking a placebo such as a
sugar pill. In those cases where the outcome involves a subjective judgment about
results, that is, how well a person feels well or whether the pain has been reduced or
relieved, the desire for a drug or therapeutic method to work may be enough to achieve
the desired result.

1.4 CONTEXT OF JUSTIFICATION

Thecontextofjustificationisthesecondphaseofresearchinwhichresultsareprepared
for useful communication with other scientists. Psychologists face a difficult challenge
when they try to get accurate data and reliable evidence that will generate valid
conclusions. They rely on one ally to succeed: the scientific method. Scientific method
is a general set of procedures for gathering and interpreting evidence in ways that limit
errors and yield dependable conclusions. The scientific method also demands special
attitudes and values on the part of research scientists.

1.4.1 Scientific Attitudes and Values

Scientists are motivated by a curiosity about the unknown and the uncertain. Since the
truth may be disguised, the scientific method demands a critical and skeptical attitude
toward any conclusion until it has been duplicated repeatedly by independent
investigations.
By remaining somewhat opened-minded, scientists keep the truth provisional subject
to revision after new discoveries, but agree to evaluate the phenomena they may
personally doubt or suspect. For example, instead of rejecting any possibly that psychic
process like ESP (extrasensory perception) really exist; scientists collect evidence on
which to base judgments.
Secrecy is banned from the research procedure because all data and methods must
eventually be open for public verifiability. Other researchers must have the opportunity
to review the data and conclusions and then attempt to replicate the results. Thus science 9
Introduction to Research in is not a set of rules but rather a process of asking, observing, explaining, testing, and
Psychology
retesting explanations of reality.
Scientific knowledge is based on respect for empirical evidence obtained through
controlled observations and careful measurement. In the realm of science, when good
data clash with the opinions of experts, the data win. Science is a way of knowing, and
not a hierarchy of experts. You do not need a special degree to act like a scientist, but
you do need to make a commitment to objectivity.

1.4.2 Objectivity Safeguards

This consists of (i) procedural safeguards , (ii) standardisation, (iii) operationalisation,
(iv) avoiding of bias. Let us take each of these and discuss.
Procedural safeguards
Since subjectivity must be minimized in the data collection and analysis phases of scientific
research, procedural safeguards are used to increase objectivity. These safeguards
begin with keeping complete records of observations and data analyses in a form that
other researchers can understand and evaluate. As a result, most scientific reports are
written in a similar form and published by organisations of scientists. These reports
communicate ideas to the entire scientific community and open those ideas to criticism.
Standardisation
A second safeguard is standardisation. Standardisation means using uniform, consistent
procedures in all phases of data collection. All subjects should receive the same
instructions and be treated in the same way. By applying a standard treatment for all
participants in the course of study, researchers ensure they will have the same basic
experience.
Operationalisation
A third safeguard involves Standardising the meaning of concepts, known as
operationalisation. An operational definition of a concept defines that concept in terms
of how it is measured or what operations produce it.
For example, an operational definition of the letter grade A in one psychology class
might be 90% or higher of all test points possible. This definition tells you that this
instructor calculates each students total performance percentage to determine whether
or not that persons work deserves an A.
Operational definitions are especially important because many psychological processes
are popular issues and everyday concerns. For example, if new drugs promise to reduce
anxiety, you need to know whether the drug manufacturers definition of anxiety is the
same as yours.
For you, anxiety may mean occasional nervousness before being evaluated or judged.
But for the pharmaceutical company, anxiety could mean a set of symptoms
experienced by patients in psychiatric hospitals. A drug developed to reduce that kind
of anxiety may be inappropriate for your concept of anxiety.
Avoidance of bias
Researchers must also safeguard objectivity by avoiding bias. As explained earlier, bias
from external influences, personal beliefs, observers perspectives, and human

10
expectations can all distort data. To control, if not totally eliminate such biases, researchers Introduction to
Psychological Research:
use various controls. If not totally eliminate such biases, researchers use various control Objectives and Goals,
procedures to test hypotheses in ways that are fair and error-free. Problems, Hypothesis and
Variables
One control strategy is to keep subjects uniformly ignorant of the purpose of the study.
This makes them less likely to perform to researchers expectations. An even better
strategy is to keep subjects uninformed, or blind, about the purpose of the study; this
makes them less likely to perform to researchers expectations.
An even better strategy is to employ uniformed testers to observe uniformed subjects,
called the double-blind control. Similarly, when placebo effects might occur, researchers
employ a placebo control and compare those who received actual treatment with those
who received only attention or a dummy drug.
For example, to test whether a new drug will help people sleep; some subjects will be
given the drug in tablet form while others are given identical tablets (placebo) that do
not contain the drug. If the drug is effective, those given the placebo will not sleep better
or faster, if it not effective, subjects sleeping experience will all be similar.
Finally, researchers must be careful to consider all possible influences on the behaviour
being studied. As discussed earlier, the independent variable is the factor assumed to
influence the behaviour or mental process of interest, the dependent variable. If another
factor called a confounding variable could be confused with the independent variable,
it should be eliminated or controlled by keeping it the same (constant).
For example, a teacher gives some students essay tests and others multiple choice tests
on the same material. Which students do you think will do better? Unfortunately, the
essay students were all in early morning classes, while the multiple choice students were
in late afternoon classes.
Because the time difference is confounded with the test difference, test performance
cannot be clearly explained. The teacher should have kept the conditions as similar as
possible, with the test type as the only difference, so that other explanations could be
ruled out.
Self Assessment Questions
True /False
1) Explaining the reasons for occurrence of a phenomenon indicates control
(True/False).
2) Statement about the likelihood that certain behaviour will occur is called prediction
(True / False)
3) Independent variable is deliberately manipulated in the experimental group
(True/False).
4) An investigator comes up with a new idea or a different way of thinking is known
as context of discovery (True/False).
5) Use of uniform consistent procedure in all faces of data collection is known as
Standardisation. (True/False).

11
Introduction to Research in
Psychology 1.5 CHARACTERISTICS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL
RESEARCH
Inpsychologicalresearchesexperimentalmethodsarewidelyused.Therefore,nature
of majority of psychological researches is highly scientific. Psychological researches
have successfully led to control and manipulation of the variables associated with widely
used generic and comparative methods. Psychologists have developed such effective
experimental designs that that they have helped to isolate effect of other variables from
independent variables.
In psychological researches, rigorous scientific norms and statistical methods are applied
in collection, organisation, description and analysis of the data. By turning psychological
facts into quantitative form, the nature of most of the psychological researches remains
method oriented [scientific].

1.6 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF

PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH
Every science has goals. In physics, the goals are concerned with learning how the
physical world works. In astronomy, the goals are to chart the universe and understand
both how it came to be and what it is becoming.
The goals of psychologist conducting basic research are to describe, explain, and predict
and control behaviour.
The applied psychologist has a fifth goal also, that is application of psychological
techniques and principles to improve the quality of human life. Most applied psychologist
are able to conduct their own basic research, scientifically studying particular problem
in order to solve them. The process of accomplishing one goal and moving on to the
next is ideally a natural , flowing , experience, energized, by the psychologists interest
in the question being studied.

16.1 Description: What is Happening?

The first step in understanding anything is to give it a name. Description involves observing
a behaviour and noting everything about it, as for example, what is happening, where it
happens, to whom it happens, and under what circumstances it happens.
For example, a teacher might notice that a young girl in second grade classroom is not
behaving properly. Shes not turning in her homework, her grades are slipping badly,
and she seems to have a very negative attitude toward school. The teacher here describes
the students behaviour, and this description of what she is doing gives a starting place
for the next goal : why is she doing it?

1.6.2 Explanation: Why is it Happening?

To find out why the girl is not behaving properly, the teacher would most likely ask the
school counselor to administer some tests. Her parents might be asked to take her to a
pediatrician to make sure that there is no physical illness, such as an allergy. They might
also take here to a psychologist to be assessed. In other words, the teacher and
others are looking for an explanation for the young girls behaviour.
Finding explanation for behaviour is a very important step in the process of forming
theories of behaviour. A theory is a general explanation of a set of observations or facts.
12
The goal of description provides the observations, and the goal of explanation helps to Introduction to
Psychological Research:
build the theory. Objectives and Goals,
Problems, Hypothesis and
If all the tests seem to indicate that the young girl has a learning problem, such as Variables
dyslexia (an inability to read at expected levels for a particular age and degree of
intelligence), the next step would be trying to predict what is likely to happen if the
situation stays the same.

1.6.3 Prediction: When Will it Happen Again?

Determining what will happen in the future is a prediction. In the example, the psychologist
or counselor would predict (based on previous research into similar situations), that this
little girl will probably continue to do poorly in her schoolwork and may never to be
able to reach her full learning potential.
Clearly, something needs to be done to change this prediction, and that is the point of
the last of the four goals of psychology: changing or modifying behaviour.

1.6.4 Control : How can it be Changed ?

Control, or the modification of some behaviour, has been somewhat controversial in
the past. Some people hear the word control and think it is brainwashing, but that is not
the focus of this goal. The goal is to change a behaviour from an undesirable one (such
as failing in school) to a desirable one (such as academic success). Such efforts also
include attempts at improving the quality of life.
In the example of the young girl, there are certain learning strategies that can be used to
help a child (or an adult) who has dyslexia . She can be helped to improve her reading
skills.(Aylward etal,2003;Shaywitz,1996). The psychologist and educators would work
together to find a training strategy that works best for this particular girl.

1.6.5 Application
Improving the quality of life
Psychological research are often conducted to solve various problems faced by the
society at different levels such as individual, organisation, or community. Psychological
applications to solve problems in diverse settings, such as in a classroom in a school, or
in an industry, or in a hospital, or even in a military establishment, demand professional
help. Applications in the health sector are remarkable. Because of these efforts quality
of life becomes a major concern for psychologists.
Not all psychological investigations will try to meet all five of these goals. In some
cases, the main focus might be on description and prediction, as it would be for a
personality theorist who wants to know what people are like (description) and what
they might do in certain situation (prediction).
Some psychologists are interested in both description and explanation, as is the case
with experimental psychologists who design research to find explanations for observed
(described) behaviour. Therapists, of course, would be more interested in control,
although the other four goals would be important in getting to that goal.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Scientific knowledge is not based on empirical evidences. (True/False).
2) Psychologists should not maintain objectivity by avoiding biases. (True/False).
13
Introduction to Research in
Psychology 3) Psychological researches should be replicable (True/False).
4) When there is no gap in results of several investigations in the same field, problem
exists. (True/False).
5) A tentative testable proposition of the relationship between two or more variable
is called hypothesis. (True/False).

1.7 PROBLEM
1.7.1 Nature and Meaning
A scientific inquiry starts when a researcher has already collected some information/
knowledge and that knowledge indicates that there is something we do not know. It
may be that we simply do not have enough information to answer a question, or it may
be that the knowledge that we have is in such state of distorted form that it cannot be
adequately related to the question. Here a problem arises.
The formulation of a problem is especially important, as it guides us in our inquiry.
According to Townsend (1953) a problem is a question proposed for solution.
According to Kerlinger (1964) A problem is interrogative sentence of statement that
asks: What relation exists between two or more variables.
According to McGuigan (1964) A solvable problem is one that posses a question that
can be answered with the use of mans normal capacities.

1.7.2 Characteristics of a Scientific Problem

After analysing above written definitions of a problem statement, it can be said there
are certain characteristics of a problem statement:
i) A problem statement is written clearly and unambiguously, usually in question form.
A few examples of problem statement are given below:
What is the relationship between IQ and class-room achievement?
What is the relationship between anxiety and adjustment among school going
children?
Do students learn more from a lecture method than from discussion method?
ii) A problem expresses the relationship between two or more than two variables.
This kind of problem permits the investigator to manipulate two or more than two
variables to examine the effects upon the other variables. For example: Do teacher
reinforcement cause improvement in student performance? In this example, one
variable is teacher reinforcement and the other variable is student performance. It
illustrates the problem found in a scientific study because the problem statement
explores the effect of teachers reinforcements on student performance. The
conditions for a problem statement are:
The problem should be testable by empirical methods
A problem statement should be solvable.
The data of a scientific problem should be quantitative.
The variable relating to the problem should be clear and definite.
14
1.7.3 Ways in which a Problem is Manifested Introduction to
Psychological Research:
A problem is said to exist when we know enough that there is something we do not Objectives and Goals,
Problems, Hypothesis and
know really. There are atleast three ways in which a problem is said to be manifested: Variables

Gap in knowledge: A problem is manifested when there is a noticeable gap or absence

of information. Suppose a community or group intents to provide psychotherapeutic
services, two questions arise, viz., (i) What kind of psychotherapy they should offer
and (ii) Which one of the different forms of therapeutic methods is most effective for a
given type of mental disease.
In this example, there exists a noticeable gap in the knowledge, and hence the collection
of necessary data and their explanation are needed for filling the gap in knowledge.
Contradictory results: When several investigations done in the same field are not
consistent and therefore, at times, contradictory, a problem is to find out a new answer
and settle the controversy.
Explaining a Fact: Another way in which we become aware of a problem is when we
are in possession of a fact, and we ask ourselves, Why is this so ? When the facts
in any field are found in terms of unexplained information, a problem is said to exist.

1.7.4 Identifying A Research Problem

The identification of a research problem may be accomplished in a variety of ways (i)
observations of every day life,
thinking or brainstorming sessions
theoretical predictions and explanations,
technological developments which make new research possible
problems suggested in the research literature; or any combination of these methods.

1.7.5 Considerations in Selecting a Research Problem

When selecting a research problem/topic there are a number of considerations to keep
in mind these considerations are interest, magnitude, measurement and clarity
about the concept, level of expertise, relevance, availability of data and ethical
issues. If you select a problem without considering these issues it could become
extremely difficult to sustain the required motivation and interest, and hence its completion
as well as the amount of time taken could be affected.

1.7.6 The Importance of Formulating a Research Problem

The formulation of a research problem is the first and most important step of the research
process. It is like the identification of a destination before undertaking a journey. As in
the absence of a destination, it is impossible to identify the shortest route, so also in the
absence of a clear research problem, a clear and economical plan is impossible.
A research problem is like the foundation of a building. The type and design of the
building is dependent upon the foundation. If the foundation is well designed and strong
you can expect the building to be also strong and well designed. In the case of research,
the research problem serves as the foundation of a research study. If it is well formulated,
you can expect a good study to follow.
According to Kerlinger(1986), if one wants to solve a problem, one must generally
15
Introduction to Research in know what the problem is. It can be said that a large part of the problem lies in knowing
Psychology
what one is trying to do.
You must have a clear idea with regard to what it is that you want to find out about and
not what you think you must find.
A research problem may take a number of forms, from the very simple to the very
complex. The way you formulate a problem determines almost every step that follows,
that is (i) the type of study design that can be used, (ii) the type of sampling strategy
that can be employed, (iii) the research instrument that can be used or developed (iv)
and the type of analysis that can be undertaken.
The formulation to a problem is like the input into a study, and the output the
quality of the contents of the research report and the validity of the associations or
causation established is entirely dependent upon it. Hence the famous saying about
computers garbage in, garbage out is equally applicable to a research problem.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Operational definition of a concept is not necessary in scientific research.
(True/False)
2) The first goal of psychological research is to provide explanation.(True/False)
3) The variable in which change is desired is called independent variable.
(True/False).
4) The variable manipulated by the experimenter is called dependent variable
(True/False).
5) The variable that intervenes between the Dependent and Independent variable
is Intervening variable. (True/False).

1.8 HYPOTHESIS
In conducting research, the second important consideration after the formulation of a
research problem is the construction of hypothesis. As you know any scientific inquiry
starts with the statement of a solvable problem, when the problem has been stated, a
tentative solution in the form of testable proposition is offered by the researcher. The
testable proposition and potential answer are termed a hypothesis
Therefore a hypothesis is nothing but a suggested, testable and proposed answer to a
problem.
By stating a specific hypothesis, the researcher narrows the focus of the data collection
effort and is able to design a data collection procedure which is aimed at testing the
plausibility of the hypothesis as a possible statement of the relationship between the
terms of the research problem.

1.8.1 Definition of Hypothesis

Several experts have defined hypothesis more or less in the same way. According to
Kerlinger (1973), a hypothesis is a conjectural statement of the relation between two
or more variables.
According to Mcquigan (1970) hypothesis is a testable statement having the potential
relationship between two or more variables. In other words, the hypothesis in one way
16 is advanced as a potential solution to problem.
On the basis of these definitions two criteria for good hypothesis and hypothesis statement Introduction to
Psychological Research:
can be suggested: Objectives and Goals,
Problems, Hypothesis and
i) Hypotheses are statements about the relation between variables. Variables

ii) Hypotheses carry clear implication for testing the stated relations.
These criteria mean that hypothesis contains two or more variables which are measurable
or potentially measurable and hypothesis exhibits either a general or specific relationship
between the variables.

1.8.2 Characteristics of a Hypothesis

There are a number of considerations one should keep in mind when constructing a
hypothesis, as they are important for valid verification.
Hypothesis should be simple, specific and conceptually clear. There is no place of
ambiguity in the construction of a hypothesis it should be unidimensional i.e. it should
test only one relationship at a time. For example; the average scores in maths subjects
of the male students in the class is higher than the female students.
Suicides rates very inversely with the social cohesion (Black & Champion 1976).
A Hypothes thus should be capable of verification: methods and techniques must be
available for data collection.
A hypothesis should be operationlisable. This means that it can be expressed in terms
that can be measured. If it cannot be measured and tested and, hence, no conclusions
can be drawn.
A Hypothesis should be related to the existing body of knowledge.
A hypothesis has equal chances of confirmation and rejection.
A hypothesis should be parsimonious. (economical)
A hypothesis should be method oriented.
In the construction of hypotheses the student must observe the above mentioned rules.
Forming acceptable hypotheses is not difficult if the problem giving rise to the hypotheses
has been carefully stated and defined.
The form of a hypothesis can be a declarative statement containing a suggested answers
to the problem, and which obeys the formal conditions of hypothesis.
Following are two examples of problems and their respective hypothesis.
Problem 1: Does practice with the preferred hand improve the proficiency of the
nonpreferred hand in the mirror drawing experiment ?
Hypothesis: Practice with the preferred hand significantly improves the proficiency of
the nonpreferred hand in the mirror drawing experiment.
Problem 2: Are male rats more active than the same strain of female rats during a 6-
day period spent in an activity cage ?
Hypothesis: Male rats are not significantly more active than the same strain of female
rats during a 6-day period spent in an activity cage.

17
Introduction to Research in 1.8.3 Functions of Hypothesis
Psychology
A hypothesis serves the following functions:
i) The formulation of a hypothesis provides a study with focus.
ii) It tells you what specific aspects of a research problem to investigate
iii) It tells what data to collect and what not to collect
iv) The construction of a hypothesis enhances objectivity in a study.
The process of testing a hypothesis goes through 3 phases as given below (Kumar,
2002 : Research methodology))
Phase I: Formulate your hunch or assumption
Phase II: Collect the required data
Phase III: Analyse data to draw conclusion about the hunch true or false.
A hypothesis may enable you to add to the formulation of theory. It enables you to
specifically conclude what is true or what is false.
Self Assessment Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
1) A psychologist is interested in what a particular person might do in a stressful
situation. This psychologist is most interested in the goal of :
a)descriptionb)explanation
c)predictiond)control
2) The first step in studying animal behaviour is to observe animals and record
everything they do, when they do it, and what is going on around them when
they do it. This meets the goal of :
a)descriptionb)explanation
c)predictiond)control
3) Experimental psychologists, who design experiments to determine the causes of
behaviour, would be most interested in the goal of
a)descriptionb)explanation
c)predictiond)control
4) Psychologists who give potential employees tests that determine what kind of
job those employees might best fit are interested in the goal of
a)descriptionb)explanation
c)predictiond)control
5) A researcher designs an experiment to test the effects of playing video games on
memory. What would be the dependent variable?
a) scores on a memory test

18 b) playing video games

 Introduction to
c) number of hours spent playing video games Psychological Research:
Objectives and Goals,
d) the type of video game played Problems, Hypothesis and
Variables
6) In that same experiment, the experimental group would not play the video games
but take the memory test, while the control group would not take the memory
test while the control group would play the video games. (What would be the
dependent variable?)
a) scores on a memory test
b) playing video games
c) number of hours spent playing video games
d) the type of video game played
7) In a _________ study, neither the experimenter knows nor the participant knows
who is in the control group and who is in the experimental group.
a)placebob)singleblind
c)doubleblindd)tripleblind
8) Double blind studies are to control
a) the placebo effect
b)theexperimentereffect
c).extrinsicmotivation
d) the experimenter effect
9) In a psychologists classic experiment of the effects of reward on creativity,
what was the dependent variable?
a)thespecialinstructionstoeachgroup
b)thecollageparty
c)theratingsofcreativityfromtheexpertsforeachchildscollage
d)thesizeofthecollages.
10) In an experiment, the variable which is varied is called the ____ variable, while
the behaviour which is studied, is called the ____ variable
a) Independent, dependent
b)Dependent,independent
c)Control,observed
d)Stimulus,response

1.9 VARIABLES
After the statement of problem under investigation and the formulation of hypothesis,
the researcher is now prepared to design an experiment for the specific purpose of
testing whether his/her hypothesis is accepted or rejected.
19
Introduction to Research in During the planning of research design empirical study of different factors of related
Psychology
phenomena is required. Therefore, the nature of antecedent and consequent factors
related to phenomena or events is very important to understand conceptual clarity and
quantitative accuracy. These factors are known as variables in scientific research.

1.9.1 Meaning of Variable

A variable, as the name implies, is something which varies. This is the simplest and the
broadest way of defining a variable.
Webster says that a variable is a thing that is changeable or a quantity that may have
a number of different values.
True, a variable is something that has at least two values, however, it is also important
that the values of the variable be observable. Thus, if what is being studied is a variable,
it has more than one value and each value can be observed. For example, the outcome
of throwing a die is a variable. That variable has six possible values (each side of the die
has from one to six dots on it), each of which can be observed.
In psychology, the variables of interest are often behaviours or the causes of behaviours.
Many psychologists have adopted a theoretical viewpoint or model called the S-O-R
model to explain all behaviour.
The symbols S, O, and R represent different categories of variables.
S is the symbol of stimuli, and the category may be referred to in general as stimulus
variables. A stimulus variable is some form of energy in the environment. Such as light,
to which the organism is sensitive.
O is the symbol for organismic variables the changeable physiological and psychological
characteristics of the organisms being observed. Examples of such variables are anxiety
level, age and heart rate.
Finally, R is the symbol for response and, in general, response variables, which refer to
some behaviour or action of the organism. Saying yes, running and pressing a lever
are examples of responses variables.
However, a behavioural scientist attempts to define a variable more precisely and
specifically. Kerlinger (1964) has defined variable as a property that takes on different
values.
According to Damato (1970) variables may be defined as those attributes of objects,
events, things and beings, which can be measured. In other words variables are the
characteristics or condition that can be manipulated controlled or observed by the
experimenter. Sex, IQ, level of aspiration, anxiety, coping strategies, socio-economic
status, and achievement etc. are examples of variables commonly employed in
psychological research.
Some of the variables used in behaviour researches are true dichotomies i.e. male
female, alive dead, employed unemployed. Some variable are polytomies for example
religion preference Hindu, Muslim, Jain, Christians and Sikhs etc. However, most
variable are theoretically capable of taking on continuous variable.

1.9.2 Classification of Variables

A variable can be classified in a number of ways. The classifications have been done
from looking at variables in three different ways:
20
i) The causal relationship Introduction to
Psychological Research:
ii) The design of the study Objectives and Goals,
Problems, Hypothesis and
Variables
iii) The unit of measurement
Table showing Classification of variables is given below

Variables Independent Type S

Variables
Type E
Dependent Variables
Extraneous variables
Causal relationship
Causal relationship Intervening variables
Designed study Active variable
Designed study Attribute variables
Unit of measurement Qualitative variables
Unit of measurement Quantitative variable Continuous variables
Discrete variables

1.9.2.1 From the Viewpoint of Causation

i) Change variables, which are responsible for bringing about change in a phenomenon;
ii) Outcome variables, which are the effects of a change variables.
iii) Variable which affect the link between cause-and-effect variables;
iv) Connection or linking variables, which in certain situations are necessary to complete
the relationship between cause and effect variables. (Shown in the table below)

Connecting or linking
variables (4)

Cause Effect

Change variables (1) Outcome variables (2)

Variables that affect the
relationship (3)

In psychological research change variables are called independent variables. Outcomes/

effect variables are called dependent variables, the unmeasured variables affecting the
cause-and-effect relationship are called extraneous variables and the variables that link
a cause and effect relationship are called intervening variables. Hence:
Independent variables : An independent variable is that factor manipulated by the
experimenterinhisattempttoascertainitsrelationshiptoanobservedphenomenon.
Dependent upon the mode of manipulation some experts have tried to divide the
independent variable into type - E independent variable in Type - S independent variable
(DAmato, 1970).
Type E independent variable is one of which is directly or experimentally manipulated
by the experimenter and type S independent variable is one which is manipulated through 21
Introduction to Research in the process of selection only. For example the experimenter wants to study the effect of
Psychology
noise upon the task performance in an industry. Here the Independent variable (IV) is
the noise and the dependent variable ( DV) is the task performance. He may manipulate
the noise by dividing into the three categories continuous noise, intermittent noise and
no noise and examine its effect upon the task performance. Here the noise is being
directly manipulated by the experimenter and hence, it constitutes the example of Type-
E independent variable.
Suppose, the experimenter is interested in answering the question : Is the rate of
production dependent upon the age of the workers? Age is here the independent variable.
For investigating this problem, the experimenter will have to select groups of workers
on the basis of their age in a way by which he can get an appropriate representation
from different age groups ranging from say, 16 to 55 years. Subsequently, he will compare
the rate of production obtained by each age group and finally, conclude whether or not
age is a factor in enhancement of the performance.
Dependent variable: A dependent variable is that variable which appears, disappears,
or, removed or varies when the experimenter manipulates and changes the independent
variable.
A few examples of hypothesis with their independent variables indicated are given below:
Hypothesis 1 : As the number of trials increases errors decrease.
Independent variable : No. of the trials
Dependent variable : Errors committed by the subject.
Hypothesis 2 : Individuals were feeble minded have lower intelligence than do
individuals whose parents were not feeble minded.
Independent variable : presence or absence of feeble mindedness in the parents.
Dependent variable : the amount of intelligence possessed by the individuals whose
parents were feeble minded as compared to the intelligence of those whose parents
were not feeble minded.
Extraneous variables: Several other factors operating in a real life situation may
affect changes in the dependent variable. These factors, not measured in the study, may
increase or decrease the magnitude or strength of the relationship between independent
and dependent variables.
Intervening variables: Intervening variables sometimes called the confounding variable
(Grinnell 1988; 203), links the independent and dependent variables. In certain situations
the relationship between an independent and a dependent variable cannot be established
without the intervention of another variable. The cause variable will have the assumed
effect only in the presence of an intervening variable.
To explain these variables let us take some examples. Suppose you want to study the
relationship between smoking and coronary heart disease. You assume that affecting
this relationship, such as a number of cigarettes or the amount of tobacco smoked
every day; the duration of smoking; the age of the smoker; dietary habits; and the
amount of exercise undertaken by the individuals. All of these factors may affect the
extent to which smoking might cause coronary heart disease. These variables may
either increase or decrease the magnitude of the relationship.
22
In this example the extent of smoking is the independent variable, coronary heart disease Introduction to
Psychological Research:
is the dependent variable and all the variables that might affect this relationship, either Objectives and Goals,
positively or negatively, are extraneous variables. Problems, Hypothesis and
Variables
These relationships are explained below in the table.
Table: Independent, dependent and extraneous variables in causal
relationship

Smoking Coronary Heart Disease

(Assumed cause) (Assumed effect)
Independent Dependent varfiable

Affect the relationship

The age of the person
Extent of his or her
smoking

Duration of smoking

The extent of daily

exercise etc.
Extraneous variables

1.9.2.2 From the Viewpoint of the Study Design

Active variables
A variable which is manipulated by the experimenter is the active variable. Examples of
active variables are reward, punishment, methods of teaching etc.
Attribute variable
A variable which is not manipulated but measured by the experimenter is the attribute
variable or organismic variable. Some of the examples of attribute variables are age,
sex, intelligence, race, anxiety, etc.
1.9.2.3 From the Viewpoint of the Unit of Measurement
Qualitative and Quantitative variables
The quantitative variables refer to those variables which consist of categories that cannot
be ordered in magnitude. We cannot make such a statement regarding the qualitative
variables, e.g., category X possesses higher (or lower) magnitude of the variable than
category Y.
Sex, race and religion are examples of qualitative variables. The quantitative variables
refer to those variables which are composed of categories that can be ordered in
magnitude.
Intelligence age, levels of illumination, intensity of sound etc., are the examples of
quantitative variables.
Continuous Variables and Discrete Variables
Quantitative variables are further divided into two categories, namely, continuous
variables and discrete variables. A continuous variable is one which is capable of being
23
Introduction to Research in measured in any arbitrary degree of fineness or exactness. Age, height, intelligence,
Psychology
reaction time, etc., are some of the examples of a continuous variable.
The age of the person can be measured in years, month and days. Thus, all such variables
which can be measured in the smallest degree of fineness, are examples of the continuous
variable.
Discrete variables (also known as categorical variables) are those variables which are
not capable of being measured in any arbitrary degree of fineness or exactness because
the variables contain a clear gap. For example, the number of members in a family
constitutes the example of a discrete variable.

1.10 LET US SUM UP

Psychological researches use the scientific method to test the ideas developed within
the context of discovery and the context of justification. In the discovery phase of
research, observation, belief and information lead to a new way of thinking about a
phenomenon.
External and internal biases can distort the discovery phase because our conclusions
are often subject to personal biases, observer biases, expectancy biases, and placebo
biases.
Psychologist use scientific theories, testable hypothesis, and creative paradigms to
unravel the mysteries of mind and behaviour.
In the justification phase, ideas are tested and either disconfirmed or proven.
Psychologist must maintain objectivity by keeping complete records, Standardise
procedures, make operational definitions, minimize biases and control errors. A reliable
result is one that can be repeated in similar conditions by independent investigators.
The goals and objectives of psychological research are: (1) to describe objectivity the
behaviour of individuals. (2) To develop an understanding of the causes and
consequences of the behaviour using explanations based on both the best available
evidence and creative imagination. (3) To predict whether, when, how, and in what
condition, a given behaviour form will occur; and (4) possibly to control a behaviour by
making it start, stop, or vary in some predictable way (5) To improve the quality of
individual lives and human society.
The formulation of research problem is the most important step in the research process.
It is the foundation, in terms of design on which you build the whole study. Any defects
in it will adversely affect the validity and reliability of the study.
Hypotheses, as testable propositions are important for bringing clarity, specificity and
focus to a research study. Similarly knowledge of the different types of variable and the
way they are measured plays a crucial role in research. They affect how the data can be
analysed , what stabilised tests can be applied to the data , what interpretation can be
made. How the data can be presented and what conclusions can be drawn. A variable
can be clarified from three perspectives that are not mutually exclusive; causal relationship,
design of study and unit of measurement.

1.11 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) What are the goals of psychological inquiry?
24 2) What are the main types of variables? Give examples of each type of variable.
3) What are the placebo and the experimenter effects? Introduction to
Psychological Research:
4) How do single blind and double blind studies control the experimental effects? Objectives and Goals,
Problems, Hypothesis and
Variables
5) How can you minimize research biases in psychological research?
6) What is role of theory in scientific research?
7) Differentiate between independent and dependent variable with suitable example.
8) What is difference between research problem and research hypothesis?
9) What is the role of discovery of justification in psychological research?
10) What is hypothesis? Write down functions of hypothesis.

1.12 GLOSSARY
Empirical Investigation : Research that relies on sensory experience and
observation as research data.
Context of Discovery : Initial phase of research during which an
investigator comes up with a new idea or a
different way of thinking about phenomena.
Theory : A body of interrelated principles used to explain
or predict some psychological phenomenon.
Hypothesis : A tentative and testable explanation of the
relationship between two or more events or
variables.
Paradigm : A model of the functions and interrelationships
of a process; a way of thinking about the world
and how to study it.
Context of Justification : Second phase of research, in which results are
tested and prepared for useful communication
with the scientific community.
Standardisation : The use of uniform consistent procedures in all
phases of data collection.
Operational Definition : Definition of a concept in terms of how the
concept is measured or what operations produce
it.
Blind : Uninformed about the purpose of a research
study.
Double-blind Control : A control strategy that employs both uninformed
experimenters and uninformed subjects.
Placebo Control : A control strategy where researchers compare
those who received actual treatment with those
who received only attention or a dummy drug.
Confounding Variables : Factors that could be confused with the
independent variable in a research study and thus
distort the results. 25
Introduction to Research in Problem : An interrogative statement that asks: What
Psychology
relation exists between two or more variables?
Variable : something that can occur with different values
and can be measured.
Independent Variable : a variable that represents the hypothesized
cause that is precisely controlled by the
experimenter and independent of what the
participant does.
Dependent Variable : a variable that represents the hypothesized effect
whose values ultimately depend on the values
of independent variable.
SAQ ANSWERS:
1) F, 2)T, 3)F, 4)T, 5)T, 6)T, 7)F, 8)F, 9)T, 10) F, 11)T, 12)F, 13)F, 14)T, 15)F
MCQ ANSWERS:
1)c,2)a,3)b,4)c,5)a,6)d,7)c,8)c,9)c,10)a.

1.13 SUGGESTED READINGS

D; Amato, M.R. (1970) : Experimental Psychology. Tokoya : McGraud Hill.
McGuigan, F.J. (1990) : Experimental Psychology : A Methodological Approach.
New York : Printice Hall.
References
Aylward, E.H., Richards, T.L., Berwinger, V)W., Nagy, W.E., Field, K.M., Grimme,
A.C., Richard, A.L., Thomson, J.B. & Cramer, S.C. (2003). Instructional treatment
associated with changes in brain activities in children with dyslexia. Neurology, 61,
212-219.
Grinnell, Richard Jr (ed.) 1988, Social Work Research and Evaluation (3rd ed.,) Itasca,
Illinois, F.E. Peacock Publishers.
Kerlinger, Fred, N. 1979, Founded of behavioural Research, New York, : H 107,
Rinehart and Winstem Inc.
Kuhn, T.S. (1970). The structure of scientific revolutions (2nd ed.) Chicago : University
of Chicago Press.
Shaywitz, S.E. (1996) : Dyslexia. Scientific American, 275 (5) 98-104.
Townsend, J.C. (1953) : Introduction to experimental method. Tokyo : McGraw Hill.
Kumar. R (2006) Research Methodology. New Delhi: Dorling Kingsley

26
UNIT 2 INTRODUCTION TO
PSYCHOLOGICAL EXPERIMENTS
AND TESTS
Structure
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Objectives
2.2 Experiment
2.2.1 Definition
2.2.2 Manipulation of Variables
2.2.3 Control in Experiment
2.2.4 Advantages and Disadvantages of Experiment

2.3 Independent and Dependent Variables

2.3.1 Ways of Manipulating Independent Variables

2.4 Extraneous Variables

2.5 Experimental and Control Groups
2.5.1 Random Assignment of Participants to Groups
2.5.2 Designing the Experiment

2.6 Introduction of Test

2.6.1 Characteristics of Good Psychological Test

2.7 Types of Psychological Test

2.7.1 On the Basis of Mode of Administration
2.7.2 On the Basis of Nature and Content of Items
2.7.3 On the Basis of Mode of Scoring
2.7.4 On the Basis of Rate of Performance or Time Limit in Producing a Response
2.7.5 On the Basis of Criterion of Behavioural Attributes Measured

2.8 Uses of Psychological Tests

2.9 Let Us Sum Up
2.10 Unit End Questions
2.11 Glossary
2.12 Suggested Readings

2.0 INTRODUCTION
We often debate why people act as they do. While we read the newspaper daily in the
morning, we tend to seek answer in the interesting or even amazing news item; for
example, what caused two colleges students to attack their own friend? Why do people
smoke? How do people behave after drinking? Psychologists can not answer these
questions directly but help us to understand what influence aggression, drug use and
thinking when drinking. In every day life, many factors influence our behaviour.
Psychologists conduct experiments in order to explain the causes of particular behaviour.

27
Introduction to Research in Similarly, while undertaking research, psychologists become interested in different types
Psychology
of variables and concepts. The adequate description, measurement and analysis pose a
difficult challenge before them. Most of the psychological variables, that is, intelligence,
personality, attitudes, values and interest are not directly accessible creating ambiguity
in scientific analysis and communication. In order to overcome these problems,
psychologists use a variety of tools/test for collecting necessary data and information.
The range of psychological tests is very wide consisting of verbal, behavioural and
physiological measures. Therefore, well designed experiment and Standardised
psychological tests both are important in describing, understanding and predicting
behaviour of individuals in psychological research.
This unit focuses mainly on psychological tools that is, experiment and test which are
used in psychological research. In the first part, you will find the basic concept of
experiment as determining cause and effect of different variables. Then the main features
of the experiment which is manipulation of the independent and dependent variable,
importance of randomization and use of control in experiment are explained. Later you
will be acquainted with advantage and disadvantage of the experimentation. Second
part of this unit begins with the nature and characteristics of psychological tests and you
will study the various types of psychological tests in terms of administration, scoring
method and interpretation. At the end some of the important properties of psychological
tests such as reliability, validity and norms will be described.

2.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading the unit, you will be able to:
Define experiment and explain why psychologists conduct experiment;
Describe how manipulation of the variables takes place in an experiment;
Discuss importance of random assignments of the subjects in experimental/
controlled conditions;
Tell others how a real experiment might be conducted;
Discuss the uses of control and certain technique of control which are used to
achieve control over the extraneous variables;
Enlist the advantages and disadvantages of experimentation;
Define the basic terms pertaining to psychological tests;
Describe the major types of psychological tests;
Tell others the uses of testing;
Distinguish between an individual test and group test;
Distinguish between ability test and personality test; and
Explain the relevance of psychological tests in contemporary society.

2.2 EXPERIMENT
The most powerful scientific method is the experiment. Experiment provides the strongest
tests of hypothesis about cause and effect. The investigator carefully controls conditions
often in a laboratory and take measurement in order to discover the causes of relationship.
28
2.2.1 Definition Introduction to
Psychological
According to Festinger & Katz (1953) the essence of experiment may be described Experiments and Tests
as the observing the effect on a dependent variable of the manipulation of independent
variable. According to Edwards (1971) when certain variable can be controlled or
manipulated directly in a research problem by the investigator, the research procedure
is often described as experiment. According to Chapin (1974) an experiment is an
observation under controlled condition.
You can understand the basic idea of experiment through the following example; Imagine
that some researcher wants to study the effect of alcohol consumption on thinking
ability before administering a thinking test, they would manipulate alcohol consumption
[by giving some people strong drink laced with alcohol and others the same drink
without alcohol] by randomly assigning people to the two condition holding other factors
constant. This would eliminate alternative explanation for why thinking might vary with
drinking. With the variation in the experimental factor [here, for example the alcohol]
the behaviour changes, then the factor is having an effect.
On the basis of these definitions and related examples above, two salient features of the
experiment emerge i.e. (i) Manipulation of the variables and (ii) Control in experiment.

2.2.2 Manipulation of the Variables

Manipulation refers to the deliberate or active change introduced by the experimenter
in an event to see its effect on behaviour. It involves arranging for the appearance of
different quantities or different values of a variable.

2.2.3 Control in Experiment

No experiment is better than its poorest control. This statement is the major issue
involved in any experimental attempt to arrive at factual knowledge. Boring (1954) has
identified some uses of the word control
a) Control is used to refer to the comparison of results for the purpose of verification.
b) Control is also used to refer to arranging conditions in such a way that some
behaviour will occur. (c) Control is used to refer to the practice of eliminating or
holding constant the effects of extraneous variables.
Since the purpose of psychological research is to discover the relationships between
independent and dependent variables, care must be taken that the changes that are
observed in the dependent variable are due to the independent variable and not to
extraneous variables.
In order to achieve control over the relevant variables, which are extraneous to the
conduct of an experiment, experimenters use certain techniques. Some of the important
techniques are listed below:
Since the goal of an experimenter is to minimize the extraneous variables, the best way
to handle this problem is to eliminate that variable from the experimental settings.
If elimination is not possible then effort needs to be made to hold them constant so that
their effect remains the same throughout the experimental setting.
In case of controlling organism and background variables, matching is also used. In this
procedure, the relevant variable are equated or held constant across all the conditions
of experiment.
29
Introduction to Research in To control practice and fatigue effects counter balancing methods is used. It is an
Psychology
interesting way to minimize the effect of order or sequence. Suppose there are two
tasks to be given in an experiment. The experimenter may interchange the order of the
tasks. Thus, half of the group may receive the tasks in the order of A and B while the
other half in the order of B and A.
Random assignment of participants to different groups eliminates the potential systematic
differences between groups.

2.2.4 Advantages and Disadvantages of Experiment

Advantage of experimentation:
1) Through the experiment, cause and effect relationship can be established.
2) An experiment is replicable.
3) An experiment provides a great degree of precision in manipulation of the
independent variables.
4) An experiment has sufficient degree of internal validity.
5) Findings, drawn as a result of experimentation, are said to be more objective,
accurate and reliable.
6) Thus experiment is the best method of hypothesis testing.
Disadvantage of Experimentation
1) During an experiment, behaviour is often studied in an artificial environment, that is
the laboratory where the situation and conditions are controlled so heavily that
behaviour is a distortion of what would occur naturally.
2) Research subjects typically know they are in an experiment and are being tested
and measured.
3) They may react to this awareness by trying to please the researcher.
4) They may guess the purpose of the research, and thus will change behaviour
accordingly.
5) If they know they are being monitored, they will behave in a different way than if
they were unaware of being monitored.
6) An experiment is a simplified version of reality, and at times it is too simplified to
tell us much about real life.
7) Some people challenge experimental research on ethical grounds.
Precisely, experiment is the crown jewel among psychologys method or answering
questions about behaviour. When it is used with skill and care, the experimental method
yields results that help us not only to answer complex questions about human behaviour,
but also to understand the causes of such behaviour. Thus, experimentation is
psychologys ultimate answer to the question.

2.3 INDEPENDENT AND DEPENDENT VARIABLES

The purpose of an experiment is to find out whether changes in one variable (let us call
it X) cause changes in another variable (let us call it Y). In other words, he or she tries
to find out how X affects Y. Here, X is referred to as independent variable and Y as the
30 dependent variable.
As you know the event manipulated or altered by the experimenter is termed as Introduction to
Psychological
independent variable (IV). It is the potential cause that one wishes to investigate. The Experiments and Tests
behaviour of interest in which changes is brought by the independent variable is termed
as dependent variable (DV). It is dependent because what happens to it is on account
of the manipulation done by the experimenter. In other words it depends on what has
been done to the participants, the treatment or manipulation. A dependent variable is
the factor assessed by the investigator following the manipulation. It represents the
potential effect of concern.
The independent variable may be an object of the environment, for example, intensity
of light/ sound, continuous or discontinuous noise, kind of the learning material
meaningful and nonsense etc. Each one is called a stimulus variable because each one is
quality of an external object or event.
The independent variable may also be a characteristic of the organism, for example,
her/his religion or caste, age, intelligence, sex, learning capacity, skills, and so on.
These are called organismic variables.

2.3.1 Ways of Manipulating the Independent Variable

There are two ways of manipulating the independent variable. One way is to make it
appear in one situation and disappear in another situation and observe how this affects
the dependent variable. Suppose you are trying to find the effect of noise on the solving
of complex arithmetical problems. You let your subject work on the problems in the
absence of noise and under noise and you note/record the time taken in both conditions.
If you find that your subject has taken longer time in second phase, you explain this as
due to distraction from the noise. The situation in which we introduce an independent
variable is called experimental condition. The situation from which it is not presented is
called controlled condition.
The other way to manipulate the independent variable is to change its value, increase or
decrease its amount. If the change in the value of the independent variable is followed
by a change in the value of the dependent variable you presume that two are related.
Suppose you want to determine relationship between number of items in a list of words
and speed of learning. The independent variable here is the number of items or the
amount of learning material. You can increase or decrease it, by having lists containing
different numbers of items. If you find that a shorter list is learned more quickly than a
longer list, you come to the conclusion that the speed of learning depends upon the
amount of learning material.
Self Assessment Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
1) In Order to achieve control over the relevant variables which are extraneous to
the conduct of an experiment, experimenters use certain techniques. The one
which does not belong to it is:
a)CounterBalancing,b)RandomAssignment
c)Matching,d)Evaluating
2) In a psychological experiment, the independent variable is applied to:
a)Thecontrolgrouponly,b)Theexperimentalgrouponly
c)Eitherthecontrolgrouportheexperimentalgroup
d)Boththecontrolgroupandtheexperimentalgroup 31
Introduction to Research in
Psychology 3) Variables that are held constant in the experimental method are:
a) The independent variable, b) The dependent variable
c)Bothindependentanddependentvariable
d)Relevantvariablesexcepttheindependentvariable
4) A study in which a variable is manipulated to determine its effect on another
variable under controlled conditions:
a)Experiment,b)CaseStudy
c)Survey,d)Observation
5) An event/condition which can be measured and which varies quantitatively
a)Design,b)Variable
c)Subject,d)Object
6) Which one of the following is not fulfill the conditions of the term Standardisation:
a)Uniformityofscoring
b)Reliabilityandvalidityofthetestmustbeestablished
c)Uniformityininstructions
d)Itemsaremodifiablenotfixed
7) Which on of the characteristics is not essential for a psychological test?
a)Objectivity,b)Reliability
c)Norms,d)Subjectivity
8) Nature of the individual tests mostly is:
a)Verbal,b)NonVerbal
c)Performance,d)NonVerbalandPerformance
9) In which type of psychological tests, there is interpersonal agreement among the
experts in relation to scoring of the items:
a)Objectivetest,b)Standardisedtest
c)Subjectivetest,d)Powertest
10) In which category Ravins progressive matrix test falls:
a)NonVerbal,b)Verbal
c)Nonlanguage,d)Performance

2.4 EXTRANEOUS VARIABLES

Variables other than the independent variable may cause or account for differences in
the dependent variable in both observational and experimental research. Such variables
are called extraneous variables.
An extraneous variable is a factor / or stimulus other than the independent variable that
could influence the dependent variable in such a way that it could explain the relationship
32
observed between independent and dependent variables.
If the research question concerns the relationship between watching violent television Introduction to
Psychological
and aggressiveness in preschool, any variable other than watching violent television (for Experiments and Tests
example, an aggressive personality, the action rather than the violence component of
the programs, etc.) might possibly account for differences in aggressiveness between
the groups. These variables in the bracket are the extraneous variables. Random
assignment, for example, is often used to minimize the effects of extraneous variables
associated with the participants.

2.5 EXPERIMENTAL AND CONTROL GROUPS

In its simplest form, an experiment might have two groups of subjects, an experimental
group and a control group. The experimental group receives the experimental
manipulation or treatment of interest while the control or comparison group is treated in
the same way as the experimental group but without the manipulation or treatment of
interest.

2.5.1 Random Assignment of Participants to Groups

It is crucial in a true experiment for the participants in the sample to be randomly assigned
to the different groups in the research design. Random means that before assignment
every participant has an equal chance to be exposed to the different conditions created
by the investigator. In other words participants must be assigned to the experimental
and control groups on random basis. The goal of random assignment is to exclude or
control all possible extraneous variables, so that the only difference obtained between
the two groups should be attributable to the factor manipulated by the investigator.
Random assignment reduces the likelihood that the results of experiment will be due to
any preexisting differences. Random assignment is an unbiased method of assigning the
participants to experimental and control conditions of an experimental.
Let us take an example. The problem to be studied is whether yogic exercises affect
general health in the patients of coronary heart disease. In this study yogic exercise is
the independent variable. The experimenter manipulated the amount of the yogic exercise
by having the heart patients engaged in those exercises five times a week under the
supervision of a trained instructor.
We need to have one group of heart patients engaged in yogic exercises and the other
not engaged in yogic exercises. We randomly assign heart patients to these two groups
and make observations of both the groups in the presence and absence of yogic exercises.
The differences in their general health are then measured. These steps are shown in the
table below.
Experimental Manipulation Measurement Comparison
Group of Independent of dependent of behaviours
variable variable of control
exercise general group and
health experimental
group
Obtained Random
subjects assignment

Control No exercise General

group health

33
Introduction to Research in 2.5.2 Designing the Experiment
Psychology
After defining variables, the experimenter decides about levels of independent variable,
specifies the dependent variables, collects the experimental materials, and prepares the
procedure to be used. Thus a blue print of how the experiment will be conducted is
finalized. The experimental conditions known as treatments are decided. The overall
blueprint of the experiment is called experimental design. It contains the specification of
the plan and structure of the experiment. For the sake of precision the variables and
their measures are defined and specific instructions for the experimental conditions are
clearly written. There are different kinds of designs in psychological studies which will
be discussed in later pages.
Self Assessment Questions
True / False Type Questions
1) Experiment is a method in which the investigator do not manipulate the
variables under control condition. T/F
2) Norms are standard to compare individual. T/F
3) Questionnaires are Standardised tests. T/F
4) The use of control group is to ensure causation. T/F
5) The chief limitation of an experiment is the artificial manipulation of
variables. T/F
6) Sequence related variables are not controlled by balancing. T/F
7) Systematic differences between groups can not be reduced by random
assessment. T/F
8) Matching is often used to control the effects of socio-economic status. T/F
9) Making variables constant during the experiment helps to control . T/F
10) A test is a Standardised and objective instrument. T/F

2.6 INTRODUCTION OF TEST

We have been subjected to various tests since our school days; hence we have
preliminary idea about what a test means to us. A test is a measurement device or
technique used to quantify behaviour or aid in the undertaking and prediction of
behaviour. According to dictionary, test is defined as a series of questions on the basis
of which some information is sought. In psychology, the meaning of test is something
more than this.
Today, psychological tests represent a major contribution by psychologists. They are
connected with assessment of almost all aspects of psychological functioning, namely;
personality, intelligence, value, aptitude, attitudes, interest and creativity etc. According
to Anastasi (1988) a psychological test is essentially an objective and Standardised
measure of a sample of behaviour. Freeman (1955) has defined a psychological test as
a Standardised instrument designed to measure objectively one or more aspect of a
total personality by means of samples of performance on behaviour. According to Singh
(2006), a psychological or educational test is a Standardised procedure to measure
quantitatively or qualitatively one or more than one aspect of a trait by means of sample
34 of verbal or non-verbal behaviour. According to McIntire and Miller (2007),
psychological tests are instruments that require the testee to perform some behaviour. Introduction to
Psychological
According to Gregory (2004), a test refers to a Standardised procedure for sampling Experiments and Tests
behaviour and describing it with categories of scores. In addition, most tests have norms
or standards by which the result can be used to predict other more important behaviour.
After analysing above definition, it appears that a test consists of series of items, on the
basis of which some information is sought about one or more aspect of an individual or
groups traits, abilities, motives, attitude, and so on. There are many types of behaviour.
Overt behaviour is an individuals observable actively. Some psychological tests attempts
to measure the extent to which someone might engage in or emit a particular overt
behaviour. Other tests measure how much a person has previously engaged in some
overt behaviour. Behaviour can be covert - that is, it takes place within an individual
and cannot be directly observed. For example, your feelings and thoughts are types of
covert behaviour. Some tests attempt to measure past or current behaviour. Psychological
and educational tests, thus, measure past or current behaviour.

2.6.1 Characteristics of Good Psychological Test

After analysing the above definitions we can discuss the chief characteristics of a good
psychological test:
Objectivity: a test must have the trait of objectivity i.e., it must be free from the subjective
element so that there is complete interpersonal agreement among experts regarding the
meaning of the items and scoring the test. By objectivity of items is meant that the items
should be phrased in such a manner that they are interpretated in exactly the same way
by all those who take the test. Objectivity of scoring means that the scoring method of
the test should be a standard one so that complete uniformity can be maintained when
the test is scored by different experts at different times.
Standardised Procedure: is an essential feature of any psychological test. A test is
considered to be Standardised if the procedure for administering it is uniform from one
examiner and setting to another. Standardisation depends to some extent upon
competence of the examiner. This is ensured by outlining clear cut instructions for the
administration of test in the test manual.
Sample of Behaviour: a test targets a well defined and finite behaviour or domain
known as the sample of behaviour due to constraints involved in comprehensive testing.
For example Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) uses 35 carefully selected words
to judge the vocabulary of testee.
Norms: refer to the average performance of a representative sample on a given test.
Norms are statistical standards based on the scores of a large sample so that an
individuals score may be compared with those of others in a defined group. A score on
a psychological test is not an absolute score. It is relative to a normative group. A given
score needs to be compared with the scores of the members of the normative group.
For instance, the mean score may be used to indicate the norm. Another persons score
may be interpreted in the context of groups average. There are four common types of
norms; age norms, grade norms, percentile norms, and standard score norms. Norms
help in interpretation of the scores. In the absence of norms no meaning can be added
to the score obtained on the test.
Practicability: a test must also be practicable from the point of view of neither the time
taken in its completion, length, scoring, etc. in other words the test should not be lengthy
and the scoring method must not be difficult nor one which can only be done by highly
specialised persons.
35
Introduction to Research in Reliability: A test must also be reliable. Synonyms for reliability is: dependability, stability,
Psychology
consistency, predictability, accuracy. Reliability means consistency of a test that makes
it trustworthy. Stated simply, if a test yields similar results on different occasions then it
is considered reliable. For instance if you administer a test of intelligence on a child and
find him a genius and repeat the test after two months and the child is still scoring in the
same category then the test will be considered as the reliable one.
Validity: A second key characteristic of a good test is validity the test must really
measure what it has been designed to measure. Validity is most often assessed by
exploring how the test scores correspond to some criterion that is some behaviour,
personal accomplishment, or characteristics that reflects the attribute. The rest is design
to gauge.

2.7 TYPES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST

Typology of tests is a purely arbitrary determination (Gregory 2004). However, using
different criteria, psychological tests can be classified in the following manner:

2.7.1 On the Basis of Mode of Administration

Tests have been classified on the basis of administrative conditions into two types:
Individual Test and Group Test
Individual Test : Individual test is that test that are administered to one person at a
time. Kohs Block Design test is an example of the individual test. They are often used
in clinical evaluations. The problems with individual test are that they are time consuming,
higher in cost, and is labour intensive.
Group Tests : These are primarily designed for mass testing that is, they can be
administered to more than one individual at time. They are economical and time saving.
For example, Army Alpha and Alpha Beta test.

2.7.2 On the Basis of the Nature and Contents of the Items

A test may be classified on the basis of the nature of the items or the contents used
therein. Important types of the test on this criterion are:
i) Verbal Test: is one whose items emphasize reading, writing, and oral expression
as the primary mode of communication. Herein, instructions are printed or written.
These are read by the examinees and accordingly items are answered. Jalota
group general intelligence test and Mehta group test of intelligence are some
common examples. Verbal test are also called paper pencil test because the
examinee has to write on a piece of paper while answering the test items.
ii) NonVerbal Test: These are tests which emphasise but do not altogether eliminate
the role of language by using symbolic materials like pictures, figures, and so on.
Such test uses the language in instructions but in items they do not use language.
Ravens progressive matrices are a good example of non verbal test.
iii) Performance Test: are those that require the examinees to perform a task rather
than answer some questions. Such test prohibits the use of language in items.
Occasionally oral language is used to give instruction or the instruction may also
be given through gesture and pantomime.
iv) Objective Test: There is another classification according to the nature of test
items, where test can be classified into objective type test in which the responses
36
are of multiple choice types and essay type tests in which the responses are of long
answer type.
2.7.3 On the Basis of Mode of Scoring Introduction to
Psychological
The test can be classified into self scored versus expert scored or hand scored versus Experiments and Tests
machine scored test. In self-scored test the testee himself/herself can score his responses
with the help of a scoring key while in the case of expert scored test, the test responses
are scored by an expert person (generally the test administrator). Hand scored tests
are test that are scored manually while machine scored tests are the tests that are
scored with the help of a machine (computer aided) for example the optical mark
recognition (OMR) sheet responses used for various educational and mass assessment.

2.7.4 On the Basis of Rate of Performance or Time Limit in

Producing a Response
The test can be classified into speed test and power test. Speed test are timed tests that
is they examine the subjects speed of responding within the stipulated period of time.
Test items in a speed test are of uniform difficulty but time limit is such that no examinee
can attempt all the items (Chadha 1996). A pure speed test is a test composed of items
so easy that the subject never gives a wrong answer and his score is equal to number of
questions attempted by him for example the clinical speed and accuracy test.
Power test, on the other hand, offers enough time for the subject to attempt all the
questions.
A power test is one which has a generous time limit so that most examinees are able to
attempt every item. Usually such tests have items which are generally arranged in
increasing order of difficulties. In many intelligence tests there are certain items that are
too difficult for anyone to solve; for example; Ravens progressive matrices (Raven and
court 1998).

2.7.5 On the Basis of Criterion of Behavioural Attitude

Measured
According to the behavioural attitudes assessed, tests can be classified into personality
test, ability (intelligence, aptitude, achievement and creativity) tests and tests of attitudes,
values and interest.
Personality Tests: These tests are designed to measure a persons individuality in terms
of unique traits and behaviour. Personality test measures the traits qualities or behaviours
that determine a persons individuality such test include checklists, inventories for example
(16 PF, MMPI, Maudsley personality inventories) and projective techniques like the
Rorschach Test, Thematic Apperception Test and so on.
Ability Tests: These are the qualities that enable an individual to do specific task at a
specified time and can be classified into intelligence, aptitude, achievement, and creativity.
Intelligence Test: This measures an individuals ability in relativity global areas such as
verbal comprehension, perceptual organisation or reasoning and thereby help determine
potential for scholastic work or certain occupations. For example, Wechsler adult
intelligence test (WAIS).
Aptitude Test: This test measures the capability for a relativity specific task or type of
skill Aptitude test is in effect a narrow form of ability testing. Example of aptitude test
are Seashore measures of musical talents (Seashore 1938), SAT (Scholastic Assessment
test previously called as scholastic aptitude test).
Creativity Test: This test assesses the novel original thinking and the capacity to find
37
unusual or unexpected solutions especially the vaguely defined problem. For example
Introduction to Research in Torrance test of creative thinking, thinking by E.Paul Torrance (1966) and creativity
Psychology
self report by Feldhusen (1965).
Achievement Test: This measures a persons degree of learning, success, or
accomplishment in a subject of task. For example test of achievement and profiency
(TAP 1996), lowa test of basic skill (1992).
Apart from these, tests can be also classified on the basis of behavioural dimensions
that are attitude test, values test, interest test and neuropsychological test and so on.
Attitude Tests: These tests refer to our evaluations about various aspects of the world
and tests of attitude measure a persons tendency to evaluate favorably or unfavorably
a class of events, objects or persons. Examples of attitude tests are criminal attitude
test (CATS), (Taylor 1968); Attitude towards Retarded (Efron and Efron1967).
Values Test: These tests refer to the normative frameworks related to individual / group
behaviour or expectations. Examples of value test are Allport, Vernon and Lindzey test
of values.
Interest Tests: These tests measure an individuals preference for certain activities or
topics and thereby help determine occupational choice. For example strong interest
inventories (1927) , vocational preference battery (Holland).
Neuropsychological Tests: These measure cognitive, sensory, perceptual and motor
performance to determine the extant, locus, and behavioural consequences of brain
damage.ForexamplelouriaNebraskaneuropsychologicalbatteries(1989),Bender
visual motor gestalt test (1938).
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the different types of psychological tests?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the criteria on the basis of which tests are classified?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

2.8 USES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTS

Tests are used for many purposes which are indicated below:
1) They are used for screening the normals from the abnormal.
2) They are used for testing the intelligence, aptitude and interest of the individuals
3) Psychological tests of creativity are used for delineating the creative potentials of
a person.
38
 Introduction to
4) Tests are also used for occupational and vocational counselling. Psychological
Experiments and Tests
5) Psychological tests give an idea about the mental status of an individual.
6) Tests are of great use in understanding the personalities of individuals which
includes, children, adolescents, adults and even older persons.
7) Diagnostic tests are used to ascertain if an individual suffers fromcertain mental
disorders and if so exactly what disorders.
8) Tests are used for recruitment, selection, training and placement in the industrial
setting.
9) Tests are of great value in psychological research.
10) It helps identify people with specially required qualities, such as leadership quality
etc.

2.9 LET US SUM UP

Experiments are tightly controlled manipulations that allow the researcher to determine
cause and affect relationship. This is done under the controlled condition the experimenter
controls the relevant variables with the help of the techniques like randomization, matching,
elimination, counterbalancing, and constancy of the condition the participant in an
experiment are randomly assign to two groups i.e. experimental group and controlled
group. Those receiving the treatment of independent variable constitute experimental
growth and the group receiving no such treatment is called the controlled group.
Psychologist uses a psychological test. In order to collect the relevant data and
information to answer the research questions and to solve problem. A test is a
Standardised procedure for sampling behaviour and describing it with categories or
scores. A good test must be reliable and have norms for interpreting the score of an
individual. Tests are classified on the basis of mode of administration, scoring, rate of
performance, nature of items and behavioural attitudes.

2.10 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) What is experiment? What are the main features of experiment?
2) What are the main types of variables? Give examples of each type of variables?
3) Explain the uses of control?
4) What are the main techniques of control?
5) What is the importance of randomization in experiment?
6) Define test and what are the key characteristics of psychological test?
7) Distinguish between Individual and Group test with examples?
8) Differentiate between ability test and personality test?
9) What are the key denominators of psychological test?
10) Enlist the uses of psychological test?

39
Introduction to Research in
Psychology 2.11 GLOSSARY
Experiment : A series of observations conducted under
controlled conditions to investigate the functional
relationship between selected variables.
Independent Variable : The event or situation that is manipulated by an
experimenter to see if it will have a predicted
effect on some other event or situation.
Dependent Variable : Variable in an experiment that represents the
measurable response or behaviour of the subjects
in the experiment.
Random Assignment : process of assigning subjects to the experimental
or control groups randomly. so that each subject
has an equal chance of being in either group.
Experimental Group : subjects in an experiment who are subjected to
the independent variables.
Control Group : subjects in an experiment who are not subjected
to the independent variable and who may receive
a placebo treatment.
Control : holding constant the effect of extraneous variable.
Manipulation : deliberate or active change introduced by the
experimenter is an event to see the effect on
behaviour. It involves arranging for the
appearance of different values of a variable
Test : An objective and Standardised measure of a
sample of behaviour.
Reliability : A statement about degree of consistency of a
measurement technique. Reliable technique yields
similar measures upon repeated measurements
under similar conditions.
Validity : it refers to the extent to which the test measures
what it purports to measures.
Standardisation : A method of establishing norms or standards and
uniform procedures for a test by administering it
to a large group of representative individuals.
Norms : are statistical standards based on the scores of a
large sample.
Answers: (1)D, (2)B, (3)D, (4)A, (5)B, (6)D, (7)D, (8)D, (9)A, (10)A
Answers: (1) F, (2) T, (3) F, (4) T, (5) T, (6) F, (7) F, (8) T, (9) T, (10)T

2.12 SUGGESTED READINGS

Anastasi, Anne. (1998). Psychological Testing. 6th Edition. New York: Macmillan
40 Publishing Company.
Freeman, F.S (1955) Theory and Practice of Psychological Testing. USA Sir Issac Introduction to
Psychological
Pitman & Sons Ltd (1962). Theory and Practice of Psychological testing. London: Experiments and Tests
IBH Publishing Co.
References
Bean, K.L (1953). Construction and Educational and Personal Tests. New York:
McGraw-Hill Company.
Chapin, F.S. (1974). Experimental Designs in Sociological Research. Harper.
Edwards, A.L. (1972). Experimental Designs in psychological Research New York
Rineheart and Winston Inc (Indian Edition)
Efron, R.E and Efron, H.U. (1967). Measurement of Attitude towards the retarded
and an application with educators, American Journal of Mental Deficiency.72, 100-07
Eysenck H.J (1972) Encyclopedia of psychology London: Search process.
Felduesen, J.F (1965) Teachers and children Perception of creativity in high and low
AnxiousChildrenJournalofeducationalresearch,58(11),442-46.
Festinger, L. and Katz, D. (1953). Research method in behavioural sciences. New
York: Holt Rineheart and Winston Inc.
Gregory, R (1994) Seeing Intelligence in J.Khalfa (ed) what is intelligence, England:
Cambridge University Press.
Kaplan, R.M. and Saccuzzo, D.P.(2000). Psychological Testing: principles Applications
and Issues, California: Thomson Wadsworth.
Lemke, E. and Wiersma, W. (1976). Principles of Psychological Measurement. Chicago:
Rand McNally College Publishing Company.
McIntire, S.A. and Miller, L.A.(2007). Foundations of Psychological Testing. A Practical
Approach. New Delhi: SAGE Publications.
Raven J.C. and Court, J.H. (1998). Ravens Progressive Matrices England: Oxford
University Press.

41
 UNIT 3 STEPS IN RESEARCH
Structure
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Objectives
3.2 Research Process
3.2.1 Identification of the Problem
3.2.2 View of Literature
3.2.3 Formulating a Hypothesis
3.2.4 Identifying, Manipulating and Controlling Variables
3.2.5 Formulating a Research Design
3.2.6 Constructing Devices for Observation and Measurement
3.2.7 Sample Selection and Data Collection
3.2.8 Data Analysis and Interpretation

3.3 Hypothesis Testing

3.4 Drawing Conclusion
3.5 Preparation of Report and Publication
3.6 Let Us Sum Up
3.7 Unit End Questions
3.8 Suggested Readings

3.0 INTRODUCTION
Research process is similar to undertaking a journey with specific mission. Before starting
the journey we decide where you want to go and which route to follow. If the route is
known to you dont need anybody guidance but if there are more than one route towards
destination than you have to decide which route is most suitable to reach the destination.
Now you look upon the research process in this context. Your first decision would be
what you want to find out about or in other words what research question to be
answered to. After deciding the research question or problem you should now decide
how to go about finding there answers. Therefore precisely the path to finding answers
to research questions constitutes research methodology. In research process you passed
through some practical steps in order to find out the answers of research questions.
This unit will familiarize you with important steps needed for conducting a research. You
will provide a quick glance at the whole process of research to acquaint you with the
various tasks you faced to undertake to carry out your research / study. It will give you
some idea of what the research journey involved. Finally this unit will cover the total
spectrum of research and endeavor starting from the problem through to writing a
research report and publication.

3.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
Identify the various steps needed for conducting a research;
Explain the whole process of research in simple manner;
42
 Discuss how theoretical knowledge can be further applied to undertake a research; Steps in Research
and
Analyse the importance of each steps involved in research process.

3.2 RESEARCH PROCESS

The goal of the research is to find the truth and to use a scientific method that results in
a reasonable and sound answers to important questions that will further our understanding
of human behaviour. Research process consists of series of actions and steps needed
for conducting scientific research. If the researcher follows certain steps in conducting
the research, the work can be carried smoothly with least difficulty. The proposed flow
chart given below illustrates the research process:
The research process consists of a number of closely related activities as shown through
step I to step X, but such activities overlap continuously rather than following strictly
prescribed sequence. The order of various steps shown provides a useful procedural
guidelines regarding research process. Details of each of the research stages is given
underneath.

3.2.1 Identification of the Problem

The first and most important step for identifying a problem is asking a question or
identifying a need that arises as a result of curiosity and to which it becomes necessary
to find an answer. The psychological studies are focused on one or many of the following
kinds of questions:
What are the events that cause or determine a given behaviour or response?
What is the nature of behaviour or action (i.e., its structure) and how it is linked
with other actions and behaviours?
What are the relationships of internal psychological processes with behavioural
phenomenon?
The research question determines the direction of the study. The researchers have to
struggle a lot in identifying and articulating the same. Essentially two steps are involved
in formulating the research problem, viz. understanding the problem thoroughly, and
rephrasing the same into meaningful terms from an analytical point of view. The main
function of formulating a research problem is to decide what you want to find out about.
It is extremely important to evaluate the research problem in the light of:
a) Financial resources at your disposal.
b) The time available with you and your research supervisor.
c) The supervisors expertise and knowledge in the field of study.
d) Your own expertise and knowledge.
e) Whether you have sufficient knowledge about computers and software if you plan
to use them.
It is equally important to identify any gaps in your knowledge of relevant disciplines,
such as statistics required for analysis.

43
Introduction to Research in 3.2.2 Review of Literature
Psychology
For identifying a good solvable problem, the investigator undertakes the review of
literature. A body of prior work related to a research problem is referred to as literature.
Scientific research includes a review of the relevant literature. When a researcher reviews
the previous researches in related fields, he becomes familiar with several known and
unknown phenomena. Therefore one obvious advantage of review of the literature is
that it helps to eliminate duplication of what has already been done and provides guidance
and suggestions for further research. The main purpose of review of the literature is
fourfold:
a) It gives an idea about the variables which have been found to be conceptually and
practically important and unimportant in the related field. Thus the review of literature
helps in discovering and selecting variables relevant for the given study.
b) The literature provides an estimate of the previous work and provides an opportunity
for the meaningful extension of the previous work.
c) A review of literature helps the researcher in systematically compiling the expanding
and growing body of knowledge.
d) Review also facilitates in drawing useful conclusions regarding the variables under
study and provides a meaningful way of their subsequent applications.
e) A review of the literature also helps in redefining the variables and determining the
meanings and relationships among them so that the researcher can build up a case
as well as a context for further investigation that has merit and applicability.
There are different sources of review of literature such as journals, books, abstracts,
indexes and periodicals. If you are unsure about what journals and other resources to
examine for research idea you should know that the computer search engine PsycINFO
is a very effective tool for going through the technical literature. The print companion to
PsycINFO is psychological abstracts and both of theses contain abstracts of articles
from almost all journals that publish psychological research. If you find an abstract of
interest, you can then read the entire article for additional information.
Self Assessment Questions
Indicate whether True / False
1) The first step of research process is identifying a problem. T/F
2) Hypothesis are formed after formulating a research design. T/F
3) Preparation of report and publications of research study allow the other
researchers to replicate the study. T/F
4) Operational definitions of the variables is not necessary for the
purpose of measurement. T/F
5) Selection of particular data collection depends on the nature of study. T/F

3.2.3 Formulating a Hypothesis

When the researcher has identified the problem and reviewed the relevant literature he
formulates a hypothesis. From a careful examination of relevant theory and previous
findings, the psychologist would be able to state one or more prepositions whose
validity could be tested. Ideally these hypotheses would be based on a deductive theory
but they may simply be new hypotheses or hypothesis based on previous research
44
findings.
Hypothesis may be defined as a tentative statement showing a relationship between Steps in Research
variables under study. It is stated in the form of a declarative sentence. For instance
suppose you are interested to know the effect of reward on learning. You have analysed
the past research and found the indication that the two variables are positively related.
You need to convert this idea in terms of a testable statement. At this point you may
develop the following hypothesis.
Those who are rewarded shall require lesser number of trials to learn the lesson than
those who are not rewarded.
Hypothesis plays the key role in formulating and guiding any study. The hypotheses are
generally derived from earlier research findings, existing theories, and personal
observations and experiences. For unbiased research, the researcher must formulate
in advance of the data gathering process. No hypothesis should be formulated after the
data are collected.

3.2.4 Identifying, Manipulating and Controlling Variables

While talking about the hypothesis you will encounter the word, variable in the scientific
literature in psychology. Variables are defined as those characteristics which are
manipulated, controlled and observed by the experimenter.
At least three types of variables must be recognised at the outset the dependent
variable, the independent variable and the extraneous variable. The dependent variable
is one about which the prediction is made on the basis of the experiment. In other
words the dependent variable is the characteristics or condition that changes as the
experimenter changes the independent variables. The independent variable is that
condition or characteristics which is manipulated or selected by the experimenter is
order to find out its relationship to some observed phenomena. An extraneous variable
is the uncontrolled variable that may affect the dependent variable.
The experimenter is not interested in the changes, produced due to the extraneous
variable and hence, he tries to control it as far as practicable. The extraneous variable
is known as the relevant variable. In order to make a variable clear, precise and easy to
communicate it is important that it is operationally defined. An operational definition
involves specifying the actual operations that defines a given variable. Operational
definition is also important for the purpose of measurement. Since psychological variables
are complex and their measurement poses special problems, psychologists use
operational definitions. They frequently use report (verbal) measures, behavioural
measures and psychological measures of variables in their studies, which help him or
her to specify the operations and may allow quantification.

3.2.5 Formulating a Research Design

A research design may be regarded as the blueprint of those procedures which are
adapted by the researcher for testing the relationship between the dependent variable
and the independent variable. There are several kinds of experimental designs and the
selection of any one is based upon the purpose of the research, types of variables to be
controlled and manipulated as well as upon the conditions under which the experiment
is to be conducted. The main purpose of experimental design is to help the researcher
in manipulating the independent variables freely and to provide maximum control of the
extraneous variables so that it may be said with all certainty that the experimental change
is due to only the manipulation of the experimental variable. The main function of a
research design is to explain how you will find answers to your research questions. The
research design sets out the logic of your inquiry. It includes the study design and the 45
Introduction to Research in logistical arrangements that you propose to undertake as well as the measurement
Psychology
procedures. It includes also the sampling strategy, the frame of analysis and the time
frame. For any investigation the selection of an appropriate research design is crucial to
enable the researcher to arrive at valid findings, comparisons and conclusions.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Delineate the process by which you will formulate your hypothesis in regard to a
research study. Provide appropriate examples.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is a research design? How is it formulated and what are its uses?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What is meant by manipulating the independent variable, controlling the extraneous
variable and avoiding the error variance?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

3.2.6 Constructing Devices for Observation and

Measurement
When the research design has been formulated the next step is to construct or collect
and choose appropriate tools of research for scientific observation and measurement.
Depending on the nature of research problem a researcher may choose particular method
(e.g. observation, experiment, case study, correlation, and survey). If readymade
tools are not available then the researcher may have to develop appropriate tools before
undertaking the study. All these tools of research are the many methods through which
data are collected by asking for information from person rather than observing them.

3.2.7 Sample Selection and Data Collection

After deciding the tools for the study the research one must also decide about the
participants of the study for which purpose usually a small sample is drawn which
represents the population. Then the actual study proceeds. Observations are made of
the variables of interest, which involves an experiment in which all variables are carefully
controlled. Field study or a field experiment or survey may be conducted. Whatever
method is selected, the point is that the investigator is observing the variables of interest.

46
3.2.8 Data Analysis and Interpretation Steps in Research

After making observation the data collected are analysed with the help of various
quantitative and qualitative statistical techniques. Careful scrutiny of the data is a
critical aspect of scientific method. The purpose of the analysis is to make sense of the
data and see what light they throw on the problem and the hypotheses of the study.

3.3 HYPOTHESIS TESTING

After analysing data, the researcher is in a position to test the hypothesis. Do the facts
support hypotheses, or they happen to be contrary. This is the usual question which
should be answered while testing hypotheses. Various parametric and non-parametric
tests have been developed for this purpose. The hypothesis may be tested through the
use of one or more of such tests, depending upon the nature and object of research
inquiry. Hypothesis testing will result in either accepting or in rejecting it.

3.4 DRAWING CONCLUSIONS

The investigator after analysing the result draws some conclusions. In fact the investigator
wants to make some statement about the research problem which he or she could not
make without conducting the research. It is during this phase that the hypotheses are
accepted or rejected. At the same time the conclusions of the study are related to the
theory or research findings from which the hypotheses originally came. Depending on
the new findings the original theory may have to be modified.

3.5 PREPARATION OF REPORT AND

PUBLICATION
This is the last step in most of the research studies. The researcher documents all the
steps of his or her research in clear terms. This report informs the reader about what
the researcher has done, wht has been discovered and what conclusion the researcher
has drawn from findings. If the researcher is clear about the whole process the person
will also be clear about the way he or she wants to write the report. This helps the
reader to understand the study and use it for various purposes. It allows one to replicate
the study. The publications of study in scientific journals or books make the work
available for wider dissemination.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What does sample selection involve?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is meant by data collection?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
47
Introduction to Research in
Psychology 3) What are the steps involved in data analysis and interpretation?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) Define Hypothesis testing.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

3.6 LET US SUM UP

This unit has provided an overview of the research process. The steps of research
process includes problem identification, formulation of hypothesis, identification
manipulation and controlling of the variable, formulation of research design, constructing
devices for observation, sample selection and data collection, data analysis and
interpretation, drawing conclusions and preparation of report and publications. The
nine steps cover total spectrum of the research endeavor. The steps are in operation
following a logical sequence and detailing the various methods and procedures in a
simple step by step procedure.

3.7 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Enlist the steps involved in research process?
2) Explain the importance of research questions in psychological research?
3) What is the role of review of literature in research process?
4) Why formulates of hypothesis is necessary while conducting it?
5) How the steps in the research process do helps a person to get knowledge?

3.8 SUGGESTED READINGS

Fred N.Kerlinger (1994) (6th edition). Foundations in Behavioural Research\h. Wiley
International, New Delhi)
Kumar, R (2006), Research Methodology. Dorling Kingsley, New Delhi)

48
UNIT 4 TYPES OF RESEARCH AND
METHODS OF RESEARCH
Structure
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Objectives
4.2 Types of Research
4.3 Non-Experimental Research
4.3.1 Historical Research
4.3.2 Descriptive Research
4.3.3 Correlational Research
4.3.4 Qualitative Research
4.3.5 Ex-post-facto Research

4.4 Experimental Research

4.4.1 True Experimental Research
4.4.2 Quasi Experimental Research

4.5 Methods of Research

4.5.1 Non-Experimental Methods
4.5.1.1 Naturalistic Observation
4.5.1.2 Archival Research
4.5.1.3 Content Analysis
4.5.2 Surveys
4.5.3 Field Studies
4.5.4 Case Studies

4.6 Experimental Methods

4.6.1 Laboratory Experiments
4.6.2 Field Experiment

4.7 Let Us Sum Up

4.8 Unit End Questions
4.9 Glossary
4.10 Suggested Readings

4.0 INTRODUCTION
Now you have a good idea about what research is, what are the bases for the conduction
and experiment in tests, and how research process works? Now, it is time to turn to
another related issue; how do psychologists actually perform the task of adding to our
knowledge of human behaviour? There are a number of ways to investigate into the
answer of research questions. The kind of methods researchers use depends on kind of
questions they want to answer. This unit begins with discussion of two types of researches
i.e. non-experimental researches and experimental researches. Non-experimental
researches will cover various kinds of researches along with examples, namely; historical
research, correlation research, qualitative research and expost facto researches. Further,
you will learn about experimental researches which are conducted to establish the cause
49
Introduction to Research in and effect relationship. This is followed by the details of main types of experimental
Psychology
researches i.e. true experimental researches and quasi experimental researches. Then,
you will learn how true experimental researches differ from quasi experimental researches.
We now need to enquire into various methods of psychological researches for obtaining
data that may be used to arrive at an evidence report. Various kind of non-experimental
methods which are used to answer the questions, such as naturalistic observation, survey
method, case study, content analysis, field studies are described. Finally, besides non-
experimental methods, this unit will explain you the experimental methods i.e. laboratory
experiment and field experiment.

4.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
Explain the types of researches;
Differentiate between experimental and non-experimental researches;
Explain true experimental researches and quasi experimental researches;
Describe advantages and disadvantages of each method which are used in
psychological research;
Differentiate laboratory experiments from field experiments;
Explain the differences between basic and applied researches; and
Identify experimental and non experimental researches and methods.

4.2 TYPES OF RESEARCH

The types of research differ mostly on three dimensions:
1) the nature of the question asked;
2) the method used to answer it; and
3) the degree of precision the method brings to answering the questions.
One way in which these methods do not necessarily differ, however is in the content or
the focus of the research. In other words, if you are interested in the effects of television
viewing in children, your research can be non-experimental, wherein you survey watching
habits. If experimental, you may expose children models to the TV and one group non
viewing of TV and look at the effect of the exposure on their behaviour.
The most general way of classifying research is to divide it into fundamental or pure or
basic research and applied research. A fundamental research is the formal and systematic
process where the researcher aims to develop a theory or a model by identifying all the
important variables in a situation and by discovering broad generalisations and principles
about those variables. It utilizes a careful sample so that its conclusion can be generalised
beyond the immediate situation. For example biological psychologists explore the links
between brain and mind; developmental psychology studies our changing abilities from
womb to tomb and the personality psychologists investigate our inner traits.
Applied research, as its name implies, applies the theory or model developed through
the fundamental research to the actual solution of the problems. Applied research tackles
50
practical problems, as for example, industrial/ organisational psychologists study and
advise on behaviour in the workplace. They use psychology concepts and methods to Types of Research and
Methods of Research
help organisations select and train employees. They boost morale of the employees and
also their productivity. They design products and answer peoples responses to them.
Besides the fundamental research and the applied research another type of research
has recently been popular in the fields of social psychology, industrial psychology, and
education. This is known as action research.
In action research the researcher emphasises a problem which is immediate, urgent and
has local applicability. Thus, the researcher here focuses upon the immediate
consequences and applications of a problem and not upon general or universal application
nor upon the development of a theory or a model. A teacher may undertake a research
to know the reasons underlying unhealthy class-room habits so that immediate outcome
may benefit the local class- room students. There are number of researches, given
hereunder:
Types of research
Types of research

Non-experimental Experimental

Historical, Descriptive, Correlational, True experimental, Quasi

Qualitative , Expost facto experimental

The above table is being explained below:

4.3 NON-EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH

A non experimental research is one where independent variables can not be manipulated.
The researcher does not have complete control over the conditions of the non
experimental research studies. For example, if you want to survey the television-watching
behaviour of adolescents, you could do so by having them maintain a diary in which
they record what shows they watch and with whom. This descriptive study provides
information about their television-watching habits but says nothing about why they watch
what they do. You are not in any way trying to have an impact on their television watching
behaviour or investigate why they might watch particular shows. This is non-experimental
in nature because no cause-and-effect relationships of any type are being hypothesized
or investigated. Nonexperimental or descriptive research describes the characterististics
of an existing phenomenon. Census of any contrary, current unemployment rate of
working single parents who have children under age 5 etc. are the examples of
descriptive research. A second characteristic of non-experimental is that the data
collection procedure often must forfeit some degree of control in return for obtaining
the data. For example the researcher may decide to study public records that may be
almost, but not exactly in the form we desire or researcher may have to keep a
questionnaire start to help gain the cooperation of subjects.

4.3.1 Historical Research

Historical research relates past events to one another or to current events. Basically,
historical research (or historiography) answers the question: what is the nature of events
that have happened in the past? For example, one might want to examine trends in
treatment of mental illness or how attitudes toward work and families have changed. All
of these questions require the detective work of a historian, finding and collecting relevant
data and then, just as with any other research endeavour, testing a hypothesis. In fact, 51
Introduction to Research in like any other researcher, the historian collects data, analyses them, and then comes to
Psychology
conclusions about the tenability of the hypothesis. One significant difference between
historical research and other types of research is the type of data collected and the
method of collection.
Researchers who do historical research often accomplish this goal through the use of
primary sources (original documents or information from people who have personally
experienced an event) and secondary sources (second hand documents or information
from people who may have some knowledge about the event but did not experience it
first hand). Even if these sources are readily available, however, one of the greatest
challenges doing such research is in knowing how much faith the researcher can put on
the accuracy of the sources.
Examining the trends in achievement level of Indian children compared with American
children is an example of historical research.

4.3.2 Descriptive Research

Descriptive research describes and interprets what is. It is concerned with conditions
or relationships that exist, the practices that prevail, the beliefs or attitudes that are held,
the processes that are going on; effects that are being felt or trends that are developments.
The approach is directed towards identifying various characteristics of research problems
and to create observations conducive to further research. Descriptive research describes
characteristics of an existing phenomenon. Descriptive research provides a broad picture
of a phenomenon you might be interested in exploring. Current employment rates,
census of any country, number of working single parents are examples of descriptive
research.

4.3.3 Correlational Research

Descriptive and historical research provides a picture of events that are currently
happening or have occurred in the past. Researchers often want to go beyond mere
description and begin discussing the relationship that certain events might have to one
another. The most likely type of research to answer questions about the relationship
among variables or events is called correlational events. Correlational research provides
some indication as to how two or more things are related to one another or, in effect
what they share or have in common or how well a specific outcome might be predicted
by one or more pieces of information. Correlational research uses a numerical index
called the correlation coefficient as a measure of the strength of this relationship. For
example, if you are interested to find out the relationship between the number of hours
spent in studying and their achievement, then you would be doing correlational research,
because you are interested in the relationship between these two variables. If you are
interested in finding out the best predictors of success in a school you would be doing
a type of correlational research that includes prediction.
One of the most important points about correlational research is that it examines
relationships between variables but in no way implies that one causes changes in the
other. In other words, correlation and prediction examine associations but not causal
relationships, wherein a change in one factor directly influences a change in another.

4.3.4 Qualitative Research

The general purpose of qualitative research methods is to examine human behaviour in
the social, cultural, and political contexts in which they occur. This is done through a
52
variety of tools, such as interviews, historical methods, case studies, and ethnography
and usually results in qualitative (or non-numeric) primary data. In other words, the Types of Research and
Methods of Research
qualitative researcher is more (but not only) interested in the contents of an interviewees
speech than in the number of times (frequency) a particular comment is made.
Qualitative research is relatively new to the social and behavioural sciences and, to a
large extent its increasing popularity is due to a degree of dissatisfaction with other
available research methods. Some scientists feel that the traditional experimental model
is just too restrictive and narrow, preventing underlying and important factors and
relationships from being revealed. But whats so valuable about this set of tools is that
it allows you to answer a whole new set of questions in a whole new way.
Qualitative research is the interpretive study of a specific issue or a problem in which
the researcher is central to the research process. Its a naturalistic inquiry, which unfolds
in a non-manipulative fashion. It lacks the predetermined constraints on outcome
variables. Qualitative methods yield data in the form of words than numbers. Qualitative
studies provide rich description and explanation of processes in specific local contexts.
They provide a feel of the processes by focusing on the chronological flow or sequence
of events leading to certain outcomes or consequences. The whole phenomenon is
studied with a strategy of a detailed or elaborate (thick) description. Throughout the
conduct of qualitative study interpretation and reflection on the part of researcher is
required.
Qualitative data can come from a variety of sources and can take a variety of forms.
The data may be used as a supplement to quantitative data or may be used in their own
right. Qualitative data can be obtained through a variety of methods such as case studies,
interviews, discourse analysis, narratives, and ethnography and participant observation.

4.3.5 Ex-Post Facto Research

In this kind of research, the independent variable or variables have already occurred in
which the researcher starts with observation of a dependent variable or variables. He
then studies the independent variables in retrospect for their possible relations to and
effects on the dependent variable or variables. The most important difference between
experimental research and ex-post facto research is control. In the former, the investigator
has a manipulative control on the independent variable, whereas in the latter this control
is not possible, more than this, randomization is not possible. In the ex-post facto research,
the researcher must take things as they are and try to collect data and analyse them in
that context.
In an ideal social scientific research, the possibility of finding random samples of subjects
and randomly assigning them to groups and treatment to group would always be possible.
However, these possibilities do not exist in the real situation. The ex-post facto research
could be of a large scale or a small scale. This type of research has three weaknesses:
1) the inability to manipulate the independent variables,
2) lack of power to randomize, and
3) the risk of improper interpretation.
In other words, compared to experimental research, other things being equal, ex-post
facto research lacks control. This lack is a basis for the third weakness: the risk of
improper interpretation. Therefore, committing unequivocally to experimentation or to
ex-post facto research may be poor policy; Ex-post facto research may not have
particular hypothesis as a predicted relationship may be quite spurious. Therefore, ex-
53
Introduction to Research in post facto research that is conducted without hypothesis, without predictions, research
Psychology
in which data are just collected and then interpreted is even more dangerous in its
power to mislead.
Self Assessment Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
1) In a naturalistic observation , the phenomenon in which the behaviour of the
subjects being observed changes because they are being watched is called:
a) Observer Bias b) Participant Observation
c) Observer Effect d) Representative Sampling
2) The main disadvantage of a case study is that it is not easily done due to the large
number of subjects detailed enough for most research questions generalizable to
other similar conditions biased.
3) Fields experiments are concerned with:
a) casual relationships
b) direction of relationships
c) natural setting
d) all of these
4) Results are obtained under artificial conditions is a limitation of method:
a) observational
b) clinical
c) experimental
d) none
5) Which one is not the limitation of laboratory experiment:
a) artificial environment
b) lack of internal validity
c) study of all variables not possible
d) extraneous factors
6) Which one is not a non-experimental research
a) field study
b) field experiment
c) case study
d) survey
7) Directly asking a sample of people questions about their behaviour is:
a) observation
54
 Types of Research and
b) survey Methods of Research

c) case experiment
d) experiment
8) Which method examines existing records to confirm hypothesis:
a) survey
b) archival research
c) case study
d) experiment
9) The investigator simply observes and records what happens in the natural
environment in the:
a) naturalistic observation
b) the survey method
c) the clinical approach
d) experimental method
10) Results of which methods cannot be generalise to the population at large:
a) survey
b) experiment
c) case study
d) field study

4.4 EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH

You already know that correlational research can help to establish the presence of a
relationship among variables but does not provide any reason to believe that variables
are causally related to one another. How does one find out if characteristics, behaviour,
or events are related in such a way that the relationship is causal one? There are two
types of research that can answer that question: true experimental research and quasi-
experimental research.

4.4.1 True Experimental Research

In true experimental research, participants are assigned to groups based on some
criterion, often called the treatment variable or treatment condition. For example, you
want to compare effects of two different techniques for reducing obsessive-compulsive
disorder behaviour in adults. The first technique includes behavioural therapy and the
second does not. Once adults are assigned to groups and the programs are completed,
you will want to look for any differences between the two groups with regard to the
effects of the therapy on the number of obsessive-compulsive behaviours. Because
assignment to the groups is determined by the researcher, the researcher has given
assignment to the groups as determined by the researcher, and thus the researcher has
complete control over the factors to which the adults are exposed. This is the ideal
model for establishing a cause and effect relationship because the researcher has clearly
55
Introduction to Research in defined the possible cause and can keep very close tabs on what is happening. Most
Psychology
important, however is that the researcher has complete control over the treatment.

4.4.2 Quasi-Experimental Research

In quasi-experimental study, the researcher does not have a such a high degree of
control because people have already been indirectly assigned to those groups (e.g.,
social class, type of abuse, gender, type of injury) for which you are testing the effects.
In these researches participants are preassigned to groups based on some pre-
determined characteristics or quality. Differences in gender, race, age, grade in school,
neighborhood of residence, type of job, and even experiences are examples. These
groups assignments have already taken place before the experiment begins, and the
researcher has no control as to who is assigned to each groups.
The most important use of the quasi experimental method occurs where researchers
cannot, in good conscience, assign people to groups and test the effects of group
membership on some other outcome. For example, researchers who are interested in
the effects of parental unemployment on children could not very well encourage mothers
or fathers to quit work. Rather, they would seek out families where parents are already
unemployed and then conduct the research.
Quasi-experimental research is also called post hoc, or after-the-fact, research because
the actual research takes place after the assignment of groups (e.g., employed versus
unemployed, malnourished versus non malnourished, male versus female). Because
assignment has already taken place, the researcher has a high degree, but not the highest
degree, of control over the cause of whatever effects are being examined. For the
highest degree of control to occur, the true experimental model needs to be followed.

4.5 METHODS OF RESEARCH

Methods of research can be classified into two categories: Non-experimental methods
and experimental methods

4.5.1 Non-Experimental Methods

4.5.1.1 Naturalistic Observation
Sometimes all researchers need to know is what is happening to a group of animals or
people. The best way to look at his behaviour of animals or people is to watch them
behave in their normal environment. In naturalistic observation a scientist observes
behaviour in real world settings and makes no effort to manipulate or control the situation.
Researchers conduct naturalistic observation at homes, day-care centers and so on.
For example, if someone wanted to know how adolescents behave with members of
the opposite sex in a social setting the researcher might go the mall on a weekend night.
The most important advantage of naturalistic observation is that it allows researchers to
get a realistic picture of how behaviour occurs because they are actually watching that
behaviour. In many cases animals or people who know they are being watched will not
behave normally anyway in a process called the observer effect so often the observer
needs to remain hidden from view. In these cases researcher might use one way mirror,
or they might actually become participant in the group. This technique is called participant
observation.
One of the major disadvantages of the naturalistic observation is the possibility of observer
bias. That happens when the person doing the observing has a particular opinion about
56
what he or she is going to see or expects to see. Sometimes that person sees only those Types of Research and
Methods of Research
actions that supports that expectation and ignores actions that dont fit.
Another disadvantage is that each naturalistic setting is unique and unlike any other.
Observations that are made at one time in one setting may not hold true for another time
even if the setting is similar because the conditions are not going to be exactly the same
time after time, researchers dont have that kind of control over the natural world.
4.5.1.2 Archival Research
In this method the researchers do not actually collect data themselves but they obtain
data from public records, archives and so on. The researches merely analyses the data
attempts to draw certain conclusions from them. The method can be valuable in many
respects. For instance there is no other way to collect data on suicides and homicides.
Archival Data are those that are present in existing records or archives. The researcher
simply examines or selects the data for analysis. Archival research may already exist or
logistics or ethics may make it infeasible to conduct an experiment relating the variables
of interest.
Archival research has limitations; First most archival data are collected for naturalistic
reasons. Governments are private agencies collect the data for their own purpose and
such data often do not suit the purposes of the scientist. Second because archival
research is by nature carried out after the fact ruling out alternative hypotheses for
particular observed correlations may be difficult. A researcher who relies on archival
data is at the mercy of any biases that may have occurred in collecting the data. Police
records are notoriously subject to bias. Many categories of crime are seldom reported
to the police.
4.5.1.3 Content Analysis
Content analysis sometimes known as document analysis is a method of systematic,
examination of communications or of current records or documents. Instead of
questioning respondents according to some scale items or observing their behaviour
directly the content analyser takes the communications or documents prepared by
the respondents and systematically find out the frequency or proportion of their
appearances.
In content or documents analysis the primary sources of data are: letters, autobiographies,
diaries, compositions, records, reports, printed forms, themes or other academic work,
books, periodicals, bulletins or catalogues, syllabus, court decisions, pictures, films,
cartoons etc. It is the obligation of the researchers to establish the trustworthiness of
these data that have been drawn. Content analysis can also be used with responses of
projective test with all kinds of verbal materials and with materials specially produced
for research problems.
Merits and Demerits
First content analysis is applicable to a wide variety of materials such as creativity,
attitude, and ethnocentrisms, stereotypes, curriculum changes values, interest,
religiosity, college budgets etc.
Second content analysis can also be used to examine the effect of experimental
manipulation upon the dependent variables. If the investigator wants to study the
effect of practice upon the improvement of handwriting of children, content analysis
may be of no less importance than any experimental design.
57
Introduction to Research in Third content analysis is also used to validate other methods of observation.
Psychology
Suppose one wants to validate a self-discloure inventory. It is expected that people
in general would not like to give personal information against which the test can be
validated. But subjects can be asked some projective-type of questions and the
responses can be content-analysed. Subsequently the test can be validated against
the content- analysed response.
Despite these merits content analysis should be used with caution because of the
complexities involved.

4.5.2 Surveys
Survey methods are widely used gathering scientific information. It involves collection
of data by asking questions and recording peoples answers to them. They are used for
various purposes on frequent goal of this kind of research is to estimate population
characteristics. For example the goal of survey might be to determine the percentage of
people who hold supporting of opposing positions on particular social issues, such as
provision of reservation for women in job. The census and public opinion done by
various agencies are good examples of surveys.
Surveys can also be used to test hypotheses about the relationships among variable.
One may try to find out the effect of some event on peoples behaviour. For example
surveys have been conducted after the earth quack at Bhuj in Gujarat to find out the
impact of earthquake on peoples lives.
In undertaking surveys the researcher defines the study population and draws the sample.
The sample must be representative of the population. Researcher use different procedures
of sampling. They can use random sampling in which every member of the population
has a equal and independent chance of being included in the sample. Usually the
researcher use stratified random sampling in which two or more sub samples are
represented according to some predetermined proportion as they exist in the population.
Some times groups are selected by using clusters or groupings from a larger population.
This is known as cluster sampling. The sample size is also determined because the
ability to generalise depends on the sample size used in the survey.
Depending upon the ways of collecting data survey methods can be classified into
different categories namely personal interview, mail questionnaire, telephone survey,
internet survey, web survey, etc.
Advantages:
Survey methods have wide scope. In other words through survey method a great
deal of information can be obtained by studying the larger population
It is more accurate. As Kerlinger (1986) has put it. The accuracy of properly
drawn samples is frequently surprising, even to experts in the field. A sample of
600 to 700 individuals or families can give a remarkably accurate portrait of a
community its values attitudes and beliefs.
Survey methods has been frequently used in almost all the social sciences. Hence
the method has inter-disciplinary value. In fact such researches provide raw materials
for a vast increasing gross disciplinary research (Cambell & Katona,1953).
Survey method is considered a very important and indispensable tool for studying
social attitudes, beliefs, values etc. with accuracy at the economic rate.

58
Disadvantages: Types of Research and
Methods of Research
Survey methods remains at the surface and it does not penetrate into the depth of
the problem being investigated.
Survey method are time consuming, and demand a good amount of expenditure.
Although it is true that survey research is accurate, it is still subject to sampling
errors. In survey research there is always the probability of one chances in a
twenty or hundred with an error, more serious than minor fluctuation of a chance,
may occur and distort the validity of the result obtained.
Survey method demands expertise, research knowledge and sophistication on the
part of the researcher. In other words the researcher must know the techniques of
sampling, questionnaire construction, interviewing and analysis of data.

4.5.3 Field Studies

Field studies are ex-post scientific inquiries aimed at discovering the relations and
interactions among sociological, psychological and educational variables in real social
structures. In scientific studies, large or small, they systematically pursue relations and
test hypotheses, that are ex-post facto, that are made in actual life situations, will be
considered field ex-post factor, that are made in actual life situations, will be considered
field studies. The investigator in a field stud looks at the social or institutional situation
and then studies the relations among the attitudes, values, perceptions, and behaviours
of individuals and groups in the situation. He ordinarily manipulates no independent
variables.
Katz (1953) has divided field studies into two board types exploratory and hypothesis
testing. The exploratory types seek what is, rather than predict relations to be found.
They have three purposes : (1) to discover significant variables in the field situation,
(2) to discover relations among variables (3) to lay a ground work for later, more
systematic and rigorous testing of hypothesis.
It is well to recognise though that there are activities preliminary to hypothesis testing in
scientific research. In order to achieve the desirable aim of hypothesis testing, preliminary
methodological and measurement investigation must often be done. The second sub-
type of exploratory field studies, research aimed at discovering or uncovering the
relations, is indispensable to scientific advancement in the social sciences.
The field studies are strong in realism, significance, strength of variables, theory orientation
and heuristic quality. The realism of field studies is obvious. They are highly heuristic.
Any researcher knows that one of the research difficulties of the field studies is to keep
himself contained within the limits of his problem. Hypothesis is frequently fling themselves
at one. The field is rich in discovery potentiality. After starting to gather data, he might
stumble upon many interesting notions that can reflect the course of investigation.
Despite these strengths, the field study is a scientific weakness of laboratory experiments.
Its most serious weakness of course is its ex-post facto character. Anther methodological
weakness is lack of precision in the measurement of field variables. Other weakness of
field studies are practical problems: feasibility, cost, sampling, and time. The field
researcher therefore, needs to be salesman, administrator and entrepreneur as well as
investigator.

59
Introduction to Research in 4.5.4 Case Study
Psychology
The case study is one of the important types of non-experimental research. The case
study is not a specific technique rather it is one way of organising social data for the
purpose of viewing social reality. It tends to preserve the unitary character of a social
object being studied. It tends to examine a social unit as a whole. The unit may be a
person a family a social group a social institution or even a community (Goode & Hatt
1981, Best & Kahn 1992).
A case study may utilise interview, observation, and psychological tests. It is a valuable
research strategy in the fields of clinical psychology and human development. Using
case study a researcher is able to have an in-depth look at one person. Those unique
aspects of a persons life which cannot be duplicated for practical or ethical reasons are
captured by case study. With the help of case study you can try to understand fantasies
hopes fears traumatic experiences upbringing or anything that helps to understand a
persons mind and behaviour. Case studies provide a narrative or detailed description
of the events that takes place in a persons life. Freuds insight that led to the development
of psychoanalytic theory emerged from his observation and reflections on individual
cases. It should be remembered that the person studied as a case is unique and our
judgments are of unknown reliability. Case studies provide detailed in-depth depictions
of peoples lives but we need to exercise caution when generalizing from individual
cases. They are like naturalistic observations and all one can do is to describe the
course of events.
The problem of validity of single case study is very serious. It is therefore recommended
that researchers should use objective measurement techniques multiple sources of
information and frequent assessment of relevant variables. The uses of case study as a
research strategy requires that the cases must be chosen that represent the variable in
question and one must have sufficient access to the cases. Careful planning of data-
collection is very necessary. Throughout the data-collection process the investigator is
required to maintain a chain of evidence linking the various data sources having bearing
on the research questions.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Detailed and in-depth description of people lives can be obtained through
survey methods. T/F
2) Census is an example of correlational research. T/F
3) Survey helps to understand population. T/F
4) A case study may utilise observation and interview. T/F
5) Observer bias is one of the important problem associated
with survey method. T/F
6) Case study method is most useful in clinical setting. T/F
7) Opinion polls are the examples of survey methods. T/F
8) Social behaviour under the war condition can be studied by
the field study method. T/F
9) Quasi-experimental research involves random assignment of subject
to different groups. T/F
10) Descriptive research does not have the characteristics of manipulations. T/F

60
 Types of Research and
4.6 EXPERIMENTAL METHODS Methods of Research

4.6.1 Laboratory Experiments

As you know a laboratory experiment is one of the most powerful techniques for studying
the relationships between variables under controlled condition. It may be defined as the
study of a problem in a situation in which some variables are manipulated and some are
controlled in order to have an effect upon the dependent variable. The variables which
are manipulated are known as independent variables and the variables which are
controlled, are known as extraneous or relevant variables. Thus in a laboratory experiment
the effect of manipulation of an independent variable upon the dependent variable is
observed under controlled conditions. Festinger & Katz (1953:137) have defined a
laboratory experiment as one in which the investigator creates a situation with the
exact conditions he wants to have and in which the controls some, and manipulates
other variables.
Kerlinger (1986), there are three main purposes of the laboratory experiment. First, a
laboratory experiment purports to discover a relationship between the dependent variable
and the independent variable under pure, uncontaminated and controlled conditions.
When a particular relationship is discovered, the experimenter is better able to predict
the dependent variable. Second, a laboratory experiment helps in testing the accuracy
of predictions derived from theses or researches. Third, a laboratory experiment helps
building the theoretical systems by refining theories and hypotheses and thus, provides
a breeding ground for scientific evaluation of those theories and hypotheses.
A laboratory experiment has some strength and weakness you have already read in the
previous unit II, you may refer this for the detailed thereof.

4.6.2 Field Experiment

A field experiment is very similar to a laboratory experiment. A field experiment may be
defined as a study carried out in a more or less realistic situation or field where the
experimenter successfully manipulates one or more independent variables under the
maximum possible controlled conditions. Experimenter manipulates one or more
independent variable in natural setting for determining their effect upon behaviour, the
procedure is known as field experiment.
Field experiment has number of Strengths which are given below:
1) A field experiment deals with the realistic life situation. Hence it is more suited for
studying social changes, social processes and social influence.
2) One principle of research is that the more realistic the situation, the stronger is
effect of the variables under study. In a field experiment this principle is fully satisfied.
Thus, one can say that in the field experiment, since it deals with a realistic situation,
the variables have stronger and more obvious effects.
3) Is derived from the above two points. When variables are stronger because of
more realistic situations, an experimenter can make better and more sound
generalisations on the basis of the obtained results. In other words, this tends to
increase the external validity of the field experiment. For example, when one carried
out a field experiment by taking small groups of workers from a factory, and
reaches the conclusion that absenteeism among workers is primarily due to the
poor financial incentive, this can be safely generalized with respect to the workers
of other factories as well because the experiment has been carried on actual workers
61
in a factory.
Introduction to Research in 4) A field experiment is well-suited for testing a broad hypothesis and theories and
Psychology
for obtaining answers to practical questions.
The principles weaknesses of field experiments are as given below:
1) Since a field experiment is carried out in a realistic situation, there is always the
possibility that the effect of independent variables is contaminated with uncontrolled
environmental variables.
2) The unexpected noise and gathering may affect the dependent variable and thereby,
contaminate the influence of the independent variable. In a laboratory experiment
this problem does not arise because of the fully controlled laboratory situation.
However, if the situation is somehow fully controlled in a field experiment, it would
prove to be a more powerful tool than the laboratory experiment.
3) In many field situations the manipulation of independent variables may be difficult
due to non-cooperation of subjects. Children are to be exposed to frustrating
situations; they may not like it and may restrain their children from being exposed
to field situation.
4) In a field experiment it is not possible to achieve a high degree of precision or
accuracy because of some uncontrolled environment variables.
5) Field experiment requires that the investigator has high social skills to deal effectively
with people in a field situation.

4.7 LET US SUM UP

Psychological researches have been classified depending upon the extent to which they
satisfy requirement of a scientific procedure based on the purpose for which it is
undertaken. There are two types of psychological researches Non-experimental and
experimental research. In non-experimental researches, the independent variable is
not manipulated, the researcher does not have complete control over the conditions of
the non-experimental research study. Non-experimental researches are covered
descriptive, historical correlational, qualitative and ex- post facto research. Experimental
researches are controlled manipulation of the variables that allows the researcher to
determine the cause and effect relationship. The unit has described the two types of
experimental research i.e. true experimental research and quasi-experimental research.
Moreover this unit has described the major methods of non-experimental researches
namely naturalistic observation, case studies, content analysis, achieves, field studies
etc. Finally two research method of the experimental research i.e. laboratory experiment
and field experiment are highlighted.

4.8 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Describe the various types of non-experimental researches.
2) What do you mean by experimental researches? Discuss the types of experimental
research.
3) Compare experimental research and non experiment research with relevant
examples.
4) Compare field experiment and laboratory experiment with example.
5) What is survey research? Discuss advantage and disadvantage of survey research.
62
 Types of Research and
4.9 GLOSSARY Methods of Research

Descriptive : Describe the characteristics of an existing

phenomenon.
Historical : Relate events that have occurred in the past to
current events.
Correlational : Examine the relationship between variables.
Qualitative : To examine human behaviour and the social
cultural and political contexts within which it
occurs.
True Experimental : To test for true cause and effect relationship.
Quasi Experimental : To test for casual relationship without having full
control.
Naturalistic Observation : observational research of subjects in their natural
environment carried out to disturb the subjects
as little as possible.
Archival Method : study method that examines existing records to
obtain date and test hypotheses.
Case Study : study of one individual in great detail
Observer Bias : tendency of observer to see what they expect to
see.
Laboratory Experiments : the techniques for studying the relationship
between the variables under control condition
Field Experiment : a study carried out in more or less realistic
situation where the experimenters manipulate
independent under the maximum possible control
condition.
Ex-Post Facto Research : investigator attempts to trace an effect which has
already occurred to its probable causes
Survey : assessing public opinio n or individual
characteristics by the use of questionnaire and
sampling methods.
Self Assessment Questions
Answers: 1. (a) 2 (b) 3 (d) 4 (c) 5. (a) 6. (b) 7 (b) 8. (b) 9. (a) 10. (c)
True/False
Answers: 1.F, 2.F, 3.T, 4 T, 5.F, 6.T, 7.T, 8.T, 9.F, 10.T

4.10 SUGGESTED READINGS

Festinger and D Katz (Eds). Research Methods in Behaviour Sciences, New York:
Holt Rinehart & Winston, Inc, Indian Edition 1970.
Goode, W J & Hatt P K (1981). Methods in Social Research. Singapore: McGraw-
Hill.

63
Introduction to Research in References
Psychology
Best, J.W & Kahn, J.P (1975). Research in Education, New Delhi: Prentice-Hall of
India .
Cambell, A.A & Katona, G.(1953). The sample survey: a technique for social science
research. In L
Festinger, L and Katz, D (1953). Research Methods in the Behavioural Sciences. New
York: Holt Rinehart and Winston.
Katz, D (1953). Field Studies. In L Festinger and D Katz (Eds) Research methods in
the Behavioural Sciences New York: Holt Rinehart and Winston.
Kerlinger F.N (1986). Foundations in Behavioural Research. New York: Holt Rinehart
and Winston. .

64
UNIT 1 DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION
RESEARCH DESIGN, QUALITY OF
RESEARCH DESIGN
Structure
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Research Design
1.3 Purpose of Research Design
1.3.1 Answers to Research Questions
1.3.2 Research Design Acts as Variance Control
1.3.3 Systematic Variance
1.3.4 Extraneous Variance
1.3.5 Error Variance

1.4 Design Selection

1.5 Criteria of Research Design
1.5.1 Capability to Answer Research Questions Adequately
1.5.2 Control of Variable
1.5.3 Generalisibility

1.6 Qualities of Research Design

1.7 Let Us Sum Up
1.8 Unit End Questions
1.9 Suggested Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION
Having decided what you want to study about, the next question comes up as to
how are you going to conduct your study? What procedures will you adopt to
obtain answers to research questions? How will you carry out the tasks needed
to complete the different components of the research process? What should you
do and what should you not do in the process of undertaking the study?
These are some of the questions that need to be answered before we proceed
to conduct the study. Basically, answers to these questions constitute the core of
a research design. This unit therefore begins with the definition and the description
of the research design. Then the purpose of the research design is highlighted in
which you will study how a research can maximize the systematic variance, control
extraneous variance through the various controlling techniques i.e. randomization,
matching, elimination and statistical control. Further you will find how a researcher
can minimize the error variance. Moreover, research cannot ignore the criteria of
good design. This unit acquaints you with the basic criteria of research through
which you can distinguish good design from weak design. Finally, the qualities of
research design are indicated and described.

5
Research Designs
1.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
Define research design;
Describe research design in terms of its various components;
Discuss various objectives/purpose of research design;
Describe the different procedures to control the extraneous variable and
reduce error variance;
Explain the criteria of research design; and
State the qualities of research design.

1.2 RESEARCH DESIGN

Winner (1971) compared the research design to an architects plan for the structure
of a building. The designer of researcher performs a role similar to that of the
architect. The owner of the building gives his basic requirements to the architect,
who then exercising his expertise, prepares a plan or a blue print outlining the final
shape of the structure.
Similarly, researcher has to do planning or prepare a structure before starting data
collection and analysis. According to Myers (1980), the research design is the
general structure of the experiment, not its specific content. In fact, the research
design is the conceptual structure within which research is conducted; it constitutes
the blueprint for the collection, measurement and analysis of data.
According to Thyer (1993) a traditional research design is a blueprint or detailed
plan for how to conduct a research study and how to complete the same. Planning
such a research design involves, (i) operationalising variables so that they can be
measured, (ii) selecting a sample of interest to study, (iii) collecting data to be
used as a basis for testing hypothesis, and (iv) analysing the results.
According to Matheson (1970) a research design is a basic plan for research,
including the assignment of subjects to the levels of the independent variable and
the manipulation of the independent variable.
According to Kerlinger (1986) research design is the plan, structure, and strategy
of investigation conceived so as to obtain answers to research questions and to
control variance.
The definition of Kerlinger reveals three important components, which are (i)
research design is a plan (ii) research design is the structure (iii) research design
is the strategy. Let us see what these are:
i) Research Design is the Plan: The plan is the overall scheme or program
of the research. It includes an outline of what the investigator will do from
writing the hypotheses and their operational implications to the final analysis
of data.
ii) Research Design is the Structure: The structure of the research is more
specific. It is the outline, the scheme, the paradigm, of the operation of the
variables. When we draw diagrams that outline the variables and their relation
and juxtaposition, we build structural schemes for accomplishing operational
research purposes.
6
iii) Research Design is the Strategy: Strategy as used here is also more specific Definition and Description
Research Design, Quality of
than plan. It includes the methods to be used to gather and analyse the data. Research Design
In other words strategy implies how the research objectives will be reached
and how the problems encountered in the research will be tackled.

1.3 PURPOSE OF RESEARCH DESIGN

The purpose of research design is to provide a maximum amount of information
relevant to the problem under investigation at a minimum cost. The research
design has the toll purposes:

1.3.1 Answers to Research Questions

Research design is formulated to enable the researcher to answer research questions
such as validity, objectivity, accuracy, and describe research plans as economically
as possible. Any research plan is deliberately and specifically conceived and
executed to bring empirical evidence to bear on the research problem. Research
design sets up the framework for adequate test of relations among variable. The
research design in a way tells us what observations to make, how to make them
and how to analyse the quantitative representations of the observations. It also
tells us as to what types of statistical analysis to use. Finally, an adequate design
outlines possible conclusions to be drawn from statistical analysis. Thus a research
design after moving through the sequence of different related steps enables the
researcher to draw a valid and objective answer to research questions.

1.3.2 Research Design Acts as Variance Control

The main technical function of research design is to control variance. Research
design is a set of instructions to the investigator together analyse data in certain
ways. Therefore, research design acts as control mechanism and enables the
researcher to control unwanted variances. Various control is a central theme of
research design. Variance control as we shall notice throughout this book, is the
central theme of experience design. Variance is a measure of the dispersion or
spread of a set of scores. It describes the extent to which the scores differ from
each other. Variance and variation, through used by synonymously, are not identical
terms. Variation is a more general term which includes variance as one of the
statistical methods of representing methods.

1.3.3 Systematic Variance

The researcher is directly concerned with three types of variance namely
experimental variance, extraneous variance and error variance. Main functions of
research design are to maximize the effect of systematic variance, control extraneous
variance and minimize error variance. A discussion of these variances is presented
below.
Systematic Variance: by constructing an efficient research design the investigator
attempts to maximize the variance of the variable of substantive research hypotheses.
Systematic variance is the variability in the dependent measure due to the
manipulation of the experimental variable by the experimenter. An important task
of the experimenter is to maximize this variance. This objective is achieved by
making the level of the experimental variable as unlike as possible. Suppose an
experimenter is interested in studying the effect of intensity of light on visual acuity.
The experimenter decides to study the effect by manipulating three levels of light
intensity, i.e. 10 ml, 15ml, 20 ml. as the difference between any two levels of the 7
Research Designs experimental variable is not substantial, and there is little chance of separating its
effect from the total variance. Thus, in order to maximize systematic variances, it
is desirable to make the experimental conditions (levels) as different as possible.
In this experiment it would be appropriate, then to modify the levels of light
intensity to 10 ml, 20 ml, and 30 ml so that the difference between any two levels
is substantial.

1.3.4 Extraneous Variance

Extraneous variance is produced by the extraneous variables or the relevant
variables. An experimenter always tries to control the relevant variables and thus,
also wants to eliminate the variances produced by these variables. For elimination
of extraneous variance it is essential that the extraneous variables be properly
controlled. There are four ways to control the extraneous variances. These
procedures are elimination, randomization, matching, and statistical control. A
discussion of these procedure is given below:
1) Randomization: an important method of controlling extraneous variables is
randomization. It is considered to be the most effective way to control the
variability due to all possible extraneous sources. If through randomization
has been achieved then the treatment groups in the experiment could be
considered statistically equal in all possible ways. Randomization is a powerful
method of controlling variable. In other words it is a procedure for equating
groups with respect to secondary variable. Randomization means random
selection of the experimental units from the larger population. Random
assignment means that every experimental unit has an equal chance of being
placed in any of the treatment conditions or groups. In using randomization
method some problems may be encountered. It is possible to select a random
sample from a population, but then assignment of experimental units to groups
may get biased. Random assignment of subjects is critical to internal validity.
If subjects are not assigned randomly, confounding may occur.
Randomized group design and randomized block design are the examples of
research design in which randomization is used to control the extraneous
variable.
2) Elimination: this procedure is the easiest way to controlling the unwanted
extraneous variable through elimination of variable. Suppose, the sex of the
subject as unwanted secondary variable, is found to influence the variable in
an experiment. Therefore the variable of sex has to be controlled. The
researcher may decide to take either all males and all females in an experiment
and thus, controlled through elimination the variability due to the sex variable.
By using elimination for controlling the extraneous variables, researcher looses
the power of generalisation. If the researcher selects the subject from a
restricted range then the researcher can generalise the results within restricted
range and not outside it. Elimination procedure is used in non-experimental
design.
3) Matching: is also a non-experimental design procedure, is used to control
the extraneous source of variance. In case of controlling organismic and
background variable matching is used in this procedure the relevant variable
are equated or held constant across all conditions of experiments. Suppose
if the researcher finds that the variable of intelligence is highly correlated with
the dependent variable, it is better to control the variance through matching
8 on the variable of intelligence. However as a method of control matching
 limits the availability of subjects. If the researcher decides to match subjects Definition and Description
Research Design, Quality of
on two or three variables he may not find enough subjects for the experiment. Research Design
Besides this the method of matching biases the principles of randomization.
4) Statistical Control: in this approach, no attempt is made to restrain the
influence of secondary variables. In this technique, one or more concomitant
secondary variables (covariates) are measured and the dependent variable is
statistically adjusted to remove the effects of the uncontrolled sources of
variation. Analysis of covariances is one such technique. It is used to remove
statistically the possible amount of variation in the concomitant secondary
variable.

1.3.5 Error Variance

The third function of a research design is to minimize the error variance. The error
variance is defined as those variance or viabilities in the measures, which occurs
as a function of the factors not controllable by the experimenter. Such factors may
be related to the individual differences among the subjects themselves such as to
their attitude, motivation, need, ability etc. They may be related to what is commonly
called the errors of measurements such as the differences in trials differences in
conditions of experiment, temporary emotional state of the subject, fatigability etc.
Statistical controls can be applied to minimize such error variance. For example,
repeated measures design can be used to minimize the experimental error. By this
technique the variability due to the individual differences is taken out from the total
variability, and thus, the error variance is reduced. Analysis of covariances is also
a technique to reduce the error variance. Further, error variance can be controlled
by increasing the reliability of measurement by giving clear and unambiguously
instructions and by using a reliable measuring instrument etc

1.4 DESIGN SELECTION

The selection of a specific type of design depends primarily on both the nature
and extent of the information. Complex designs, usually involving a number of
control groups, offer more information than a simple group design. However,
not all of the relevant information may be needed can be derived from any given
design. Some of the information is based on the assumptions and some information
are explicit. Other information derives from a network of knowledge surrounding
the project in question. Theories, accepted concepts, hypotheses, principles and
empirical evidence from related studies ought to be considered in design selection.
1) What questions will this design answer? To do this, we must also be able to
specify many of the questions the design wont answer as well ones it will
answer. This should lead to a more realistic approach to experimental design
than is usually given. Some simple and useful designs have been labeled as
poor because they are relatively simple and will not answer some questions.
Yet, they may provide clear and economical answers to the major questions
of interest. Complex designs are not as useful for some purposes.
2) What is the relative information gain/cost picture? There is no specific formula
or strategy for deriving some cut-off point in this regard. The major point
here is that the researcher must take a close look at the probable cost before
selecting a design.

9
Research Designs Besides this, choice of design depends on different factors, such as;
Feasibility
How reliable should the information be?
Is it ethical to conduct the study?
Cost
Time
Self Assessment Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
1) Who said Research design is the plan, structure, and strategy of investigation
conceived so as to obtain answers to research questions and to control
variance.
a) Myers
b) Mcquigan
c) Matheson
d) Kerlinger
2) Which technique is not included to control the effect the extraneous variable?
a) Matching
b) Elimination
c) Extinction
d) Randomization
3) Which one of the following is not considered as the purpose of research
design.
a) Error variance
b) Extraneous variable
c) Statistical variance
d) Systematic variance
4) Which one of the following is considered as most appropriate technique of
control of the extraneous variables?
a) Elimination
b) Randomization
c) Matching
d) Statistical Control
5) A Good design possess following qualities except one:
a) Feasible
b) Simple
c) Efficient
10 d) Theory base
 Definition and Description
6) Which statement is not correct for research design: Research Design, Quality of
Research Design
a) Research design is the blueprint of the detailed procedures of testing
the hypotheses and analysing the obtained data.
b) Research design is the structure of the investigation that provides a
model to study the mutual relationship among the different variable.
c) Research design helps in formation of hypotheses and recognise the
variables.
d) Research design helps in searching the correct solution of the problem.
Answers: 1. (d), 2. (c), 3. (c), 4. (b), 5. (b), 6. (d)
True/False
1) Research design is a blue print of collection, measurement and analysis of
data. T/F
2) The function of research design is to minimize the effect of systematic
variance and maximize error variance. T/F
3) Generalisibility enhances the internal validity of research. T/F
4) Variance is the measure of dispersion or spread of a set of scores. T/F
5) Random selection of the experimental unit from the larger population is
known as random assignment. T/F
6) Analysis of covariance is used to reduce the error variance T/F
Answers: 1. (T), 2. (F), 3. (F), 4. (T), 5. (F), 6. (T)

1.5 CRITERIA OF RESEARCH DESIGN

As you know that there are various types of research design. Some are weak
design and some are good design. Behavioural researchers have been able to
formulate certain criteria on the basis of which you can distinguish the good design
from weak design. These criteria have proved very useful in guiding the researches
in right direction. These criteria are mentioned below.

1.5.1 Capability to Answer Research Questions Adequately

A good research design is the design that answers research questions adequately.
Sometimes, the researcher selects a design which is not appropriate for answering
the research question in hand. Such designs constitute the example of weak
research design. Such a design does not adequately test the hypotheses either. It
is a common practice that students while trying to answer a research question by
conducting experiment or doing research, often match sex, age intelligence of the
subjects on the assumption that such matching would lead to the setting of a better
experimental group and control group. The reality is that if there is no relation
between say, age and the dependent variable then matching an age will be irrelevant.
Therefore, any design based upon matching would be a weak design.

1.5.2 Control of Variables

Another criterion of a good research design is that it should control the effects of
extraneous variables which are more or less similar to independent variables that 11
Research Designs have the capacity to influence dependent variables. If left uncontrolled, such
variables are called independent extraneous variables or simply extraneous variables.
A design which fails to control the effect of extraneous variables is considered a
weak one and the research should avoid such designs.
There are various ways to control the effects of extraneous variables. Of these
ways randomization is considered by many as one of the best techniques of
controlling the extraneous variables. There are three basic phases in randomization-
random selection of subjects, random assignment of subjects into control and
experimental groups and random assignments of experimental treatments among
different groups. Sometimes, it happens that for the researcher it is not possible
to make random selection of subjects. In such situations the researcher tries to
randomly assign the selected subjects into different experimental groups. When
this random assignment is not possible due to any reason, the researcher randomly
assigns the different experimental treatments into experimental groups.
Randomization has proved very useful in controlling the extraneous variables. This
increases the internal validity of the research.

1.5.3 Generalisability
The third criterion of research design is generalisability. Generalisibility is the
external validity of the research. In other words it refers to the extent to which
the results of the experiment or research obtained can be generalised to subjects,
groups or conditions not included in sample of the research. If the design is such
as the obtained results can be generalised to larger groups or subjects, the design
is considered to be a good one.

1.6 QUALITIES OF RESEARCH DESIGN

A good design is characterised by flexible; appropriate, efficient, economical and
so on. The design which minimizes bias and maximizes the reliability of the data
collected and analysed is considered a good design. The design which gives the
smallest experimental error is supposed to be the best design in many investigations.
Similarly, a design which yields maximal information and provides an opportunity
for considering many different aspects of a problem is considered the most
appropriate and efficient design. Thus, the question of good design is related to
the purpose or objective of the research problem and also with the nature of the
problem to be studied. One single design cannot serve the purpose of all types
of research problem. Throughout the design construction task, it is important to
have in mind some endpoint, some criteria which are to be achieved before
accepting a design strategy. The criteria below are only meant to be suggestive
of the characteristics found in good research design.
Theory base: Good research strategies reflect the theories which are being
investigated. Where specific theoretical expectations can be hypothesised these
are incorporated into the design. For example, where theory predicts a specific
treatment effect on one measure but not on another, the inclusion of both in the
design improves discriminant validity and demonstrates the predictive power of
the theory.
Situational: Good research designs reflect the settings of the investigation. This
was illustrated above where a particular need of teachers and administrators was
explicitly addressed in the design strategy. Similarly, intergroup rivalry,
demoralisation, and competition might be assessed through the use of additional
comparison groups who are not in direct contact with the original group.
12 Feasible: Good designs can be implemented. The sequence and timing of events
are carefully thought out. Potential problems in measurement, adherence to Definition and Description
Research Design, Quality of
assignment, database construction and the like, are anticipated. Where needed, Research Design
additional groups or measurements are included in the design to explicitly correct
for such problems.
Redundant: Good research designs have some flexibility built into them. Often,
this flexibility results from duplication of essential design features. For example,
multiple replication of a treatment helps to insure that failure to implement the
treatment in one setting will not invalidate the entire study.
Efficient: Good designs strike a balance between redundancy and the tendency
to overdesign. Where it is reasonable, other, less costly, strategies for ruling out
potential threats to validity are utilised.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of the criteria by which we can judge good
research design. Nevertheless, goals of this sort help to guide the researcher
toward a final design choice and emphasise important components which should
be included.

1.7 LET US SUM UP

We have noticed that research design is a plan, structure and strategies of the
collection measurement and analysis of data. Research design purports to obtain
answers to research questions and controlling variance. Moreover, research design
answers the question as objectively, validly and economically as possible. Main
functions of the research design are to maximize the effect of systematic variance,
control extraneous variance through randomization, elimination, matching and
statistical control and minimize the error variance. A good research design is
characterised by feasibility, flexibility, generalisability, theory base, cost and time.

1.8 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) What do you mean by research design? Discuss the basic purposes of
research design. How can you minimize the extraneous variance? Discuss the
various ways to control the extraneous variable.
2) Discuss criteria of a research design with appropriate example.
3) Make distinction between random assignment and random selection in terms
of their uses in research.
4) Discuss the qualities of research design.

1.9 SUGGESTED READINGS

Kerlinger, F N (1986). Foundations of Behavioural Research. New York: Holt
Rinehart and Winston.
Matheson et.al.(1970) Experimental Psychology (Holt),
Myers, A. (1980). Experimental Psychology. New York: Van Nostrand.
Thyer, B.A. (1993) Single-systems Research Design in R.M. Grinnell (ed),
Social Work, Research and Evaluation (4th ed), Itasca Illionois: Peacock.
Winer, B.J.(1971). Statistical Principles in Experimental Design. New York:
McGraw Hill.

13
 UNIT 2 EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN
(CONTROL GROUP DESIGN AND
TWO FACTOR DESIGN)
Structure
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Objectives
2.2 Experimental Design
2.3 Basic Elements of Valid Experimental Design
2.4 Types of Designs
2.4.1 True Experiment
2.4.2 Control Group Design
2.4.2.1 Types of Control Group Design
2.4.2.2 Pretest Posttest Control Group Design
2.4.3 Solomon Four Group Design

2.5 Two Factor Design

2.5.1 Main Effect and Interaction Effect
2.5.2 Graphical Presentation of Main Effect and Interaction Effect
2.5.3 Two Factor, Multi Level Factorial Design

2.6 Uses of Factorial Design

2.7 Advantages and Disadvantages of Factorial Design
2.8 Let Us Sum Up
2.9 Unit End Questions
2.10 Suggested Readings

2.0 INTRODUCTION
Psychologists make decisions about hypothesised relationships between independent
and dependent variables based upon observations of behaviour. One way to
organise the observational process is to employ an experimental design.
This unit tries to acquaint you with control group design and two factor design
(factorial design) which are used as true experimental design in psychological
researches. It begins with the nature and basic elements of experimental design
and focuses on the terminology of experimental design. Further, you will find the
description of control group design and three types of control group one as post
test only, one as control group design, and one as pretest posttest control group
design and one as Solomon four group design with relevant examples.
Moreover this unit continues with the discussion of the factorial design in which
you will study the nature of factorial design. This will provide answers to the
questions like how can you sketch a layout of factorial design, how basic
terminology of experimental design are worked out, how can you study the main
effect and interaction effect of the different variables and how can you interpret
your result with the help of graphical presentation. Finally, advantage and
14 disadvantage of factorial design are described.
 Experimental Design
2.1 OBJECTIVES (Control Group Design and
Two Factor Design)
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
Explain experimental design;
Describe types of control group design;
Distinguish posttest only, control group design with pretest posttest control
group design;
Interpret main effect and interaction effect theoretically and graphically;
List advantage and disadvantage of factorial design; and
Draw the layout plan of various types of control group design and factorial
design.

2.2 EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

The term experimental design may be used in two different ways (Kirk, 1968).
i) It may be used to refer to the sequence of steps necessary to conduct an
experiment (stating the hypothesis, detailing the data collection process, and
so on).
ii) It may be used to refer to the plan by which subjects are assigned to
experimental conditions.
The experimental design is relatively simple, as for example, when one group of
subjects is exposed to an independent variable and another is not. On the other
hand, it may be much more complex, involving two or more than two independent
variables and repeated measurements of the dependent variables.
The overall blueprint of the experiment is called experimental design. It contains
the specification of the plan and structure of the entire experiment. For the sake
of precision, the variables and their measures are defined and specific instructions
for the experimental conditions are clearly written. A good experimental design
minimizes the influence of extraneous or uncontrolled variation and increases the
likelihood that an experiment will produce valid and consistent results.

2.3 BASIC ELEMENTS OF VALID

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN
a) Factor: The independent variables of an experiment are often called the
factors of experiment. An experiment has always one factor, or independent
variables, otherwise it would not be an experiment. It is possible for an
experiment to have more than one independent variables. To have an
experiment, it is necessary to vary some independent variable, or some
factors.
b) Level: a level is a particular value of an independent variable. Level refers
to the degree or intensity of a factor. Any factor may be presented in one
or more of several levels, including a zero level.
c) Condition is the broadest term used to discuss independent variables. It
refers to a particular way in which subjects are treated.
15
Research Designs d) Main effect: Main effect is the effect of one independent variable, averaged
over all levels of another independent variable.
e) Interaction; when the effect of one independent variable depends on the
level of another independent variable.
f) Treatment: the treatment is used to refer to a particular set of experimental
condition. For example 2X2 factorial experiment, the subjects are assigned
to for the treatment. In experiments, a treatment is something that researchers
administer to experimental units.
Two particular elements of a design provide control over so many different threats
to validity that they are basic to good experimental designs; (1) the existence of
a control group or a control condition and, (2) the random allocation of subjects
to groups. Random allocation ensures that the groups will be equal in all respects,
except as they may differ by chance and control over the internal threats to
validity; allows one to conclude that dependent variable is associated with
independent variable and not with any other variables.
In discussing experimental design, Campbell & Stanley(1963) have used some
symbols with which a student/reader is expected to be acquainted.
R: Random selection of subjects or random assignment of treatment to
experimental groups.
X: Treatment or experimental variable which is manipulated. When treatments
are compared they are levelled as X1, X2, X3 and so on.
O: Observation or measurement or test. Where there is more than one O,
an arbitrary subscript O1, O2, O3 and so on, is used.

2.4 TYPES OF DESIGNS

Designs can be classified into a simple three fold classification by asking some key
questions. First, does the design use random assignment to groups? If random
assignment is used, you can call the design a randomized experiment or true
experiment. If random assignment is not used, then you have to ask a second
question: Does the design use either multiple groups or multiple waves of
measurement? If the answer is yes, you can be labeled as quasi-experimental
design. If no, you can call it a non-experimental design. This threefold
classification is specially useful for describing the design with respect to internal
validity.
Now, let us understand true experiment before we go to explain control group
design and two factor design.

2.4.1 True Experiment at Design

The experimenter has complete control over the experiment: the who, what,
when, where, and how. Control over the who of the experiment means that the
experimenter can assign subjects to conditions randomly for example we can put
A in example 1, B in example 2, C in example 1, D in example 2 etc.
Control over the what, when, where, and how of the experiment means that the
experimenter has complete control over the why the experiment is to be conducted.
True experiments include two major types of experimental designs: A) single
factor design (between subjects and within subjects), B) two factor design (factorial
16 design)
Experimental design differs in relation to research purpose. Control group designs Experimental Design
(Control Group Design and
are also called true experimental design. A discussion of control group design and Two Factor Design)
two factor design are given below.

2.4.2 Control Group Design

Description
Two parallel experiments are set up, identical in all respects except that only one
includes the treatment being explored by the experiment. The people in both
groups should be similar. Ideally, these are selected and assigned randomly, though
in practice some groups come as one (such as school classes) or are selected on
a pseudo-random basis (such as people on the street).The control group may
have no treatment, with nothing happening to them, or they may have a neutral
treatment, such as when a placebo is used in a medical pharmaceutical experiment.
2.4.2.1 Types of Control Group Design
There are four types of control group design which are described hereunder:
Post-Test Only, Equivalent Group Design
This design is the most effective and useful true experimental design, which minimizes
the threats to the experimental validity. This design can be diagrammed as given
below.

R1 X O
R2 O

In the above design are two groups. One group R1 is given treatment (X), usually
called the experimental group, and the other group R2 is not given any treatment
and R2 is called the control group. Both groups are formed on the basis of
random assignment of the subjects and hence, they are equivalent. Not only that,
subjects of both groups is initially randomly drawn from the population (R). This
fact controls for selection and experimental mortality. Besides these, in this design
no pretest is needed for either group, which saves time and money. As both
groups are tested after the experimental group has received the treatment, the
most appropriate statistical tests would be those tests which make a comparison
between the mean of O1 and O2. Thus either t- test or ANOVA is used as the
appropriate statistical test.
Let us take an example. Suppose the experimenter, with the help of the table of
random numbers, selects 50 students out of a total of 500 students. Subsequently,
these 50 students are randomly assigned to two groups. The experimenter is
interested in evaluating the effect of punishment over retention of verbal task. The
hypothesis is that punishment enhances the retention score. One group is given
punishment (X) while learning a task and another group receives no such punishment
while learning a task. Subsequently, both groups are given the test of retention.
A simple comparison of mean retention scores of the two groups is carried out
through the t- test which provides the basis for refuting or accepting the hypothesis.
The only problem with the post-test is that there is no direct indication of what
actual change is found in the treatment group. This is corrected by measuring them
before and after the treatment. The control group is still useful as additional
factors may have had an effect, particularly if the treatment occurs over a long
time or in a unique context. 17
Research Designs 2.4.2.2 Pretest- Posttest Control Group Design
This is also called the classic controlled experimental design, and the randomized
pre-test/post-test design because it
1) Controls the assignment of subjects to experimental (treatment) and control
groups through the use of a table of random numbers.
This procedure guarantees that all subjects have the same change of being
in the experimental or control group. Because of strict random assignment
of subjects, it is assumed that the two groups are equivalent on all important
dimensions and that there are no systematic differences between the two
groups.Researchersmaysubstitutematchingforrandomassignment.Subjects
in the two groups are matched on a list of characteristics that might affect
the outcome of the research (e.g., sex, race, income). This may be cheaper
but matching on more than three or four characteristics is very difficult. And
if the researcher does not know which characteristics to match on, this
compromises internal validity.
2) Controls the timing of the independent variable (treatment) and which group
is exposed to it.
Both groups experience the same conditions, with the exception of the
experimental group, which receives the influence of the independent variable
(treatment) in addition to the shared conditions of the two groups.
3) Controls all other conditions under which the experiment takes place.
Nothing but the intervention of the independent (treatment) variable is assumed to
produce the observed changes in the values of the dependent variable.
The steps in the classic controlled experiment are:
1) Randomly assign subjects to treatment or control groups;
2) Administer the pre-test to all subjects in both groups;
3) Ensure that both groups experience the same conditions except that in addition
the experimental group experiences the treatment;
4) Administer the post-test to all subjects in both groups;
5) Assess the amount of change on the value of the dependent variable from
the pre-test to the post-test for each group separately.
These steps are diagramed as follows:

R O1 X O2
R O1 O2

This diagram can be expanded upon as in the following table:

18
 Table: Diagram representing experimental design Experimental Design
(Control Group Design and
Scientific 1st observation Exposure to the 2nd observation Two Factor Design)

Random (measurement) Treatment (X) (measurement)

assignment of of the (independent of the
Subjects to: dependent variable) dependent
variable O1 = variable O2 =
Pre-test Post-test
Experimental Experimental X Experimental
Group Groups Groups
average score average score
on the on the
dependent dependent
variable variable
Control Group Control Control Groups
Groups average score
average score on the
on the dependent
dependent variable
variable

The difference in the control groups score from the pre-test to the post-test
indicates the change in the value of the dependent variable that could be expected
to occur without exposure to the treatment (independent) variable X
Control group Post test scores control group Pre test scores = control group
difference
Experimental group pre-test score Experimental group post-test scores = the
difference obtained as a result of independent variable.
The difference in the experimental groups score from the pre-test to the post-test
indicates the change in the value of the dependent variable that could be expected
to occur with exposure to the treatment (independent) variable X.
(Experimental group (Experimental group = (Experimental group difference
pre-test score) post-test score) on the dependent variable)
The difference between the change in the experimental group and the change in
the control group is the amount of change in the value of the dependent variable
that can be attributed solely to the influence of the independent (treatment) variable
X.
Control group difference experimental group difference = difference attributable
to X (the manipulation of the independent variable)
This design follows all the same steps as the classic pre-test/post-test design
except that it omits the pre-test. There are many situations where a pre-test is
impossible because the participants have already been exposed to the treatment,
or it would be too expensive or too time-consuming. For large groups, this
design can control most of the threats to internal and external validity as does
the classic controlled experimental design. For example, it eliminates the threat
to internal validity of pre-testing by eliminating the pre-test. It may also decrease
the problem of experimental mortality by shortening the length of the study (no
pre-test). For small groups, however, a pre-test is necessary. Also, a pre-test is
necessary if the researcher wants to determine the exact amount of change
19
attributable to the independent variable alone.
Research Designs For many true experimental designs, pretest-posttest designs are the preferred
method to compare participant groups and measure the degree of change occurring
as a result of treatments or interventions.
Pretest-posttest designs grew from the simpler posttest only designs, and address
some of the issues arising with assignment bias and the allocation of participants
to groups.
One example is education, where researchers want to monitor the effect of a new
teaching method upon groups of children. Other areas include evaluating the
effects of counseling, testing medical treatments, and measuring psychological
constructs. The only stipulation is that the subjects must be randomly assigned
to groups, in a true experimental design, to properly isolate and nullify any nuisance
or confounding variables.
Problems with Pretest-Posttest Designs
The main problem with this design is that it improves internal validity but sacrifices
external validity. There is no way of judging whether the process of pre-testing
actually influenced the results because there is no baseline measurement against
groups that remained completely untreated. For example, children given an
educational pretest may be inspired to try a little harder in their lessons, and both
groups would outperform children not given a pretest, so it becomes difficult to
generalise the results to encompass all children.
The other major problem, which afflicts many sociological and educational research
programs, is that it is impossible and unethical to isolate all of the participants
completely. If two groups of children attend the same school, it is reasonable to
assume that they mix outside of classrooms and share ideas, potentially
contaminating the results. On the other hand, if the children are drawn from
different schools to prevent this, the chance of selection bias arises, because
randomization is not possible.
The two-group control group design is an exceptionally useful research method,
as long as its limitations are fully understood. For extensive and particularly
important research, many researchers use the Solomon four group methods, a
design that is more costly, but avoids many weaknesses of the simple pretest-
posttest designs.

2.4.3 Solomon Four Group Design

The Solomon four-group design developed by Solomon (1949) is really a
combination of the two equivalent groups designs described above, namely the
posttest only design and pretest posttest design and represents the first direct
attempt to control the threats of the external validity. This design may be
diagrammed as shown below:
R O1 X O2
R O3 O4
R X O5
R O6
It is clear from this diagram that in this design four-groups are randomly set by
the experimenter. In this design two simultaneous experiments are conducted and,
20 hence the advantages of replication are available here. The effect of X treatment
is replicated in four ways: O2>O1, O2>O4, O5>O6 and O4>O3. This design Experimental Design
(Control Group Design and
makes it possible to evaluate the main effects of testing as well as the reactive Two Factor Design)
effect of testing, thus increasing the external validity or generalisibility. The factorial
analysis of variance can be used as the appropriate statistical test. Because the
design is complex from the methodological as well as the statistical point of view,
it is less preferred to the above two true experimental designs.
Self Assessment Questions
True or False
1) Random assignment of the subjects is necessary for the control
group design. T/F
2) Control group design has a strong level of external validity. T/F
3) Pretest Posttest designs are most preferred method to
compare the participants groups as compared to posttest only,
control group design. T/F

2.5 TWO FACTOR DESIGN

Until now, only those designs were considered in which the researcher studied the
effect of one independent variable. Forthcoming discussion focuses on true
experiments with factorial design in which two variables or factors are manipulated
simultaneously. Experiments in which two or more variables are manipulated are
designed as factorial experiments. Factorial experiments are the expansion of very
popular post test design to study two independent variables simultaneously. These
expanded true experiments are called factorial experiments.
A factorial design is often used to understand the effect of two or more independent
variables upon a dependent variable. Factorial experiments permit researchers to
study behaviour under conditions in which independent variables, called in this
context factors, are varied simultaneously. Thus, researchers can investigate the
joint effect of two or more factors on a dependent variable.
The factorial design also facilitates the study of interactions, illuminating the effects
of different conditions of the experiment on the identifiable subgroups of subjects
participating in the experiment. A factorial design is which two or more variables,
or factors, are employed in such a way that all the possible combinatiosn of
selected values of each variables are used. In the simplest case we have two
variables, each of which has two values or level. This is known as two-by-two
(2*2) factorial design because of the two levels of each variable. The 2*2 design
makes four combinations that you will understand via underneath layout:
Layout of 2*2 Factorial Designs
Factor A (Arousal level)

Factor B A1 A2
(Task complexity) (high) (low)

B1 (simple) A1 B1 A2 B1
B2 (complex) A1 B2 A2 B2

21
Research Designs Let us take an example to illustrate the meaning of factorial design.
Suppose the experimenter wants to know about how do the level of arousal and
task difficulty affect the task performance. Obviously, there are two independent
variables or factors. One is arousal level and the other is task complexity. You
can denote the first independent variable as A and second independent variable
as B.
The dependent variable is task performance. Further, suppose the arousal level
is manipulated in two ways: high arousal and low arousal - these are two levels
of A. Let the high arousal be A1 and low arousal A2 . Similarly the task complexity
is manipulated in two ways: Simple and Complex Task. Let the simple task be
called B1 and the complex task be called B2. Now you see that both independent
variables have been manipulated in two ways. The resulting factorial design is
2*2.
In the simplest form, with two levels of each independent variable there would be
four groups of randomly assigned participants. They would receive treatments that
represent all possible combinations of the two levels of arousal high and low and
the two levels of task complexity simple and complex. This design is known as
a 2*2 factorial experiments with 2*2=4 groups in all. In the notation system we
have been using all along, the design for this factorial experiment could be
diagrammed as follows.

G1 R XA1B1 O1
G2 R XA1B2 O2
G3 R XA2B1 O3
G4 R XA2B2 O4

The hypothesised outcome of this study would be O2 > O1 and O3 > O4. That
is, the prediction would be that performance on the simple task would be better
under conditions of high arousal, while performance on the complex task would
be worse under conditions of higher arousal an interaction or interactive effect
of the two independent variables.
Factorial experiments can also be represented in another way. Our hypothetical
experiment, with two independent variables each represented by two levels, could
be diagrammed as follows:
Task Complexity A
SimpleA1 ComplexA2

Arousal LowB1 GA1B1 GA2B1

Level B
HighB2 GA1B2 GA2B2

The four cells in this 2*2 table represent the four possible combinations of
treatments in 2*2 factorial experiments.

2.5.1 Main Effect and Interaction Effect

To understand the technical term main effect and interaction effect, it is necessary
to present the mean values for the four experimental conditions which are given
22 below. These are hypothetical data to illustrate the main and interaction effect.
2*2 Factorial Design on Arousal Level and Task Complexity Experimental Design
(Control Group Design and
Two Factor Design)
Task Complexity A Raw Means
(Effect of B)
Simple (A1) Complex (A2)

Arousal Low (B1) 9.0 11.8 10.4

Level B
High (B2) 6.2 14.4 10.3
Column Means 7.6 13.1
(Effect of A)

You can see that data in two left cells are performance of condition A1 that is,
the two simple task. Data in two cells on the right side are the performance of
condition of A2 that is, the two complex task. Therefore, we can average the data
in the two left cells and find average performance to simple task is 7.6, as shown
below the left column. Similarly, averaging the data in the two right cells gives the
average performance to the complex task, 13.1. Because 7.6 and 13.1 were
obtained by averaging the columns of the table, they are called the column
means. Looking at the column mean, we find that the complex task appear to
have taken more time than simple task. Therefore, it can be concluded that
complex task takes more time.
The effect of arousal level on performance in terms of time taken can be seen
by looking at the rows of the table. The two upper cells shows the performance
of condition B1 and the two lower cells show the performance of condition B2.
Averaging across the rows, you find that average performance in the low arousal
condition was 10.4 and the average for the high arousal was 10.3. Because 10.3
and 10.4 are obtained by averaging across the rows of the table they are called
the rows means. From the rows means it can be concluded that arousal difference
makes no difference at all to performance but when arousal combines with the
task complexity it is clear that arousal makes a big difference. However, the
nature of that difference becomes clear only when both independent variables are
taken into account.
It is now obvious that the factorial designs tell us the effect of each independent
variable individually. It indicates effect of arousal on performance and the effect
of task complexity on performance. These are the effects we would observe in
separate univariate experiments. These effects are known in statistical terms as the
main effects of independent variables. A main effect is the effect of one independent
variable averaged across the levels of the other independent variable.
Factorial design also tells us about the joint effect of two independent variables
or interaction between the two variables. These variables interact if effect of one
variable depends on the level of the other. You can see the interaction in the above
cited example here because effect of arousal depends on the task complexity.
(refer to graphs given below)

2.5.2 Graphical Presentation of the Main Effects and

Interaction Effect
The main effects are the task complexity and level of arousal and the interaction
effect is the combination of task complexity and level of arousal.
23
Research Designs From Multivariate Statistics: Concepts, Models and Applications
David W. Stockburger
Main Effect of Task Complexity Main Effect of Level of Arousal

Interaction Effect of Task Complexity and Level of Arousal

On Task Performance in Terms of Time and Completion
(http:// www.psychstat.missouristate.edu/multibook/mult09.htm)
Fig. 1 : Graphical Representation of Main Effect and Interaction
Effect
Interpretation
Graph of study 1 and study 2 shows the main effect of task complexity and level
of arousal on performance in terms of time taken. It is clear from the study1
results that complex task takes more time than simple task and study 2 results
reveals that arousal level makes no difference on performance. Further, one point
might be clarified by looking at the graph rather than tables of mean concerns the
concept of an interaction. The graph for study 3 shows the interaction between
task complexity and arousal. The fact that the two lines on that graph, for the
simple and complex task groups, are not parallel to one another suggests that
there is an interaction. Whether the line diverge, converge, or even cross, whenever
they arent parallel, the variables interact. If the lines are parallel, it shows
absence of a statistical interaction,

2.5.3 Two Factor, Multi-Level Factorial Design

24 The type of factorial design that we have discussed above is one in which there
are two independent variables, each having two levels. Hence, it was referred to Experimental Design
(Control Group Design and
as a 2*2 factorial design. Likewise, a factorial design with two independent Two Factor Design)
variables may be of a 3*2, 3*3, 4*3, 4*4 etc. In this way a generalised factorial
design for two independent variables may be written as K*L factorial design in
which K stands for the first independent variable and L stands for the second
independent variable. The value of K and L indicates the number of ways in which
the first and the second independent variables have been manipulated. These
ways are known as levels of the independent variable. Thus, a 3*2 factorial
design indicates that the first independent variable has three levels and the second
independent variable has two levels. In this design there will be six experimental
conditions. A 3*3 design similarly indicates that each of the two independent
variables has three levels.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Factorial designs are used to study the main effect and interaction effect
of two or more independent variables. T/F
2) Main effect of one variable is the effect of one variable averaged over
our all the levels of other variables. T/F
3) Through the raw means and column means researcher can explain the
interaction effect of independent variable. T/F
4) When the two lines are not parallel on the graph it indicates that there
is no interaction. T/F
5) In 2*2 factorial design, there are two independent variable and each
having two levels. T/F
6) When effect of one independent variable depends on the level of another
variable it is known as
a) Main effect
b) Reaction effect
c) Interaction effect
d) Joint effect
7) Which of the following is an advantage of controlled experimental design
a) Findings are easily applied to settings outside the laboratory.
b) They always use random sampling in choosing research participants.
c) They rarely need to be evaluated with respect to ethical concerns.
d) They provide a strong basis for drawing causal inferences.
8) Which statement is not correct in relation to factorial design
a) Factorial design is a kind of non-experimental design
b) Two or more independent variables are manipulated in all possible
combinations.
c) The factorial design enables the experimenter to study the independent
and interactive effect of two or more independent variable.
d) In factorial design as far as possible two groups of subjects is preferred. 25
Research Designs
9) If the experimenter wants to study the independent effect as well as interactive
effect of two or more independent variable. Then he uses
a) Solomon four group design
b) Randomized one way Enron design
c) Factorial design
d) Pretest posttest control group design
10) Which one of the most suitable statistical test is used in randomized block
design?
a) t-Ratio
b) ANOVA
c) Pearson r
d) Multivariate analysis

2.6 USES OF FACTORIAL DESIGN

Factorial Designs can be used to:
Identify which factors have the most important effects on the response.
Decide whether further investigation of a factors effect is justified.
Investigate the functional dependence of a response on multiple factors
simultaneously (if and only if you test many levels of each factor).
Find out whether specified factors influence response to a given treatment
See whether two factors interact with each other.
Optimise response in screening experiments.
Reduce the chance of missing an effect because the chosen material is
insensitive.

2.7 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF

FACTORIAL DESIGN
The factorial experiments have several advantages over single independent variable
experiment:
1) In a factorial design two or more than two independent variables are
simultaneously manipulated whereas in a single independent variable
experiment as its name implies a separate experiment is designed to study the
effect of independent variable. Thus a factorial experiment provides economy
of time labour and money.
2) The factorial experiment also permits the evaluation of interaction upon the
dependent variable. In a single independent variable experiment one cannot
evaluate the effect of the interaction of the independent variables because
only one independent variable is manipulated at a time.

26
3) The experimental results of a factorial experiment are more comprehensive Experimental Design
(Control Group Design and
and can be generalised to a wider range due to the manipulation of several Two Factor Design)
independent variables in one experiment. From this point of view the single
IV experiments suffer a major setback.
4) In factorial experiments there is an additional gain occurring due to the
hidden replication arising from the factorial arrangement itself.
Disadvantages
Despite these advantages, factorial design has some disadvantages which are as
follows:
1) Sometimes the experimental setup and the resulting statistical analysis become
so complex that the experimenter may wish to drop this design and return
to a single IV experiment. This is especially true when more than three
independent variables each with three or more levels are to be manipulated
together.
2) In factorial experiments when the number of treatment combinations or
treatments becomes large, it becomes difficult for the experimenter to select
a homogeneous experimental unit (or subject).
3) Sometimes, it happens that some treatment combinations arising out of the
simultaneous manipulation of several independent variables becomes
meaningless. Then, the resources spent in those combinations are simply
wasted.

2.8 LET US SUM UP

The overall blueprint of the experiment is called experimental design. Basic elements
of experimental design are choice or existence of control group and allocation of
the subjects randomly to both the groups. Factors, levels, condition, treatment,
main effect and interaction effect are the basic terms which are used in experimental
design. Broadly true experiments are classified into the two categories i.e. single
factor design and two factor design. Control group designs are used as true
experiments in psychological research. Control group provides a standard against
which to compare the effect of the particular variable. Post test only, equivalent
control group design and pretest posttest control group design are the major
types of control group design. Control group designs are mostly used when the
researcher wants to study the effect of one or two independent variable on the
dependent variable.
A factorial design uses all combinations of two or more independent variables,
each having at least two levels. Factorial designs are employed when one wants
to study the interaction effect of two or more independent variables. A factorial
design may save time by studying more than condition per experiment or it may
be used when ruling out more than one rival hypotheses or when one is interested
in possible interaction between the independent variables. In a factorial experiment,
the main effect of one variable is the effect of that variable averaged over all the
levels of the other variables. An interaction exists between two independent variables
when [independent]. Variable A has a different effect on the dependent variable
when it is combined with one level of [independent] variable B than with another
level of B. If the graph of a factorial experiment has non parallel lines; there is an
interaction between the variables.
27
Research Designs
2.9 UNIT END QUESTIONS
1) Explain experimental design method in research? Discuss the basic elements
and types of experimental design.
2) Differentiate between pretest only, control group design and pretest posttest
control group design.
3) Describe factorial design method in research? Discuss 2*2 factorial design
with relevant examples.
4) Explain the meaning of following in context of experimental design;
a) factor
b) levels
c) main effects
d) treatment
5) Discuss the contraction of interaction with examples.
6) How many variables? And how many levels of each would be investigated
in the following factorial design.
a) 2*2
b) 2*4
c) 2*3
7) Write advantages and disadvantages of factorial design.
Answer to SAQs
True of False: 1. (T), 2. (F), 3. (T), 4. (T), 5. (T), 6. (F), 7. (F), 8. (T)
Multiple choice: 1. (c), 2. (d), 3. (a), 4. (c), 5. (b)

2.10 SUGGESTED READINGS

Campbell D.T & Stanley, J.C (1963). Experimental and Quasi-Experimental
Designs for Research. New York: Russell Sage Foundation.
Kirk, R.E. (1968). Experimental Design: Procedures for the Behavioural
Sciences. Belmont: Calif Brooks/Cole.
Solomon, B K (1949). An Extension of Control Group Design. Psychological
Bulletin, 46,137-50 .
Broota, K.D. (1997). Experimental Design. New Age International, New Delhi

28
UNIT 3 SURVEY DESIGN
Structure
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Objectives
3.2 Survey Research Designs
3.3 Steps in Survey Design
3.3.1 Establishing the Goals
3.3.2 Sample and Sampling Plan

3.4 Structuring and Designing the Questionnaire

3.4.1 Determine the Purpose of Questionnaire
3.4.2 Determine the Types of Questions
3.4.3 Determine the Wording of the Questions
3.4.4 Determine Order of Questions
3.4.5 Pre Test the Questionnaire

3.5 Interviewing Methodology

3.5.1 Personal Interview
3.5.2 Telephone Survey
3.5.3 Mail Survey
3.5.4 Computer Direct Interviews
3.5.5 Email Survey
3.5.6 Internet/Intranet (Web Page) Surveys

3.6 Data Analysis

3.7 Final Report
3.8 Let Us Sum Up
3.9 Glossary
3.10 Unit End Questions
3.11 Suggested Readings

3.0 INTRODUCTION
Every method of data collection, including the survey, is only an approximation
to knowledge. Each provides a different glimpse of reality, and all have limitations
when used alone. Before undertaking a survey the researcher would do well to
ask if this is the most appropriate and fruitful method for the problem at hand. The
survey is highly valuable for studying some problems, such as public opinion and
worthless for others.
(Source: Donald P. Warwick and Charles A. Lininger)
You may assume someone hands you a sheet of paper full of questions. The first
reads: I would like to learn your opinion of the course materials provided by the
IGNOU. Would you say it is (a) well organised, (b) adequately organised or (c)
poorly organised? You probably would not be shocked by this. It is a kind of
survey and most of us are normally encountered with such set of questions.
29
Research Designs Knowing what people want is the key factor to success in any type of organised
efforts. NGOs, News, media, government departments, and political candidates
need to know what people think. Associations need to know what their members
want. Large companies need to measure the attitudes of their employees. The
best way to find this information is to conduct a survey. The survey research
design is very valuable tool for assessing opinions and trends. If survey design is
well-structured, one can obtain an accurate representation of opinion.
This unit is intended primarily for those who are keen to learn and do survey
research. It discusses how to design a valid survey, what are the steps involved
in survey design and how to administer it to a representative sample of the
respondents. This unit begins with the description of what you want to learn.
(Establish the goals of survey design) whom you will interview (determine the
sample), how you will interview (interviewing methodology), what you will ask
(questionnaire designing), pre-test the questions and finally analysing results with
final reports.

3.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
Explain the various steps of survey design;
List advantages and disadvantages of various kinds of interviewing methodology
for survey;
Select appropriate mode of administering survey;
Know the techniques and procedure of sampling;
Design a good questionnaire and know the method of administering the
questionnaire; and
Know how to analyse the questionnaire.

3.2 SURVEY RESEARCH DESIGNS

Survey research studies large and small populations (or universe) by selecting and
studying selected sample populations to discover the relative incidence, distribution
and interrelations of sociological and psychological variables. The social scientific
nature of survey research is revealed by the nature of its variables, which can be
classified as sociological facts and opinions and attitudes. Sociological facts are
attributes of individuals, for example; sex, income, political and religious affiliatation,
socio-economic status, education, age, occupation, caste and so on.
The second type of variable is psychological and includes opinions and attributes
on one hand and behaviour on the other. The survey researcher is not interested
primarily in the sociological variables as such. He is primarily interested in what
people think and what they do. The sociological variables are then related in some
manner to the psychological variables. The census and public opinion polls
conducted by various agencies are good examples of survey.
Surveys can also be used to test hypotheses about the relationships among variables.
One may try to find out the effects of some event on peoples behaviour. For
example, surveys have been conducted after the Tsunami hits Chennai to find out
impact of Tsunami on peoples lives.
30
 Survey Design
3.3 STEPS IN SURVEY DESIGN
Survey researchers use a flow plan or chart to outline the design and subsequent
implementation of a survey . These steps and the flow chart are presented below.
Phase-1
Establishing goal
Develop hypotheses
Decide on type of survey (mail, interview, telephone)
Write survey questions
Decide on responses categories
Design layout
Plan how to record data
Phase-2
Sample and Sampling Plan
Select sample
Decide on target population
Get sampling frame
Decide on sample size
Phase-3
Structuring and Designing the Questionnaire
Questionnaire design
Questionnaire construction
Questionnaire wording
Pre Test the questionnaire
Phase-4
Interviewing methodology
Interviewing methodology
Conduct interviews
Carefully record data
Phase-5
Data Analysis
Enter data into computers
Recheck all data
Coding and tabulation
31
Research Designs Perform statistical analysis on data
Phase-6
Final Report
Describe methods and findings in research report
Present findings to others for critique and evaluation
The flow plan starts with the objective with the survey and ends with empirical
measurement data analysis in final report. The above phases are being elaborately
dealt with below.

3.3.1 Establishing the Goals of Survey Project

The first step in any survey is deciding what you want to learn. The goals of the
survey project determine whom you will survey and what you will ask them. If
goals are unclear the results will probably be unclear. First the general and specific
problems that are to be solved are as carefully and as completely stated as
possible. For example, an educational investigator is interested to study the attitudes
of the community members towards the school system. While discussing the
general problem the investigator notes down a number of the more specific problem
such as: Is the attitude of the members of the community affected by their having
children in school? Are their attitudes affected by their educational level? Most
important job of the investigator is to specify and clarify the problem in this
regard.
The researcher should also have specific questions to ask that are aimed at
various facets of the problem. Each of these questions should be built into the
interview schedule. Some survey researcher even designs tables for the analysis
of data at this point in order to clarify the research problem and to guide the
construction of interview questions.

3.3.2 Sample and Sampling Plan

The next step in the flow plan is the sample and the sampling plan.
There are two main components in determining whom you will interview. The first
is deciding what kind of people to interview. Researchers often call this group the
target population. If you conduct an employee attitude survey or an association
membership survey, the population is obvious. If you are trying to determine the
likely success of a product, the target population may be less obvious. Correctly
determining the target population is critical. If you do not interview the right kinds
of people, you will not successfully meet your goals.
The next thing to decide is how many people you need to interview. Statisticians
know that a small, representative sample will reflect the group from which it is
drawn. The larger the sample, the more precisely it reflects the target group. The
Survey System includes a sample size calculator that can help you decide on the
sample size.
Surveys differ greatly in value according to how the respondents are the sampled.
In understanding surveys researcher defines the study population and draws the
sample. Researcher use different procedure for sampling. They can use random
sampling in which every member of population has an equal and independent
chance for being included in the sample. Usually the researchers use the stratified
32 random sampling. Under this system the universe is first divided into number of
strata or groups then from each strata or group certain numbers of the items are Survey Design
taken on a random basis. Sometimes groups are selected by using cluster or
grouping from a larger population. This is known as cluster sample.
Besides these probabilities sampling, surveyor also uses different kinds of non
probability samples such as: haphazard sample, purposive sample and convenient
sample. In the best survey research, random samples are used because of their
high cost and greater difficulties of execution. Random samples are often bypassed
for quota samples. In a quota sample, representativeness is presumably achieved
by assigning quotas to interviewers that is, so many men and women, so many
boys and girls, and so on. Quota sampling should be avoided in the behavioural
survey research, because while it may achieve representativeness, it lacks virtue
of random sampling.
Self assessment Questions
Multiple choice questions
1) In random sample?
a) Each subject has the equal chance of being included
b) Selected subjects are taken
c) Subjects are taken according to merit
d) None of these
2) Which sampling method does not ideally represent the population?
a) Quota sampling
b) Random sampling
c) Cluster sampling
d) Stratified sampling
3) For five categories of books the researchers within each category, chooses
only three titles and then computes statistical tests on the resulting data) This
is an example of
a) Discrete sampling
b) Stratified sampling
c) Random sampling
d) Selective sampling

3.4 STRUCTURING AND DESIGNING THE

QUESTIONNAIRE
After deciding target population, the next large step in a survey design is a
construction and designing the questionnaire to be used. Designing a questionnaire
is a surprisingly complex procedure that involves a great many considerations. It
shares many of the other considerations of research design in addition to the
concerns that are inherent in any written or oral form of communication. Frequently
researchers use existing questionnaires rather than designing their own instruments.
33
Research Designs Thus they avoid redesigning the wheel and they compare their results with those
of previous studies using the same instrument. The considerations listed in the
following sections will be helpful whether you design your own questionnaire or
select an existing one.

3.4.1 Determine the Purpose of the Questionnaire

The first question to ask when designing a questionnaire is the same as for any
research. What do you expect to accomplish? It is important to mention this here
because beginning researchers sometimes tend to design and administer a
questionnaire without thinking purpose of the survey.
Suppose the students in the college are concerned about campus security. Some
one might design and administer a questionnaire that shows the students are, in
fact, concerned about the problem. This is not particularly useful information.
What would be useful is information about what specific things could be done to
improve campus security: increasing the frequency of patrols by police, providing
an escort service, reducing the number of entrances to buildings, or installing an
electronic security system. In this way, the administration would know what changes
would be acceptable to the college community and be given some guidance in
deciding how best to allocate resources to improve campus security.

3.4.2 Determine the Type of Questions

Questionnaire, as used in Behavioural researches, can be classified on the basis
of two dimensions (a) type of response required and (b) type of questionnaire
administration. Based upon the type of responses required survey questions may
be classified into two categories:
i) Closed ended or fixed response Questions
ii) Open ended Questions
Closed Ended or Fixed response Questions: As its name implies, fixed response
questions consists of statements of questions with a fixed number of options or
choices. The respondent is asked to check the option or response that best fits
or suit him. A few statements illustrating fixed response questions are as under:
Do you feel shy in talking to the members of the opposite sex? Yes/No
Do you like to entertain members of the opposite sex in a club? Yes/No
Do you like to have a member of the opposite sex as one of
your shopping partners? Yes/No
One of the basic assumptions to be made behind the use of fixed response
questionnaire is that the target sample has an adequate knowledge of the subject
matter of the questionnaire. Another assumption is that the researcher has enough
knowledge about the sample under investigation so that he can easily anticipate
what kinds of responses are likely to be given.
Open-ended Questions: Open-end questions consist of questions that require
short or lengthy answers by the respondents. An open ended question permits the
respondents to answer in their own words. . The following examples are as under:

34
 Survey Design
What are the causes of student unrest?
What methods do you recommend for improving discipline on the university
campus?
Open-ended Questions are harder to code, however, because the answers are in
narrative form, it is necessary to categorize responses in some way to summarize
the data. This must be done after the survey is complete.
In the construction of the questionnaire, attention is devoted to increase the
respondents cooperation and avoid misunderstanding of the questions. First, the
questionnaire format should be presentable, not too densely packed, and it must
be attractive and clear. This involves using intelligible contingency (if no/yes go
to...) questions, or matrix questions that contain all the items or response options
to a question.
Second, the effects of the order in which questions have to be posed, has to be
considered, and this can be pre-tested with different questionnaires, and by being
sensitive to the research problem.
Third, clear instructions on how to answer the questions should be given, and it
is best to divide the questionnaire into different sections that are each preceded
with instructions.

3.4.3 Determining the Wording of the Questions

The wording of the question should equally enhance the unambiguous nature of
the questionnaire. Several options are available depending on the research
perspective: attitudes, for instance, can be measured with Likert scale questions
(variation from strongly disagree to strongly agree). Questions can also be open-
ended (and coded by the researcher for analysis) or closed-ended (an exhaustive
list of mutually exclusive alternatives).
Note that open-ended questions may pose problems for analysis (too many
responses), while closed-ended questions may impose too rigid a framework on
the respondents. Also, each statement should not be too long, not negatively
phrased, and posed in neutral, unambiguous terms to avoid social desirability
effects and bias in any one (pro/con) direction. Also avoid double-barreled
questions, and make sure to ask comprehensible and relevant questions.

3.4.4 Determine Order of Questions

In a questionnaire the order of the individual questions is of great significance
because the order tends to influence the validity of the obtained answers as well
as the refusal rates (Cantril, 1944; Whitfield, 1950). In the beginning the respondent
is unsure of himself as well as curious. So the opening questions should be simple,
general and such as to put the respondent at ease. This has a natural effect of
establishing rapport between the investigator and the respondent. No sensitive
question or embarrassing question should be asked and there should be no personal
question either because it is likely to lead to refusal to answer. Then the question
should move from the general to specific aspect in a logical manner. Ordinarily no
break should be given in moving from general to specific questions. But where the
break becomes essential the investigator should explain the significance of the
break and the new set of questions should follow in one or two sentences.
If at all the sensitive questions or embarrassing or personal questions have to be
asked, it should be placed in or near the end so that if refusal is met relatively
35
only a few questions are left unanswered.
Research Designs Kahn & Cannell (1957) have recommended that it is most wise to start with some
broad questions relating to the topics and then gradually narrowing down to the
specific questions. They have named such a sequence of questions as a funnel
sequence. Currently the funnel sequence of questions has become the standard
norm for questionnaire in behavioural researches.

3.4.5 Pre-Test the Questionnaire

When preparing a questionnaire, the researcher thinks ahead as to how he or she
will record and organise the data for analysis. He or she pilot tests the questionnaire
with a small group of respondents similar to those in a final survey. If interviewers
are used the researcher trains them how to use the questionnaire and collect the
data. He or she asks the respondents in the pilot test whether the questions were
clear and explores their interpretations to see whether his or her intended meaning
was clear. This kind of test can reveal unanticipated problems with question
wording, instructions to skip questions, etc. It can help you see if the interviewees
understand your questions and give useful answers.

3.5 INTERVIEWING METHODOLOGY

After designing and construction the questionnaire researcher must decide on
method of data collection. There are many methods of reaching the target group
but all have advantages and disadvantages. A detailed discussion of each of them
is presented below :

3.5.1 Personal Interview

Personal interview are also known as the survey interview is one in which a direct
conversation between the interviewer and the respondent is held with a view to
elicit some information from the respondent.
In a (more time-consuming and expensive) interview survey, sensitive and
complicated issues can be explored face-to-face. This method also ensures a
higher response rate, and a reduction of dont know answers. The interviewer
has more control over the data collection process and can clarify unclear questions
in a standardised way. Since the questionnaire is the main measurement instrument,
the interviewer must make sure that the questions have identical meaning to all
respondents: interviewers should (and are trained to) be familiar with the
questionnaire, dress like the respondents, behave in a neutral way during the
interview, follow the given question wording and order, record the answers exactly,
and probe for answers. Interview surveys typically have a higher response rate
(affecting generalisability).

3.5.2 Telephone Surveys

Surveying by telephone is now also a popular interviewing method in metro cities
of India. This is made possible by nearly universal coverage. Mobile phones in
India are now being used for telephone surveys.
Advantages
People can usually be contacted faster over the telephone than with other methods.
If the Interviewers are using CATI (computer-assisted telephone interviewing), the
results can be available minutes after completing the last interview. You can dial
random telephone numbers when you do not have the actual telephone numbers
36 of potential respondents.
CATI software, such as The Survey System, makes complex questionnaires Survey Design
practical by offering many logic options. It can automatically skip questions,
perform calculations and modify questions based on the answers to earlier
questions. It can check the logical consistency of answers and can present questions
or answers choices in a random order.
Skilled interviewers can often elicit longer or more complete answers than people
will give on their own to mail, email surveys (though some people will give longer
answers to Web page surveys). Interviewers can also ask for clarification of
unclear responses.
Some software, such as The Survey System, can combine survey answers with
pre-existing information you have about the people being interviewed.
Disadvantages
Many telemarketers have given legitimate research a bad name by claiming to be
doing research when they start a sales call. Consequently, many people are
reluctant to answer phone interviews and use their answering machines to screen
calls.
The growing number of working women often means that no one is home during
the day. This limits calling time to a window of about 6-9 p.m. (when you can
be sure to interrupt dinner or a favorite TV program).
You cannot show or sample products by phone.

3.5.3 Mail Survey

As its name implies a questionnaire consisting of several items that are designed
to elicit the required information is prepared and mailed to the respondents with
the request to return it after answering all the items. Thus the mail questionnaire
appears to be a direct means for obtaining information from every respondent.
Advantages
Mail surveys are among the least expensive. This is the only kind of survey you
can do if you have the names and addresses of the target population, but not their
telephone numbers. The questionnaire can include pictures something that is not
possible over the phone. Mail surveys allow the respondent to answer at their
leisure, rather than at the often inconvenient moment they are contacted for a
phone or personal interview. For this reason, they are not considered as intrusive
as other kinds of interviews.
Disadvantages
Mail surveys take longer time than other kinds. You will need to wait several
weeks after mailing out questionnaires before you can be sure that you have
gotten most of the responses.
In populations of lower educational and literacy levels, response rates to mail
surveys are often too small to be useful. This, in effect, eliminates many immigrant
populations that form substantial markets in many areas.
Even in well-educated populations, response rates vary from as low as 3% up to
90%. As a rule of thumb, the best response levels are achieved from highly-
educated people and people with a particular interest in the subject (which,
depending on your target population, could lead to a biased sample).
37
Research Designs One way of improving response rates to mail surveys is to mail a postcard telling
your sample to watch for a questionnaire in the next week or two. Another is to
follow up a questionnaire mailing after a couple of weeks with a card asking
people to return the questionnaire. The downside is that this doubles or triples
your mailing cost. If you have purchased a mailing list from a supplier, you may
also have to pay a second (and third) use fee, as you cannot buy the list once
and re-use it. The bulk mail moves slowly, increasing the time needed to complete
your project.

3.5.4 Computer Direct Interviews

These are interviews in which the Interviewees enter their own answers directly
into a computer. They can be used at malls, trade shows, offices, and so on. The
Survey Systems optional Interviewing Module and Interview Stations can easily
create computer-direct interviews. Some researchers set up a Web page survey
for this purpose.
Advantages
Through computer direct interviews, you will get more accurate answers to sensitive
questions. Recent studies of potential blood donors have shown respondents
were more likely to reveal HIV-related risk factors to a computer screen than to
either human interviewers or paper questionnaires. The National Institute of Justice
has also found that computer-aided surveys among drug users get better results
than personal interviews. Employees are also more often willing to give more
honest answers to a computer than to a person or paper questionnaire.
Different interviewers can ask questions in different ways, leading to different
results. The computer asks the questions the same way every time, thus reducing
interviewer bias.
Ensuring skip patterns are accurately followed. The Survey System can ensure
people are not asked questions they should skip based on their earlier answers.
These automatic skips are more accurate than relying on an Interviewer reading
a paper questionnaire. Response rates are usually higher. Computer-aided
interviewing is still novel enough that some people will answer a computer interview
when they would not have completed another kind of interview.
Disadvantages
The Interviewees must have access to a computer or one must be provided for
them.
As with mail surveys, computer direct interviews may have serious response rate
problems in populations of lower educational and literacy levels. This method may
grow in importance as computer use increases.

3.5.5 Email Surveys

Email surveys are both very economical and very fast. More people have email
than have full Internet access. This makes email a better choice than a Web page
survey for some populations. On the other hand, email surveys are limited to
simple questionnaires, whereas Web page surveys can include complex logic.
Advantages
An email questionnaire can gather several thousand responses within a day or
38 two. There is practically no cost involved once the set up has been completed.
You can attach pictures and sound files. The novelty element of an email survey Survey Design
often stimulates higher response levels than ordinary snail mail surveys.
Disadvantages
You may possess or purchase a list of email addresses. Some people will respond
several times or pass questionnaires along to friends to answer. Many programs
have no check to eliminate people responding multiple times to bias the results.
The Survey Systems Email Module will only accept one reply from each address
sent the questionnaire. It eliminates duplicate and pass along questionnaires and
checks to ensure that respondents have not ignored instructions (e.g., giving 2
answers to a question requesting only one). Many people dislike unsolicited email
even more than unsolicited regular mail. You may want to send email questionnaires
only to people who expect to get email from you. You cannot use email surveys
to generalise findings to the whole populations. People who have email are different
from those who do not, even when matched on demographic characteristics, such
as age and gender.
Email surveys cannot automatically skip questions or randomize question or answer
choice order or use other automatic techniques. Many citizens still do not possess
email facilities, especially older people and those in lower income and education
groups. So email surveys do not reflect the population as a whole. At this stage
they are probably best used in a corporate environment where email is common
or when most members of the target population are known to have email.

3.5.6 Internet/Intranet (Web Page) Surveys

Web surveys are rapidly gaining popularity. They have major speed, cost, and
flexibility advantages, but also significant sampling limitations. These limitations
make software selection especially important and restrict the groups you can
study using this technique.
Advantages
Web page surveys are extremely fast. A questionnaire posted on a popular Web
site can gather several thousand responses within a few hours. Many people who
will respond to an email invitation to take a Web survey will do so the first day,
and most will do so within a few days. There is practically no cost involved once
the set up has been completed. Large samples do not cost more than smaller
ones. Some Web survey software can show pictures, video and play sound. Web
page questionnaires can use complex question skipping logic, randomizations and
other features not possible with paper questionnaires or most email surveys.
These features can assure better data.
Web page questionnaires can use colours, fonts and other formatting options not
possible in most email surveys. A significant number of people will give more
honest answers to questions about sensitive topics, such as drug use or sex, when
giving their answers to a computer, instead of to a person or on paper. On
average, people give longer answers to open-ended questions on Web page
questionnaires than they do on other kinds of self-administered surveys.
Some Web survey software, such as The Survey System, can combine the survey
answers with pre-existing information you have about individuals taking a survey.
Disadvantages
1) Current use of the Internet is far from universal. Internet surveys do not 39
Research Designs reflect the population as a whole. This is true even if a sample of Internet
users is selected to match the general population in terms of age, gender and
other demographics.
2) People can easily quit in the middle of a questionnaire. They are not as likely
to complete a long questionnaire on the Web as they would be if talking with
a good interviewer.
3) Depending on your software, there is often no control over people responding
multiple times to bias the results. At this stage we recommend using the
Internet for surveys mainly when your target population consists entirely or
almost entirely of Internet users. Business-to-business research and employee
attitude surveys can often meet this requirement. Surveys of the general
population usually will not.
4) Another reason to use a Web page survey is when you want to show video
or both sound and graphics. A Web page survey may be the only practical
way to have many people view and react to a video. In any case, be sure
your survey software prevents people from completing more than one
questionnaire. You may also want to restrict access by requiring a password
(good software allows this option) or by putting the survey on a page that
can only be accessed directly.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Which surveys are the fastest method for obtaining the response?
a) email survey
b) telephone survey
c) male survey
d) interview survey
2) A questionnaire in which the respondent is free to answer in their own
words is known as
a) open-ended questions
b) close-ended questions
c) partially open questions
d) neutral questions
3) A questionnaire consists of statements of questions with a fixed number of
options or alternative is known as:
a) open-ended questions
b) close-ended questions
c) partially open question
d) neutral questions
4) A sample in which every member of population has an equal chance of
being selected is called
a) quota sample
40
 Survey Design
b) random sample
c) stratified random sample
d) cluster sample
5) Which survey method is most expensive?
a) telephone
b) email
c) interviews
d) web page
True/False
1) Questionnaire are standardized test. (T/F)
2) Interviews can be structured as well as unstructured. (T/F)
3) A random sample from population is not necessary to get
good survey data. (T/F)
4) Personal interviews are most expensive than other
survey methods. (T/F)
5) Order of questions should move from specific to general aspect
in a logical manner. (T/F)
6) Socially desirable answers should be avoided. (T/F)

3.6 DATA ANALYSIS

The fifth phase of survey design flow plan is analytical. The responses to questions
are coded and tabulated. Coding is the term used to describe the translation of
question responses and respondent information to specific categories for purposes
of analysis. Coding can mean the analysis of factual response data and then
assignment of individuals to classes or categories, or the assigning of categories
to individuals, especially if one is preparing machine cards for machine analysis.
Such card consists of a large number of columns with a number of cells in each
column. For example, the fifth column may be assigned to sex and first two cells
of the column, or the numbers 0 and 1 used to designate female and male.
Tabulation is simply the recording of the numbers of types of responses in the
appropriate categories after which statistical analysis follows: percentages, averages,
relational indices and appropriate tests of significance.

3.7 FINAL REPORT

In the last phase of the survey design, the analysis of the data are studied,
collated, assimilated, and interpreted. Finally the results of this interpretative process
are reported.

3.8 LET US SUM UP

Survey research design is a valuable tool for assessing opinions and trends.
41
Designing a survey is a complex procedure that shares components of research
Research Designs design. Survey design starts with the objective of the survey and ends with the
final report. After establishing the goals, surveys may use different types of sampling
techniques i.e. random sampling, stratified random sampling, cluster sampling.
Designing the questionnaire is a laborious and difficult task for the researcher. The
steps in designing the questionnaire are to determine its purpose, types of questions,
order of questions, questions wording and pre test the questionnaire. . Methods
of survey administration include personal interview, telephone survey, mail surveys,
computer direct interview, email surveys and internet surveys etc. Each has
advantages and disadvantages. After data collection, responses to questions are
coded, tabulated, interpreted and finally reported.

3.9 GLOSSARY
Random Sample : a sample in which every member of the
population has an equal and independent
chance of being selected.
Stratified Random Sample : a random sample in which two or more
subsamples are represented according to
some predetermined proportion generally in
the same proportion as they exist in the
population.
Cluster Sample : group selected by using clusters or groupings
from a larger population.
Open Ended Questions : one that the respondents answer in their own
words.
Close Ended Questions : one that limits the respondents to certain
alternatives.
Mutually Exclusive : categories defined so that membership in one
rules out membership in other.
CATI : (Computer-assisted telephone interviewing)
survey research telephone interviewing in
which the interviewer sits before a computer
screen and keyboard, reads from the screen
questions and enters answers directly to the
computers.
Social Desirability Bias : a bias in survey research in which
respondents give a normative response or
a socially acceptable answer rather than a
honest answer.
Funnel Sequence : organising survey research questions in a
questionnaire from general to specific
questions.
Likert Scale : A question that asks for a rating of extent of
agreement or disagreement.
Double Barreled Question : A survey question that contains more than
one issue and can create respondent
42
confusion for ambiguous answers.
Quota Sampling : A non probability sampling method in which Survey Design
the investigator recognises the different strata
of population and from each stratum he
selects number of individuals arbitrarily.

3.10 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) What is a survey design? Give its characteristics?
2) Discuss the various steps in survey design?
3) Put forward in detail how will you structure a questionnaire
4) What is meant by interviewing methodology elaborate?
5) What are the important aspects to be kept in mind in data analysis and
writing up the final report?
Answer to SAQs
Multiple choice: 1(a), 2(a), 3(b), 4(a), 5(a), 6(b), 7(b), 8(c)
True or False: 1(F), 2(T), 3(F), 4(T), 5(F), 6(T)

3.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

Kerlinger: Research Methods in Behaviour Research, New Age International,
New Delhi.
Katz & Katn: Research Methods, Sage Publication, New Delhi.

43
 UNIT 4 SINGLE SUBJECT DESIGN
Structure
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Objectives
4.2 Single Subject Design: Definition and Meaning
4.3 Phases Within Single Subject Design
4.4 Requirements of Single Subject Design
4.5 Characteristics of Single Subject Design
4.6 Types of Single Subject Design
4.6.1 Withdrawal Design
4.6.2 A-B Design Paradigm
4.6.3 A-B-A Design Paradigm
4.6.4 A-B-A-B Design Paradigm

4.7 Alternative Treatment Design

4.7.1 Multiple Baseline Design
4.7.2 Changing Criterion Design

4.8 Advantages of Single Subject Design

4.9 Disadvantages of Single Subject Design
4.10 Let Us Sum Up
4.11 Glossary
4.12 Unit End Questions
4.13 Suggested Readings

4.0 INTRODUCTION
While majority of contemporary research is based on group designs, the history
of psychology contains numerous examples of significant research contributions
based on the observation of single organisms. For example, the early investigation
of the physiology of behaviour by Hippocrates, Galen, Muller, Broca and others
led to the discovery of the functions of the various portions of the brains and the
role of the endocrine system in behaviour. Furthermore, the procedures developed
for the study of perceptual phenomena were based on extensive observations of
individual subjects.
Other examples of significant contributions to the psychological literature based
on the observation of individual subjects would include Ebbinghaus identification
of several basic principles of memory using himself as subject, Pavlovs development
of the history of classic conditioning based on his observations of individual
laboratory dogs and Freuds development of psychoanalytical theory, which he
based on his studies of individual clients. More recently, B.F Skinner has been the
most prominent psychologist to use the intensive study of individual organisms as
the basis of theory development. However, not all experiment uses the group of
subjects. Single subject research has been a popular method of research in the
experimental analysis of behaviour as well as other area of research such as drug
44 evaluation and behaviour therapy.
This unit begins with meaning and description of single subject design. The phases Single Subject Design
within the single subject design along with requirement of single subject design are
then given. This is followed by the details of some basic strategies for achieving
control in experiment using single subject design such as withdrawal design,
alternative treatment design, multiple baseline design and changing criterion design.
Moreover, you will find the various types of withdrawal design. Finally, several
advantages and disadvantages of single participation approach are pointed out.

4.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
Define single subject design;
Discuss the various phases involved in single subject design;
Explain basic types of Single Subject Design together with advantage and
disadvantage;
Tell others the different paradigms of Single Subject Design used in withdrawal
design;
Explain which type of strategy for achieving control in single subject experiment
can be employed in different situations; and
Enlist the advantage and disadvantage of Single Subject Design.

4.2 SINGLE SUBJECT DESIGN: DEFINITION AND

MEANING
Single subject designs are thought to be a direct result of the research of B.F.
Skinner who applied the techniques of operant conditioning to subjects and
measured the outcomes at various points in time. Because of this, single subject
designs are often considered the design of choice when measuring behavioural
change or when performing behavioural modification. Rather than comparing groups
of subjects, this design relies on the comparison of treatment effects on a single
subject or group of single subjects.
Single-subject design or single-case research design is a research design
most often used in applied fields of psychology, education, and human behaviour
in which the subject serves as his/her own control, rather than using another
individual/group. Researchers use single-subject design because these designs are
sensitive to individual organism differences vs group designs which are sensitive
to averages of groups. Often there will be large numbers of subjects in a research
study using single-subject design. Since the subject serves as their own control,
this is still a single-subject design. These designs are used primarily to evaluate the
effect of a variety of interventions in applied research.
According to Nelson and Martella (1999) Single-subject research is experimental
rather than correlational or descriptive, and its purpose is to document causal, or
functional, relationships between independent and dependent variables. Single
subject research employs within and between subjects comparisons to control for
major threats to internal validity and requires systematic replication to enhance
external validity (Nelson & Martella,1999).
According to Gay & Airasian (2003) Single Subject Research Designs (also
referred to as single-case experimental designs) are designs that can be applied 45
Research Designs when the sample size is one or when a number of individuals are considered as
one group. These designs are typically used to study the behavioural change an
individual exhibits as a result of some treatment. In single-subject designs, each
participant serves as her or his own control, similar to a time-series design.
Basically, the participant is exposed to a non-treatment and a treatment phase and
performance is measured during each phase.
In general, single-subject research is a method of testing hypotheses. Generally
such research is used to test the hypotheses that a particular treatment will tend
to have an effect on one or more Behaviour. Single subject research designs are
very useful in clinical research particularly in the area of Behaviour modification
and drug evaluation.

4.3 PHASES WITHIN SINGLE SUBJECT DESIGN

Baseline: This phase is one in which the researcher collects data on the dependent
variable without any intervention in place.
Intervention: This phase is one in which the researcher introduces an independent
variable (the intervention) and then collects data on the dependent variable.
Reversal: This phase is one in which the researcher removes the independent
variable (reversal) and then collects data on the dependent variable.
It is important that the data are stable (steady trend and low variability) before
the researcher moves to the next phase. Single-subject designs produce or
approximate three levels of knowledge: (1) descriptive, (2) correlational, and (3)
causal.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Define single subject design and mention its major features.
.................
.................
.................
.................
2) What are the various phases within single subject design? Give suitable
examples.
.................
.................
.................
.................

4.4 REQUIREMENTS OF A SINGLE-SUBJECT

DESIGN
The following are requirements of single-subject designs:
Continuous assessment: The behaviour of the individual is observed repeatedly
over the course of the intervention. This insures that any treatment effects are
46
observed long enough to convince the scientist that the treatment produces a Single Subject Design
lasting effect.
Baseline assessment: Before the treatment is implemented, researcher to look
for behavioural trends. If a treatment reverses a baseline trend (e.g., things were
getting worse as time went on in baseline but the treatment reversed this trend)
then this is powerful evidence suggesting (though not proving) a treatment effect.
Variability in data: Because behaviour is assessed repeatedly, the single-subject
design allows the researcher to see how consistently the treatment changes
behaviour from day-to-day. Large-group statistical designs do not typically provide
this information because repeated assessments are not usually not taken and the
behaviours of individuals in the groups are not scrutinized; instead, group means
are reported.

4.5 CHARACTERISTICS OF SINGLE SUBJECT

DESIGN
McMillan (2004) has summarized five characteristics of single-subject research:
1) Reliable measurement: Since these designs involve multiple measures of
behaviour, it is important for the instrumentation to be reliable. Conditions for
data collection, such as time of day and location, should be standardised,
and observers need to be trained. Consistency in measurement is especially
crucial in the transition before and after the treatment.
2) Repeated measurement: The same behaviour is measured over and over
again. This step is different from most experiments, in which the dependent
variable is measured only once. Repeated measures are needed to obtain a
clear pattern or consistency in the behaviour over time. They control for the
normal variation of behaviour that is expected within short time intervals. This
aspect of single-subject designs is similar to time series studies, which
investigate groups rather than individuals and do not provide for a return to
conditions that were present before the treatment was implemented.
3) Description of conditions: A clear, detailed description of the conditions of
measurement and the nature of the treatment is needed to strengthen internal
and external validity.
4) Baseline and treatment conditions: Each single subject study involves at
least one baseline and one treatment condition. The baseline refers to a
period of time in which the target behaviour (dependent variable) is observed
and recorded as it occurs without a special or new intervention. The baseline
behaviour provides the frame of reference against which future behaviour is
compared. The term baseline can also refer to a period of time following a
treatment in which conditions match what was present in the original baseline.
The treatment condition is a period of time during which the experimental
manipulation is introduced and the target behaviour continues to be observed
and recorded. Both the baseline and treatment phases of the study need to
be long enough to achieve stability in the target behaviour.
5) Single-variable rule: During a single-subject study, only one variable should
be changed from baseline to treatment conditions. In some studies two
variables are changed together during the same treatment condition. This is
an interaction in single-subject research.
47
Research Designs
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the requirements of single subject design? Give examples.
.................
.................
.................
.................
2) What are the characteristics of a signle subject design?
.................
.................
.................
.................

4.6 TYPES OF SINGLE SUBJECT DESIGN

In single subject experiment research the following four types of basic designs are
commonly used:
Withdrawal design
Alternating treatments design
Multiple baseline design
Changing criterion design

4.6.1 Withdrawal Design

As the name implies the experimental treatment that is introduced following a
baseline period is then withdrawn. The treatment can be systematically presented
and withdrawn in several ways. The basic logic is to establish an operant level,
introduce the independent variable, note any changes in response rate, withdraw
the independent variable to see if response rate returns to operant level and so
forth. Sometimes the withdrawal design is erroneously referred to as a reversal
design. Thus, reversal refers to the removal and withdrawal of the treatment
variable that is applied following the baseline period; i.e. reversing back to
baseline. There are three commonly used types of paradigms of withdrawal design
given as underneath:

4.6.2 A-B Design Paradigm (1 baseline and 1 treatment

phase)
The A-B single case design evolved from the case study and is the simplest
strategy by which to systematically observe individual behaviour with and without
the presence of an experimental treatment. In the A-B design the dependent
variable or target behaviour is operationally defined and measurements of this
behaviour are made throughout the study. During the A phase of the investigation,
baseline observations are made of the behaviour being studied to determine the
frequency of occurrence. During the B phase the treatment variable is introduced
48 and nay changes in the dependent variable are noted and attributed to the
independent variable. In a clinical setting the A-B design could be used to study
the effects of shock therapy in the treatment of drinking problem. The A phase Single Subject Design
(baseline) would be the amount of alcohol consumed by the patient before treatment.
During the B phase the patient would be offered a choice between alcohol and
non-alcoholic beverage. If the subjects chose the alcohol then a mild electric
shock would be delivered. The results indicated that the patient decreased alcohol
consumption.
The weakness of this design is that it lacks internal validity. It is possible that an
extraneous variable could be responsible for the changes observed during phase
B. Thus this design should be used only when other designs are not possible.

4.6.3 A-B-A Design Paradigm ( baseline (A) treatment (B)

and baseline (A)
One revision of the basic A-B single case design is the A-B-A design. In this
design, a baseline is established during the first A phase, a treatment is introduced
during phase B, and a second baseline is recorded after the withdrawal of the
treatment. If a behaviour increases or decreases upon introduction of the treatment
variable and then returns to its baseline during the second A phase, then it may
be concluded that there is a relationship between the independent (treatment) and
dependent (behaviour) variables. The example of shock treatment for an alcoholic
patient could also be extended for an A-B-A design by adding a second A phase
in which the patient is no longer shocked for selecting alcohol.
The major advantage of the A-B-A design is that there is a greater chance of
identifying confounded extraneous variable that are responsible for observed
changes during the B phase.
The weakness of A-B-A design is that it doesnt completely control for extraneous
variables. Secondly the effect of manipulation may not be fully reversal. For
example some IVs cant be withdrawn modeling or instructions (i.e. if I am
measuring how many words you read per minute and then I give you instruction
on how to better read I cant really remove those instruction return to baseline
because you will still remember them). Similarly some behaviours cant be reversed
- once given instruction you wont forget how to read. Thirdly sequence effect
may occur because prior treatment effects subsequent conditions on the subject.

4.6.4 A-B-A-B Design Paradigm (Baseline-Treatment-

Baseline-Treatment):
This is also known as repeating treatments. When intervention is reintroduced
after the withdrawal phase, this results in A-B-A-B design which in fact, is analogous
to the equivalent time samples design ( a kind of quasi-experimental design). In
this design, operant level or baselines (A) and interventions (B) each is repeated
twice. According to this design the behaviour may change from the first baseline
(A) to intervention (B) where upon it may decrease following withdrawal of B
(Second A) and, finally the behaviour may again increase with the introduction of
the intervention (B). As a consequence of this, the functional relationship between
the intervention (B) and the behavioural measures is strengthened. Thus, A-B-A-
B provides a better opportunity for careful examination of intervention effect than
the simple A-B-A design.
The weakness of this design is the same as ABA design i.e. irreversibility and
sequence effect.
49
Research Designs
Self Assessment Questions
True/False
1) Single case design are useful in clinical setting. T/F
2) Single phase design is a correlational design rather than
experimental or descriptive. T/F
3) AB design lacks internal validity. T/F
4) Phase length should be approximately as longer as baseline. T/F
5) To reduce carry over effect researcher uses longer phases of
treatment. T/F
Answers: 1. (T), 2. (F), 3. (T), 4. (T), 5. (F)
Multiple Choice Questions
1) There is a greater chance of identifying confounded extraneous variables.
This statement is true for:
a) AB Design
b) ABA Design
c) ABAB Design
d) ABABAB Design
2) Which type of withdrawal design lacks internal validity:
a) AB Design
b) ABA Design
c) ABAB Design
d) ABABAB Design
3) ABAB strategy is also known as:
a) Time Series Design
b) Equivalent Time Series Design
c) Equivalent Time Samples Design
d) Time Sample Design
4) Single Subject Designs are preferred because they are:
a) Low Flexible
b) Moderate Flexible
c) Highly Flexible
d) None of these
5) Researcher collect data on dependent variable without any intervention is
called:
a) Intervention
b) Baseline
c) Reversal
50 d) Treatment
 Single Subject Design
4.7 ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT DESIGN
A specific subclass of the A-B-A-B design is that in which there need be no
baseline. Rather, A and B are two different treatments that are alternated randomly
with a single individual-treatment A is thus withdrawn and replaced, not with a
baseline, but with another treatment. The purpose for which the alternating treatments
design is used is to attempt to evaluate the relative effectiveness of two or more
treatments. For example, an extended series of treatments might be alternated in
an A-B-A-B-A-B design in which A and B are two different methods for controlling
the smoking habit. Over an extended period of time, one method might end up
being relatively effective, while the other would not. In practical situations it could
be seen that this kind of design, which has been increasingly used within recent
years, has the advantage that treatment is being used without a withdrawal and
return to baseline. It is only that two different treatments each are in effect 50
percent of the time.
The weakness of this design is that it creates interference between treatment
phases therefore the treatment must sufficiently differ.

4.7.1 Multiple Baseline Design

Asitsnameimplies,inthisdesignseveralbaselinesaresimultaneouslyestablished
prior to the administration of treatment. These designs are basically replication
designs. In this design the effect of independent variables across several different
behaviour emitted by the same participant is evaluated. The researcher, here takes
several compatible behaviours that is, the behaviour that occurs simultaneously in
the individual. He establishes baselines for each behaviour. Subsequently, a treatment
is introduced for one target behaviour. If this behaviour changes following the
treatment and other behaviour (control) remain stable at the baseline, the researcher
concludes that the treatment is affecting behaviour. After some time the treatment
is applied to the second target behaviour of the compatible behaviours and its
effects are recorded. In this way the remaining target behaviour are subjected to
treatment one after the other after some time. If the treatment is effective in
changing the response rate following its administration to each of the target behaviour
of the compatible behaviour, the researcher will have sufficient confidence in
concluding about the effectiveness of the treatment. For example, researcher is
trying to determine if rewarding a child with mental retardation for doing certain
personal tasks is effective.
If the researcher begins rewarding tooth brushing, face washing, hand washing
and hair combing all at the same time, it is possible that the presence of the
experimenter, the attention received, or a spontaneous decision was responsible
for the change. The researcher, however, could begin rewarding only tooth brushing
the first week, tooth brushing and face washing the second week and so forth until
after four weeks, all behaviours were being rewarded. This sequence would make
it possible to see whether the increase in behaviour coincided with the reward.
The separate experiment baselines may be different behaviours in the same individual,
as in this example, or the same behaviours in different individuals. The third
possibility is to test the same behaviour in the same individual but in different
behaviour settings. Multiple baselines designs are especially useful if the expected
behaviour change is irreversible.

51
Research Designs 4.7.2 Changing Criterion Design
Thebasicstrategyofthechangingcriteriondesignisthattheeffectivenessofa
treatment is judged according to specified gradual changes in behaviour occurrence
during the period of the intervention. The criteria are actual components of the
intervention and specify that behaviour should change in increments to match
changes in the criteria. Like other all single subject designs, the changing criterion
design commences with a baseline phase (A) in which records are made of a
single class of behaviour. The difference is that during the intervention there are
several sub phases, each with different pre-established criteria. Assuming that a
child is unable to sit still in class, the teacher may reward the child for sitting still
for 5 minutes at a time until the performance becomes stable. Then the criterion
may be set at 10 minutes, later at 15 and so forth. The behaviour at each criterion
becomes the baseline against which to evaluate the effect of the manipulation at
next criterion. Like the multiple baseline design, a changing criterion design is
useful when the behaviour change is irreversible or when a return to the initial
baseline is not possible.

4.8 ADVANTAGES OF SINGLE SUBJECT DESIGN

Therearesomeadvantagesorstrengthsofsingle-subjectexperimentalresearch.
As such, this research is commonly conducted in psychology. Some of the main
advantages are as follows:
1) The biggest advantage of single-subject research design is its ability to carry
out a scientific investigation with only one subject (or sometimes two).
2) This advantage is more important for a psychologist than for other social
scientists, because it saves much time in dealing with many subjects or large
N research or between group researches and he is able to have full
concentration on only one subject
3) Single-subject research design allows the researcher to control the
experimental situation more effectively by establishing a good, obvious and
continuous measure of the dependent variable (DV) throughout the
experimental situation.
4) Such researches rarely require statistical tests to be performed for evaluation
of data. Only through visual inspection the experimenter examines such factors
as changes in the magnitude and rate of behaviours being studied (Kazdin,
1982). This point is a big advantage for those who dislike carrying out
statistical computations
5) Both exploratory and descriptive researches can easily be carried out with
single-subject design.
6) Single-subject research design allows the researcher to eliminate and hold
constant extraneous variables that do not show up until after the investigation
is under way. In fact, intra-subject comparison in case of single-subject
research provides better control of extraneous variables than the intra-
comparison, which is the case with large N experimental researches.
7) Single-subject designs are preferred because they are highly flexible and
highlight individual differences in response to intervention effects. In general,
single-subject designs have been shown to reduce interpretation bias for
counselors when doing therapy.
52
 Single Subject Design
4.9 DISADVANTAGES OF SINGLE-SUBJECT
DESIGN
Research designs are traditionally preplanned so that most of the details about to
whom and when the intervention will be introduced are decided prior to the
beginning of the study. However, in single-subject designs, these decisions are
often made as the data are collected. In addition, there are no widely agreed upon
rules for altering phases, so, this could lead to conflicting ideas as to how a
research experiment should be conducted in single-subject design.
The major criticism of single-subject designs are:
1) Carry-over effects: results from the previous phase carry-over into the next
phase.
2) Order effects: the ordering (sequence) of the intervention or treatment affects
what results
3) Irreversibility: in some withdrawal designs, once a change in the independent
variable occurs, the dependent variable is affected this cannot be undone by
simply removing the independent variable.
4) Ethical problems: Withdrawal of treatment in the withdrawal design can at
times present ethical and feasibility problems.
5) Practical limitations: single subject research is time consuming research. It
generally takes several fortnights or months to complete whereas much large
end research design can be carried out in only one session.
6) Baseline Problems: Barlow & Herson (1984) have discussed many problems
related to baselines in single subject research. One of the basic assumptions
of single subject research is that stable baseline has been established. If
baselines varies it is difficult for the researcher to conclude a reliable change
in behaviour following treatment or intervention.
7) Researchers Bias: Some biases on the part of a researcher are often seen
on introducing the intervention or treatment. Generally the researcher waits
for some cues indicating change in subjects Behaviour and then he introduces
a withdrawal of the treatment. Such practices by the researcher are not
scientific.
8) Lack of External Validity: Single-subject research in comparison to the between
groups research or large N research has poor degree of external validity or
generalisability. Since such an experiment is conducted only on one subject
the conclusions obtained are difficult to be generalised to other participants

4.10 LET US SUM UP

Experiments using single subject have been performed for as long as psychology
has been existing. Single subjects research has several advantages over group
research. It focuses on individual performance that may be obscured by group
research and it focuses on big effects avoiding ethical and practical problems in
forming control groups and permitting greater flexibility in design. Basic control
strategies in single- subjects research include withdrawal design, alternative treatment
design, multiple baseline design and changing criterion design.
53
Research Designs There are three types of paradigms which are used in withdrawal design i.e. AB
design, ABA design and ABAB design.
The alternating treatments designs allows the evaluation of more than one than
treatment without violating the rule that only one variable is changed at a time.
First one treatment is given than the other in an alternating fashion. The multiple
baseline design is an effective way of demonstrating that the manipulation caused
the behaviour change. The manipulation is introduced at different times for different
behaviours to see if the onset of behaviour change coincides with the manipulation
for each behaviour. The changing criterion design introduces successively more
stringent criteria for reinforcement over time. It is useful when the behaviour
change is irreversible.

4.11 GLOSSARY
Baseline : the measure of behaviour before treatment
that establishes a reference point for
evaluating the effect of treatment.
AB Design : single-participant research design that
consists of a baseline followed by a
treatment. Also called a comparison design.
ABA Design : research design that includes a baseline
period a treatment period and a subsequent
withdrawal of treatment.
ABAB Design : an ABA design with treatment repeated after
the withdrawal phase. Also called a
replication design.
Alternating Treatment Design : a type of single participant design that allows
the comparison of two different independent
variables.
Multiple Baseline Design : research design that introduces experimental
manipulation at different times for different
Behaviours to see if Behaviour change
coincides with manipulation.
Changing Criterion Design : research design that introduces successively
more stringent criteria for reinforcement to
see if Behaviour change coincides with the
changing criteria.
Answers: 1. (b), 2. (a), 3. (c), 4. (c), 5. (b)

4.12 UNIT END QUESTION

1) What is meant by single-subject experimental research? Discuss the
characteristics of single group design.
2) Discuss the different important designs of single-subject experimental research.
3) Point out the major strengths and weaknesses of single-subject experiment
research?
54
4) Make distinction between baseline and intervention stage of single-subject Single Subject Design
experimental research.
5) What is the advantage of ABA design compare as to an AB design.

4.13 SUGGESTED READINGS

Shadish, William, R. (2010). Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Designs
for Field Research. Routledge, NY.
Kothari, C.R.(2006). Research Methodology, New Age International,(2nd edition)
New Delhi
Broota, K.D.(2003). Experimental Designs in Behvaioural Research, New
Age International, New Delhi.
References
Barlow, D.H and Herson, M. (1984). Single case experimental designs New
York: Pergamon Press.
Gay, L. R., and Airasian, P. (2003). Educational Research: Competencies for
Analysis and Applications.Merrill Prentice Hall: Columbus, OH.
Kazdin, A.E (1982). Single-case Research Designs. New York: Oxford.
McMillan, J. H. (2004). Educational Research: Fundamentals for the Consumer,
4th Edition. Allyn and Bacon: Boston.
Nelson, M & Martella, M (1999). Description of single subject design.
www.press.net/updatenov05/singlesubject.html

55
UNIT 1 OBSERVATION METHOD
Structure
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Definition and Meaning of Observation
1.2.1 The Diverse Situation in which Observation can be Used
1.2.2 Planning the Observation
1.2.3 Problems of Observation
1.2.4 Ethical Issues in Observation
1.3 Characteristics of Observation
1.3.1 Units of Observation
1.3.2 Degree of Inference
1.3.3 Generalisation or Applicability
1.3.4 Gaining Access and Leaving the Field
1.3.5 Length of Time in the Field
1.4 Sampling
1.5 Data Collection Techniques
1.6 Types of Observation
1.6.1 Casual vs. Formal Observation
1.6.2 Direct vs. Indirect Observation
1.6.3 Unstructured Observation
1.6.4 Participant Observation
1.6.5 Specimen Records
1.6.6 Anecdotes
1.6.7 Structured Observation
1.6.8 Checklists
1.6.9 Rating Scales
1.6.10 Shortcoming of Rating Scales
1.7 Advantages and Disadvantages of Observation
1.8 Guides for Observation Method
1.9 Let Us Sum Up
1.10 Unit End Questions
1.11 Suggested Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION
Observation of the behaviour of individuals, groups and organisations or their products/
outcomes is not only an essential aspect of human life; it also forms basic method
of scientific research in behavioural sciences. Specifically, it is useful in such fields as
Developmental Psychology, Anthropology, Behaviour Modification, Social Psychology
and Evaluation Research.
Observation can be used both in the laboratory as well as in naturalistic settings.
Although behavioural scientists have largely used this method in the naturalistic settings
it also forms a significant component of experimental (both field and laboratory)
procedure. Indeed, in laboratory settings, careful Observation of subjects may not 5
Tools of Data Collection only shed light on the limitations of the experimental procedures but also generate
ideas for future research.
Observation involves looking and listening very carefully. We all watch other people
sometimes, but we do not usually watch them in order to discover particular information
about their behaviour. This is what Observation in Social Science involves. Observation
is a complex research method because it often requires the researcher to play a
number of roles and to use a number of techniques; including her/his five senses in
order to collect data. In this unit we will be defining observation, understand how it
is used as a method of research, we will also learn about the types of observation
and the manner in which it is used as a tool of research. The procedure using
observation as a tool for collecting data is also presented in this unit.

1.1 OBJECTIVES
After completing this unit, you will be able to:
define the method of observation as a research tool;
describe observation;
explain the meaning of observation;
elucidate the types of observation;
analyse the data obtained from observation; and
list out the advantages and disadvantages of observation method.

1.2 DEFINITION AND MEANING OF

OBSERVATION
Observation has been defined as the selection, provocation, recording and encoding
that set of behaviours and setting/s concerning an organism in situ which is consistent
with empirical aims. Literally, Observation is a process of seeing the things or
events with naked eye with or without the use of any device to unravel the complexity
of any phenomena to satisfy the demands of an empirical question.
Observation is way of gathering data by watching behaviour, events, or noting physical
characteristics in their natural settings. Observations can be overt (everyone knows
they are being observed) or covert (no one knows they are being observed and the
observer is concealed).
The benefit of covert Observation is that people are more likely to behave naturally
if they do not know they are being observed. However, you will typically need to
conduct overt Observations because of ethical problems related to concealing your
Observation.
Observation can also be either direct or indirect. Direct Observation is when you
watch interactions, processes, or behaviours as they occur. For example, observing
a teacher teaching a lesson from a Psychology curriculum to determine whether they
are delivering it with fidelity. Indirect Observation is when you watch the results of
interactions, processes, or behaviours. For example, observing the amount of plate
waste left by students in a school cafeteria to determine whether a new food is
acceptable to them.
6
1.2.1 The Diverse Situations in which Observation can be Observation Method

Used
The various situations in which observation as a method can be used are given
below:
1) When you are trying to understand an ongoing process or situation. Through
Observation, you can monitor or watch a process or situation that you are
evaluating as it occurs.
2) When you are gathering data on individual behaviours or interactions between
people.
3) Observation allows you to watch peoples behaviours and interactions directly,
or watch for the results of behaviours or interactions.
4) When you need to know about a physical setting, that is a setting or environment
where something takes place can help increase understanding of the event,
activity, or situation you are evaluating. For example, you can observe whether
a classroom or training facility is conductive to learning.
5) When data collection from individuals is not a realistic option. If respondents
are unwilling or unable to provide data provide data through questionnaires or
interviews, Observation is a method that requires little from the individuals from
whom you need data.

1.2.2 Planning the Observation

In planning observation of an event etc., the following points will have to be kept in
mind.
1) Determine the focus: Think about the evaluation questions you want to answer
through Observation and select a few areas of focus for your data collection.
For example, you may want to know how well the Psychology curriculum is
being implemented in the classroom. Your focus areas might be interactions
between students and teachers, and teachers knowledge, skills, and behaviours.
2) Design a system for data collection: Once you have focused your evaluation,
think about the specific item for which you want to collect data and then
determine how you will collect the information you need. There are three primary
ways of collecting Observation data. These three methods can be combined to
meet your data collection needs.
3) Recording sheets and checklists are the most standardised way of collecting
Observation data and include both preset questions and responses. These forms
are typically used for collecting data that can be easily described in advance
(e.g., topics that might be covered in a Psychotherapy lesson).
4) Observation guides list the interactions, processes, or behaviours to be observed
with space to record open-ended narrative data.
5) Field notes are the least standardised way of collecting Observation data and
do not include preset questions or responses. Field notes are open-ended
narrative data that can be written or dictated onto a tape recorder.
6) Select the sites: Select an adequate number of sites to help ensure that they are
representative of the larger population and will provide an understanding of the
7
situation you are observing.
Tools of Data Collection 7) Select the observers: You may choose to be the only observer or you may
want to include others in conducting Observations. Stakeholders, other
professional staff members, interns and graduate students, and volunteers, are
potential observers.
8) Train the observers: It is critical that the observers are well-trained in your
data collection process to ensure high quality and consistent data. The level of
training will vary based on the complexity of the data collection and the individual
capabilities of the observers.
9) Time your Observations appropriately: Programs and processes typically follow
a sequence of events. It is critical that you schedule your Observations so that
you are observing the components of the activity that will answer your evaluation
questions. This requires advance planning.

1.2.3 Problems of Observation

1) Selection of phenomenon for observation
The problem of selecting a phenomenon for Observation becomes very real, especially
when knowledge of the detailed movements of the observed is essential for an
understanding of the behaviour under study. The researcher is not merely confronted
with the problem of selecting the items of greatest importance from the mass of data
or quantities of discrete phenomena. He/she has to be equally concerned with organising
discrete entities in terms of the divergent concepts and orientations of the observers.
Indeed, it is the observers who are expected to categorise them on the basis of
varied concepts and their frames of reference thus providing an organisation to the
incoherent jumble of the real world. If the phenomena are not organised, the results
are useless for understanding what has really occurred. Hence, it would be a difficult
task for the researcher to evolve a theory which can effectively explain and predict
behaviour.
Indeed, the problem of selecting phenomena for Observation is intricately related to
the problem of conceptualisation. As the observers are bombarded by a vast quantity
and wide array of stimuli, they are confronted with the baffling problem of choosing
among them the phenomenon of greatest importance. This problem can be resolved,
if the researcher himself/herself selects the phenomenon for Behavioural Observation
prior to sending his observers to the fie1d.
2) Observer inference
The observer himself/herself is both a crucial strength and a crucial weakness in
Behavioural Observation. He/she has to process the information stemming from his/
her Observations and thereafter make inferences relating to complex constructs (e.g.,
aggression, hostility, leadership, conformity, etc.) He/she can meaningfully relate the
observed behaviour to the variables under study. Of course, this requires that he/she
possesses great powers of inference. The weakness of the observer is that he/she
is likely to be influence by his/her own biases and, thus make incorrect inferences
from his/her Observations. In conjunction with such personal biases, lack of knowledge
of behaviour under study may also invalidate the Observation.
Besides, the observer-inference difficulty, in several social situations, merely the
presence of an observer may influence the object of Observation. Indeed, people
tend to act differently and even artificially when observed. They put their best foot
forward and thus, behave in an exemplary way rather than in a customary way.
8
People tend to adapt quickly to an observers presence and behave as they would
actually behave. The observer can rule out the possibility of any influence of his/her Observation Method
presence by giving a feeling to the observed that he/she himself/herself is a non-
judgmental person.
3) Validity and reliability
Validity and to some extent reliability are crucial problems in Behavioural Observation,
especially when the researcher puts a heavy interpretative burden upon the observer.
For example, in the Observation of self-oriented needs in conference behaviour,
observers were provided a simple eleven-point rating scale ranging from no expression
of self-oriented need to all behaviour of the self-oriented type. They were asked
to indicate integrated appraisals of group members self-oriented needs. In addition
to this, they were also required to make notes during conferences in terms of five
categories of need expression: dependency, dominance, aggression, status-seeking
and catharsis. There appeared a huge gap between the observed behaviours and the
inferred needs. Thus, the validity problem intensified with the increasing burden of
interpretation put upon the observers.
Another validity problem in the Behavioural Observation measures stems from the
lack of their predictive power. There exist very rare independent behavioural measures
of the same variables which can be used as criteria for Observation of constructs (i.e.
needs). This problem can be resolved considerably by estimating construct validity
of the Observation system with the help of a theoretical framework using deductive
procedure.
The reliability problem of Observation is not a complex matter in behavioural science
research. For practical purposes, reliability can be defined as the extent of agreement
among observers. Thus, it can be estimated by correlating behavioural Observations
of two or more observers. The reliability of observers regarding different categories
of behaviour can be easily accessed by estimating the percentage of agreement
between them. It can also be estimated by repeated reliability procedure as well as
by using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).

1.2.4 Ethical Issues in Observation

One of the major factors associated with observational studies is ethics. While
Observation is generally seen as the least intrusive data collection method, it can also
be an abuse of an individuals privacy. In observational research, the complexity of
fieldwork in which the researcher is engaged makes it difficult, if not impossible, to
adopt a single set of standards. Spradley suggested that the researchers should
follow the guidelines of the American Anthropological Association which include:
1) Study participants come first.
2) Their rights, interests, and sensitivities should be safeguarded by the researcher.
3) Participants must have the right to know the aims of the researcher.
4) The privacy of the participants must be protected.
5) The participant should not be exploited or harmed in any way.
6) Reports should be made available not only to sponsors but also to the participants
and the general public.

9
Tools of Data Collection
1.3 CHARACTERISTICS OF OBSERVATION
The characteristics of observation can be put under various categories. The most
important task of an observer is to classify behaviours into categories which must be
precisely defined by the researcher. For example, to observe team-based managerial
style, the research may use the following eight broad behavioural categories or
dimensions which represent basic elements in the grid style proposed by Blake and
Mouton.
Manager places high value on sound, creative decisions which results in understanding
and agreement.
Manager seeks out ideas, opinions and attitudes different from his own.
Manager has strong convictions but responds to sounder ideas than his own by
changing his mind.
Manager tries to identify reasons for conflict and seems to resolve underlying causes.
Manager contains himself when agitated and conceals his impatience.
Managers humour fits the situation and gives the perspectives.
Manager retains a sense of humour even under pressure.
Manager exerts vigorous efforts and others join in.
It is necessary that the categories be exhaustive and mutually exclusive. They may
embrace an extremely broad range to a completely narrow range of behaviour.

1.3.1 Units of Observation

The issue of unit of Behavioural Observation is still unresolved. By using small and
easily observed and recorded units, the researcher may enhance reliability. However,
by doing so, he/she is likely to damage the validity of his/her observation. That is,
he/she may reduce the behaviour so much that it does not resemble the one being
observed. The validity can be enhanced by using broad natural definitions. The
clash between reliability and validity is related to the molar-molecular problem of
measurement. While the molar approach involves larger behaviour wholes as unit of
behaviour, the molecular approach relates to the smallest component of behaviour as
a unit of observation.
In the molar approach, the observer may initiate his/her observation with a general
variable and record varied behaviours under the one rubric. Thus, he/she has to rely
on his/her own experience and interpretation of the meaning of the behaviour being
observed. On the other hand, in the molecular approach, the observer sets aside his/
her own experience and interpretation and records what he/she sees. For example,
the molar observer may interpret the broadly defined team-based management
style as maximum concern for task and maximum concern for people. However,
the molecular observer may use further fragmentation indicated in the eight categories
cited earlier and, thus, take them as units of observation.

1.3.2 Degree of Inference

The extent of the observer inference also varies in terms of his/her approach. In a
molecular approach, there is little scope for inference. The observer merely notes
what the individual does or says. However, in actual practice, there are very few
observation systems requiring a low degree of observer inference. Indeed, most
10 researches use systems involving a high degree of inference on the part of observer.
In these systems, the observer is provided with designated categories demanding Observation Method
varying extents of interpretation of the observed behaviour.
For example, in the study cited earlier on self-need-oriented behaviour, the researchers
require high degrees of observer inference. Although they have supplied and defined
the five need areas, the observer is given ample latitude to infer that any particular
behaviour is self-oriented. Of course, the wide freedom provided to the observer
lowers the reliability of observation. This problem can be partly resolved by imparting
specialised training to the observers. However, in this context, desirable course of
action would be the use of a moderate degree of inference.

1.3.3 Generalisability or Applicability

The extent of generalisation or applicability of observation systems to other research
situations varies considerably. On the one hand, there exist general observation
systems which are designed for use with divergent research problems in different
settings. The widely used Bales group interaction analysis can be cited as an example
of such systems. This system involves a low degree of observer inference.
It provides twelve categories into which all verbal and, non-verbal group behaviour
can be categorised. The examples of these categories are: shows solidarity, agrees,
asks for opinion, etc. The researcher classified these twelve categories into three
larger sets: (a) social-emotional positive, (b) social-emotional negative, and (c) task-
neutral. The example of the specific system is the study of self-oriented needs in
discussion groups. Of course, it can also be used in situations other than decision-
making conferences. It is true that most observation systems devised for specific
situations can be suitably modified for use with other research problems.

1.3.4 Gaining Access and Leaving the Field

If the researcher is already a member of the group she/he is interested in studying,
then gaining access is not a problem. The issues for these researchers are whether,
when, and to whom to disclose oneself as a researcher. Despite well-planned research
and/or particular interest in a group, gaining entry is not an easy process.
Time, effort, patience, and diplomacy are essential for success. In addition, maintaining
that access is an ongoing process rather than a static one. Observation also requires
researchers to consider how to leave the field, although little attention has been
paid to the process of disengagement.
When the study questions have been addressed or when data saturation becomes
evident, most researchers know it is time to leave. How they leaveabruptly or
graduallyis the major issue they have to address. External factors, such as termination
of funding, personal health, or withdrawal of permission to continue the study, may
precipitate abrupt termination of the study. Gradual departure may be more the norm
when the researcher has adopted the complete participant or membership role.
Researchers may have to return periodically to get questions answered or to complete
unfinished business.

1.3.5 Length of Time in the Field

One of the unique factors of observation is the length of time in the field. Naturally,
the amount of time depends on the research problem and the role assumed by the
researcher. The researcher should have prolonged personal contact with events in
a natural setting and play as many roles as necessary to gain at least a comfortable
degree of rapport and intimacy, with the people, situation, and settings of research. 11
Tools of Data Collection
1.4 SAMPLING
The crux of observational studies is the who, what, where, and when questions.
The units of observation can be divided into two categories: molar and molecular.
Molar involves observing large units of activity as a whole, whereas the molecular
approach uses small and highly specific behaviours as the unit of observation.
These two categories are not mutually exclusive. For example, the researcher may
use the molar approach at the beginning of the study and change to the molecular
one as her/his familiarity with, and understanding of, the insiders and their environment
grows.
To get rich and in-depth information, it is important for the researcher to know the
best times to observe and meet with individual insiders, as well as whom she/he
should interview. Extended time in the field and active participation in the groups
functions increases the researchers ability to judge these things.
Researcher can also seek out insiders who exemplify characteristics of interest
(called extreme case sampling), as well as those who have considerable experience
in the group (called intensity sampling) because these people can help the researcher
better understand the environment. Finally, the researcher may want to use snowball
sampling as a way to link with others in a group. Snowball sampling is a good
method to use because insiders who have been referred by a friend may be more
willing to talk with the researcher.

1.5 DATA COLLECTION TECHNIQUES

The most common type of data collection techniques are logs and field notes. While
the former are used to record daily conversations or events, field notes are much
broader, more analytic, and more interpretive. The researcher may choose to write,
or dictate into a tape recorder her/his field notes, which can be categorised as
observational, method, theory, and personal. Observational notes detail what the
researcher actually saw, while method notes include strategies that were employed
or that might be employed in future observations.
Personal notes are the researchers own feelings during the research process and
theoretical notes are interpretative attempts to attach meaning to observations. In
observation, the researcher uses all of her/his senses to gather information about the
phenomena under study. A variety of material should also be used to enhance
sensualobservations.
Audio-recorders can be used to tape interviews. Video-recorders or cameras can
be used to record the activities of the insiders. Other material such as minutes of
meetings, memoranda, letters, magazines, or newspaper articles can also expand
ones understanding of the study group. Maps can also be used to record observations.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What is Observation method? Discuss its relevance in Behavioural Science
research.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

12 .....................................................................................................................
 Observation Method
2) Examine the basic problems of Behavioural Observation. How can they be
resolved?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) Elucidate the unique characteristics of Behavioural Observation.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

1.6 TYPES OF OBSERVATION

There are many types of observation methods available and these are listed below.

1.6.1 Casual vs. Formal Observation

Casual Observation often takes place during the initial stages of a research project.
The researcher goes to the situation looking to find the categories and behaviours
that will be used later in the formal observation stage. In the first stage, the researcher
may also be considering factors such as the best place to stand, or the least obtrusive
way to dress. When carrying out a Formal Observation, the researcher will have a
clear idea of what behaviours they are looking for, and how they will be recorded.
It is common, especially in laboratory situations, to record information on video, and
then to analyse it in more detail later.

1.6.2 Direct vs. Indirect Observation

Observation can also be either Direct or Indirect. Direct Observation is when you
watch interactions, processes, or behaviours as they occur. For example, observing
a teacher teaching a lesson from a Psychology curriculum to determine whether they
are delivering it with fidelity. Indirect Observation is when you watch the results of
interactions, processes, or behaviours. For example, observing the amount of plate
waste left by students in a school cafeteria to determine whether a new food is
acceptable to them.

1.6.3 Unstructured Observation

The purpose of Unstructured Observation is to provide a richer and more direct
account of the behavioural phenomenon under study. In these methods, attempts are
made to analyse true complexities of the social situations rather than impose any
structure over it. If required, in the light of the new knowledge, the definition of the
problem can also be changed. The unstructured methods seek to generate rather
than test the hypotheses. These are flexible in nature.

1.6.4 Participant Observation

Participant Observation is one of the most common methods for qualitative data 13
Tools of Data Collection collection. It is also one of the most demanding techniques of observation. It requires
that the researcher become a participant in the culture or context being observed.
Participant Observation incorporates how to enter the context, the role of the researcher
as a participant, the collection and storage of field notes, and the analysis of field
data. Participant observation often requires months or years of intensive work because
the researcher needs to become accepted as a natural part of the culture in order
to assure that the observations are of the natural phenomenon.
When observing, you have to interpret what you see. This can be difficult especially
when you are in a situation which is strange to you. For example, how might an
outsider see a scuffle or an exchange of insult in a school playground? Remember
that when you observe situations, you must understand what peoples behaviour
means to them. This is made easier if you are actually joining in with the people or
situation you are observing. It is unlikely that you will have enough time to get
accepted into a group of people you are completely unfamiliar with, so participant
observation might be better used in a group or situation you already have some
contact with, for example, attitudes at work.
Although Participant Observation is marked by varying extents of contact and
involvement with the participants, the observer attempts to maintain a face-to-face
relationship with them throughout the period of observation. He may be relatively
passive (i.e. uninvolved and detached) as well as active (i.e. share experiences).
However, this hampers objectivity as the observer may be emotionally involved in the
group. Therefore, it is desirable that the researcher starts only with a tentative hypothesis
which can be subsequently modified. Unlike other methods, Participant Observation
combines both data collection and analysis phases of research. The observer can
synthesise them while taking field notes. Lofland provides a series of guidelines to
accomplish this synthesis:
He is required to make mental notes of what is observed;
He has to jot down important events, words or quotes which are susceptible
to memory lapses;
As soon as possible, he is advised to prepare full field notes by converting
mental and jotted down notes into running log of observations;
He must get the field notes typed with at least two copies; and the original can
be kept as a chronology of the observation.
The field notes usually embrace information pertaining to:
Participants (i.e. age, sex, official designation, group membership, etc.);
The setting (i.e. a conference room, a factory canteen, a slum dwelling, etc, and
its social characteristics);
The purpose of the situation (i.e. official, chance, goal congruence, etc.);
The social behaviour (i.e. cause, objective, goal, activity, quality effects, etc.);
Frequency and duration of the behavioural situation (i.e. when, how long, how
frequently, etc.).
Thus, field notes consist of a running portrayal of participants, events, settings
and behaviours.
Field notes should be as concrete as possible. This requires the observer to
14 record what actually took place rather than make any inferences about behaviour.
 For example, he is required to record that the trade union leader was shouting Observation Method
(rather than angry) when he entered the room of the industrial relations manager.
Of course, whenever the observer happens to record his own inferences, analyses
and feelings, he must clearly indicate so in his field notes. Once the full field
notes are prepared, the researcher is required to refine the analysis by reorganising
the field notes into different files maintained by him. Usually, the researcher may
use this information for generating (rather than testing) hypotheses and theories.
Indeed, Participant Observation itself is more relevant at the hypothesis
development phase rather than the hypothesis testing phase of research which
involves quantitative methods.

1.6.5 Specimen Records

Specimen records are used to describe behaviour in its natural context and in its
original sequence. By using this somewhat selective method, the observer tends to
describe behaviour continuously over relatively short time spans making relevant
inferences. Specimen records can be very comprehensive. For example, the specimen
record of behaviour of one boys life during a single day ran into 420 pages.
In this method, the observer makes both objective as well as inferential statements.
The inferences are made while the behaviour is being recorded. The objective of
making such inferences is to describe the intentions of the observer. By using this
method, the researcher seeks to understand the behavioural phenomenon by analysing
records of molar behaviour in a particular environmental setting.
The molar behaviour involves the whole individual rather than his particular aspects.
The behavioural settings delineate the boundaries and, thus, focus on one of the basic
observational units. The researcher attempts to describe the behaviour in such varied
units. By doing so, he is able to demonstrate consistency of behaviour within particular
behaviour settings.

1.6.6 Anecdotes
Anecdotes are used most frequently by social scientists and teachers to describe
behaviour in natural settings. In this method, the observer is required to observe and
accurately record the behaviour of interest in all its details. This is a highly selective
method as researcher usually selects the events of interest beforehand.
Thus, the researcher may collect Anecdotes relating to an individuals understanding
of his organisational culture in work setting. As compared to Specimen Records, the
Anecdotes are more comprehensive. The Anecdote records are written after the
occurrence of the behavioural incident and can be classified and quantified.
Notwithstanding their major contribution to hypothesis and theory generation,
Anecdotes can also be used in the process of testing a. hypothesis by adhering to
some system of time sampling.

1.6.7 Structured Observation

Structured Observation is a set of formal techniques which seek to provide sympatric
description of behaviour and test causal hypotheses. As the researcher already
understands what is relevant for research purposes, he is in a better position to
evolve a specific plan beforehand for making and recording Observation. In these
observational techniques, there is focus on specified aspect of behaviour which takes
place both in the field as well as laboratory. There are two types of such techniques:
15
Tools of Data Collection 1.6.8 Checklists
Checklists represent a popular Structured Observation method. Simple checklist
enables the observer to systematically record the presence of a specified behaviour
or condition. Checklists can be classified as Static and Action Checklists. Static
Checklists involve recording of such Observation as sex, age and other characteristics
of the environment. Action Checklists are concerned with the recording of actual
behaviour. Thus, the observer may be required to simply tally whether or not the
behaviour took place. In checklist, the behaviour is defined explicitly and operationally
to facilitate a quick and accurate categorisation of behaviour. There can be various
schemes of categorising behaviour. In general, there exist two types of formats:
1) The Sign Checklist System: In this system or analysis approach, a series of
specific acts or events is already listed beforehand. These acts or events may
or may not take place during the Observation period. The observer merely goes
on tallying the frequency of occurrences of varied behaviour (i.e. laughing,
asks questions, seeks clarification etc.). The observer is required to look for
the occurrence of behaviour given in the checklist rather than categorise it. This
system is useful for studying important but infrequent behaviours.
2) Category System of Checklists: In this system or analysis approach, the
observer is required to place each unit of behaviour in one and only one
category which is, of course, mutually exclusive, independent and exhaustive.
This system merely indicates whether a given behaviour (as defined by a particular
category) has occurred without showing the degree or intensity of its occurrence.
These systems can be classified as Discrete and Continuous Category Systems.
Discrete Category Systems despite having only one dimension, contain discrete
categories which cannot be located in relationship to each other on a very clear
continuum. This type of category system can be illustrated by the problem-solving
behaviour: supporting, proposing solution, goal- setting and developing. It is not
possible to locate such categories on a single, clear continuum.
On the other hand, Continuous Category Systems are so devised that the categories
within them can be placed along a single and clear continuum. This type of category
system can be illustrated by the playground behaviour of children. Aggressive behaviour
in this case may be coded in three categories ranging from mild aggressive behaviour
to severe aggressive behaviour as follows: mild verbal attack, verbal threats and
threatening gestures and distinct physical attack.

1.6.9 Rating Scales

Rating Scales are used in observational studies to assess the quality of some experience
or activity. Regardless of their objective, these scales are frequently used in either of
two ways:
To record behaviour at frequent intervals throughout a sample of social interaction.
To rate the nature of the entire social events after it has completed.
They are found in one or a combination of three basic forms:
1) Numerical Rating Scale: Numerical Rating Scales are employed by behavioural
science researchers to record quantified observations of behaviour of individuals,
the activities of an entire group, the change in the situation surrounding them and
allied data. Although these scales are less reliable and provide more superficial
16
 information than category systems, they are sometimes relied upon for practical Observation Method
considerations. Numerical scales involve a series of points which depict varying
extents of the dimensions being observed. The numerical scales are simple to
construct, easy to use and convenient in data analysis. However, they are more
susceptible to varied biases and errors than other types of rating scales.
2) Forced-Choice Rating Scale: The Forced-Choice Rating scale may be in
varied forms. Usually, it presents two equally favorable statements about the
observed. The observer is required to choose only one of the two statements
to describe him. Thus, he may be forced to indicate, whether the individual has
more of one quality than another of the given pair. For example, He is energetic
and He is intelligent.
3) Graphic Rating Scale: The Graphic Rating Scale is in the form of a straight
line representing a thermometer and presented either horizontally or vertically.
The observer is required to make a judgment which frequently reflects either
positively or negatively on the observed. An example of this scale is as follows:

Unpleasant Pleasant

Shy Outgoing

1.6.10 Shortcomings of Rating Scales

Rating scales are susceptible to certain pitfalls:
1) Halo Effect: It refers to the tendency on the part of the observer to rate the
observed on several qualities according to the general impression (or general
mental attitude) he has about him. For example, if a person appears to be
sociable, he may be rated as intelligent.
2) Error of Leniency: It is the tendency on the part of an observer to overestimate
(or underestimate) the desirable qualities of the observed when he likes (or
dislikes) him for certain reasons.
3) Error of Central Tendency: It takes place when the observer is unable to
assign extreme ratings and thus, tends to provide moderate ratings to the observed.
4) Logical Rating Error: It refers to the tendency on the part of the observer to
assign ratings to the observed for qualities which appear logically related in his
own mind (which may not be true otherwise).
5) Mechanical Observation: In several situations, Observation is conducted by
mechanical devices rather than human beings. Mechanical Observation involves
use of videotape traffic counters and other machines for recording behaviour.
Researchers tend to use a motion picture camera and time-lapse photography
in some unusual Observation studies. These techniques can be used in research
to help design store layouts and resolve problems relating to people or objects
moving through different spaces over time. An example of a well-known research
project involving Mechanical Observation is the AC Nielsen Television Index
(NTI). It uses a Consumer Panel and Mechanical Observation to accomplish
17
Tools of Data Collection ratings for television programmer. They have selected a representative sample
of 2000 households in the United States population. These households have
agreed to install people meters in their homes and become the members of
consumer panels. These meters monitor constantly, recording the time a television
set is turned on, how long it remains on, which members of the households
witness televisions and the channel choices.
Thereafter, these data are fed to the companys central computer via telephone lines.
This arrangement helps in obtaining programme ratings and demographic profiles of
particular programme audience for advertisers and networks.
Business researchers also tend to use other mechanical devices to assess physical
and physiological reactions to different stimuli. These devices include: eye-tracking
monitors, pupilometers, pychogalvanometers and voice pitch analysers. However,
recently, with the development of systems such as optical scanners and bar codes,
it is possible to research inventory levels, shipments, etc. in factories, warehouses
and transpiration companies.

1.7 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF

OBSERVATION
Advantages of Observation Method
1) Observation allows the researcher to study people in their natural setting/s
without their behaviour being influenced by the presence of a researcher.
2) Observation data usually consists of detailed information about particular groups
or situations. This kind of data can fill out and provide a deeper, richer,
understanding than survey work which tends to produce less detailed information
about a large number of people.
3) A lot of what people do, they take for granted; they do it naturally, they
arent aware of it.
4) Some methods only allows for the study of one individual at a time. Observation
enables the research to study groups of people together, that is, it allows for the
study of interaction between the members of a group.
5) An interview, for instance, only show a persons views at one time. Observation
involves the study of groups or situations over time, thus, revealing changes.
6) Some groups of peoples, such a school truants, may not agree to cooperate
with methods of research such as interviews. Sometimes Observation is the only
way of finding out about such groups.
7) Collect data where and when an event or activity is occurring.
8) Does not rely on peoples willingness or ability to provide information.
9) Allows you to directly see what people do rather than relying on what people
say they did.
Disadvantages of Observation Method
1) Susceptible to observer bias and observer inference.
Susceptible to the Hawthorne Effect, that is, people usually perform better
18
 when they know they are being observed, although indirect Observation may Observation Method
decrease this problem.
2) Can be expensive and time-consuming as compared to other data collection
methods.
3) Does not increase your understanding of why people behave as they do.

1.8 GUIDE FOR OBSERVATION METHOD

Carefully consider what kind of observation might be useful for your research:
What groups or situations would be relevant?
Is it possible and practical to observe them?
Should you use direct or participant Observation?
What could you find out from the Observation?
Make any arrangements necessary for the Observation to take place.
Ask for permission well in advance if you want to arrange a visit?
Plan on which day or days the Observation will take place and how long it will last.
Plan the headings you will use for your notes on Observation.
Decide exactly what you are trying to find out and work out suitable headings to
make notes under the following:
If you are doing participant Observation you will have to decide whether to
a) Remain hidden not tell anyone that you are observing them
b) Be open- tell people that you are observing them
c) Do the Observation
d) Make sure you are properly prepared with paper, pen and a clear idea of what
you are looking for.
e) Make sure you make the notes as the Observation is occurring or immediately
afterwards so that you do not forget what happened.
f) Look and listen very carefully
g) Remember to try not to influence the behaviour of the people you are observing,
so be careful how you take notes.
h) Analyses and write up the results of your Observation, that is look through the
notes and work out what you discovered.
i) Write up your Observation including (i) How and why you planned the
Observation as you did (ii) How the Observation went, including problems you
had doing it (iii) what was discovered and how this relates to other aspects of
your research.
j) How would you organise the Observation differently if you were to do it again?

19
Tools of Data Collection
1.9 LET US SUM UP
The literature on Observation reveals that it is a very complex, challenging, and
creative method. Observation method differs from other methods in that it requires
the researcher to have more specialised training on how to observe, what and how
to record the data, how to enter the field and leave it, and how to remain detached
and involved at the same time. The fact that the researcher may have to assume one
or more roles is unique to observational studies. There are, however, some similarities
to other research methods such as the need to plan the overall project, review the
literature, and determine who will be studied and when and where the Observation
will take place. Finally, the uses of ones senses, as well as other data collection
techniques, make Observation a more holistic type of research that allows the
researcher to gain a better understanding of insiders from their own perspective.

1.10 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Evaluate briefly the diverse types of Observation methods with special focus on
Participant Observation.
2) Carve out a befitting Observational Study scientifically.
3) Write short notes on:
a) Specimen Records
b) Checklists
c) Rating Scales
d) Mechanical Observation

1.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

Adler, P.A. & Adler, P. (1994). Observational Technique. In N.K. Denzin & Y S.
Lincoin (Eds.),
Dwivedi, R.S. (1997). Research Methods in Behavioural Sciences. Macmillan
India Limited, New Delhi.
Oaks, CA. Handbook of Qualitative Research (pp. 377-392). Sage Publications
Thousand
Kerlinger, Fred, N. 1979, Founded of Behavioural Research, New York, : H 107,
Rinehart and Winstem Inc.
Kumar. R (2006) Research Methodology. New Delhi: Dorling Kingsley
Louis Cohen, Lawrence Manion & Keith Morrison, (2007). Research Methods in
Education, Sixth Edition, Routledge 2 Park Square, Milton Park, Abingdon, Oxon
OX14 4RN.

20
UNIT 2 INTERVIEW AND INTERVIEWING
Structure
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Objectives
2.2 Definition of Interview
2.3 Description of Interview
2.4 Types of Interview
2.4.1 General Interview Guide
2.4.2 Standardised Open Ended Interview
2.4.3 Closed Fixed Response Interview
2.4.4 Telephone Interview
2.4.5 Validating of Interview

2.5 Aspects of Qualitative Research Interviews

2.6 Interview Questions
2.6.1 Sequence of Questions
2.6.2 Stages of Interview
2.6.3 Procedure to be Followed during Interviewing

2.7 Convergent Interviewing as Action Research

2.8 Research Team
2.9 Let Us Sum Up
2.10 Unit End Questions
2.11 Suggested Readings

2.0 INTRODUCTION
The primary focus in interview is to find out answers to the problems related to the
research topic. This is one method of collecting the data. This is an interactive
process in which the interviewer or the researcher interacts with the respondent
(interviewee) to elicit the needed information from the latter. It may be structured
or unstructured and it may be a conversational type of interview. Either way the data
is collected on the topic and the researcher may write the needed information in the
questionnaire or interview schedule after completion of the interview. The unit describes
the method, puts forward the advantages and disadvantages. It also provides the
kind of topic for which interview will be most suited.

2.1 OBJECTIVES
After completion of this unit, you will be able to:
define interview as a method of data collection;
describe the method of interviewing and collecting research data;
list out the ways in which the interview should be conducted the dos and
donts; and
enumerate the advantages and disadvantages of interviewing. 21
Tools of Data Collection
2.2 DEFINITION OF INTERVIEW
Interview can be broadly defined as a face to face verbal interchange in which there
are two persons, that is the researcher or the interviewer and the other is the
respondent or the interviewee. The interviewer tries to elicit the needed information
on the research topic from the respondent. It appears to be like a conversation but
this conversation is more with a specific purpose. In conversation the roles of the
persons go on changing. One starts the conversation and the other responds then the
other may take lead and the first one may be a listener so there may be alterations
in roles. In interview on the other hand there is no changing of the roles of the
interviewer and the interviewee. Conversation is unplanned whereas interview is
clearly thought out and clearly planned.

2.3 DESCRIPTION OF INTERVIEW

Some interviews are conducted for gathering information from very important persons
to know about their lives, ideas etc. This can be used for biographical writing.
Other types of interview are the ones conducted for the purpose of understanding
an event that has taken place, such as the suicide of an individual or murder of a
person etc. Here the purpose is clear though the method of interviewing may vary
considerably. Other type of interview is to have clear questions in order to understand
a person and his or her problem. There is another type of interview between the
doctor and the patient, where the doctor questions the patient in a particular order
as to what the symptoms are and how long the person had it and then based on the
interview which is called case history is able to come to an understanding of the
diagnosis of the patients problem.
An Interview, meant for a research study, involves the researcher or his investigators
interacting on a one- to-one level with a respondent, who has been selected by the
researcher as one of the subjects for the study. The interviewer puts questions to
the respondent on a particular subject matter and the respondents replies are noted
down verbatim, where possible or recorded as an audio report.
The interview aims to describe the meanings of central themes in the life of the
subjects. The main task in this is to understand the meaning of what the interviewees
say. Interviews also can focus on the main aspects of the subject matter. The
interview is as a follow-up instrument to get to know about certain responses to the
questionnaires, so that one can further investigate their responses.
An interview can be one to one or it can be one to many. Answers to the questions
posed during an interview can be recorded by writing them down (either during the
interview itself or immediately after the interview) or by tape-recording the responses,
or by a combination of both.
Interviews can be conducted with varying degrees of flexibility that is high and low
degree of flexibility.
As regards high flexibility, one can take an example of studying sensitive issues such
as teenage pregnancy and abortions. The investigator may use a list of topics rather
than fixed questions. These may include how teenagers started sexual intercourse, the
responsibility girls and their partners take to prevent pregnancy (if at all), and the
actions they take in the event of unwanted pregnancies etc. The investigator should
have an additional list of topics ready when the respondent falls silent, (example,
when asked about abortion methods used, who made the decision and who paid).
22
The sequence of topics should be determined by the flow of discussion. It is often Interview and Interviewing
possible to come back to a topic discussed earlier in a later stage of the interview.
The unstructured or loosely structured method of asking questions can be used for
interviewing individuals as well as groups of key informants.
A flexible method of interviewing is useful if a researcher has not much of an
understanding of the problem or situation he is investigating, or if the topic is sensitive.
It is frequently applied in exploratory studies. The instrument used may be called an
interview guide or interview schedule.
In regard to low degree of flexibility, these interview methods are useful when the
researcher is relatively knowledgeable about expected answers or when the number
of respondents being interviewed is relatively large. In such cases structured
questionnaires may be used so that large number of respondents could be covered.
To cite an example, after a number of observations on the (hygienic) behaviour of
women drawing water at a well and some key informant interviews on the use and
maintenance of the wells, one may conduct a larger survey on water use and satisfaction
with the quantity and quality of the water.
Interviews also can focus on the main aspects of the subject matter, or can get to
know what the topic has to convey behind the scene and what the topic can convey.
Interviews are generally easier for respondent, especially if what is sought includes
opinions or impressions. Interviews are time consuming and they are resource
intensive. The interviewer is considered a part of the measurement instrument and
interviewer has to be well trained in how to respond to any contingency.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Define interview. What are the characteristic features of research interview?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) Describe the process of interview.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What are the aims of interviewing method?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

23
Tools of Data Collection
4) What is flexible and non flexible interview?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

2.4 TYPES OF INTERVIEWS

The interviews are of many types, as for instance (1) Informal, conversational type,
(2) General interview guide (3) Standardised open ended interview (4) Closed fixed
response.
Informal conversational type interviews
In the informal conversational interview, as is implied, the respondents are identified
and are involved in a pleasant conversation. This conversation is with a specific
research purpose that has been already determined. In the pleasant conversation,
the interviewer talks in general, gets acquainted with respondents, after which the
purpose of the research study is put across to the respondents and they are told what
is expected of this study and how important the respondent and his responses are
for the research. Thus from a general approach the researcher moves on to the
specific purpose. There are no pre-determined questions, and the researcher indicates
clearly that any answer the interviewee provides should be stated without hesitation
as there is no right or wrong answers. During the interview the interviewer goes with
the flow of what the respondent tells.

2.4.1 General Interview Guide

In this, every effort is put in to ensure that no important points are left out and the
manner in which the questions should be asked and the sequences are kept up. This
general interview guide also helps in conducting the interview to get information from
all the respondents, on all the items that have to be covered. The interview guide
thus provides the needed focus to the conversational approach and at the same time
gives enough freedom to the interviewer and the respondent.

2.4.2 Standardised, Open Ended Interview

This type of interviews gives considerable scope for the respondent to answer fairly
in detail his own ideas and opinions on the particular topic instead of answering or
tick marking the answers only. These open ended questions are also uniformly put
to all the respondents selected for the study. It not only elicits a variety of responses
but also makes the research much more rich in contents.

2.4.3 Closed, Fixed-response Interview

In this the answers are provided to all the questions, and the respondents are
required to select from within them, that response which is most applicable to them.
Thus all respondents will choose answers from amongst the same set of alternatives.
This format is useful where the questions could have clear cut answers and they can
be categorised meaningfully into 7 to 10 categories or less, and the respondents,
except a few would find their answers within those categories and tick mark the
24
same. Such responses are easy to score code and analyse, as compared to the
responses obtained in the open ended interview. This is so because, the responses Interview and Interviewing
in the open ended questions may be so many that the researcher will have to
scrutinise all the responses and categorise them after the entire data have been
collected.

2.4.4 Telephone Interview

Another type of interview is the Telephone Interview, in which the researcher gathers
information rapidly through telephone. Though these interviews do help to establish
a kind of rapport with the person at the other end of the telephone, yet many
respondents may just refuse to answer and may put down the phone. At the same
time, there is a personal touch which can be transmitted to the respondent. Furthermore
the telephone interviews have to be necessarily short as no one would like to answer
a large number of questions.
There are varying points of view regarding the advisability and utility of using the
telephone to conduct research interviews.
The potential benefits associated with using telephone interviews as a mechanism of
data collection include:
a) using economic and human resources efficiently,
b) minimizing disadvantages associated with in-person interviewing,
c) developing positive relationships between researchers and participants, and
d) improving quality of data collection.
The potential challenges to telephone interviewing include:
a) maintaining participant involvement,
b) maintaining clear communication,
c) communicating with participants who offer extraneous information,
d) encountering participants with health concerns, and
e) communicating with a third party.
Telephone interviewing can be an effective method of data collection when interviewers
understand the potential benefits as well as challenges. We offer solutions to the
identified challenges and make pragmatic recommendations to enhance researcher
success based on the current literature and our research practice. Supportive training
for interviewers, effective communication between interviewers and with research
participants, and standardised telephone follow-up procedures are needed to ensure
successful telephone data collection. We have found our Manual of Operations to
be an effective tool that assists research assistants to meet the requirements for
successful telephone interviewing.

2.4.5 Validity of Interview

Studies by Kahn and Cannell (1961), Maccoby and Maccoby (1954) can be
mentioned in this connection. There have been found inaccuracies in respondents
versions during interviews when compared with the information obtainedby other
means. In the case of self reports also similar inaccuracies have been found,
particularly when the questions are asked about the sexual behaviour. Kanfer and
Phillips (1970) who have discussed the methodological problems in using a few 25
Tools of Data Collection persons self-report as an indicator of his actual experience concluded that, when a
person describes his experiences or his internal states in an interview, care must be
taken to recognise this behaviour as response that is under the control of both-
persons history and the interview situation and not to accept it as a true record of
past or internal events.
As mentioned by Patterson (1968), the interview is thus not such a measurement
device which gives very accurate results. It is fallible and subject to substantial
sources of error and bias. But we cannot discard the interview as a means of
collecting information. It has great value and has its own advantages. Our effort
should be to learn more about the sources of interview bias and influence. We must
learn methods to eliminate them or accounting for them.(S.S. Mathur 1985). The
interviews validity depends on how much the clinician is trained to obtain the
information he wants from the client side.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the different types of interview? Elaborate each of them.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is telephone interview? What are its advantages and disadvantages?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What is meant by validating interview? How would you do it?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

2.5 ASPECTS OF QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

INTERVIEWS
Interviews are completed by the interviewer based on what the respondent says.
Interviews are a far more personal form of research than questionnaires. In the
personal interview, the interviewer works directly with the respondent. Unlike with
mail surveys, the interviewer has the opportunity to probe or ask follow up questions.
Interviews are generally easier for respondent, especially if what is sought includes
opinions or impressions. Interviews are time consuming and they are resource
intensive. The interviewer is considered a part of the measurement instrument and
interviewer has to be well trained in how to respond to any contingency.
26
 Interview and Interviewing
2.6 INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
The questions to be included in any interview guide should be very carefully prepared.
it must be able to tap the behaviours of the respondents, their moods and emotions
and their exact responses which are truthful and objective. Given below are some
of the important aspects that should be covered in any interview questions.
1) Behaviours: These questions try to find out from the respondent what he does
or did or would do if given a situation. (Example, Respondents opinion in
regard to making admission to schools for children without screening under
Right to Education Act. Here the person may say that he will write articles
against it in the newspaper or give lectures or speeches condemning such non
screening as it is harmful to children who are normal and intelligent. These
indicate the behaviours of the respondent in regard to the topic).
2) Opinions/values: These questions will also tap the attitudes and opinions of the
respondents regarding an issue. Opinions and values are generally strong until
something very significant occurs which changes the opinion and value. The
questions would be for instance, what does the respondent think of a person
marrying out of caste and religion. The respondent may state that he is very
much against anyone marrying out of caste and religion. This is his opinion and
to an extent perhaps goes with his value system.
3) Feelings: The questions also elicit the feelings of the individual in regard to what
a person feels rather than what a person thinks.
4) Knowledge: This would ensure that the topic of research and knowledge about
the facts regarding the topic is conveyed to the respondent. Thus the respondents
get facts about the topic.
5) Sensory: The Questions that would be included in this section will deal with the
respondents perceptions. That is, what ever he has seen, whatever he has
touched, whatever he had heard, whatever he had tasted, whatever he had
smelt etc.
6) Background / Demographics: The respondent is asked questions related to his
age, gender, education, income, marital status etc., which are all put together
constitute the socio demographic features of the respondent.

2.6.1 Sequence of Questions

It is important that the researcher should involve the respondents as early as possible
in the interview situation. The researcher or the investigator should start with some
factual information such as the date of birth, where they live etc. The controversial
matters should be taken up either almost at the end or when the interviewer is very
confident that he has been able to establish excellent rapport with the respondent.
The rule is that, start with facts and move on to other more subjective questions.
Before asking questions related to any controversial matters, first ask about some
facts. Distribute these fact based questions in the entire interview and ask questions
about the present before questions about the past or future.
The last questions might be to allow respondents to provide other information they
prefer to add and their impressions of the interview.

27
Tools of Data Collection
Self Assessment Questions
1) What type of questions should be included in interview?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What purpose do these questions serve in the interview guide?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What do you understand by qualitative research interviews?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) What are the sequence should we follow while writing interview questions?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

2.6.2 Stages of Interview

There are in all seven (7) stages in the interview investigation. These include the
following:
1) Thematising: The why and what of the investigation.
2) Designing: Plan the design of the study.
3) Interviewing: Conduct the interview based on a guide.
4) Transcribing: Prepare the interview material for analysis.
5) Analysing: Decide on the purpose, the topic, the nature and
methods of analysis that are appropriate.
6) Verifying: Ascertain the validity of the interview findings.
7) Reporting: Communicate findings of the study based on scientific
criteria.
28
Let us describe each of these stages in detail. Interview and Interviewing

1) Thematising: In this stage which is stage 1, the researcher tries to give an idea
to the investigation as to what is being investigated, what for it is being investigate
and what does the researcher hope to get out of the investigation. The researcher
thus gives a theme to the entire topic that is being investigated. This sets the
trend to what should be focused during the interview.
2) Designing: This is the second stage of interview in which the investigator or the
researcher plans the entire design of the study. The kind of tools that should
be used is planned, then sample to which the questions will be put are selected
and the analysis of the research findings are also contemplated along with the
typical hypothesis that would be tested.
3) Interviewing: In this third stage, the samples selected by the investigator are
identified and are taken up for interview sessions. The researcher may use
a interview guide which has the various questions to be put to the interviewee
and the researcher follows the sequence to the extent possible, even though the
researcher may change the order if it is found that the interviewee is not
comfortable with certain type of questions. Thus the researcher may start from
the general and move on the specific questions and thus complete the interview
and later on take down what ever has been completed.
4) Transcribing: This is the fourth stage in the interview. Having conducted the
interview, the research her has obtained the needed information for all the
queries that had been put to the interviewee. Now these have to be adequately
and systematically organised and this is what is meant by transcribing the answers
in a certain sequence and order to make it more meaningful from the point of
view of research.
5) Analysing: In this stage, the researcher takes the data and analyses the same
in terms of the research questions and the hypotheses. Based on the results
obtained from the analysis, the researcher either validates the hypothesis or
rejects the same and come to clear conclusion regarding the research topic.
The answers to the queries are found and the analysis clearly shows in which
direction the trend of results move.
6) Verifying: In this stage the researcher validates the findings and comes to
conclusion on different points of the research topic. For example, if the research
was on which method of teaching contributes to enhancement of academic
performance of children in class 8, and let us say that the researcher finds the
tutorial method is better than lecture method in enhancing academic performance,
these are put to statistical tests to find out if the differences obtained are
statistically significant. Thus the researcher validates the research findings.
7) Reporting: The last stage is of reporting the findings in the form of a report.
The report contains the topic, the methods of investigation, the tools used, the
sample that was interviewed, the results obtained, the statistical analysis used
and the final findings in terms of the objectives with which the research was
taken up. Through the results, the researcher is able to indicate whether the
objectives of the research were realised etc.

2.6.3 Procedure to be Followed During the Interview

During the interviews the researcher must take care of the following:
29
Tools of Data Collection Occasionally verify the tape recorder (if used) is working.
Ask one question at a time.
Attempt to remain as neutral as possible.
Encourage responses.
Be careful about the appearance when note taking.
Provide transition between major topics.
Dont lose control of the interview.
Every effort should be made to get all answers to all questions and that too truthfully
and objectively. The researcher should if using a tape recorder, check if it works
and whether it would be able to record the entire interview of one hour. The tapes
should be otherwise changed so that uninterruptedly the interview can go on. Also
before using the tape recorder the interviewer should get permission to use the same
from the respondent. If there is a need and requested the researcher should be
prepared to replay the recorder for the respondent who may like to verify what
answers have been given and if they are to be reported etc.
The researcher should be always neutral and even if the respondent gives some kind
of emotional statements, the researcher should not respond to it either positively or
negatively but record the same as felt and presented by the respondent.
Where ever necessary the researcher must encourage the respondent to answer the
questions. Many tactics may be used to get the respondent answer the questions,
and it always works if the researcher has established a good rapport with the
respondent.
Even if the interview is being tape recorded it is important to note the various
emotions and expressions as well as facial expressions of the respondent at the
appropriate places. These should be taken as note format and later on incorporated
in the recorded interview at the appropriate places in the interview.
As the researcher moves from one topic to another, it must be made in a smooth
manner.
The researcher must have complete control over the interview and should not slip at
any point of time. Focusing on the interview and concentrating on how the respondent
answers and the various expressions that the respondent is using are all to be
recorded and used while analysing the data.
After the interview
The researcher should verify if the tape recorder, if used, worked throughout the
interview. He should make detailed notes on the ones noted by him during the
interview. He should write down observations made during the interview.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What do we mean by stages of interview? Write in detail each of the stages
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
30
 Interview and Interviewing

.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) Elucidate the procedure to be followed while conducting interview.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What are the precautions to be taken if the interview is being recorded?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) What precautions to be taken after the interview is completed?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

2.7 CONVERGENT INTERVIEWING AS ACTION

RESEARCH
Some times an interview session is followed by a review session constituting a
research cycle. The review sessions interpret the data emerging from the interviews
and also help plan the questions in order to get a better understanding of the situation.
The sampling and the process of gathering data are checked and modified if necessary.
By asking more specific questions and pursuing deeper understanding the researcher
interprets the data collected, gives explanations and where necessary put forward his
disagreements. There is also a need to follow up the explanations and disagreements.
In interviewing one could structure interview or unstructured. In structured interview,
the questions are in a certain sequence and put across to all the respondents in the
same order and sequence and in the same manner so that the administration of the
questions does not lead to any differences. The structured interview is also very
useful for quantitative analysis. Such structured interviews are generally used
in survey research and not in one to one interviewing method unless it is a
situation calling for such interview method.
Interviewers read the questions exactly as they appear on the survey questionnaire.
The choice of answers to the questions is often fixed (close-ended) in advance,
though open-ended questions may also be included within a structured interview.
Structured interviews can also be used as a qualitative research methodology
31
(Kvale, 1996). These types of interviews are best suited for focus group studies in
Tools of Data Collection which it would be beneficial to compare/contrast participant responses in order to
answer a research question.
For structured qualitative interviews, it is usually necessary for researchers to develop
an interview schedule which lists the wording and sequencing of questions. Interview
schedules are sometimes considered a means by which researchers can increase the
reliability and credibility of research data. This can be done as follows:
The respondents will have to be given explicit information detailing with the
research process in its entirety.
The research assistants should conduct an initial screening interview to ascertain
whether the potential respondent is appropriate for the study
It is also important to determine the literacy level of the participants and to use
vernacular familiar to the respondents that is distinct from literary or research
language.
It is always important to take the informed consent of the participants. If
necessary, the respondents signature may also be taken in the form.
The advantages and risks associated with the provision of the information have
to be clearly delineated at the outset so that the participant can weigh the pros
and cons of involvement.
Research assistants or the data gatherers are crucial to any study. It is of
strategic importance that research assistants are fully conversant with their
responsibilities, the risks involved and the benefits of being part of a research
team.

2.8 RESEARCH TEAM

Rather than filling these positions randomly from the pool of job seekers in a region
that is characterised by high levels of unemployment, it is important to to employ a
homogenous field team to alleviate some of the problems faced during research.
It is recommended that research assistants be recruited from groups that have similar
research interests, such as for example, a class of research methodology students.
The research activity should be linked to the curriculum.
Furthermore there is a need to give an adequate and effective orientation to the
research assistants in regard to the research that is being conducted. It is imperative
that the research assistants be aware of the exigencies of their respective positions
prior to the onset of data collection.
Training of the Interviewers
It is important to train the investigators and the interviewers in the techniques of
interviewing because the techniques to establish rapport with the respondents needs
to be mastered by the interviewer as otherwise the interview may not be able to get
the needed responses from the respondents. They must be trained in the process
of interviewing so that they learn how to move from general to specific in regard to
topics and areas, the way in which the questions are to be asked and the kind of
body language, gestures to be shown and the clarifications etc., to be given to
respondents, and many more nuances related to the interview needs to be understood
by the interviewers and investigators. For this organising training for them becomes
32 highly essential. The training is thus basically how the interviewer must control the
quality of the result that would be obtained from the interview. It is important to Interview and Interviewing
organise in detail and rehearse the interviewing.
Important aspects related to training
Interviewers need to know more than simply how to conduct the interview itself.
They should have background of the study and why the study is important.
The interviewer may not understand why sampling is so important and if they have
to conduct the interview efficiently and adequately they must know not only the
background of the research but also why the sampling is important and who are the
respondents from whom the information is being collected.

2.9 LET US SUM UP

We defined interview and interviewing as a face to face verbal interchange in which
there are two persons, that is the researcher or the interviewer and the other is the
respondent or the interviewee. The interviewer tries to elicit the needed information
on the research topic from the respondent. It appears to be like a conversation but
this conversation is more with a specific purpose.
Some interviews are conducted for gathering information from very important persons
to know about their lives, ideas etc. There is another type of interview between the
doctor and the patient, where the doctor questions the patient in a particular order
as to what the symptoms are and how long the person had it and then based on the
interview which is called case history is able to come to an understanding of the
diagnosis of the patients problem.
An Interview, meant for a research study, involves the researcher or his investigators
interacting on a one- to-one level with a respondent, who has been selected by the
researcher as one of the subjects for the study. The interviewer puts questions to
the respondent on a particular subject matter and the respondents replies are noted
down verbatim, where possible or recorded as an audio report.
An interview can be one to one or it can be one to many. Answers to the questions
posed during an interview can be recorded by writing them down (either during the
interview itself or immediately after the interview) or by tape-recording the responses,
or by a combination of both.
Interviews can be conducted with varying degrees of flexibility that is high and low
degree of flexibility.
Interviews also can focus on the main aspects of the subject matter, or can get to
know what the topic has to convey behind the scene and what the topic can convey.
The interviews are of many types, as for instance (1) Informal, conversational type,
(2) General interview guide (3) Standardised open ended interview (4) Closed
fixed response.
There have been found inaccuracies in respondents versions during interviews when
compared with the information obtained by other means. Hence it is important to
have the validation of the interviews.
Interviews are completed by the interviewer based on what the respondent says.
Interviews are a far more personal form of research than questionnaires.
Topics included in the questions of the interview should cover behaviours, opinions
and values of the respondent, their feelings, knowledge and their perceptions. 33
Tools of Data Collection It is important that the researcher should involve the respondents as early as possible
in the interview situation. The rule is that, start with facts and move on to other more
subjective questions. Before asking questions related to any controversial matters,
first ask about some facts. Distribute these fact based questions in the entire interview
and ask questions about the present before questions about the past or future.
There are in all 7 stages in the interview investigation. These include the following:
1) Thematising: The why and what of the investigation.
2) Designing: Plan the design of the study.
3) Interviewing: Conduct the interview based on a guide.
4) Transcribing: Prepare the interview material for analysis.
5) Analysing: Decide on the purpose, the topic, the nature and
methods of analysis that are appropriate.
6) Verifying: Ascertain the validity of the interview findings.
7) Reporting: Communicate findings of the study based on scientific
criteria.
During the interviews the researcher must take care of the following:
Occasionally verify the tape recorder (if used) is working.
Ask one question at a time.
Attempt to remain as neutral as possible.
Encourage responses.
Be careful about the appearance when note taking.
Provide transition between major topics.
Dont lose control of the interview.
The researcher should verify if the tape recorder, if used, worked throughout the
interview. He should make detailed notes on the ones noted by him during the
interview. He should write down observations made during the interview. In interviewing
one could structure interview or unstructured. In structured interview, the questions
are in a certain sequence and put across to all the respondents in the same order and
sequence and in the same manner so that the administration of the questions do not
lead to any differences. The structured interview is also very useful for quantitative
analysis. Such structured interviews are generally used in survey research and
not in one to one interviewing method unless it is a situation calling for such
interview method. Then we discussed about the research team and the orientations
that they should have.

2.10 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Define and describe interview as a research method
2) What are the various types of interview? Present these in detail
3) What are qualitative research interviews?
34
4) Discuss the manner in which questions have to be written for an interview. Interview and Interviewing

5) Describe convergent interviewing as action research.

6) What is a research team? How do we select a research team?
7) What kind of training is needed for the research team?

2.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

Kerlinger, Fred, N. 1979, Founded of Behavioral Research, New York, : H 107,
Rinehart and Winstem Inc.
Kumar. R (2006) Research Methodology. New Delhi: Dorling Kingsley

35
 UNIT 3 QUESTIONNAIRE METHOD
Structure
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Objectives
3.2 Definition and Description of Questionnaires
3.3 Types of Questionnaires
3.3.1 Structured Questionnaires
3.3.2 Unstructured Questionnaires
3.3.3 Semi-structured Questionnaires

3.4 Purpose of Questionnaires Studies

3.5 Designing Research Questionnaires
3.6 The Methods to Make a Questionnaire Efficient
3.7 The Types of Questionnaire to be Included in the Questionnaire
3.8 Questionnaires: Why they dont Work
3.9 Dos and Donts in Designing Questionnaires
3.10 Formulating Questions for Measuring Attitudes
3.11 Measuring Attitudes: Recording Responses
3.12 Questions for Measuring Knowledge
3.13 Advantages and Disadvantages of Questionnaire
3.14 Pilot Test of Questionnaire
3.15 Monitor the Responses
3.16 Analyse the Survey Data
3.17 When to Use a Questionnaire?
3.18 Some Common Mistakes in Using Questionnaires
3.19 Let Us Sum Up
3.20 Unit End Questions
3.21 Suggested Readings

3.0 INTRODUCTION
According to dictionary, Questionnaire is a written or printed form used in gathering
information on some subject or subjects, consisting of a set of questions to be
submitted to one or more persons.
A questionnaire consists of a large number of questions arranged under different
headings and covers the research topic which is being studied by the researcher.
These questions are then sent or read out to the respondent (sample chosen for the
36 study) and the questionnaire is filled in by the researcher or by the respondents
themselves. These responses are then subjected to analysis and the results obtained Questionnaire Method
are tabulated.
A questionnaire thus is a research instrument consisting of a series of questions and
other prompts for the purpose of gathering information from respondents. The
questionnaire was invented by Sir Francis Galton.
Questionnaires can also be defined as a list of research or survey questions asked
to respondents and designed to extract specific information. It serves 4 basic
purposes, viz.,(i) collect the appropriate data (ii) make data comparable and amenable
to analysis. (iii) minimize bias in formulating and asking questions (iv) to make questions
engaging and varied.
In this unit we will be dealing with questionnaires, their definition and description, the
type of questionnaire, designing of questionnaire, the formulating of questions, the
various dos and donts of adding certain questions etc. The unit will also cover the
format of questionnaire, the structure etc. The unit gives you an idea of when and
how to use questionnaires.

3.1 OBJECTIVES
After completing this unit, you will be able to:
define questionnaire;
describe the characteristic features of questionnaire;
explain how to Design the questionnaire;
list out the dos and donts of questions to be added to the questionnaire;
list the types of questionnaires; and
analyse the uses and functions of the questionnaire.

3.2 DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION OF

QUESTIONNAIRES
In survey research where large number of respondents have to be contacted and a
large amount of data has to be gathered, questionnaire as a tool of data collection
appears to be the most suitbale and appropriate. The questionnaires play a central
role in the data gathering process. In order to gather efficient and correct information
and that too economically, the questionnaire has to be worked out very systematically
and designed most appropriately depending on the information needed.
Questionnaires play a central role in the data collection process. Questionnaires
facilitate the coding and capturing of data accurately, and it leads to an overall
reduction in the cost and time associated with data collection and processing.
Questionnaires contain a large number of questions pertaining to the subject matter.
In many questionnaires there are sections that are part of the major topic and these
sections go into details of information on the subject matter. The questionnaires
address the following issues, viz., why the research is being conducted and why the
survey form has been selected for collecting information. Secondly the questionnaire
deals with how the information is going to be used and whether the information will
be accurate and timely. The questionnaires can be sent by post to the respondents
or given peronally by the researcher, and getthe same filled in by self or by the 37
Tools of Data Collection respondent. When sent by post the number of questionnaires returned will be far
less and if it is 66% it may be considered representative.

3.3 TYPES OF QUESTIONNAIRES

Questionnaires are of varied types and depending on the type of survey undertaken
the questionnaire will be of a certain type. Let us see what are the various types of
questionnaires we have. The first one is structured questionnaire, unstructured
questionnaire, and semi structured questionnaires. Let us see in detail each of these
types.

3.3.1 Structured Questionnaires

As the name suggests, these are structured. That is the answers are already given
and the respondent has to tick mark the most suitable answer. In most questionnaire
the responses to most questions are exhaustive and still if a person wants to give a
response aside from the responses mentioned in the questionnaire, there is a column
indicating any other response, specify. However all responses are clearly gven and
predetermined and there is very little flexibility to add anything except in rare cases.

3.3.2 Unstructured Questionnaires

In this, the questions are open ended and the answers are not given or predetermined.
And hence the respondent can give whatever response he would like to these
questions. However even though unstructured, the sequence of the questions follow
an order. This sequence is predetermined by the researcher. The answers obtained
are noted down by the researcher or the respondent himself fills it up. Since there
is flexibility to add ones own thoughts and feelings, these questionnaires elicit very
factual and truthful and descriptive responses.

3.3.3 Semi-structured Questionnaires

These types of questionnaires have a mixed approach. In this some questions are
structured and some are not structured. There is generally a mixed approach.
Structured questionnaires allow for the exploration of patterns and trends which help
to describe what is happening in the L&T context and provide a measure of
respondents opinions, attitudes, feelings, and perceptions about issues of particular
concern to the evaluator. They also help to identify patterns and trends that merit
further exploration using qualitative methods.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Explain questionnaire method.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the three types of questionnaire?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
38
 Questionnaire Method
3.4 PURPOSES OF QUESTIONNAIRE STUDIES
1) Descriptive Studies
The task here is to count something. The intent may be to estimate the parameters
(population facts) for certain characteristics of a given population or to survey current
practices in some field or profession.
2) Analytical Studies
In these studies, the investigator is usually interested in comparing characteristics
among two or more populations. Studies in which the interest lies in exploring the
relationship among variables for a single population also qualify as analytical studies.

3.5 DESIGNING RESEARCH QUESTIONNAIRES

In any survey the researcher or the organisation concerned which has proposed the
research survey may try to get highly complex information. Though by and large their
efforts will be to get objective answers to the questions, they would like to also get
some feelings, opinions and a few subjective statements on the issues and problems
addressed in the questionnaire. At the same time it must be remembered that the
researcher must be cautious not to project own preconceptions as questions so that
replies are likely to come from like minded individuals, or from people who guess
the meaning, or from those who interpret the questions in their own way and answer
accordingly. It must be kept in mind that replies to open questions are quite messy
and ambiguous and it is not possible to find out what people really meant.

3.6 THE METHODS TO MAKE A QUESTIONNAIRE

EFFICIENT
Questionnaire designers have to look into these factors, namely, the layout, presentation,
the overall appearance and avoid the temptation to ask four questions in one question
etc. To cite an example, if we are conducting a survey on drop outs of children
before reaching class 8, we may have a question as given below:
Do you think the parents or children responsible for drop outs or whether the
income is low and the children supplement the family income. Here too many
questions and each can be answered separately with different answers.
Here are certain important rules for questionnaire construction which have to be kept
in mind while we construct the questionnaire.
Give attention to the structure of the questionnaire.
Start with a straightforward question to get the recipient to start replying.
Move from the general to the specific in each section (usually).
Try to ensure some variety in the types of question asked (see below).
Draw skidpaths if there are alternative routes (of the type if Yes go on to
question x) to make sure that every eventuality is covered. Then choose whether
to leave these in to help people move through the questionnaire.
Group related topics into modules.
Make the structure clear to the respondent by using headings. 39
Tools of Data Collection Choose the question types to fit the purpose. The main options are:
closed questions pre-assigned response categories or yes and no boxes
(make sure that each category is distinct [especially for age ranges] and that all
eventualities are covered if your response category is not provided what does
this say about the competence of the designers?)
Open questions at simplest this may be a Why is this? after a closed
question; the intention is that the respondents should reply in their own words
(dont forget to analyse these and that categorisation/synthesis takes time)
Use response scales where appropriate. These are a form of closed question.
Most common are:
Some of the important scales that could be made use of include the following:
1) Likert scales: a set of choices to record agreement/disagreement.
2) Guttman scales: statements arranged according to the strength of attitude.
3) Thurstone scales: forced choice to agree/disagree.
4) Semantic differential: seeking quantitative measures by offering scales between
extremes.
While using any of the scales above, it must be remembered that the researcher must
offer clear and consistent instructions for completing the questionnaire (easily forgotten
if questions are considered individually)
The researcher must pay attention to question wording since this is a topic in its own
right. Thus the overall aim of the research questionnaire is to obtain research relevant
information efficiently. For this the researcher requires active co-operation from the
target group. Every effort should be made to get back the maximum questionnaires
that were distributed to respondents, or else the findings may not be possible to
generalise. This ofcourse would take time, planning and attention to detail. However
considering the difficulty in getting the questionnaires back, it has been stated that
two-thirds of the questionnaire if returned back tht could make the research findings
worth the while.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What is purpose of questionnaire in research?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) Give important rules for constructs the good questionnaire.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
40
 Questionnaire Method
3) Define Likert scale and Thurstone scale.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

3.7 THE TYPE OF QUESTIONS TO BE INCLUDED

IN THE QUESTIONNAIRE
A high response rate to a questionnaire is most likely to be achieved, if people find
themselves wondering what other people are saying in reply to the questions because
they want to know what other people are doing (especially if they know that the
results will be made public), or if they find the questions or tasks set of interest in
themselves.
How can we make questionnaires more interesting? This can be done if we keep the
following in our view:
Instead of staying within the confines of the traditional question and answer
mode, put across a few challenging questions? To cite an example, what are
the reasons for parents not allowing their youngsters to go for night parties?
If you have a choice to get an item that is most important and that too when
ever you need it for your writing, what would it be?
Another way is to use examples or vignettes and asking questions based on the
same.
Or you can ask people to change the chosen scenario to make it a closer fit
to their own working behaviour by adding words, crossing out bits or changing
numbers.
To give an example, faced with someone who spends two hours every day
reading and responding to e-mails, someone else might change the description
to make the pattern less regular or to reduce the time. It was not too difficult
to devise a set of rules for interpreting the changes made to reflect emerging
differences.
Another method is to present people with photographs, drawings or plans of a
real or imagined information service area and asking for comments of the
respondents. This would provide an excellent response from the participants.

3.8 QUESTIONNAIRES: WHY THEY DONT WORK?

Despite all our best efforts, sometimes the questionnaires are not effective and they
do not work.
The reasons for the same include the following:
1) Highly complicated.
2) Require more than one answer.
3) Not relevant to the culture.
4) Use of jargons. 41
Tools of Data Collection 5) They are highly biased and touches upon sensitive area.
6) Embarrasses the respondent.
7) Confuses the Respondent.
Designing a questionnaire is a complicated process. There are mainly three main
types of questionnaires: 1) Mail or self administered questionnaire; 2) Face to face
interviews; 3) Telephone Interviews.
Always send a covering letter to the questionnaire, If youre sending a cover letter,
be sure to use letterhead stationary and have the principal investigator or someone
of renown from the funding agency sign it to add prestige.
Your cover and advance letters should include the following:
a) a brief explanation of the study
b) an explanation of how you obtained the respondents name
c) why it is important that each sampled respondent cooperate, and
d) a short assurance of confidentiality.
Your mailing envelope should include the words Address Correction Requested.
Dont forget to include a stamped self-addressed envelope for the respondent to
return the completed form.
It is a good idea to include your name and address on the questionnaire itself, in case
the respondent loses the enclosed return envelope.
A few things to remember when planning a mail survey:
Avoid mailing during holiday periods.
Do not have forms arrive on the first of the month.
If mailing to businesses, do not have forms arrive on the first day of the business
week.
If you plan only two questionnaire mailings, you might want a reminder postcard
between mailings or a telephone follow-up. Do not send a postcard if you have
planned three questionnaire mailings.
Be sure to allow at least two weeks between mailings.
Change your cover letter for both the second and third mailings.
If possible, change the questionnaire for follow-up mailings and include a new
question.
When writing questionnaires that respondents will see, it is very important that
you present a professional-looking document so that the respondents will know
this is a serious research effort.
Never send Xerox copies of loose pages held together with a staple in the
upper corner.
Always have the forms printed in a booklet, either saddle-stapled or glued, and
use a heavier paper for the cover.
42
 Do not forget to plan for printing time when setting your study schedule. Questionnaire Method

Remember when laying out your questionnaire that it will be printed on both
sides of a page and formed like a booklet, so that the final number of pages
will be a multiple of 4. This format also allows for double-width layouts, if
necessary.
Word questions to be read by a respondent as if you or an interviewer were
speaking to the respondent. Dont word them like school exams; remember to
insert the work please in all instructions (e.g., PLEASE SPECIFY).
Other precautions to take include the following:
Do not skip around from topic to topic.
Just as in writing a paper, prepare an outline and group your questions according
to topic or subject matter.
Write transitional statements between sections or changes in subject matter.
In general, you will begin your questionnaire with a question related to the
subject of the research, one that is designed to capture the respondents interest
without being threatening.
This can be an open-ended question that encourages respondents to express
their thoughts about the subject matter and literally trains them to talk to you.
However, it is often better to begin with closed questions that respondents can
answer easily so that they can learn that the interview process will be fairly easy
for them.
Questions can then be ordered from the least threatening issues to the most
threatening. Threatening is, of course, a relative term, because questions
about sexual practices and respondent incomes are considered threatening.
In general, demographic questions are asked in the last part of the interview.
However, it is sometimes necessary to obtain some demographic information
early in the interview in order to determine how to proceed through sections of
the questionnaire.
It is not an absolute fixed rule that demographics are asked toward the end of
the interview; you just need to be aware that they are considered sensitive and
intrusive by some respondents. At the same time, of course, they are critical for
analysis.
One important rule to follow is never to ask for more personal/demographic
information than is required for analysis. For example, if race is never going
to be an analysis variable, do not ask the question.
The same thing is true for marital status, income, gender, etc. It is not necessary
to include all of the demographic questions that one has developed. In fact, it
would be a rare survey that should require all of them.

3.9 DOS AND DONTS IN DESIGNING

QUESTIONNAIRES
1) Be sure all answer choices are mutually exclusive.
43
Tools of Data Collection 2) Check for ambiguity in wording the question can respondents interpret the
meaning of words differently?
3) Dont write your questions so that you lead the respondent to an obvious
response.
Example 1 (Leads the Respondent): Are you in favor of forcing state, to hold all
rape case investigations strictly confidential ans the court proceedings not to be
revealed in public?
Example 2 (Leads the Respondent): Do you think completely stopping the over the
counter drug distribution you can have lesser drug abusers and addicts?
It is important to give due attention to pronouns and articles in the questionnaire.
Watch personal pronouns (gender references) never use only he (his) or she
(her) unless you are referring to a specific gender.
Do not shorten questions that refer to previous questions; repeat the reference.
Do not let questions about knowledge provide the answer you are seeking
(e.g., Are you aware that xyz program exists?). Obviously, the question indicates
that it does exist.
Dont ask respondents to perform arithmetic computations; instead ask for
factual information and make the calculations during the analysis.
Write specific rather than general questions and word them so that they
communicate uniform meaning.
Avoid using double negatives these are especially possible when using Agree/
Disagree.
Example of Double Negative: Indicate if you agree or disagree.
A chemical used in food production that has a negligible cancer risk should be
prohibited even though it delays spoilage, prevents rancidity, or prolongs storage
time.
Dont know is generally not offered as an answer choice; however, there may be
times when no opinion should be offered.
Offering a middle choice makes less difference to those who feel strongly about an
issue, but if you offer a middle choice, more people will select it. One solution to
the middle choice is to ask two questions, that is, the first to identify the respondents
position on an issue and the second to measure intensity.
Example 1 (Identify Respondents Position): Are you satisfied or dissatisfied with
the prices of meals in your student union?
Satisfied (Skip to 2)
Dissatisfied (Skip to 3)
Makes no difference
Example 2 (Additional Question to Measure Intensity): Are you ______
Very satisfied
Somewhat satisfied
44 Slightly satisfied
Example 3 (Additional Question to Measure Intensity): Are you _______ Questionnaire Method

Very dissatisfied
Somewhat dissatisfied
Slightly dissatisfied
Before the official pretest, try out your questionnaire on a few members of the
target population.
If there are many changes as a result of the official pretest, be sure to conduct a
second pretest before beginning main study data collection.
Asking threatening questions about behaviour
Open questions are better than closed questions for obtaining information on
frequencies of socially undesirable behaviour.
Example 1: On the average, about how many times do you watch thematinee
show skipping the classes?
Long questions are better than short questions for obtaining information on
frequencies of socially undesirable behaviour.
The use of familiar words may increase the reporting of frequencies of socially
undesirable behaviour.
Example 1: Pot for marijuana
To obtain reports of threatening behaviour, use data obtained from informants,
if possible.
Consider deliberate loading of the question to reduce both overstatements of
socially desirable behaviour and understatements of socially undesirable behaviour.
Do not depend on wording such as Did you happen to to improve
reporting of socially undesirable behaviour. Such wording may actually increase
threat.
Example 1 (Loaded): Do you think it should be possible for a pregnant woman
to obtain a legal abortion if she is married and does not want any more children?
Example 2 (Unloaded): Do you believe that a woman should ever be allowed
to have an abortion?
For socially undesirable behaviour, it is better, before asking about current
behaviour, to ask whether the respondent has ever engaged in the behaviour.
For socially desirable behaviour, it is better to ask about current rather than
usual behaviour.
Embed the threatening topic into a list of more and less threatening topics, to
reduce the perceived importance of the topic to the respondent.
Consider alternatives to standard questions, such as randomised response, card
sorting, and sealed envelopes.
Consider the use of diaries or asking the panel members questions several times
to improve both reliability and validity.
Avoid the use of reliability checks on the same questionnaire, since this will
annoy respondents.
Ask questions at the end of the interview to determine how threatening the
45
topics were perceived to be by the respondent.
Tools of Data Collection
3.10 FORMULATING QUESTIONS FOR
MEASURING ATTITUDES
1) Make sure that the attitude objects are clearly specified.
2) Decide on the critical aspects of the attitude to be measuredaffective, cognitive,
and action.
3) Do not assume that these must necessarily be consistent.
4) Measure the strength of the attitude by building a strength dimension into the
question itself; by asking a separate question or questions about strength; or
by asking a series of independent questions, each of which reflects the general
attitude.
5) Avoid double-barreled and one-and-a-half barreled questions that introduce
multiple concepts and do not have a single answer. Where possible, separate
issues from individuals or sources connected with the issues.
Example 1 (Bad): Do you favor legislation or marijuana for use in private homes but
not in public places?
Example 2 (Better): Do you favor or oppose legislation of marijuana for use in
private homes?
Consider the use of separate unipolar items if there is a possibility that a bipolar item
might miss independent dimensions.
Example 1 (Bipolar): In the past few days were youexcited or bored , joyful or
depressed
Example 2 (Unipolar): In the past few days were you..Yes No Bored?, 1.
Depressed? 2.
Recognise that the presence or absence of an explicitly stated alternative can have
dramatic effects on response. Specification of alternatives will standardise the question
for respondents.
Example 1 (Bad): In the past two years has your income increased or decreased?
Example 2 (Better): In the past two years has your income increased, decreased, or
remained the same?
Pretest new attitude questions to determine how they are being interpreted by
respondents.
If general and specific attitude questions are related, ask the general question first.
When asking questions of differing degrees of popularity involving the same underlying
value, ask the least popular item first.
In attempting to measure changes in attitude over time, ask exactly the same questions
in all time periods, if at all possible.

3.11 MEASURING ATTITUDES: RECORDING

RESPONSES
1) Use open questions sparingly, for example, to develop further questions, to
explore a topic in depth, and to obtain quotable material.
46
2) Closed-ended questions are more difficult to construct but easier to analyse and Questionnaire Method
less subject to interviewer and coder variance.
Avoid interviewer field coding, if at all possible. If necessary, it is better to have field
coding done by the respondent.
Example 1 (Bad): Interviewer says, In general, how good is your health?
Excellent Good Fair Poor
Note: Interviewer codes what the respondent says and inevitably makes the decision.
For example, Its not wonderful, but its O.K. This response could be coded by
interviewer as Good or Fair.
Example 2 (Better): Would you say your health, in general, is
Excellent Good Fair Poor
Start with the end of a scale that is least socially desirable. Otherwise, the respondent
may choose a socially desirable answer without hearing or reading the entire set of
responses.
Do not use rating scales with more than four or five verbal points. For more detailed
scales, use numerical scales.
Example 1 (Bad): 1) Extremely likely 2. Very likely 3 Somewhat likely 4. Slightly
likely. 5. Slightlyt unliely 6. Somewhat unlikely 7. Very unlikely 8. Extremely
unlikely
Example 2 (Better): Extremely Likely Extremely Unlikely
123456 7
Consider the use of analogies such as thermometers, ladders, telephone dials, and
clocks for numerical scales with many points.
Ranking of preferences for alternatives can be done only when respondents can see
or remember all alternatives.
In telephone interviews ranking should be limited to two or three alternatives at a
time.
In self-administered and face-to-face interviews where cards are used, respondents
can rank no more than four or five alternatives.
If many alternatives are present, respondents can rank the three most desirable and
the three least desirable.
Rankings can be obtained by a series of paired-comparison questions.
Respondent fatigue, however, limits the number of alternatives that can be ranked.
Example 1 (Paired comparison): Would you prefer to go shopping on a weekday or
on the weekend?
When lists are used, complete information can be obtained only if each item is
responded to with
a yes/no, applies/does not apply, true for me/not true for me, and the like,
rather than with the instruction Circle as many as apply.
47
Tools of Data Collection Complex ratings, even in two dimensions, can be accomplished by means of card-
sorting procedures.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Make list of a good questionnaire.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) According to you which types of questions are not included in a good
questionnaire.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

3.12 QUESTIONS FOR MEASURING KNOWLEDGE

1) Before asking attitude questions about issues or persons, ask knowledge questions
to screen out respondents who lack sufficient information.
2) Consider whether the level of difficulty of the questions is appropriate for the
purposes of the study. For new issues simple questions may be necessary.
3) Where possible, reduce the threat of knowledge questions by asking them as
opinions or using phrases such as do you happen to know or can you recall,
offhand.
4) When identifying persons or organisations, avoid overestimates of knowledge
by asking for additional information or including fictitious names on the list.
Example 1 (Bad): To what extent do you think a to e below, can be trusted to
act honestly while in office?
a) Manmohan Singh
b) L.K.Advani
c) Atal Behari Bajpai
d) P.Chidambaram
e) Pranab Mukherjee
If yes/no questions are appropriate, ask several on the same topic to reduce the
likelihood of successful guessing.
For knowledge questions requiring numerical answers, use open-ended questions to
avoid either giving away the answer or misleading the respondent.
Example 1 (Open ended): How many hours a day is the store open?
48
Consider the use of pictures and other nonverbal procedures for determining Questionnaire Method
knowledge.
When attempting to determine level of knowledge, do not use mail or other procedures
that allow the respondents to look things up or to consult with others.
Procedure to be followed step by step in making an instrument for data collection:
1) Define the purpose
2) Develop the questions
3) Develop a guide
4) Arrange a schedule
5) Set up the groups
6) Conduct the sessions
7) Record the data
8) Analyse the data
9) Present the findings [not discussed below]
10) Develop the questions. Plan for 510 questions.
Effective group questions are carefully defined.
a) They Are always open ended (none of these are to be yes-or-no questions).
b) They are qualitative rather than quantitative in orientation (they ask about
perceptions and feelings, rather than about facts or numbers);
c) Never ask why directly;
d) Have many imbedded probes; and
e) Allow for process concerns as well as content.
f) Develop a guide
Successful groups for data collection comprise people who share some common
characteristic (such as being your client), have diverse experiences, and represent
diverse perspectives.
Problems to be avoided
Interviewers often get into trouble because they violate basic rules. The following
problems should be avoided:

Type Example What to Do or Avoid

Double-barreled Have you ever experienced Avoid double-barreled
questions burnout, and what do you questions. Ask one
do to prevent it? question at a time. Do not
combine questions and
expect an answer.

49
Tools of Data Collection Two-in-one What are the advantages Do not combine opposite
questions and disadvantages of positions in one question.
working at this university? Separate out the parts, and
things will be much
clearer.
Restrictive Do you think that female The phraseology of this
questions administrators are as good question eliminates the
as male administrators? possibility that females
might be better. Avoid
questions that inherently
eliminate some options.
Leading ABC Inc. wants Do not precede questions
questions departments to be close to with a position statement.
their clients. What do you In this type of question, the
think of my department's interviewer states a view or
client relations? summarizes the position of
a current or recent event
and then asks for a
response. This tends to lead
the respondent in a given
direction.
Loaded Would you favour or Avoid questions that use
questions oppose murder by agreeing loaded words and are
with a woman's free choice emotionally charged.
concerning abortion?

Steps in Questionnaire Construction

1st Step: Survey objectives and data requirements
In order to address the surveys objectives, you should prepare a document that
provides a clear and comprehensive statement of the surveys goals, data requirements,
and the analysis plan. This document will determine the variables to be measured,
and ultimately, the survey questions and response alternatives.
When formulating the questions, consult with subject-matter experts and if possible,
members of the target audience.
Make certain that the questions are relevant to the survey objectives and information
requirements and ensure that there is an established rationale behind each question.
Also, you should explain how the information gathered from these questions will be
used and whether they will be good measures of the required data.
2nd Step: Analysis plan
The next step in designing a questionnaire is to create an analysis plan. The analysis
plan will consist of the following:
a) Outline the questionnaires objectives and data requirements.
b) Describe the target audience as clearly as possible.
c) Identify the reference period (the time period under constructionin the last
year, in the last month etc.).
50
d) Develop a list of the units to be sampled (e.g., students, houses, teachers, etc.). Questionnaire Method

e) Decide on the method of data collection to be used (e.g., face-to-face interview,

telephone interview, mailed questionnaire, etc.).
f) Explain how the questionnaire content, wording, format and pre-testing process
will be developed; as well as the procedures put in place to deal with the
interviewer training and non-response results.
g) Choose the methods to be used during the data processing (e.g., coding, editing
etc.). Some of the other issues that can be analysed during this step include
estimation methods, result output tabulations, result reports and the analysis.
Finally, the last two important issues to be considered are the time required to
complete the entire process and the budget that has been allotted to it.
3rd Step:Survey target population
Often the target population (the population for which information is required) and the
survey population (the population actually covered) differ for practical reasons. It is
necessary to impose geographical limitations excluding certain parts of the target
population because they are inaccessible due to difficulty or cost.
It is also possible that some of the survey concepts and methods that are used can
be considered inappropriate for certain parts of the population, as it may be difficult
to find them . For example, if we want to find out the govt. jobs taken up by those
who completed their vocational course in secretarial practice, it would be difficult as
they can be all over India. We have therefore to restrict it to geographical limits of
northern India only or South India only etc.
4th Step: Method of data collection
This next step in questionnaire design involves developing the methods of data
collection. This is important step because you need to consider the costs, physical
resources, and time required to conduct the survey.
First, select the best method for gathering the required data. Keep in mind that cost
and data quality will be directly impacted by the method you choose.
There are several options available: face-to-face interviews or computer assisted
personal interviewing (CAPI) are two examples. These methods are administered by
a trained interviewer and can have either a structured or unstructured line of questioning.
There are also two telephone methods available: telephone interviews or computer
assisted telephone interviewing (CATI). Both of these methods are also administered
by a trained interviewer, but the telephone versions are structured with a more formal
interview schedule. Finally, there is also the option of a collecting data through a self-
completed questionnaire.
This method allows the respondent to complete the questionnaire without the aid of
an interviewer. It is highly structured and can be returned by mail or through a drop-
off system.
5th Step: Size of the survey
Since each survey is different, there are no hard and fast rules for determining its size.
The deciding factors in the scale of the survey operations are time, cost, operational
constraints and the desired precision of the results. These have to be evaluated.
51
Tools of Data Collection 6th Step: Data processing plans
This processes the questionnaire responses into output. Coding; data capture; editing;
dealing with invalid or missing data; and, if necessary creating derived variables are
the tasks that will be completed during data processing. In short, the aim in this step
is to produce a file of data that is as free of errors as possible.
7th Step: Budget
Sometimes, questionnaire design is decided upon by the amount of money available
to do a specific survey. Costs are one of the main justifications for choosing to
conduct sample surveys instead of a census. With surveys, it is possible to obtain
reasonable results with a relatively small sample or target population. For example,
if you need information on all Canadian citizens over 15 years of age, a survey of
a small percentage of these (1,000 or 2,000 depending on the requirements) might
provide adequate results.
8th Step. Time
One of the advantages of survey sampling is that it permits investigators to produce
the information quickly. It is often the case that survey results are required shortly
after the need for information has been identified. For example, if an organisation
wants to conduct a survey to measure the public awareness of a media advertisement
campaign, the survey should be conducted shortly after the campaign is undertaken.
Since sampling requires a smaller scale of operation, it reduces the data collection
and processing time, while allowing for greater design time and more complex
processing programs.
9th Step. Questionnaire testing
a) This is a fundamental step in developing a questionnaire. Testing helps discover
poor wording or ordering of questions.
b) Identify errors in the questionnaire layout and instructions
c) Determine problems caused by the respondents inability or unwillingness to
answer the questions.
d) Suggest additional response categories that can be pre-coded on the
questionnaire.
e) Provide a preliminary indication of the length of the interview and any refusal
problems.
f) Testing can include the entire questionnaire or only a particular portion of it.
g) A questionnaire will at some point in time have to be fully tested.
10thStep. Data quality
This step identifies errors and verifies results. No matter how much planning and
testing goes into a survey, something unexpected will often happen. As a result, no
survey is ever perfect.
Quality assurance programs such as interview training, information editing, computer
program testing, non-respondent follow-ups, and data collection and output spot-
checks are required to minimize non-sampling errors introduced during various stages
of the survey.
52
Statistical quality control programs ensure that the specified error levels are controlled Questionnaire Method
to minimum.
In addition to the above, there are many other issues related to developing a
questionnaire and these are given below:
Is the introduction informative? Does it stimulate respondent interest?
Are the words simple, direct and familiar to all respondents?
Do the questions read well? Did the overall questionnaire flow?
Are the questions clear and as specific as possible?
Does the questionnaire begin with easy and interesting questions?
Does the question specify a time reference?
Are any of the questions double-barreled?
Are any questions leading or loaded?
Should the questions be open- or close-ended? If the questions are close-
ended are the response categories mutually exclusive and exhaustive?
Are the questions applicable to all respondents?
The introduction of the questionnaire is very important because it outlines the pertinent
information about the survey being conducted. The introduction should:
provide the title or subject of the survey;
identify the sponsor;
explain the purpose of the survey;
request the respondents co-operation; and
inform the respondent about confidentiality issues, the status of the survey
(voluntary or mandatory) and any existing data-sharing agreements with other
organisations.
Respondents frequently question the value of the gathered information to themselves
and to others. Therefore, be sure to explain why it is important to complete the
questionnaire, how the information will be used, and how respondents can access the
results. Ensuring that respondents understand the value of their information is vital in
undertaking a survey.
The opening questions of any survey questionnaire should establish the respondents
confidence in their ability to answer the remaining questions. If necessary, the opening
questions should help determine the respondent as a member of the survey population

3.13 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF

QUESTIONNAIRE
Advantages of Questionnaire
1) They are cheap
2) Do not require as much effort from the questioner as verbal or telephone
53
surveys.
Tools of Data Collection 3) They have standardised answers that make it simple to compile data.
4) They sharply limited by the fact that respondents must be able to read the
questions and respond to them.
5) Questionnaires can be used to collect data quickly.
6) All participants can be given the opportunity to provide feedback.
7) Structured questionnaire data can be processed by software packages like
SPSS
Disadvantages of Questionnaire
1) Questionnaires also have many of the same problems relating to question
construction and wording that exist in other types of opinion polls.
2) Questions could be interpreted differently by respondents. It can be difficult to
design questionnaires to minimize this effect.
3) Data processing and analysis for large samples can be time consuming.
4) It can be difficult motivating potential respondents to complete questionnaires.
Procedure for a questionnaire survey
The following procedures are recommended for a questionnaire survey:
a) Determine the major questions
b) Draft questionnaire items
c) Design the questionnaire
d) Pilot test the questionnaire
e) Develop a data-collection strategy
f) Develop a cover letter and send the questionnaire
g) Monitor the response
h) Analyse the survey data
i) Determine the major questions
You should begin by understanding the major questions or issues you wish to address.
These will generally be reflected in the questionnaire sections, as described below.
Typical sections
1) Introduction or background information
This section includes questions about your client that may be important to your
analysis. It should solicit background information you need to address, such as the
respondents department, region, experience, gender, position, and experience with
the supplier. Ask only what is essential to your sub analyses. If you dont need to
know, dont ask.
2) Quality of goods or services received by your client
This section is the heart of the questionnaire and requires you to develop dimensions
of quality that may be important. The client (respondent) then rates the quality of
54
your outputs along these dimensions.
3) Other considerations Questionnaire Method

For this section, choose a title that matches other important dimensions of client
service, such as Timeliness of Delivery, Safety, or Environmental Responsibility.
4) Responsiveness, problem-solving, and client service
This set of questions will address your clients perceptions of your service. This
section might be merged with the quality or other-considerations section. These
major sections of your questionnaire provide the overall outline. Once you know
these major themes, you need to develop actual questions or items.
5) Types of questionnaire items
You must draft actual questionnaire items within each of the sections of your
questionnaire. It is difficult to vary the types of questions too often, so economise
within each section by asking similar types of questions.You will need to master six
types of questionnaire item before you invent your own. Unproved alternatives are
often confusing to the reader. So use unproved alternatives only after you are fully
familiar with the types of items described below.
6) Multiple-choice item
This type of question is useful for the introduction or background-information section.
7) Fill-in-the-blank item
Use this form when the possibilities are too numerous to list using a multiple-choice
item. They work well in a mix with multiple-choice. So, they are also good in the
introduction.
8) Rating-scale item
This type of item enables you to collect a lot of information efficiently. Rating-scale
items are good for rating your goods and services, other considerations, and so forth.

9) List item
This type of item provides a stronger form of feedback than a rating scale. It forces
the client to identify what he or she considers important and helps the researcher to
avoid the problem of people just agreeing because it is easy to check a box without
feeling that it is important to them.
What aspects of your training course did you like most? Please list three of them.
................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................
10) Comment-on item
This type of question is another way to gain an understanding of what your client
considers important. It is particularly useful for mopping up in the concluding
55
section.
Tools of Data Collection Please write any other comments about the work of school principal and suggestions
for training that you consider important:
................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................
11) Likert-scale items
The Likert scale allows the respondent to agree or disagree with a series of statements.
(Note, these are statements, not questions.) The Likert scale is easy to use, if you
know how, and like other rating scales it is an efficient way to collect lots of
information.

Now, you try a few. Write your own statements for dimensions of your work units
outputs. Include items that are worded both positively and negatively.
12) Design the questionnaire
As you write the items, you should begin considering an overall design for your
questionnaire. Follow these rules:
Lay out items to avoid confusion;
Use the formats shown in the examples;
Dont allow a question to cross over two pages;
Instruct the respondent in what you want him or her to do for each type of
question; and
Number the questions consecutively.
Use a booklet to make it professional and facilitate completion. Have a title and
introductory explanation, to let your clients know what you are doing and to help
them fill out the questionnaire properly.
Arrange the questionnaire in sections, each with a title to help structure the respondents
thinking; and to facilitate analysis.
Group similar types of items together especially with rating-scale items; but Fill-in-
the-blank and multiple-choice items can be mixed together.
Use all available space. Try to limit the length of the questionnaire to four pages and
Use space for comments to fill in pages.

56
 Questionnaire Method
3.14 PILOT TEST OF QUESTIONNAIRE
Even the best questionnaire needs testing. You might understand everything in the
questionnaire, but your client may not. Here are some tips to help you test your
questionnaire. Show the questionnaire to critical colleagues and ask them to read
it and to comment in the margins; and then revise the questionnaire.
Following this, test the questionnaire with a few clients
Now you have a questionnaire ready to go! Youll need to work out a strategy for
how and where to send it. The first part of your strategy is to select a sample of
people who fairly represent all your clients. Prepare a list of your sample clients.
The second part of your strategy is to decide on the technology you will use to send
out your questionnaire.
1) Standard: Questionnaires can be printed, in your office or by a printer, and
mailed to respondents. Respondents fill them out and mail them back. Results
are manually input into a database or statistical program for analysis.
2) Optical scanning: It is possible to print questionnaires so that they can be read
by an optical scanner that picks up the responses automatically.
3) Electronic questionnaires: The coming wave for internal client-needs assessments
is the e-mail questionnaire. This is designed on a computer and sent as a
computer file to clients via e-mail. The client receives the file, completes the
questionnaire on his or her computer, and sends the file back to you by e-mail.
4) Follow-up: You also need a follow-up strategy. This may include tracking the
number returned each day e-mail lets you know who hasnt yet replied.
Sending a reminder two weeks after first mailing; and deciding on corrective
action, if returns are poor. When key people in each unit distribute and collect
the questionnaire, pyramid networks are great, but personal networks are the
best of all for getting returns. Develop a cover letter and send the questionnaire.
5) Cover letter: Every successful questionnaire comes with a cover letter. The
letter should contain six pieces of information:
i) The purpose of the questionnaire;
ii) Who is sending it;
iii) Why the respondent was selected;
iv) Where, how, and when to return the questionnaire;
v) Whom to contact if there are further questions; and
vi) Whether and how the results will be shared.

3.15 MONITOR THE RESPONSES

Count on 4 to 6 weeks to get responses to your questionnaire. Send reminder
letters or put your network into action; and start your analysis when responses dry
up.

3.16 ANALYSE THE SURVEY DATA

Questionnaire analysis generally means dealing with large numbers or with a variety
57
of numbers. This usually requires you to use statistical concepts and computers.
Tools of Data Collection Many simple statistics programs are available to help you analyse data.
Six steps for constructing effective questionnaires: A Summary
1) Determine your questions
What do you intend to find out?
How will the information be helpful?
Which issues will relate to the questionnaire?
2) Specify your sub questions
List all the things you want to find out;
Indicate those sub questions to be included in the questionnaire; and
Refine your list.
3) Draft the items
Translate questions into items; and
Formulate multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, rating-scale, list, comment-on, and
Likert-scale questions.
4) Sequence the items
Group the items into topic sections;
Group the items by question type; and
Rewrite the items as necessary.
5) Design the questionnaire
Order and number questions;
Layout a booklet format; and
Arrange the questions on pages.
6) Pilot test the questionnaire
Clarify the wording of the questionnaire with respondents;
Group test the draft questionnaire;
Discuss the questionnaire with the group; and
Revise the questionnaire and retest it if necessary.
Survey questionnaire, e-survey, telephone interview, face-to-face interview, focus
group. Surveys collect data from a targeted group of people about their opinions,
behaviour or knowledge. Common types of surveys are written questionnaires, face-
to-face or telephone interviews, focus groups and electronic (e-mail or Web site)
surveys.
Practicalities and how to make a questionnaire efficient
It is advisable to test questionnaires before using them, to ensure that participants
understand them and interpret them in the way that you expect, that they do not
58
take too long to complete, and that they yield useful data.
 It can be difficult to achieve an appropriate balance between asking sufficient Questionnaire Method
questions to get useful feedback, but not so many questions that respondents
get bored or feel they dont have sufficient time to devote to completing them.
Complex questionnaire formats and structures can be difficult for respondents
to complete.
Longer questionnaires can be answered more quickly if the format of the question
is fairly similar and respondent do not need to keep learning how to complete
different types of questions, or have to make too many decisions about which
sections apply to them.
Different approaches to phrasing questions may have strengths and weaknesses
for collecting the data needed (see section on Question design).
Questions will need to be in accordance with the relevant legislation and University
guidance for the ethical handling of data. This involves not collecting unnecessary
personal data, and if the questionnaire is intended to be anonymous, any personal
data that will enable respondents to be identified.
Distributing and allowing students to complete paper-based questionnaires in
class time is likely to maximise representative completion.

3.17 WHEN TO USE A QUESTIONNAIRE?

In spite of its wide usage, the questionnaire is not appropriate for all purposes.
Even when you are developing your own questions, there are at least two other
methods of data collection which you should consider.
Perhaps the most obvious alternative is using a questionnaire is the personal interview.
The advantages of this approach include richness of response, ability to clear up
misconceptions, opportunity to follow up responses, and, by implication, better data
in many situations. Additionally, respondents will usually be more conscientious if the
interviewer is present.
Finally, the use of a questionnaire does reduce the influence (and consequent bias)
due to the presence of the interviewer.

3.18 SOME COMMON MISTAKES IN USING

QUESTIONNAIRES
Before we advance to the dos of questionnaire development, let me warn you of
some of the most common donts in such studies. Well touch on many of these
items later in the recommendations sections, but in the hope that they will stick, Ill
enumerate them at the outset. Eight of the most common mistakes are:
1) Asking for information which is more readily and/or accurately available elsewhere
2) Failing to create sufficient incentive for the respondent to answer.
3) Including questions which the respondent sees as ridiculous or unimportant.
4) Including questions which encourage some sort of favorable response.
5) Using equivocal or ambiguous questions.
6) Using responses which are too limited in scope to be useful. 59
Tools of Data Collection 7) Not living up to promises made to respondents.
8) Developing a form which is too long or complicated.
Have patience. A questionnaire is not an end in itself, only the means to an end. If
fits into an overall plan for the survey and needs to be considered in light of other
decisions about the survey design.
A survey is a planned collection of data for some purpose. As such, it must begin
with a clear statement of purpose(s). Only if this is done prior to developing the
questionnaire can the instrument be evaluated for quality as a data source.

3.19 LET US SUM UP

In this unit we have studied about the relevance of questionnaire in research work
and it consists of a large number of questions arranged under different headings and
covers the research topic which is being studied by the researcher. These questions
are then sent or read out to the respondent (sample chosen for the study) and the
questionnaire is filled in by the researcher or by the respondents themselves. These
responses are then subjected to analysis and the results obtained are tabulated. The
three types of questionnaire are included structured questionnaire, unstructured
questionnaire, and semi structured questionnaires. Descriptive and analytical purposes
are two purposes. Here you have also studied designing, methods to make a
questionnaire efficient and what types of questions to be included in the questionnaire.
Advantages and disadvantages are also discuss in detail.

3.20 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Explain importance of questionnaire in research.
2) What are the major steps for a construction of good questionnaire?
3) What are the advantages of questionnaire?
4) What are the disadvantages of questionnaire?

3.21 SUGGESTED READINGS

Kerlinger, Fred, N. 1979, Founded of Behavioral Research, New York, : H 107,
Rinehart and Winstem Inc.
Kumar. R (2006) Research Methodology. New Delhi: Dorling Kingsley

60
UNIT 4 CASE STUDY
Structure
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Objectives
4.2 Definition and Description of Case Study Method
4.3 Historical Account of Case Study Method
4.4 Designing Case Study
4.4.1 Determine and Define the Research Questions
4.4.2 Select the Cases and Determine Data Gathering and Analysis Techniques
4.4.3 Prepare to Collect Data
4.4.4 Collect Data in the Field
4.4.5 Evaluate and Analyse the Data
4.4.6 Prepare the Report

4.5 Requirements for Case Studies

4.6 Guideline to Follow in Case Study Method
4.7 Other Important Measures in Case Study Method
4.7.1 Preliminary Considerations: Problem Representation
4.7.2 Evidence Collected and Interpretation

4.8 Case Reports

4.9 Let Us Sum Up
4.10 Unit End Questions
4.11 Suggested Readings

4.0 INTRODUCTION
Case Study method in research is a unique method in which one case is taken and
researched on various issues. It could be for a limited period of time or a longitudinal
study. In other words for example a researcher may be interested to study twins
over 16 years in regard to their psychological growth and development. Thus Case
study refers to the collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular
participant or small group, frequently including the accounts of subjects themselves.
This is a form of qualitative descriptive research. In this unit we will be studying
about the case study method in psychological research, its characteristic features, the
procedure adopted in case study method, its advantages and disadvantages.

4.1 OBJECTIVES
After completing this unit, you will be able to:
define case study method;
describe its various features and characteristics;
explain the procedure of data collection through case study method; and
61
analyse the advantages and disadvantages of this method.
Tools of Data Collection
4.2 DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION OF CASE
STUDY METHOD
Case study method is an in depth study of a particular situation or a subject at
different time periods etc. It can also refer to study of a small group of persons or
events in regard to analysing the same in depth. It is a method used to narrow down
a very broad field of research into one easily researchable topic. The case study
looks intensely at an individual or small participant pool, and draws conclusions only
about that participant or group and only in that specific context.
The case study research design is useful for testing whether scientific theories and
models actually work in the real world. For psychologists, anthropologists and social
scientists, case study method has been regarded as valid research method.
Case studies are complex because they generally involve multiple sources of data.
For instance they include multiple cases within a study, and produce large amounts
of data for analysis. Case study research excels at bringing us to an understanding
of a complex issue or object and can extend experience or add strength to what is
already known through previous research. Case studies emphasise detailed contextual
analysis of a limited number of events or conditions and their relationships. Researcher
Robert K. Yin defines the case study research method as an empirical inquiry that
investigates a contemporary phenomenon within its real-life context, and when the
boundaries between phenomenon and context are not clearly evident and in which
multiple sources of evidence are used (Yin, 1984, p. 23).
Uses of Case Study method
Researchers from many disciplines use the case study method for varied purposes:
1) To build upon theory.
2) To produce new theory.
3) To dispute or challenge theory
4) To explain a situation.
5) To provide a basis to apply solutions to situations
6) To explore, or to describe an object or phenomenon.
7) The advantages of the case study method are its applicability to real-life,
contemporary, human situations and its public accessibility through written reports.
8) Case study results relate directly to the common readers everyday experience
and facilitate an understanding of complex real-life situations.

4.3 HISTORICAL ACCOUNT OF CASE STUDY

METHOD
Case studies are not a new form of research; naturalistic inquiry was the primary
research tool until the development of the scientific method. Case study research has
drawn from a number of areas such as the clinical methods of doctors; the social
casework technique of social workers, the methods of historians and anthropologists,
and the techniques of newspaper reporters and novelists.

62
The case study method has evolved over a period of time mainly due to research Case Study
interest of many sociologists, anthropologists, social workers and psychologists. Each
of these professionals treid to study the humans in their natural setting and understand
their behaviours in different situations. This helped to provide the needed information
on human behaviour as related to self, others, family, society and culture.
Case studies are basically qualitative even though in the present day much statistical
analysis is being done to the data made available through case study method. The
qualitative aspect is one of the criticisms against case study. Also case study is
criticized on the grounds that it fails to provide evidence of inter subjective agreement.
Furthermore, case study uses only a few samples and thus the data obtained and the
findings arrived at cannot be generalised to the whole population.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Describe the case study method.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the characteristic features of case study?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

4.4 DESIGNING CASE STUDY

4.4.1 Determine and Define the Research Questions
The first step in case study research is to establish a firm research focus to which
the researcher can refer over the course of study of a complex phenomenon or
object. The researcher establishes the focus of the study by forming questions about
the situation or problem to be studied and determining a purpose for the study. The
research object in a case study is often a program, an entity, a person, or a group
of people. Each object is likely to be intricately connected to political, social, historical,
and personal issues, providing wide ranging possibilities for questions and adding
complexity to the case study. The researcher investigates the object of the case study
in depth using a variety of data gathering methods to produce evidence that leads to
understanding of the case and answers the research questions.
Case study research generally answers one or more questions which begin with
how or why. The questions are targeted to a limited number of events or conditions
and their inter-relationships. To assist in targeting and formulating the questions,
researchers conduct a literature review. This review establishes what research has
been previously conducted and leads to refined, insightful questions about the problem.
Careful definition of the questions at the start pinpoints where to look for evidence
and helps determine the methods of analysis to be used in the study. The literature
review, definition of the purpose of the case study, and early determination of the 63
Tools of Data Collection potential audience for the final report guide how the study will be designed, conducted,
and publicly reported.

4.4.2 Select the Cases and Determine Data Gathering and

Analysis Techniques
During the design phase of case study research, the researcher determines what
approaches to use in selecting single or multiple real-life cases to examine in depth
and which instruments and data gathering approaches to use. When using multiple
cases, each case is treated as a single case. Each cases conclusion can then be used
as information contributing to the whole study, but each case remains a single case.
Exemplary case studies carefully select cases and carefully examine the choices
available from among many research tools available in order to increase the validity
of the study. Careful discrimination at the point of selection also helps erect boundaries
around the case.
The researcher must determine whether to study cases which are unique in some way
or cases which are considered typical and may also select cases to represent a
variety of geographic regions, a variety of size parameters, or other parameters. A
useful step in the selection process is to repeatedly refer back to the purpose of the
study in order to focus attention on where to look for cases and evidence that will
satisfy the purpose of the study and answer the research questions posed. Selecting
multiple or single cases is a key element, but a case study can include more than one
unit of embedded analysis. For example, a case study may involve study of a single
industry and a firm participating in that industry. This type of case study involves two
levels of analysis and increases the complexity and amount of data to be gathered
and analysed.
A key strength of the case study method involves using multiple sources and techniques
in the data gathering process. The researcher determines in advance what evidence
to gather and what analysis techniques to use with the data to answer the research
questions. Data gathered is normally largely qualitative, but it may also be quantitative.
Tools to collect data can include surveys, interviews, documentation review,
observation, and even the collection of physical artifacts.
The researcher must use the designated data gathering tools systematically and properly
in collecting the evidence. Throughout the design phase, researchers must ensure that
the study is well constructed to ensure construct validity, internal validity, external
validity, and reliability. Construct validity requires the researcher to use the correct
measures for the concepts being studied. Internal validity (especially important with
explanatory or causal studies) demonstrates that certain conditions lead to other
conditions and requires the use of multiple pieces of evidence from multiple sources
to uncover convergent lines of inquiry. The researcher strives to establish a chain of
evidence forward and backward. External validity reflects whether or not findings are
generalisable beyond the immediate case or cases; the more variations in places,
people, and procedures a case study can withstand and still yield the same findings,
the more external validity. Techniques such as cross-case examination and within-
case examination along with literature review helps ensure external validity. Reliability
refers to the stability, accuracy, and precision of measurement. Exemplary case study
design ensures that the procedures used are well documented and can be repeated
with the same results over and over again.

64
4.4.3 Prepare to Collect the Data Case Study

The case study method is such that on a single case large amount of data may be
collected and the possibility of the researcher losing sight of the original research
theme / topic is very likely. Hence as soon as data is obtained the researcher must
systematically organise the same. Advance preparation assists in handling large amounts
of data in a documented and systematic fashion. Researchers prepare databases to
assist with categorising, sorting, storing, and retrieving data for analysis.
It is important to train the investigators in how to do case study. Clear protocols
should be established and procedures for collecting the data should be spelt out
much before the investigation starts. It is always ideal to have a pilot study taken
up before the final study is launched. During the training of investigators, it is important
to cover the basic concepts of the study, the various terminologies that have been
used, the tools that are used for data collection, the processes as to how to follow
up, how to conduct the interviews and observations, and the various techniques that
have to be applied in the study. Such a thorough training would go a long way in
making the study valid and reliable. The training program should cover protocols
for case study research, including time deadlines, formats for narrative reporting and
field notes, guidelines for collection of documents, and guidelines for field procedures
to be used.
In case study method the investigators have to be good listeners. They should be
trained to establish quick rapport with the subject concerned, and must ask good
questions and interpret answers. Good investigators review documents looking for
facts, but also understand the intricacies of the situation so that they could give good
interpretation. Investigators need to be flexible in real-life situations and not feel
threatened by unexpected changes. They should not get perturbed if a subject does
not keep the appointment but carry on, contact the subject and continue with the
work. Investigators must also be aware that they are going into the world of real
human beings who may be threatened or unsure of what the case study will bring.
Once the training is over, it would be ideal to conduct a pilot study to find out any
possible problems that may arise. They should put to test the various techniques and
tools in order to see if these work or need any modifications. Researchers need to
anticipate key problems and events, identify key people, prepare letters of introduction,
establish rules for confidentiality, and actively seek opportunities to revisit and revise
the research design in order to address and add to the original set of research
questions.

4.4.4 Collect Data in the Field

As the data are being collected, they have to be stored systematically. The researcher
will get multiple source of evidences which have to be so arranged that the same can
throw light on the research problem that is being investigated.
Case study research is flexible, but when changes are made, they are documented
systematically.
The researcher must use field notes and databases to categorise and reference data
so that it is readily available for subsequent reinterpretation. The researcher using
case study method would record testimonies, stories, and illustrations which can be
used in later reports. They should be aware that as they get exposed to vast amount
of information they may get biased by giving special attention to the subject concerned
etc. They assist in determining whether or not the inquiry needs to be reformulated 65
Tools of Data Collection or redefined based on what is being observed. Field notes should be kept separate
from the data being collected and stored for analysis.

4.4.5 Evaluate and Analyse the Data

In this step, the researcher having collected the required information examines the
raw data using many interpretations in order to find linkages between the research
object and the outcomes with reference to the original research questions. Throughout
the evaluation and analysis process, the researcher remains open to new opportunities
and insights. The case study method, with its use of multiple data collection methods
and analysis techniques, provides researchers opportunities to triangulate data in
order to strengthen the research findings and conclusions.
Case study method facilitates sorting the data in many different ways and thus help
create new insights into the research problem. Researchers categorise, tabulate, and
recombine data to address the initial propositions. They may conduct cross-checks
of facts and discrepancies and add to the richness of the findings. The field notes
and the various observations made and recorded in notes come handy to interpret
the data in a more appropriate manner and analyse the problem in depth.
They place their data in the following manner:
1) They place information into arrays
2) Create matrices of categories
3) They work out flow charts and graphs to project their data more realistically
4) They tabulate the frequencies of the data and the events that had taken place.
5) Even though qualitative data are the main source of evidence, the researcher
also tries to quantify the data.
6) Another technique, the cross-case search for patterns, keeps investigators from
reaching premature conclusions by requiring that investigators look at the data
in many different ways.
7) Cross-case analysis divides the data by type across all cases investigated. One
researcher then examines the data of that type thoroughly.
8) When a pattern from one data type is corroborated by the evidence from
another, the finding is stronger. When evidence conflicts, deeper probing of the
differences is necessary to identify the cause or source of conflict.
9) In all cases, the researcher treats the evidence fairly to produce analytic
conclusions answering the original how and why research questions.

4.4.6 Prepare the Report

The next step is to prepare the report of the data analysed. The researcher makes
graphs, flow charts, bar diagrams and pie diagrams to present their data over a
period of time. They present conflicting evidences clearly and point out the reasons
for such conflicting evidence and provide inferences drawn from the same.
The manner in which the researcher presents the report makes it easy for head and
wanting to know more about the issue concerned. The manner in which the data
are presented not only kindles the curiosity of the reader but the latter gains confidence
66
in the researcher and his methodology that has been used to provide the information.
In case studies as mentioned earlier, there could be two or more cases being observed Case Study
and studied in detail. In the report the researcher may like to present all cases as
one case and later on present one chapter for each case and highlight the similarities,
differences and characteristic features of the findings in each case. Before finalising
the report, the researcher presents the same to certain professionals and other
researchers for review and based on their comments the report is then finalized.

4.5 REQUIREMENTS FOR CASE STUDIES

1) The case study should be conducted in such a way that the results can be
communicated to readers.
2) The reader must be able to determine from the evidence presented the nature
of the argument, and why and how conclusions were drawn.
3) The reader must be able to determine the evidential nature of the case as
published
4) The evidence must follow convincingly and should allow the reader to determine
the basis upon which generalisation has been made.
5) Case studies provide a framework to help researcher decide if the presented
evidence is convincing and if the necessary material has been provided to allow
the reader to extend, connect or otherwise apply the case report to his/her own
circumstances.

4.6 GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW IN CASE STUDY

METHOD
Make a thorough review of literature before embarking on case study method for
research purposes.
Contrast and compare different methodological perspectives.
The assumptions on which the case study is based should be made clear.
Data gathering should be undertaken only after a thorough training in the method.
All the techniques and methods to be used to be put to pilot test first before
launching on the final collection opf data.
Evidences collected should be properly and systematically arranged and recorded.
Both audio and visual instruments could be used for the purpose.
The degree to which evidence is presented is very important as the interpretation can
be reliable and valid only if sufficient evidence is presented.
All evidences obtained during data collection must be integrated with field notes and
other observations made by the investigator.
Unless the methodology used is appropriate and presented in detail and the loopholes
and shortcoming in the methodology are avoided the data and evidences collected
cannot be reported.
All researchers, regardless of their beliefs about case study completion, must reveal
the steps they followed so that others can determine the merits of the completed
work. 67
Tools of Data Collection In order for the reader to be convinced that case studies have merit, the researcher
must show the relationship between argument and evidence.

4.7 OTHER IMPORTANT MEASURES IN CASE

STUDY METHOD
These measures could be organised into three major categories as given below:
1) Preliminary considerations: Problem representation
2) Evidence gathering and interpretation, and
3) Case reports.

4.7.1 Preliminary Considerations: Problem Representation

The first step to be taken by the researcher before suing case study method is to
define the problem clearly. What made the researcher take up this topic? What has
gone on in the topic and what more needs to be done and what the researcher is
planning etc.
There should be a clear statement of the conceptualisation of the problem and how
this concept was translated into research problem.
The questions related to the problem must be clearly stated. The match between the
conceptualisation and its translation, the problem representation, must be congruent.
The researcher must highlight the importance of questions and research goals and
how they correspond with each other.
The fundamental feature of problem representation is a clearly delineated match
between the research question/problem and the researchers original intent in posing
that question/problem.
It must be remembered that the longer the time frame over which the case study is
conducted, the more difficult it will be to ensure problem representation.
In posing a question or questions that are investigated longitudinally, the intent-
question(s)/problem(s) match may need to be modified to take into account potential
changes in participants or the specific dynamics of the proposed study (context,
location, participant descriptors, et cetera).
Thus the problem representation is instrumental to the clear formation of a logically
stated and conceptually clear research formulation.
The purpose of the research and how the research was conducted have to be made
very clear before the report is written.

4.7.2 Evidence Collection and Interpretation

The next logical step is that the researcher should indicate how the data or information
was collected. To determine if the case study based evidence is reliable etc., the
reader needs to determine if the evidence has been collected in a systematic and
thoughtful manner to ensure that it is both accurate and meaningful.
The following questions need to be answered for the above:
1) How was the evidence collected?
68
2) What source of evidence was employed? Case Study

3) What rules of evidence was applied?

4) How will the evidence be verified and confirmed?
5) How has the researcher interpreted the evidence?
6) How were the conclusions reached?
7) How did the researcher make the judgments?
In the first instance, a clear statement of how evidence was collected, processed and
incorporated in the theoretical perspective must be made obvious by the researcher.
If, for example, head-notes are treated as evidence that will be incorporated into the
evidential basis of the reported case, this posture must be revealed.
Convincability and generalisability are the next important issues, in which the researcher
should make clear the problem(s)/context(s) to be investigated. Evidence should be
provided that the collected information has been verified. Next, the researcher(s)
should provide evidence that the case has been conducted in a manner that is
consistent with the principles of trustworthiness.
Due to the considerable variation in possible approaches to case studies and more
generally qualitative research, the researcher has to state how evidence is interpreted.
Further, the reader should be informed as to what degree the evidence presented is
representative of informants viewpoints as opposed to being more representative of
the researchers own notes and experience.
In the final analysis, it is important that the reader who reads the researchers report
should be convinced about the evidences and must be able to generalise to other
situations which are similar.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the steps involved to design a case study in research?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) Explain three major measures in case study method.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

4.8 CASE REPORTS

Case reports can be written in any of the two forms given below, viz., (i) Graphical
or visual approach (ii) Ratios.
69
Tools of Data Collection The graphical or visual approach is very useful as it clearly depicts the trend of the
evidences and in which direction the results move etc. regarding the phenomenon
concerned.
In regard to ratios, the ratio is the number of times a point is raised within a theme
divided by the total number of points raised within each theme. To illustrate with a
very general example, if the theme of a response to a question was male-female
relationship issues and there were a total of 12 respondents, 12/12 would mean that
all respondents had made salient remarks about this theme. The quotes that best
illustrate the reported theme would be selected from these 12 responses.
In nutshell, if the goal is to generalise, it is necessary for the author(s) to reveal to
the reader the evidential base around which conclusions are based. There are a
number of ways of accomplishing this step -primarily, however, it must be obvious
to the readers how conclusions were drawn.
The advantage of the case study research design is that you can focus on specific
and interesting cases. This may be an attempt to test a theory with a typical case or
it can be a specific topic that is of interest. Research should be thorough and note
taking should be meticulous and systematic.
The first foundation of the case study is the subject and relevance. In a case study,
you are deliberately trying to isolate a small study group, one individual case or one
particular population.
In the design of a case study, it is important to plan and design how you are going
to address the study and make sure that all collected data is relevant. Unlike a
scientific report, there is no strict set of rules so the most important part is making
sure that the study is focused and concise.
As for analysing results for a case study tends to be more opinion based than
statistical methods. The usual idea is to try and collate the data into a manageable
form and construct a narrative around it.
Use examples in your narrative whilst keeping things concise and interesting. It is
useful to show some numerical data but remember that you are only trying to judge
trends and not analyse every last piece of data. It is always a good idea to assume
that a person reading your research may not possess a lot of knowledge of the
subject so try to write accordingly.

4.9 LET US SUM UP

In this unit we studied the case study research method. We defined this method as
one that takes up one individual or one case or one group of persons and studies
them in great depth to understand a certain phenomenon. We gave examples of such
research. We then historically traced the case study research and found that it had
considerable use for anthropologists and related disciplines and we also saw that this
method was used by social workers based on case work methodology. We then
learnt how a case study method is designed and what are all the steps that are
involved in designing case study research. Following this we took up the procedure
in conducting case study research and the training one must have for the investigators
to conduct a case study research. We then put forward the guidelines for conducting
case study based research and how to report the same so that it is meaningful, factual
and objective. We also learnt about the requirements for conducting a case study
70 research and the various other measures involved in case study method. We briefly
touched upon case reports and indicated what format it should be and what it should Case Study
contain and how it is to be written.

4.10 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) How are the subjects selected for case study method?
2) In what way the gathering and analysis of case study method data is unique?
3) Describe each of the steps in designing case study method research
4) Put forward the guidelines to be followed in case study method.
5) What are the requirements for case study method research?
6) Describe with examples the evidence collection and interpretation of data gathered
in case study method research.
7) What are case reports? How are they written?

4.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

Abramson, P.R. (1992). A Case for Case Studies: An Immigrants Journal.
Newbury Park: Sage.
Bassey, M. (1999). Case Study Research in Educational Settings. Buckingham:
Open University.
Campbell, D.T. & Stanley, J.C. (1966) Experimental and Quasi-experimental
Designs for Research. Chicago: Rand McNally.
Kazdin, A. E. (1982). Single-case Research Designs: Methods for Clinical and
Applied Settings. New York: Oxford Press.

71
UNIT 1 REPORT WRITING
Structure
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Purpose of a Report
1.3 Writing Style of the Report
1.4 Report Writing the Dos and the Donts
1.5 Format for Report in Psychology Area
1.6 Major Sections in a Report
1.6.1 Title
1.6.2 Authors Name
1.6.3 Institutional Affiliation
1.6.4 Running Head
1.7 Abstract
1.7.1 Accuracy
1.7.2 Self Contained
1.7.3 Concise and Specific
1.7.4 Ways to Conserve Character
1.7.5 Non-evaluative Type of Abstract
1.7.6 Coherent and Readable
1.8 Introduction to Research Report
1.8.1 Develop the Background
1.8.2 State the Purpose and Rationale
1.8.3 Method of Writing the Introduction
1.9 General Guidelines to Write Introduction
1.10 Let Us Sum Up
1.11 Unit End Questions
1.12 Glossary
1.13 Suggested Readings

1.0 INTRODUCTION
This unit introduces you to report writing. Reports are of many types , with some
based on research work and some based on review of work done, and a few others
based on ones experience. There are reports which we write about some matter to
another agency or to our successor indicating what had gone on until now and what
more to be done etc. Thus report writing is of many types. In this unit we are going
to focus on writing of a report based on research work. This unit will provide you
with the purpose of a report, writing style of a report, how to write the abstract to
a report as well as the typical major headings one must follow in a research report.

1.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
discuss the purpose of a report;
5
explain the writing style of the report;
Report Writing describe the dos and donts of writing a report;
discuss the format for report writing in psychiology area;
explain major sections in a report;
discuss the characteristics of an abstract; and
describe the guidelines for writing an introduction to a report.

1.2 PURPOSE OF A REPORT

A report is a written document which contains information regarding a topic which
has been dealt with by a person. For example a teacher might have dealt with a topic
on how teaching methodology influences students performance. The person would
have tried out three or four different teaching methods such as lecture method,
discussion method, tutorial method and audiovisual method. Students performance
would have been noted before teaching by a certain method and after the teaching
with a particular method was over say in a period of 3 months, the performance of
students will be assessed once again. Based on the results the person would have
written the report about what all was done, and what was the final outcome of such
a research. The report which is a written document contains a number of chapters
each focusing on certain aspects and with final chapter highlighting the conclusions
arrived at based on the research.
Thus the purpose of report in the field of psychology is to communicate to others
what has been experimented or researched on, and what has been the result of such
an effort. Through the report we tell other psychologists and colleagues in the field
as well as the practitioners what experiment we did on memory or what therapeutic
method did we try to use to find its effectiveness in the treatment of mental disorder
etc. along with what our results showed in regard to the experiment conducted or
the research work. In addition to reporting findings, we provide information to other
psychologists and researchers in this area to enable them to make a critical evaluation
of procedures and a reasonable judgment about the quality of the research that has
been conducted whether experiment or survey or case study. In addition, another
purpose of the report in psychology is that we want to provide enough information
so as to enable others to replicate and extend the findings.

1.3 WRITING STYLE OF THE REPORT

Research reports are written in a scientific writing style. You have probably noticed
that the writing style in published articles are fact-filled, highly structured, and more
concise than other kinds of writing. This is deliberate. The goal of an experimental
report is to provide objective information and not to entertain the reader or express
opinions, or talk about personal life experiences. Even so, the writing should be
interesting, simple and lively.
Whenever a report is written we also refer to many other sources from where we
obtained varied types of information. It is important that all facts need to be documented
by citing the published sources from where the information has been obtained. You
must also avoid your subjective ideas and opinions in regard to the topic while
writing a research report.
Every effort should be made to keep off ones personal feelings from the writing of
the report. One can use a formal style or an informal style, either way no personal
6
feelings must be allowed to enter the report. A report is a scientific document for
public consumption and perhaps for the scientific community and it is not an essay Report Writing
or personal statement. Most authors avoid personal pronouns like I or we, whenever
possible (their occasional use is acceptable in order to avoid awkward sentences).
The scientific style is also parsimonious. The author attempts to give complete
information in as few words as possible, because the amount of publication space
in journals is limited and authors write as concisely as possible, selecting their words
carefully. Each word is chosen for its precision.
Most of us need practice to write scientifically because it is very different from the
common styles of writing. Always avoid flowery expressions in writing and practice
precision and accuracy in stating facts. These in turn would contribute to making you
write the report in a scientific manner. In a scientific report, it is always advisable to
avoid slang as it lacks exact meaning and might not be universally familiar.

1.4 REPORT WRITING THE DOs AND THE

DONTs
When you write your research report, be careful to use unbiased language. The
American Psychological Association (APA), the American Psychological Society
(APS), and other publishers of psychological research reports, such as the Sage
Publications are committed to encouraging language free of gender and ethnic bias
in their publications. There are several techniques for avoiding bias: When writing
about ethnic groups, for example, use the term that is currently preferred by most
members of that group. Always use nonsexist language. Whenever you are writing
about individuals (research participants, people in general), select words that are free
of gender bias. Because some sexist words are so embedded in our language, this
can seem awkward at first instance. For example, do not talk about the benefits of
psychological research for man or mankind when you really mean all people
say people instead. Dont refer to a participant as he (unless all your participants
really were male); use he or she or they instead. If you use he or she (or she
or he), however, do so sparingly or the usage becomes distracting. Never use
contrived contractions, like she, or he/she, which suggest that the genders are
interchangeable.
When discussing people of both genders, most experienced researchers try to construct
gender-free sentences instead. Often, just pluralizing the sentence can take care of
the problem. Instead of saying, When a subject arrived, he was..; say instead,
When subjects arrived, they, or another method is when the client arrived,
the client was looking depressed..and so forth. Never assume that a client or
researcher is male, at least 50% of those currently graduating with Ph.D. in psychology
are women.
Avoid language with negative overtones. Do not call lesbians and gay men
homosexuals. Use nonhandicapping language when referring to people with mental
or physical disabilities. Referring to your participants as 20 people diagnosed with
obsessive-compulsive disorder is much better than saying 20 obsessive-compulsives.
Similarly, do not use the name of a physical disability to characterize a person. Saying
a person living with paraplegia is much better than saying a paraplegic.
One of the most common pitfalls of a first report is taking too much for granted. After
you have worked on a study for some time, what you did might seem completely
obvious. The problem is that an element that seems obvious to you might not be
obvious to your readers unless you explain it. 7
Report Writing
Remember that the whole point of writing a report is to communicate information.
A reader should be able to understand what you did and why simply by reading
the report.

1.5 FORMAT FOR REPORTS IN PSYCHOLOGY

AREA
Psychology reports follow the format set by APA. The fifth edition of the Publication
Manual of the American Psychological Association (2001), makes the job of reporting
easier for researchers as well as readers. As early as 1928, psychologists and other
social scientists recognised the need for standard for presenting research data. The
first manual was a seven-page article that appeared in Psychological Bulletin in
1929. The present manual spans several hundred pages and contains material on all
aspects of appropriate content as well as detailed explanations of specific layout and
style requirements.
The need for a standard format for reports becomes clear when you consider the
tremendous volume of research going on today. The APA alone publishes more than
40 journals, which translates to several thousand articles per year. Even more are
published in the many non-APA psychology journals. Many thousands more are
reviewed and not accepted for publication. If everyone used a different format for
writing reports, reviewers would have a hard time evaluating the work. and readers
would have trouble locating the information they need.
The place for creativity is the design of your experiment, not the format of your
report, which should conform to APA standards. Although some details of format
vary slightly from one journal to another, most follow the overall structure outlined
from one journal or another, most follow the overall structure outlined here.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What is the purpose of a Report?
.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................
2) Elucidate the writing style of the report.

.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................
3) What are the various dos and don ts of report writing?

.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................
8
 Report Writing
4) What format should be followed in report writing in psychology area?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

1.6 MAJOR SECTIONS IN A REPORT

Every research report must contain the following major standard components:
A Title
An Abstract
An Introduction
Method
Results D
Discussion
References.
Many reports contain additional features such as footnotes, tables, or figures (graphs,
pictures, or drawings). We will look at each of these above mentioned components
in detail below. Later, we will look at layout requirements and additional components.

1.6.1 Title
Reports need a descriptive title that gives readers an idea of what the report is about.
The simplest way to achieve this goal is by including both the independent and
dependent variables of the study in the title, stating the relationship between them.
Here are some examples from articles: Negative Ions and Behaviour: Impact on
Mood, Memory, and Aggression among Type A and Type B Persons. Another title
for example could be Anxiety, Fear, and Social Affiliation. As is seen in these titles
they are clear cut and give an idea as to what the inside contents would by and large
be. Titles like A Psychological Experiment or An Experiment on Music are for
too vague to help a reader who is trying to track down specific information.
The recommended title length, however, is about 10 to 12 words so that the titles
must be concise, self-explanatory and catchy. According to Publication Manual of
the American Psychological Association (1998) Fourth Edition a title should summarise
the main idea of the paper simply and, if possible, with style. It should be a concise
statement of the main topic and should identify the actual variables or theoretical
issue under investigation and the relationship between them. An example of a good
title is Effect of Transformed Letters on Reading Speed.
A title should be fully explanatory when standing alone. Although the principal function
of a report is to inform readers about the study, a title is also used as a statement
of article content for abstracting the information services, such as APAs Psychological
Abstracts and PsycINFO database. A good title easily compresses to a short title
and can be used for editorial purposes.
9
Report Writing Titles are commonly indexed and compiled in numerous reference works. Therefore,
one must avoid words that serve no useful purpose as they only increase the length
of the report and can mislead indexers. For example, the words method and results
do not normally appear in a title, nor should such redundancies as A Study of or
An Experimental Investigation of begin a title. Avoid using abbreviations in a title
and remember that the recommended length for a title is 10 to 12 words.
Authors name and institutional affiliation: Every manuscript has a byline consisting of
two parts: the name of the author and the institution where the investigation was
conducted . Details are given in the following section

1.6.2 Authors Name

The preferred form of an authors name is first name, middle initial, and last name
because this reduces the likelihood of mistaken identity. To assist researchers as well
as librarians, use the same format for publication throughout your career; that is, do
not use initials on one manuscript and the full name on a later one. Determining
whether Rashmi A. Khurana is the same person as R.A.Khurana, A.Khurana, or
R.Khurana will be be difficult, particularly when citations span several years and
institutional affiliations change. Omit all titles (e.g., Dr., Professor) and degrees (e.g.,
PhD, PsyD, EdD). The correct way of author title is: Rashmi A.Khurana

1.6.3 Institutional Affiliation

The affiliation identifies the location where the author or authors who conducted the
investigation belong to, which is usually an institution. Include a dual affiliation only
if two institutions contributed substantial financial support to the study. Include no
more than two affiliations. When an author has no institutional affiliation, list the city
and state of residence below the authors name. If the institutional affiliation has
changed since the work was completed, give the current affiliation in the author
identification notes.

1.6.4 Running Head for Publication

The running head is an abbreviated title that is printed at the top of the pages of a
published article to identify the article for readers. The head should be a maximum
of 50 characters, counting letters, punctuation, and spaces between words. If the
article is entitled, A survey of sustainable life style amongst persons living in slum
areas of Kolkata, the running head in all the pages will be sustainable lifestyle

1.7 ABSTRACT
According to Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (1998)
(Fourth Edition) an abstract is a brief, comprehensive summary of the contents of the
article. It allows readers to survey the contents of an article quickly and, like title,
is used for abstracting and indexing formation services to index and retrieve articles.
A well-prepared abstract can be the most important paragraph in your report. Most
people will have their first contact with an article by seeing just the abstract, usually
on a computer screen with several other abstracts. Readers frequently decide on the
basis of the abstract whether to read the entire article. The abstract needs to be rich
in content, readable, well organised, brief, and self-contained. Below the abstract ,
write the key words that appear in the text of the report.

10
1.7.1 Accuracy Report Writing

Ensure that an abstract correctly reflects the purpose and content of the report. One
should not include in the abstract, all those information which do not appear in the
body of the report. If the report covers a replicated research work, this has to be
mentioned in the abstract clearly. Compare the with the outline of the reports headings,
which would help to verify the accuracy of the abstract.

1.7.2 Self-contained
All abbreviations should be explained and expanded. The names should be clearly
spelt out of difficult terms and terminology. The unique terms should be described
and names of the authors whose citations have been quoted must be given full
acknowledgement and should be mentioned in bibliography or references.

1.7.3 Concise and Specific

Make each sentence maximally informative, especially the lead sentence. According
to the APA, Abstracts should not exceed 960 characters and spaces, which is
approximately 120 words. Include in the abstract the major four or five concepts that
are in the report and the research that had been conducted. Add in the abstract the
results and conclusions and if possible number them.

1.7.4 Ways to Conserve Characters

It is important that digits are used
One should use abbreviations, but these must be explained clearly.
Use the active voice (but without the personal pronouns I or we).

1.7.5 Non-evaluative Type of Abstract

The abstract should not be evaluative unless the research itself is an evaluative
research. The facts should be mentioned briefly where needed but no comments
should be added to the abstract..

1.7.6 Coherent and Readable

The abstract should be written in a simple language, highlighting the main points. It
should be in the present tense , must be written in a cogent coherent manner. Use
the third person rather than the first person. Avoid unnecessary jargons. Describe
briefly the methodology used in the research, specify the characteristics of the sample
and indicate the tools used for collecting data etc. At the end give the findings briefly
and conclude, where needed you can give the significance levels at which the findings
were found valid and which hypotheses were validated etc.
An abstract that is accurate, succinct, quickly comprehensible, and informative will
increase the readability and interest of the readers. An abstract is a summary of the
report and hence should be written to the extent possible in the same general style
you use in the report.
The abstract should be a concise synopsis of the experiment, should contain a
statement of the problem studied, the method, the results, and the conclusions.
Summarise the procedures used in the experiment and state the results briefly. You
should also state the important and interesting conclusions you reached.
11
Report Writing At this point you may be thinking, All that in 120 words or less? You must be
kidding! Though difficult to write, abstracts are well written with practice. Those
who find it difficult to write the abstract before writing the report, can also write the
abstract after completion of the report.
If the abstract is poor, uninteresting, or uninformative, readers might not go on to
read the entire article. That is why it is especially important to include all the pertinent
facts of an experiment in the abstract. Good abstracts make our research more
accessible to our readers. Good titles do the same because the title determines how
an article will be indexed.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the major sections in a report?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is an abstract and why is it important in a report?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) How would you ensure accuracy, retention of character in an abstract? Elaborate.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) What are the important characteristics of a good abstract?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

1.8 INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH REPORT

According to Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (2001)
(Fourth Edition) introduce the topic of the research that has been conducted. The
introduction should be able to give an idea to the reader what the topic is all about,
how did the topic emerge and what made the researcher take up the topic. Were
12 there any salient studies that stimulated this research or was this research a replication
of a study that had already been conducted by someone else but wanted to confirm Report Writing
the methods and results, etc. Hence the specific problem has to be spelt out and the
research strategy clearly mentioned.
The introduction must contain the purpose of the research which should be clearly
stated. It must also contain by and large what kind of research design is being
contemplated and what kind of results are being expected etc. Every research is
related to some theoretical proposition and it must be made clear in the introduction
what are these propositions or theories on which the entire research is based. Which
studies in particular have influenced the conduct of the present research.
Introduction is the main pillar of the research report. It provides the reader with the
rationale behind the research and provide a view of what is going to be in the
research report.

1.8.1 Develop the Background

In introduction an effort should be made to provide those studies that have influenced
the present one, and also a brief literature review must be provided that should
indicate which of these studies and methodology have influenced the researcher to
undertake this topic. While doing the review, latest literature should be the focus
though one or two classic studies in this area could also be mentioned. The literature
review must not delve deep into the historical aspects as it would be an enormous
waste of space and material, but the historical aspects must be directly relevant to
the topic concerned. What is more important is studies which have used some of the
variables used in the present research if had been used also by other studies and they
had come to the same or similar or different conclusions, these studies must definitely
be included in the review as part of introduction. The introduction should indicate the
methodology used and the research design formulated, method used for selecting the
sample for the study and the method by which the data was collected, the tools and
instruments used in the study, the hypotheses formulated and the statistical tools used
to analyse the data. Such exposition of the various activities that underlie the research
when reported in the introduction, would indicate not only the researchers scholarly
approach to the problem but the comprehension the person has of the problem and
how the individual is going to overcome many of the pitfalls and shortcomings of the
earlier research. The introduction should demonstrate the logical continuity between
previous and present work.
Controversial issues, when relevant, should be treated fairly. A simple statement that
certain studies support one conclusion and others support another conclusion is
better than an extensive and inconclusive discussion. Whatever the personal opinion
of the while expressing that opinion the researcher must avoid any kind of animosity
or howstility or severe criticism or personal attack. Every care must be taken by the
researcher not to support or justify ones position by citing established authorities out
of context.

1.8.2 State the Purpose and Rationale

After the researcher has introduced the problem and developed the background
material, one is in a position to tell what is the next step and how to go about it.
Make this statement in the closing paragraphs of the Introduction. At this point, a
definition of the variables and a formal statement of the hypotheses should be able
to give clarity to the paper. The researcher should bear in mind the following questions
in closing the Introduction: What variables did I plan to manipulate? What results did
I expect and why did I expect them? The logic behind Why did I expect them? 13
Report Writing should be made explicit. The rationale for each hypothesis should be clearly spelt
out.
The Introduction of the research report sets the stage for what follows. A good
Introduction tells readers what the researcher is doing and why. It introduces to the
reader the hypothesis that is being empirically tested and how it will be tested. As
one starts the Introduction, one should think about what readers must get out of it.
The focus should be the experiments hypothesis. After reading the Introduction,
readers should have answers to the following questions:
What problem are you studying?
What does the prior literature in the area say about the problem?
What is your hypothesis?
What thinking led up to that hypothesis?
What is the overall plan for testing the hypothesis?
Do you make any specific predictions about the outcome of the study?
An Introduction usually begins with a description of the general topic area in which
the research falls under (for example, education, health). The description should
provide evidence for the importance of studying the topic chosen by the researcher
(Pyrczak & Bruce, 2000).

1.8.3 Method of Writing the Introduction

Some writers use a funnel analogy for writing an Introduction, that is they begin with
the broad topic area and gradually narrow the focus of writing to the specific research
question the experiment was designed to answer. The Introduction includes a concise
review of the research literature that led to the setting up of hypothesis or that which
lent support to it.
For instance, the researcher might show how prior findings have been inconsistent
or ambiguous; the researcher may also explain how the experiment might clarify the
problem. It is not necessary to cite every bit of research that has ever been done
in the area, but the researcher must cite only those which are most essential to
understanding the nature of the problem being investigated.
The researcher must be careful to show how and on what basis the hypotheses were
formulated so that the readers should be able to follow the thinking that took the
researcher to work on the problem. The researcher should not assume that anything
is obvious to the reader as the report is being written for an audience who may or
may not be familiar with the topic. Hence some review is important of the earlier
research but not an exhaustive one.
Also in the introduction one should be very careful about the citations, in that the
researcher should cite all articles which have been used for preparing the background
for the research topic (experiments), and from which the hypotheses for the study
have been derived. If any other source had influenced the researcher to formulate the
research design or set up the hypothesis the same should be mentioned.
The hypothesis should, be explicitly stated in the Introduction though only towards
the end of introduction. That is, after the researcher had explained the research and
the thinking behind it. Identifying the independent and dependent variables are very
important. In addition if the researcher wants to mention something about general
14 procedures followed in the research, that may also be added in the introduction.
The researcher might also want to include a sentence or two about operational Report Writing
definitions to prepare readers for what follows in the report. If one has made
predictions about the outcome of the study, by all means it must be stated so in
addition to explaining why a certain type of results are expected from the research.
The introduction should be so well written that it must prepare the reader for the
method section. Rosnow and Rosnow (2001) explained that the introduction provides
the rationale for the study and prepares the reader for the methods the researcher
has chosen.
A good Introduction has three components, as given below:
i) It should indicate the need for this research
ii) Review of relevant literature directly related to the topic
iii) Rationale for the research.
Let us elaborate these now. The researcher must give a clear and definitive statement
of the problem and must develop it logically in the light of pertinent studies. He must
indicate the need for the present research and why the problem is important in terms
of theory and/or practice.
Secondly, the researcher must try to establish an understanding of the existing literature
relevant to his or her study. He needs to connect logically the previous body of
literature with the present study.
The third and final component of Introduction is to formulate a clear rationale of the
hypotheses to be proposed. Every hypothesis must be clearly stated so that it is
possible to scientifically test it. Different variables and terms should be properly
defined and investigated.

1.9 GENERAL GUIDELINES TO WRITE

INTRODUCTION
Start this page by retyping your title (centered), then begin typing the section (on the
next double spaced line) using normal (5 space indented) paragraphs. Do not type
the word Introduction.
The main purpose of this section is to tell the reader why you performed the study.
In other words, you have to inform the reader of the research question and indicate
why it is important, and how is it uniquely different as compared to previous studies.
It starts out broad and becomes more and more specific. For example, you might
begin by defining any relevant terms, then go on to review the relevant literature.
Avoid an exhaustive and historical review. Then go on to make clear the connection
between previous research and the present work.
You might include any hypotheses and the rationale for them.
The final paragraph usually contains a statement which clearly and explicitly states
why the study was performed, such as The purpose of this study was to... or The
present study was designed to investigate the... Be especially careful not to use a
sentence of this type earlier in your Introduction.
Thus, this section should contain an absolute minimum of four paragraphs: the general
Introduction, the literature review, the connection of the present study to the literature
and the explicit statement of purpose. 15
Report Writing
Self Assessment Questions
1) How do you write introduction to a report?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is meant by develop the background for writing introduction? What
are the important things the writetr should do?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) Discuss the different methods to write introduction and which would you
follow and why?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) Put forward the Guidelines for writing introduction.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

1.10 LET US SUM UP

A report is a written document which contains information regarding a topic which
has been dealt with by a person. The purpose of report in the field of psychology
is to communicate to others what has been experimented or researched on, and what
has been the result of such an effort. Through the report the researcher conveys to
the reader what has been done in the research, reports the methodology and then
the findings.
Research reports are written in a scientific writing style, which is fact-filled, highly
structured, and more concise than other kinds of writing. The goal of an experimental
report is to provide objective information and not to entertain the reader or express
opinions.
Whenever a report is written many sources are referred from where varied types of
information are obtained , and the sources will have to be acknowledged. The report
should use a formal or informal style, and must avoid personal pronouns like I or we,
16 etc.
A research report should be unbiased, should not use any contrived contractions, like Report Writing
she, or he/she, should not have any negative overtones, should follow a standard
format, must have a Title, An Abstract, An Introduction, Method, Results D,
Discussion and References.
Reports need a descriptive title that gives readers an idea of what the report is about.
The recommended title length, however, is about 10 to 12 words so that the titles
must be concise, self-explanatory and catchy. A title should be fully explanatory when
standing alone. Titles are commonly indexed and compiled in numerous reference
works.
The preferred form of an authors name is first name, middle initial, and last name
because this reduces the likelihood of mistaken identity. The affiliation identifies the
location where the author or authors who conducted the investigation belong to,
which is usually an institution.
The running head is an abbreviated title that is printed at the top of the pages of a
published article to identify the article for readers. The head should be a maximum
of 50 characters, counting letters, punctuation, and spaces between words.
A well-prepared abstract can be the most important paragraph in the report, as most
people will have their first contact with an article by seeing just the abstract, usually
on a computer screen with several other abstracts. The asbstract should be accurate,
self contained, concise and specific, non-evaluative in nature, coherent and readable.
Every research report should have an introduction, which must contain the purpose
of the research which should be clearly stated. Introduction is the main pillar of the
research report. It provides the reader with the rationale behind the research and
provide a view of what is going to be in the research report.
For this one has to develop the background, give a precise and specifically related
reviews to the research topic, develop hypothesism, indicate the methodology and
how the research is going to be carried out and what results are expected and why.
The introduction should contain the rationale for the study.
Introduction can be in any style, of going from general to specific , should indicate
the need for this research, review of relevant literature etc.

1.11 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Elucidate comprehensively the various techniques for writing a Research Report
in a scientific manner.
2) What are the prerequisites for writing an Introduction component in a Research
Report?
3) Discuss the strategic significance of an Abstract in a Research Report.
4) Write a short note on framing of Title in a Research Report.
5) Carve out a befitting Research Report Introduction with the help of an example.

17
Report Writing
1.13 GLOSSARY
Research Report : Contains all information, such as the
methodology used, research design, conduction
of the research and the results obtained.
Introduction : An important component of a report which
provides the need for such a research, the
rationale and hypothesis and gives broadly an
idea about the uniqueness of the study and what
to expect from the results.
Abstract : This gives in brief what the research was all
about and what is in the report.
Hypothesis : This is a conjectural statement regarding the
relationship amongst two or more variables and
indicates which is independent variable and
which is dependent variable.
Rationale : This provides the reasons for undertaking the
research and use of a specific methodology and
conducting of the research.

1.12 SUGGESTED READINGS

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (Sixth Edition, 2009).
American Psychological Association. Washington, DC.
Singh, AK. (2009). Test Measurements and Research Methods in Behavioural
Sciences (Fifth Edition). Bharti Bhawan Publishers & Distributors.

18
UNIT 2 REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Structure
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Objectives
2.2 Purposes of Review of Literature
2.3 Sources of Review of Literature
2.3.1 Journals and Books
2.3.2 Reviews
2.3.3 Abstracts
2.3.4 Indexes
2.3.5 Internet
2.3.6 Doctoral Dissertations
2.3.7 Supervisors / Research Professors

2.4 Types of Literature

2.4.1 Subject Specific Books
2.4.2 Grey Literature
2.4.3 Official Publications
2.4.4 Writing Aids
2.4.5 Journal Articles

2.5 Writing Process

2.6 How Old Should the Literature Be
2.7 Preparation of Index Card
2.8 Let Us Sum Up
2.9 Unit End Questions
2.10 Suggested Readings

2.0 INTRODUCTION
Review of literature is a collective body of works done by earlier scientists and
published in the form of books or in the form of articles in journals or published as
monograph etc. Every scientific investigation starts with a Review of Literature. In
fact, working with the literature is an essential part of the research process which
help generate ideas, helps in developing significant questions and is regarded as
instrumental in the process of research design. In this unit we will be dealing with the
review of literature, how to go about it, what is its importance and how the review
should be organised and how to relate it to the present research report.

2.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
discuss the purposes of review of literature;
explain the sources of review of literature in psychology;
19
Report Writing identify different types of literature;
learn about the writing process; and
describe the process of preparation of index card.

2.2 PURPOSES OF REVIEW OF LITERATURE

A literature review is part of a report. It provides considerable information on the
topic being researched and the various works that had gone on in the field over the
years. These materials are gathered by the researcher from many sources such as
journals, books, documents etc. The review of such a literature could be a matter
of fact presentation of the information or it could be a synthesis of a large number
of information and put together subject wise for the purpose of understanding. It can
be just a simple summary of the sources, but it usually has an organisational pattern
and combines both summary and synthesis. In summary all the information is
synthesised and given in a capsule form. It synthesises and organises the entire
information in terms of its relevance and appropriateness to the topic of research. It
might give a new interpretation of old material or combine new with old interpretations.
Or it might trace the intellectual progression of the field, including major debates. And
depending on the situation, the literature review may evaluate the sources and advise
the reader on the most pertinent and relevant information.
Difference between Literature review and Academic research report
The question arises as to how the literature review differs from an academic research
paper. While the main focus of an academic research paper is to develop a new
argument, a research report will contain the literature review as one of its chapters.
In a research report one uses the literature as a basic foundation and support for
newer ideas and insights into the research topic of interest. Literature review on the
other hand summarises and synthesises the many arguments and literature and research
findings gathered from such a review and puts forward arguments in favour or against
the particular topic and its findings.
Materials to be included in review of literature
The next question is regarding how many and how much of materials to be included
in review of literature. There is no hard and fast rule about this. The researcher has
to definitely include the materials from classic and pioneering works in the area. In
addition the researcher should also include all the relevant research works published
more recently especially in the last 5 to 10 years.
As for the types of sources to be consulted for review of literature, this includes
books, journal articles, monographs, documents, grey literature such as unpublished
documents or research papers read at some conferences etc. In addition the internet
is an important source from where articles and abstracts could be downloaded for
this purpose.
Once all the materials have been gathered from different sources as mentioned
above, the researcher should organise the same according to the year of publication
and the subject matter must be organised to give meaning to the entire literature
gathered keeping in view the present research topic of interest to the researcher.
The researcher can evaluate these materials on the basis of the methodology used,
the research findings arrived etc. The researcher could also include in such a review
20 certain minimal and directly relevant historical account regarding the research topic.
The specific purposes of a Review of the Literature are enumerated below: Review of Literature

Identifying variables relevant for research

When the researcher makes a careful Review of the Literature, he becomes aware
of the important and unimportant variables in the concerned area of research. A
careful Review also helps the researcher in selecting the variables lying within the
scope of his interest, in defining and operationalising as well as in identifying variables
which are conceptually and practically important. Thus a Review of the Literature,
on the whole, prepares the researcher to formulate a research problem in which
conceptualisation and practically important variables are selected.
Avoidance of repetition
A Review of the Literature helps the researcher in avoiding any duplication of work
done earlier. A careful review always aims at interpreting prior studies and indicating
their usefulness for the study to be undertaken. Thus prior studies serve as the
foundation for present research. In some cases the duplication or replication of prior
studies becomes essential. This is especially true when the researcher wants to test
the validity of the earlier studies. In such a situation, too, a careful review helps the
researcher in getting acquainted with the number and nature of the studies related to
the present research whose validity is being assessed at present.
Synthesis of prior works
Review of the Literature enables the researcher to collect and synthesise prior studies
related to the present study. This, in turn, helps the researcher in building a better
perspective for future research. A synthesised collection of prior studies also helps
a researcher to identify the significant overlaps and the gaps among the prior works.
Determining meaning and relationship among variables
A careful Review of the Literature enables the researcher in discovering important
variables relevant to the area of the present research. When significant variables are
discovered, the relationship among them can be identified, Subsequently, the identified
relationship is incorporated into different hypotheses. Thus, for conducting a scientific
study, the relationship between the different variables must be explored by reviewing
the literature so that a good context may be built up for subsequent investigations.
In addition to these specific purposes, there are some general purposes of the
literature review:
To argue for the relevance and the significance of the research question.
To provide the context for ones own methodological approach
To establish ones own credibility as a knowledgeable and capable researcher.
To argue for the relevance and appropriateness of ones own approach.

2.3 SOURCES OF THE REVIEW OF LITERATURE

There are diverse sources of the Review of the Literature. Some of them are
enumerated below.

2.3.1 Journals and Books

Different research journals and books relevant to the areas of interest are the primary
sources of the Review of Literature. Most major libraries have a periodical section 21
Report Writing where different types of research journals are made easily available. A research
journal generally contains the publication of original research reports with their detailed
methodology and results. Such journals contain original research reports with their
detailed methodology and result. Such journals are referred and therefore are different
from non-referred journals. A referred journal is one which reports only those articles
which are carefully reviewed by the experts before publication. Often, the reviewer
rejects several manuscripts and selects a few for publication. Similarly, books are
also direct sources of the Review of Literature. Of these two, journals are regarded
as more useful because they provide the researcher with the latest and up-to-date
information relevant to the area of interest.

2.3.2 Reviews
Reviews are short articles that give brief information regarding the work done in a
particular area over a period of time. Reviews are commonly published in journals,
yearbooks, handbooks and encyclopedias. Reviewers select research articles of their
interest, organise them contentwise, criticise their findings and offer their own
suggestions and conclusions. Review articles are a good source for those investigators
who wish to have all the relevant researches at one place without taking pains to look
for them. Since the reviewers organise all the possible research papers of the relevant
area in their review articles, review articles also provide the advantage of prior
reviews.

2.3.3 Abstracts
Abstracts provide a summary of the research reports done in different fields
Psychological abstract (Washington: American Psychological Association), and
Sociological abstract (New York: Sociological Abstracts, INC) are the two common
examples of abstracts. These abstracts are the useful sources of up-to-date information
for researchers. In an abstract, besides a summary, researchers get all the relevant
information such as the title of the Research Report, name of the author and the
journal pagination information, etc., regarding the research article. The only limitation
of abstracts is that they fail to satisfy those researchers who desire detailed information
regarding the methodology and results of the research articles.

2.3.4 Indexes
Indexes show the titles of the research report without any abstract. The titles are
categorised and arranged alphabetically in each category so that the researcher can
locate any article of interest easily. The Education Index (New York: H W Wilson
Co.) is a good example of an index. As indexes do not provide detailed information
they keep many a researcher dissatisfied. They can be best regarded as the
supplementary source which, if combined with other sources, can yield valuable
information to the researchers.

2.3.5 Internet
Today Internet is a very easy and quick source of Review of Literature. Internet sites
are very useful for providing easy access to original writings by important researchers.
They also provide such an updated information on the topic that ordinarily is not
available in the library. Internet sites also provide for useful bibliographies related to
a particular researcher. Search on Internet also reveals some relevant professional
societies and academic associations which can provide a lot of support to the studies
in the concerned area. Such organisations also sometimes publish important papers
22 or periodicals which can be of immense help to the researchers. Some publishers put
the brief content and extracts from the recently published books on the Internet and Review of Literature
these can be of valuable help to the researchers. Sometimes, the Internet sites include
articles extracted from encyclopedias which can also be very useful and informative
as background reading. However, they are not normally suitable for citing in a report.

2.3.6 Doctoral Dissertations

Doctoral dissertations have also been a very good source of the Review of the
Literature. In libraries of universities, doctoral dissertations are available. The researcher
can choose the dissertations of their interest and find useful and relevant information
there. There are no set forms for writing the research report in a doctoral dissertation
but most dissertations contain chapters like an Introduction, Review of the Literature,
Purpose of the Study, Method of the Study, Results, Discussion, Summary and
Conclusion.
Some researchers prefer not to add a separate chapter on Discussion, Summary and
Conclusion. Some do not add a separate chapter on the Review of the Literature
but incorporate it into the Introduction itself. Thus the doctoral dissertations present
the advantage of prior review. Ordinarily, it is not possible for the researcher to move
through all the important libraries in the country to consult all existing doctoral
dissertations. Hence, he/she can have access to those dissertations that interest him
through Dissertation Abstracts International, which publishes the abstracts of the
doctoral dissertations submitted to different universities. In India, the Survey of
Research in Education (edited by M B Buch) does much the same function. The
second Survey of Research in Education covering the period between 1972-78 has
also been released. Recently, the listing of dissertation abstracts has been computerised
through DATRIX in terms of the key words (usually words appearing in title of the
dissertation).

2.3.7 Supervisors/Research Professors

Supervisors often know the literature well and are able to guide in right direction.
They are the recognised authority on the topic or research problems. Therefore, they
should be consulted and their suggestions and advices should be carefully analysed.
It may also be that the other research professors have recently sourced and reviewed
the literature or an area very close to the literature the researcher is seeking. So they
also constitute one important source.
Whatever may be the sources of reviews, the process of reviewing literature itself is
not above criticisms. Inevitably, the interpretation of findings insights derived, the
manner in which conclusions are drawn are all solely dependent upon the judgments
of the reviewer, In other words, such reviews fall prey to what is called subjective
judgment.

2.4 TYPES OF LITERATURE

In order to work with appropriate literature it is essential that the researcher must
be able to identify and find it. For this, he/she must have an understanding of various
literature types. Some of the common types of literature are as under:

2.4.1 Subject-Specific Books

Introductory and advanced text books and research report can provide important
background and context for the research. Such literatures also provide information
about theory and method of the research. 23
Report Writing 2.4.2 Grey Literature
Grey literature means both published and unpublished materials that somehow do not
have International Standard Book Number (ISBN) or an International Standard
Serial Number (ISSN).
Grey literature is a broad category that includes unpublished research newspaper
articles, conference paper and pamphlets, etc. During the course of doing research
most researchers do Utilise one or the other type of grey literature.

2.4.3 Official Publications, Archives and Statistics

This type of literature serves the dual purpose. Firstly such literature can be a
valuable source of background and contextual information and secondly, they can
also be used as a source of secondary data, Document analysis and secondary data
analysis are often based upon this type of literature.

2.4.4 Writing Aids

As its name implies, such literature generally offer a significant support during the
process of writing and can be easily used to improve the linguistic style of the work.
Such literature include dictionaries, bibliographic works, encyclopedias, thesauruses,
yearbooks, books of quotes, almanacs, etc.

2.4.5 Journal Articles

This type of literature is very common among the researches. It popularity is due to
several factors, First, journal articles are very credible. Second, they are often targeted
for academic audience. Third, they possess. The trait of specialty. Fourth, they
possess the regularity of production which meant that research articles are not only
relevant but also current.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the major objectives of Review of Literature?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) Enumerate the prominent sources of Review of Literature.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What are the prerequisites for organising the Review of Literature?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

24
 Review of Literature
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) Carve out a befitting Review of Literature with the help of an example.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
5) Explain in your own words a few of the following words.
Review of Literature, Journals, Indexes, Internet, Doctoral Dissertations.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

2.5 WRITING PROCESS OF THE REVIEW OF

LITERATURE
Since the Review of Literature may be a very long chapter, it does need some form
of structure. The simplest way of organising the research works is to discuss them
in chronological order. But this may not prove to be appropriate in all situations.
Another way is that one can group the works on different subjects together with the
date of publication as the only criterion of order. But this may also be confusing. Still
another way may be to base the structure on the different types of publications. For
example, chapters from books, journal articles and single authored books should be
separately grouped and structured. The basic aim of the Review of Literature is to
use the literature for informing, establishing and arguing. In fact, the Review of
Literature should go beyond the said report.
Find a focus
A literature review not the sources themselves. This means that the researcher will
not just list the sources but but selectively use them in the research topic area. These
can be accommodated in terms of themes, or issues and bring those sources together,
and present them. Some of the questions the researcher should ask self are the
following:
Do they present one or different solutions?
Is there an aspect of the field that is missing?
How well do they present the material ?
Do they portray it according to an appropriate theory?
Do they reveal a trend in the field?
A raging debate?
25
Report Writing One of the above themes should be picked up to focus the organisation of the
review.
Construct a working thesis statement
The thesis statement should argue for a particular perspective on the material. Some
sample thesis statements for literature reviews are as follows:
The current trend in treatment for congestive heart failure combines surgery
and medicine.
More and more cultural studies scholars are accepting popular media as a
subject worthy of academic consideration.
Consider organisation
Once the statement has been made, what is the most effective way of presenting the
information? What are the most important topics, subtopics, etc., that the review
needs to include? And in what order should they be presented? The researcher
should develop an organisation for the review at both a global and local level:
Cover the basic categories
Just like most academic papers, literature reviews also must contain at least three
basic elements: an introduction or background information section; the body of the
review containing the discussion of sources; and, finally, a conclusion and/or
recommendations section to end the paper.
Organise the body of the report
Once the basic categories are in place, then the researcher must consider how the
sources should be presented within the body of the report.
To work out an overall organisational framework for the review, the following three
typical ways of organising should be considered
Chronological Method
If your review follows the chronological method, you could write about the materials
above according to when they were published. For instance, first you would talk
about the studies of the 19th century,then about the book published in the 1970s and
then end up with articles about the topic in the recent years.
Method By publication
If the order demonstrates a particular trend, then the researcher can arrange the
reviews in the order of publication chronology. For instance, you could order a
review of literature on the psychological aspects of suicides, if the progression revealed
a change in suicidal practices over the years.
Method By trend
Another way to organise the resources is to examine the sources under another trend
such trends in couple suiocide or suicidal pact etc. Under this method, the researcher
would combine the recent studies on suicidal pacts, of a century ago with those that
are available today.
Thematic reviews of literature
26 Thematic reviews of literature are organised around a topic or issue, rather than the
progression of time. However, progression of time may still be an important factor Review of Literature
in a thematic review. For instance, the suicidal review could focus on the development
of the self esteem or disappointment in love affair leading to suicide. These studies
could be organised chronologically. The only difference here between a chronological
and a thematic approach is what is emphasised the most: the reason of injury to
ones self esteem leading top suicide.
A methodological approach
This approach differs from the two above in that the focusing factor. Here the focus
is on the method used by the researcher. For the suicidal issue, one methodological
approach would be to look at cultural differences between the method of suicides.
Or the review might focus on the economic impact of suicides. A methodological
scope will influence either the types of documents in the review or the way in which
these documents are discussed.
Once youve decided on the organisational method for the body of the review, the
sections to be included should be easy to figure out. They should arise out of the
organisational strategy. In other words, a chronological review would have subsections
for each vital time period. A thematic review would have subtopics based upon
factors that relate to the theme or issue.
Sometimes, though, one might need to add additional sections that are necessary for
the study, and a few are given below:
Current Situation: Information necessary to understand the topic or focus of the
literature review.
History: The chronological progression of the field, the literature, or an idea that is
necessary to understand the literature review.
Methods and/or Standards: The criteria used to select the sources in the literature
review or the way in which the researcher presents the information. For instance, one
may explain that your review includes only peer-reviewed articles and journals.
Questions for Further Research: What questions about the field has the review
sparked? How will the researcher use the review for further work in the area?
Oheary (2004) has recommended that for writing a good literature review, the
following steps should strictly be followed:
Relevant reviews
The researcher should give a look on the literature reviews done in several of the
journal articles, From these reviews, good and relevant reviews should be sorted and
this depends upon the research skills of the researchers. Supervisor should help him
in selecting the relevant and good reviews.
Write critical annotations while going through the various reviews
The researcher should sort and organise the annotations of the reviews by themes,
issue of concern and common limitations, etc While doing so, some patterns would
start emerging and this would, in turn, help in developing researchers own argument.
To develop a structure
The researcher should structure the potential reviews according to the most urgent
needs such as topical themes, arguments that the researcher wishes to establish, etc. 27
Report Writing The structure so developed is always subject to modification with the emergence of
new thinking.
To write purposefully
The researcher should note that he can review the literature without any agenda but
he cannot write a formal literature review without any definite agenda or aim. The
reader must know the reasons why and what are you telling them.
Use the literature to support the argument
The researcher should not use the review only for reporting or borrowing the arguments
from others rather he should use the literature for generating ideas that may help or
support his own arguments.
Make the literature review an ongoing process
The researcher should make the literature review an ongoing process. In other
words, the literature review should answer the researchers question, theories and
methods and these should help in setting the parameters of the literature review. Thus
literature review becomes a cyclical process and should often have a moving target.
Get plenty of feedback
The researcher should not wait upto the last minute of writing process. Whatever has
been written should be passed over to supervisors and other experts for their
feedback. Early feedback gives a chance for rethinking and modification of ideas
being incorporated in the writing process.
Remain prepared for redrafting
In view of the suggestions through feedback, the researcher should redraft the review
in a coherent manner so that the argument is reasonably supported.
Thus, writing the literature review is a complex task which can be made easy by
following the above mentioned steps meticulously.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Discuss the strategies in writing a review.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the steps to be followed in the writing processs of a review of
literature?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

28
 Review of Literature
3) Why is feedback important in review of literature?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) Is redrafting necessary in review of literature? What advantage does it have?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

2.6 HOW OLD SHOULD THE LITERATURE BE?

One of the important questions for a researcher is: how old may the literature be?
The simplest answer to this question is that it can be of any age, In fact, academic
research is a cumulative activity. Each generation of researcher learns from the work
of previous generation and current research basically depends upon the work and
insights of the previous researchers. Since in any society the latest and contemporary
research and publication are in great demand it is preferable to cite as many recent
publications as possible.
Despite this, almost in any discipline, there are some seminal works which are
centuries old but have become so significant that they are still being preferred by the
researchers. Although their original ideas have been modified by the subsequent
researchers over the years, their original spirit and views still remain significant and
are held in considerable esteem. For example, the work of Sigmund Freud in the
field of Psychoanalysis is of about 150 year back but his ideas, theories, viewpoints
are so pertinent and of importance to any researcher of today, that working in this
field is bound to have these included in the Review of the Literature.
However, it would be a healthy suggestion for researchers that they should always
take precaution in citing older works unless they are confident and convinced in
quoting them.

2.7 PREPARATION OF INDEX CARD FOR

REVIEWING AND ABSTRACTING
After going though the different sources of the Review of the Literature, researchers
prepare their own review and abstract on the index card. Usually, for the purpose,
a 6" 10" index card is recommended. In most journal articles, an abstract in about
150 words is provided. The researcher can incorporate it in the abstract being
written. Where the article seems to be very important and relevant, the researcher
can prepare a more detailed version. Usually, the abstract, thus prepared, is divided
into three parts.
i) The first part consists of the purpose and hypothesis of the study. The researcher
should write down the purpose of the study in not more than two lines. If the 29
Report Writing hypotheses are small. they can be recorded varbatim but if they are lengthy, they
should be synthesised.
ii) The second part consists of the methodology of the study in which size of the
sample, nature of the population, methods for measuring or manipulation of the
variables, methods of data collection, designs and statistics are shown in
synthesised form.
iii) The third part consists of the findings and conclusions. In this part, the researcher
should briefly take down the findings relating to each hypothesis and also concisely
the conclusion drawn by the author.
At the top of the index card, a full reference should be clearly written in exactly the
same way in which it appears in the researchers own reference list. There are
different types of research formats but that which is followed by the Publication
Manual of the American Psychological Association is widely popular and has been
adopted by most of the important research journals. The researcher should never
trust own memory for recall of the details of any research article and therefore, all
the important and relevant details should be carefully noted down in the index card.
Thus the reviewing and abstracting of the literature on the index card, should be done
carefully and systematically. Sometimes it has been reported that researchers trust
their memory for recalling a particular detail. But this is not a healthy practice because
they are apt to forget the details or their memory may be blurred after some time.
Researchers should try their best to accommodate every important and relevant
detail under the three common headings suggested above.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Is there any limitation to the period that one must go upto in reviewing literature?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) Why is the old literature important? Give examples.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) When we take materials from others work, how do we acknowledge the
source? Give examples.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
30
 Review of Literature
2.8 LET US SUM UP
A literature review is part of a report. It provides considerable information on the
topic being researched and the various works that had gone on in the field over the
years. These materials are gathered by the researcher from many sources such as
journals, books, documents etc. Literature review differs from an academic research
paper in that the main focus of an academic research paper is to develop a new
argument whereas a research report will contain the literature review as one of its
chapters. To the issue of how many and how much of materials to be included in
review of literature, there is no hard and fast rule about this. The researcher has to
definitely include the materials from classic and pioneering works in the area. In
addition the researcher should also include all the relevant research works published
more recently especially in the last 5 to 10 years.
As for the types of sources to be consulted for review of literature, this includes
books, journal articles, monographs, documents, grey literature such as unpublished
documents or research papers read at some conferences etc. In addition the internet
is an important source from where articles and abstracts could be downloaded for
this purpose.
The specific purposes of a Review of the Literature are identifying variables relevant
for research, avoidance of repetition, synthesis of prior works and determining meaning
and relationship among variables.
There are diverse sources of the Review of the Literature, which includes, journals
and books, reviews, abstracts, and indexes. Internet, doctoral dissertations are other
sources. As for the types of literature available for write up, this includes, subject
specific books, grey literature, official publications, writing aids and journal articles.
Since the Review of Literature may be a very long chapter, it does need some form
of structure. The simplest way of organising the research works is to discuss them
in chronological order. The researcher should not use the review only for reporting
or borrowing the arguments from others rather he should use the literature for generating
ideas that may help or support his own arguments.
Since in any society the latest and contemporary research and publication are in great
demand it is preferable to cite as many recent publications as possible. In addition,
there are some seminal works which are centuries old but have become so significant
that they have to be included. As for preparing index cards the details were discussed.
It may be added here that the reviewing and abstracting of the literature on the index
card, should be done carefully and systematically.

2.9 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Why is review of literature important in a report?
2) What are the pre requisites of literature review? Provide examples
3) What are the various methods of writing the literature review
4) What steps do we follow when we go through the source of review?
5) Why are past work so important? Elucidate.

31
Report Writing
2.10 SUGGESTED READINGS
Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (6th edition, 2009).
American Psychological Association. Washington, DC.
Singh, AK. (2009). Test Measurements and Research Methods in Behavioural
Sciences (5th edition). Bharti Bhawan Publishers & Distributors.

32
UNIT 3 METHODOLOGY
Structure
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Objectives
3.2 Definition and Purpose of Methodology
3.3 Subsections
3.4 Participants (Sample)
3.5 Apparatus and materials
3.6 Procedure
3.7 Design
3.8 Let Us Sum Up
3.9 Unit End Questions
3.10 Suggested Readings

3.0 INTRODUCTION
In the previous unit we discussed about how to write the review of literature and also
its importance in a research report. This unit deals with methodology used in the
research study about which the report is being written. As part of the research
report, methodology is considered in terms of how the data were collected, what
kind of research design was used and what was the expected result etc. Methodology
is one which includes all about the plans worked out to conduct the study, the
instruments that would be used in the study, number of persons (sample) who would
be administered the questionnaire or who would be interviewed etc. and the statistical
tool used for analysis of the data. This unit thus deals with the methods used in
collecting information from persons selected for the purpose.

3.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
define methodology and explain its purpose;
explain how the Research is conducted;
define Methodology, Sample, Apparatus and Materials;
explain the Procedure and Design adopted in the Research;
describe the Methodology component in APA format Research Report; and
explain the significance of Methodology in Research Report writing.
.

33
Report Writing
3.2 DEFINITION AND PURPOSE OF
METHODOLOGY
Methodology refers to the method by which the research is conducted. It subsumes
under it the objectives of the research, the hypothesis, the sample selected for the
purpose, the research design used, the tools selected for collecting the information
from the sample subjects, and the statistical methods used to analyse the data so
collected.
The purpose of the methodology to be written as part of the report is to inform the
reader how the entire research was conducted. For example if a researcher wanted
to find out if training and practice in yoga reduce tension, it must be shown who were
the subjects who underwent the yoga exercises, and how many were there in that
group etc. Also whether to compare the researcher also had a control group, which
had been subjected to yogic exercises. In order to measure tension what scale did
the researcher use and how did the researcher measure the variable. Whether the
scale was having any validity and reliability quotients. Whether the mean scores on
tension were calculated and the two groups were compared and what was the result.
Such a description enables the reader to evaluate the appropriateness of the research
methods and the reliability and the validity of the results. It also permits experienced
investigators to replicate the study if they so desire.
If the report is an update of an ongoing or earlier study and the method has been
published in detail elsewhere, the same may be referred to that source and in the
report just to give a brief synopsis of the method in this section. In other words one
need not repeat the methodology used by someone but can refer the reader to the
original source so that the work that has been started on these subjects continued
unabated.

3.3 SUBSECTIONS
Any elaborate writing has to have headings and sub headings so that understanding
of the concepts and the materials become easier for the reader. It is both conventional
and expedient to divide the Method section into labeled subsections. These usually
include descriptions of the participants, the apparatus (or materials), and the procedure.
For example the description of the participants will be in terms of age, sex, educational
status and occupational status, their income etc. As for description of the apparatus
or tool that are being used to collect the needed information, the tool could be a
scale or a questionnaire which is used for collecting information. Whether this scale
has a reliability and validity quotients and on which sample or population has that
scale been standardised etc., have to be reported. As for the procedure, for example
it would state how the sample of subjects were selected, whether the questionnaire
etc were sent by post to the respondent or whether the researcher interviewed them
etc. For example, selecting the sample could have been done randomly or by other
methods which have to be indicated clearly in the research report. If the design of
the experiment is complex or the stimuli require detailed description, additional
subsections or sub headings to divide the subsections may be warranted to help
readers to find specific information. Researchers own judgment is the best guide on
what number and type of subheadings to use.
Include in these subsections only the information essential to comprehend and replicate
the study. Insufficient detail leaves the reader in doubt and many questions remain
34
unanswered, while at the same time too much detail burdens the reader with irrelevant
information.
 Methodology
Self Assessment Questions
1) How is Methodology indispensable in Research Report writing?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is the stict APA specification for writing Methodology sub-section in
Research Report?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) Describe how the Methodology helps the research community to replicate the
study?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) Carve out a befitting Research Report Methodology with the help of an example.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

General Guidelines for Methodology

This section tells the reader what are the pre requisites and guidelines to formulate
a method of conducting a research. Unless essentially required, one need not
start this section in a new page. It can be continuous with a centered heading
regarding the guidelines.
The purpose of this section is to describe in detail how the researcher conducted
the study. By reading this, any other researcher if interested may like to replicate
the research study based on the information provided in this section.
The writing should be such that it should be highly professional . For instance it
should be written in such a way as if it is written for a scientific journal. It must
contain all information about the research, starting from the idea conceived, the
literature reviews in regard to it and the research design used for the purpose.
The writing should avoid all unnecessary details and the obvious things like that
of for instance, the data were displayed on the computer screen and recorded
on the data sheet(s), etc. 35
Report Writing
For an experiment, this section is typically divided into four subsections, viz., (i)
subjects, (ii) apparatus, (iii) design, and (iv) procedure. Design and procedure
sections can be combined. In an experimental psychology or research methods
of this type, a separate design section is typically required as the experiments are
always elaborate and contain considerable procedures and steps. On the other
hand in a survey research, such procedures are not involved and so a separate
section as envisaged for experiments need not be used.

3.4 PARTICIPANTS
Researcher should present in this section all details about the participants or the
subjects or the sample selected for research purposes. The subsection on participants
(sometimes called subjects or sample) should give readers the important characteristics
of the sample. It should answer key questions such as the ones given below:
1) How many participants did you have?
2) What are their relevant characteristics (age, sex, species, weight and so on)?
3) How were participants recruited or selected?
4) Were they paid or given any other incentive?
5) Give any additional information that might be important to understanding the
experiment.
Remember that the reader will need to know the characteristics of the sample to
assess the external validity of the results. If any participants dropped out of the study,
the same has to be reported and the circumstances that led to the subject dropping
out must be indicated.
Appropriate identification of research participants and clientele is critical to the science
and practice of psychology, particularly for assessing the results (making comparisons
across groups), generalising the findings, and making comparisons in replications,
literature reviews, or secondary data analyses. The sample should be adequately
described, and it should be representative (if it is not, give the reasons as to why the
sample is not representative of the population from which it is drawn). Conclusions
and interpretations should not go beyond what the sample would warrant. Also the
method of selecting these subject should be made clear. For instance if for the
purpose of yoga training some executives have been selected, from which companies
have they been selected and why. How are these selected executives representative
of the executive in many other companies. What were the incentives given to these
executives to work for this project as respondents.
It must be clearly indicated as to the demographic characteristics of the sample
population taken for the study. For example, the executives selected belong to what
age group, what their years of experience is, what are their socio economic condition,
health status etc. all these information should be provided. What kind of yoga technique
has been used, and for how many days and whether the technique is a standardised
one given to all the sample subject in the same way etc. These are extremely
important for the interpretation of the result. The researcher has to describe the
group specifically, as for example, whether they belong to any particular region or
nation or belong to a particular community etc. If a control group has been taken up
for the study, the same procedure in describing the group should be followed as was
36 done in the case of experimental group. To determine how far the data can be
generalised, it may be useful to identify subgroups. For example, people belonging Methodology
to Hindu religion were 65, Muslim religion 55, Christianity 25, Sikkhism,45 and so
on. Such categorisation helps in analysing the data in terms of the differences obtained
in regard to the religious affiliations and reduction of tension. Even when a characteristic
is not a variable, the reporting of it may be useful for meta-analysis.
For non-human animal subjects, report the genus, species, and strain number or
other specific identification, such as the name and location of the supplier and the
stock designation. The researcher must give the number of animals and the animals
sex, age, weight, and physiological condition. In addition, the researcher should also
specify all essential details of their treatment and handling so that the investigation can
be successfully replicated.
This section must also provide the total number of subjects assigned to the experimental
condition and the number of subjects to the control group which did not undergo the
yoga training. It must also indicate if any one or more of the subjects or a few of
them did not complete the training, and why they did not etc., have to be specified
as this might affect the obtained results.
When a report is being written up, the researcher must clearly specify that the
treatment of subjects (people or nonhuman animals) was in accordance with the
ethical standards.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Discuss the relevance of Sample in Research Report writing.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) How is a sample chosen or selected?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) How do we know that it is a random sample that has been selected.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) What are the guidelines one should follow while writing about the participants.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
37
Report Writing
3.5 APPARATUS AND MATERIALS
This is sometimes called the materials section when the researcher or the experimenter
uses very little mechanical or electronic equipment and the materials used are mostly
paper and pencil.
The subsection on apparatus briefly describes the apparatus or materials used and
their function in the experiment. Standard laboratory equipment, such as furniture,
stopwatches, or screens, can usually be mentioned without detail. In case specialised
equipments have been used then it is important to identify specialised equipments
obtained from a commercial supplier by the model number of the equipment and the
suppliers name and location. Complex or custom-made equipment may be illustrated
by a drawing or photograph. A detailed description of complex equipment may be
included in an appendix.
The researcher should use his judgement to decide which label is more appropriate
for the study. In this subsection you should provide readers with a description of the
equipment used, unless they are unusual in some way. Standard items like
stopwatches, pencils, or tables and chairs do not have to be described in detail.
However, refer to any ready-made, specialised equipment by name, manufacturer,
size, and model number. Take a hypothetical example, The film clip was presented
on an RCA 19-inch color monitor, model #318182. If you used a computer to
present stimuli, describe the model and computer program used. Identify standardised
tests by name and include a citation-for instance, Subjects filled out the Social
Desirability Scale. Also include a brief description of what the scale was designed
to measure. If you build your own equipment or prepared your own stimulus figures
or questionnaire, give the details. Sometimes an illustration or sample items need to
be included. If the equipment or materials are extremely complex, the researcher can
include a complete description in an appendix at the end of the report. Be sure to
provide all the information essential for replication, including physical dimensions like
length, width, and color if appropriate. Unless another measure is standard (as in TV
screens), always give measurement in metric units, such as centimeters and meters.
The Materials section (sometimes called Apparatus, or Measures) is where you
describe anything that you used in the study. This should include technical equipment,
questionnaires, word lists, computer programs, etc. It does not need to include pens,
paper, tables, or anything that was extremely obvious. It is very tempting to write the
materials section as a list , but avoid the temptation and do not list them out. Always
write in full sentences.
Where possible in this section, you should describe accurately the nature of the
equipment. Note that some journals recommend that you report the precise model
of a piece of equipment (e.g., tape recorder model number ST23451) though usually
you can be more easy going than this by merely stating that you used a tape recorder,
and everyone knows what you mean.
You should also include in this section full details of any stimuli that were used in the
study (e.g., word lists, pictures, nonsense syllables etc.). If the materials, such as a
word list, can be described briefly, the same should be included here. If it is long,
then it should be included as an appendix. Dont relegate everything important to the
appendix.

38
 Methodology
Important points to remember
Do not purposely start a new page for this section. Type the word Apparatus flush
with the left margin and italicize it. On the next line, begin typing normal paragraphs.
Describe what materials were used and how they functioned in the study.
If you use a piece of equipment, you must give the model number, company, and
state where the company resides (as a two-letter abbreviation).
You must give the dimensions (and perhaps other descriptive details) of any
important items used in the study.
Standard equipment such as furniture, stopwatches, pencils and paper, can usually
be mentioned without providing a lot of details. In fact, you may often simply
mention these items in passing as part of the procedure.
Be careful not to describe procedures in this section. You should make clear
what purpose the apparatus served, but do not give a lot of details on the use
of the apparatus at this point. One hint in this regard is to avoid using action verbs
in this section.

Self Assessment Questions

1) What importance do apparatus and materials play in methodology?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the important points to remember when we try to write this section
on apparatus ad materials?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

3.6 PROCEDURE
This section should provide readers with a clear description of all the procedures
followed in the experiment.
The subsection on procedure summarises each step in the execution of the research,
Include the instructions to the participants, the formation of the groups, and the
specific experimental manipulation. Describe randomization, counterbalancing, and
other control features in the design, Summarise or paraphrase instructions, unless
they are unusual or compare and experimental manipulation. In which case they may
be presented verbatim. Most readers are familiar with standard testing procedures;
unless new or unique procedures are used, do not describe them in detail.
39
Report Writing If a language other than English is used in the collection of information, the language
should be specified. When an instrument is translated into another language, the
specific method of translation should he described (e.g.,) in back translation method
of translation should be described (e.g., in back translation, one language is interactive
process.)
Remember that the Method section should tell the reader what you did not how you
did it in sufficient detail so that a reader could reasonably replicate you study,
Include information on how subjects were assigned to the different groups in the
experiment (random assignment, selected by scores on a personality test, etc.).
Explain the experimental manipulation and the procedures you used for controlling
extraneous variables (counterbalancing, and so forth). After reading this section, a
person should know how to carry out the experiment just as you did it. Participants
were seated in a chair located approximately 2.85m from the television monitor.
Any special control procedures you used should be identified here-for instance, To
control for order effects, the film clips were presented in counterbalanced order.
You may want to include the exact instructions you gave to participants, particularly
if the instructions constituted your experimental manipulation. Otherwise, simply
summarise them.
One easy way to write a procedure section is to report everything step by step in
chronological order. Use some discretion in reporting commonplace details; the reader
does not need to be told the obvious. For instance, if you gave subjects a written
test, it would be unnecessary to report that they were provided with pencils and
were seated during the test. However, do report anything usual about your procedures.
(Having to use the experimenters back as a writing surface would be unusual, and
you would need to report it.) Be sure to identify your experimental manipulations
carefully. Describe how you measured the dependent variable. Always ask yourself
whether some-one could replicate your experiment based on what you have said. By
the end of the Procedure section, readers should be able to identify the kind of
research design you have.
Unless the design is very simple and easily contracted from the written procedures,
consider the option of including a subsection called Design. If you have chosen a
complex factorial design, for instance, it can be very helpful to the reader if you
include a design statement with the factor labels. For instance, in a 6 x 4 x 3 factorial
design, write out the factor names along with the design. Specify whether the design
was between subjects, within subjects, or mixed-for example, The experiment was
a 6 x 4 x 3 (Reinforcement x Food Deprivation x Age) between-subjects factorial
design. In mixed designs, specify the within and between subjects factors, because
they might not be obvious to the reader. For example, if reinforcement had been a
within-subjects factor in this experiment, you could say instead, Level of reinforcement
was a within-subjects factor; food deprivation and age were between-subjects factors.
As the design becomes more complicated, readers usually need more explicit help
in structuring the plan of the experiment. Do what makes the most sense to clarify
your study. Finally, specify the dependent variable: The dependent variable was the
amount of time it took to learn the maze.
This section tells the reader what the research\her actually did. This section should
be clear, accurate and complete. Keep in mind whilst writing it that you are intending
to give sufficient information so that a researcher could be repeat what you did,
exactly. The section should be written in the past tense because it is a description
40
of what you did, not a recipe for how to carry out your study. The Method section
usually has four distinct subsections, which are described below. (You might find in Methodology
journal articles that they have not always included every sub-section or that they have
included an additional section). However, it is worth emphasising again that while a
student you should stick to the standard format that I am giving you. One of the
purposes of writing a research report is to show your lecturers that you know what
a research report should look like. If you change the basic format, it might present
your research more clearly, but it will not demonstrate to your lecturers that you
know what a research report should look like.
The Method section in your practical reports will probably include more details than
those in a journal article. Journal editors prefer to keep Method sections short
because they have a limited amount of space available.
In this sub-section, you describe precisely what you did while carrying out the study.
This section is a full report of what happened, from the selection of the participants
to the debriefing.
If your study was an experiment, then you should detail how participants were
allocated to the different experimental conditions. If the design was a between-
participants design, were participants randomly allocated to the different conditions
(and if not why not)? If the design was a within-participants design, what method of
counterbalancing was used and why. Do not simply say: participants were randomly
allocated to one of the conditions. Instead, describe how you decided which
participants were allocated to what part of the experiment.
You should describe the instructions that were presented to participants dont just
say participants were given the instructions. If there were written or standardised
instructions then you might want to include them as an appendix. Occasionally the
exact wording of instructions is important. If this is the case, then you should include
the wording in the procedure. If you debriefed the participants, you should say so.
General Guidelines
Do not purposely start a new page for this section. Type the word Procedure flush
with the left margin and italicize it. On the next line, begin typing normal paragraphs.
Carefully summarise each step in the execution of the study.
Indicate what a typical test, trial, or session involved.
Describe any phases that the study had or any instructions that the subjects
received.
When referring to groups, try to use descriptive labels. For example, instead of
sayingGroup1otherexperimentalgroup,youmightsaythedruggedgroup.
Another technique in this regard is to use abbreviations that emphasise meaning.
For example, There were three groups, including, the control group which received
0 mg/kg of morphine (M0), a low dose group receiving 1 mg/kg of morphine
(M1), and a high dose group receiving 4 mg/kg of morphine (M4).

3.7 DESIGN
In the Design section, you outline the structure of your study. The purpose of the
design section is to give the reader an overview of the study if your design was
complex, it might be hard for the reader to understand it from a description of what
you did. The design section is a little like the ingredients from a recipe it provides
41
the ingredients of your study, that you will use later on in the Method section.
Report Writing You should state clearly the nature of the research that you carried out. Was it an
experiment, a correlation study, a case study, etc.? If it was an experiment, did you
use a between-participants design (different participants in each condition) or a
within-participants design (same participants in each condition) - or was it a mixed-
design (with both within- and between-participant conditions)?
Describe the variables that you measured and/or manipulated. If your design was
experimental, you should describe the dependent and independent variables. In
experimental designs, you should state the number of levels in (each of) the independent
variables, and describe them.
Describing the dependent variable(s) means actually saying what they are and what
they mean. You need to say more than the dependent variable was the response the
participants gave to the questionnaire.
General Guidelines
Do not purposely start a new page for this section. Type the word Design flush
with the left margin and italicize it. On the next line, begin typing normal paragraphs.
Describe the design and clearly spell out the independent and dependent variables.
Indicate what the levels of the independent variables were, and whether the
factor(s) were repeated, matched, or independent.
Describe how the subjects were assigned to groups.
Describe any control procedures used.

Self Assessment Questions

1) What are the general guidelines to follow in writing up about the design?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) Why are procedures important? Can we do without procedures?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What guidelines one should follow in regard procedure?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
42
 Methodology
3.8 LET US SUM UP
Methodology refers to the method by which the research is conducted. It subsumes
under it the objectives of the research, the hypothesis, the sample selected for the
purpose, the research design used, the tools selected for collecting the information
from the sample subjects, and the statistical methods used to analyse the data so
collected.
The purpose of the methodology to be written as part of the report is to inform the
reader how the entire research was conducted. It also permits experienced investigators
to replicate the study if they so desire.
Any elaborate writing has to have headings and sub headings so that understanding
of the concepts and the materials become easier for the reader. It is both conventional
and expedient to divide the Method section into labeled subsections. These usually
include descriptions of the participants, the apparatus (or materials), and the procedure.
In the participants section, the researcher should present all details about the participants
or the subjects or the sample selected for research purposes. The subsection on
participants (sometimes called subjects or sample) should give readers the important
characteristics of the sample.
Appropriate identification of research participants and clientele is critical to the science
and practice of psychology, particularly for assessing the results (making comparisons
across groups), generalising the findings, and making comparisons in replications,
literature reviews, or secondary data analyses.
This section must also provide the total number of subjects assigned to the experimental
condition and the number of subjects to the control group which did not undergo the
yoga training. It must also indicate if any one or more of the subjects or a few of
them did not complete the training, and why they did not etc., have to be specified
as this might affect the obtained results.
The next section is the materials section, which presents the materials used by the
researcher. The Materials section (sometimes called Apparatus, or Measures) is
where you describe anything that you used in the study. This should include technical
equipment, questionnaires, word lists, computer programs, etc.
The next section procedure consisted of a clear description of all the procedures
followed in the experiment. One easy way to write a procedure section is to report
everything step by step in chronological order.
In the Design section, you outline the structure of your study. The purpose of the
design section is to give the reader an overview of the study .

3.9 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Define methodology and indicate its purposes
2) What are the sub-sections that would go under methodology? Why are these
sub-sections important?
3) What are all included in the Apparatus and materials section? What procedure
one should follow in this regard?
4) What do we mean by procedure in methodology? Enumerate the various
factors that go into these.
5) Elaborate and discuss the Design. What all needs to be included in this
section. 43
Report Writing
3.10 SUGGESTED READINGS
Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (Sixth Edition,
2009). American Psychological Association. Washington, DC.
Singh, AK. (2009). Test Measurements and Research Methods in Behavioural
Sciences (Fifth Edition). Bharti Bhawan Publishers & Distributors.

44
UNIT 4 RESULT, ANALYSIS AND
DISCUSSION OF THE DATA
Structure
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Objectives
4.2 Definition, Description of Results
4.3 Statistical Presentation
4.3.1 Sufficient Statistics
4.3.2 Statistical Power
4.3.3 Statistical Significance
4.3.4 Effect, Size and Strength of Relationship

4.4 Results
4.5 Tables and Figures
4.6 Discussion
4.7 Table Checklist
4.8 Figure Checklist
4.9 Let Us Sum Up
4.10 Unit End Questions
4.11 Suggested Readings

4.0 INTRODUCTION
In the previous unit we discussed about the methodology to be written in the report.
This unit deals with results. This is one of the most important chapters in the report
and is of great value to the researcher and also to the reader. Results are the final
outcome of a research exercise that had taken place with certain objectivity and
scientific rigour. A description of the analysis of the data that had been anlaysed will
be presented here. The method of presentation, the important aspects of presentation
and the interpretation of the results will all be handled in this unit.

4.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
describe Results and Discussion component in APA format;
analyse Results in a research report;
explain the research in terms of the prevailing research;
write a Research Report with special emphasis on Results and Discussion; and
explain how to use a checklist.

4.2 DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION OF RESULTS

Results mean in this specific context that the findings that have been obtained from
the analysis of the data that the researcher had collected during conducting the 45
Report Writing research on the topic of the research. Results clearly indicate whether a particular
hypothesis has been validated or rejected and it also provides information of how far
the obtained results are statistically significant.
The Results section summarises the data collected and the statistical treatment of
them. First, briefly state the main results or findings, Then report the data in sufficient
detail to justify the conclusions. Mention all relevant results, including those that run
counter to the hypothesis. Do not include individual scores or raw data, with the
exception, for example, of single-case designs or illustrative samples.

4.3 STATISTICAL PRESENTATION

When reporting inferential statistics (e.g., t tests, F tests, and chi-square), include
information about the obtained magnitude or value of the test, the degrees of freedom,
the probability level, and the direction of the effect. Be sure to include descriptive
statistics (e.g., means or medians); where means are reported.
Always include an associated measure of variability, such as standard deviations,
variances, or mean square errors. Assume that your reader has professional knowledge
of statistics. Basic assumptions, such as rejecting the null hypothesis, should not be
reviewed. If there is a question about the appropriateness of a particular test, however,
be sure to justify the use of that test.

4.3.1 Sufficient Statistics

When reporting inferential statistics, include sufficient information to help the reader
corroborate the analyses conducted.
For parametric tests of location (e.g, single-group, multiple-group, or multiple-factor
tests of means), a set of sufficient statistics consists of cell means, cell sample sizes,
and some measure of variability (such as cell standard deviations or variances).
Alternatively, a set of sufficient statistics consists of cell means, along with the mean
square error and degrees of freedom associated with the effect being tested.
For randomized-block layouts, repeated measures designs, and multivariate analyses
of variance, vectors of cell means and cell sample sizes, along with the pooled within-
cell variance-covariance matrix, constitute a set of sufficient statistics.
For correlation analyses (e.g., multiple regression analysis, factor analysis, and
structural-equations modeling), the sample size and variance-covariance (or correlation)
matrix are needed, accompanied by other information specific to the procedure used
(e.g., variable means, reliabilities, hypothesized structural models, and other
parameters).
For non-parametric analyses (e.g., chi-square analyses of contingency tables, order
statistics), various summaries of the raw data (e.g., the number of case in each
category, the sum of the ranks, and sample sizes in each cell) are sufficient statistics.
For analyses based on very small samples (including single-case investigations), consider
providing the complete data in a table or figure.

4.3.2 Statistical Power

Take seriously the statistical power consideration associated with your tests of
hypotheses. Such considerations relate to the likelihood of correctly rejecting the
46 tested hypotheses, given a particular alpha level, effect size, and sample size. In that
regard, you should routinely provide evidence that your study has sufficient power Result, Analysis and
Discussion of the Data
to detect effect of substantive interest,
You should be similarly aware of the role played by sample size in cases in which
not rejecting the null hypothesis is desirable (i.e., when you wish to argue that there
are no differences), when testing various assumptions underlying the statistical model
adopted (e.g., normality, homogeneity of variance, and homogeneity of regression),
and in model fitting

4.3.3 Statistical Significance

Two types of probabilities associated with the significance of inferential statistical
tests are reported. One refers to the apriori probability you have selected as an
acceptable level of falsely rejecting a given null hypothesis. This probability, called the
alpha level, is the probability of a Type I error in hypothesis testing. Commonly used
alpha levels are .05 and .01. Before you begin to report specific results, you should
routinely state the particular alpha level you selected for the statistical tests you
conducted:
An alpha level of .05 was used for all statistical tests.
If you do not make a general statement about the alpha level, specify the alpha level
when reporting each result.
The other kind of probability refers to the a posteriori likelihood of obtaining a result
that is as extreme as or more extreme than the actual value of the statistic you
obtained, assuming that the null hypothesis is true. For example, given a true null
hypothesis, the probability of obtaining the particular value of the statistic you computed
might be .008. Many statistical packages now provide these exact values. You can
report this distinct piece of information in addition to specifying whether you rejected
or failed to reject the null by pothesis using the specified alpha level.
With an alpha level of .05, the effect of age was statistically significant, F (1, 123)
= 7.27, p = .008.
Or
The effect of age was not statistically significant, F (1, 123), p = .012.
The second example should be taken up only if you have included a general statement
about the alpha level earlier in your report.
If you do not wish to report the exact probability, you can report the commonly used
probability value that is nearest to it:
With an alpha level of .05, the effect of age was statistically significant, F (1, 123)
= 7.27, p < .01.
Or
The effect of age was not statistically significant, F (1, 123) = 2.45, p > .10.

4.3.4 Effect, Size and Strength of Relationship

Neither of the two types of probability values reflects the importance (magnitude) of
an effect of the strength of a relationship because both probability values depend on
sample size. You can estimate the magnitude of the effect or the strength of the
relationship with a number of measures that do not depend on sample size. 47
Report Writing You are encouraged to provide effect-size information, although in most cases such
measures are readily obtainable whenever the test statistics (e.g., t and F) and
sample sizes (or degrees of freedom) are reported. For example, given an F ratio
based on v1 and v2 degrees of freedom, the proportion of variance accounted for
by the associated effect (K2, as the generalisation of r2) can be determined as v1 F/
(v1 F+v2).
Self Assessment Questions
1) Define results . What does it give ? Describe its importance
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is meant by statistical presentation? What is sufficient statistics?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What do you understand by the term statistical power? How do we decide
the power and indicate in our report.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) What is meant bystatistical significance at .05 or .01 level? How do we
overcome Type I and Type II errors?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
5) Elucidagte the concept that effectof size contributes to strength of relationship.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

4.4 RESULTS
This section is where you present your data and analyses. The experimenter gives
a description and not an explanation of the findings of the experiment. In order to
48
fulfill this requirement, the results section should include descriptive statistics (rather Result, Analysis and
Discussion of the Data
than the raw data) and statistical tests if used.
Include in this the degrees of freedom used, obtained values of inferential statistics
performed, probability level, and direction of effect. Underline letters used as statistical
symbols, such as N, F, t, SD, and p. (Use underlining, not quotation
marks. Since many Web browsers using underlining to indicate a link, avoid underlining
within web pages.) Make reference to any figures and tables used.
The reference to the table or figure should be close to the relevant material in the
text. Never use a figure or table without referring to it in the text.
Tables are often used when presenting descriptive statistics such as means, standard
deviations and correlations. Pictures, graphs, and drawings are referred to as figures.
You should use as few tables and figures as possible. They should be used as
supplements, not to do the entire job of communication.
The results section of a report should tell readers what statistical procedures you
used and what you found. Findings are easier to understand if you begin with a brief
summary of your principal findings stated in words. Then report the results of your
statistical tests (F or t values, results from post hoc tests, and so on ) and summary
data (for example, and ANOVA summary table or a table that includes means and
standard deviations.
Remember that we usually do not report individual scores unless we have a small N
design. Tell readers what statistical tests you used to evaluate the data, along with
the obtained values of test statistics. Indicate degrees of freedom and significance
levels. Be sure that you have stated all group means included in the important
findings. Some measure of group variability (typically the standard deviation, SD)
is required whenever you are reporting values of F or t. You should also state the
significance level you selected, typically p < .05.
Here is an example. Suppose a student researcher replicated a prior finding from the
literature that violent music videos can increase peoples acceptance of violent
behaviour. The student conducted an experiment testing the effects of watching either
violent or nonviolent music videos on subjects attitudes toward violence. She designed
a questionnaire to measure the attitudes toward violence; the higher the score, the
more accepting an individual was of violent behaviour. A between subjects t- test
showed that the prediction was confirmed by her experiment. She was was able to
reject the null hypothesis at p < .05.
So one can say that her results section can begin by stating, in words, what the
researcher found:
As predicted, subjects expressed more positive attitudes toward violence after viewing
violent music videos than after viewing nonviolent videos.
Then the researcher could report the results of herthe statistical tests and relevant
summary data as for example, with an alpha level of .05, a t test indicated that
attitude scores were significantly different after violent videos than after non-violent
ones, t (34) = 3.12, p <.01.Subjects shown a violent music video were more
accepting of violence (M= 7.89, SD = 2.10) than were subjects who watched a
nonviolent video (M= 4.20, SD = 1.89).
The estimate of effect size is strongly recommended in the Publication Manual. It is
49
usually reported right after the obtained statistical value and probability level, like this:
Report Writing A t-test indicated that attitude scores were significantly different after violent videos
than after nonviolent ones, t (34) = 3.12, p <.01 (r2 = .22).
There are no hard and fast rules for presenting statistics as long as the presentation
is complete, and the results are clear to the reader.
In a simple two group experiment, the results section would probably not be very
long. But if you have a factorial design, you will have more results to report (main
effects, interactions, post hoc tests, and the like).post hoc test, and the like). If you
have more than one dependent measure, you might want to present the results for
each measure separately. As with the simple experiment, begin by stating, in words,
what you found. The report all the effects produced by your statistical tests and
relevant summary data for each kind of effect.
Typically, we report main effects first, then go on the interaction(s). Finally, give the
results of post hoc tests or other group comparisons if you used them. If the number
of subjects in each group was not equal, report the cell sizes. Be sure that the reader
can understand one effect completely before going on to the next. If you have
presented many statistics, it is helpful to the reader if you summarise the effects in
words at some point.

4.5 TABLES AND FIGURES

To report the data, choose the medium that presents them clearly and economically.
Tables provide exact values and can efficiently illustrate main effects. Figures of
professional quality attract the readers eye and best illustrate interactions and general
comparisons, but they are not quite as precise as tables. Figures are more expensive
than tables to reproduce, and both formats are more expensive than text to compose,
so reserve them for your most important data. (Discussing the implications of the
results is not appropriate here.)
Summarising the results and the analysis in tables or figures instead of text may be
helpful; for example, a table may enhance the readability of complex sets of analysis
of variance results. Avoid repeating the same data in several places and using tables
for data that can be easily presented in a few sentences in the text.
When you use tables or figures, be certain to mention all of them in the text, Refer
to all tables as tables and to all graphs, pictures, or drawings as figures. Tables and
figures supplement the text; they cannot do the entire job of communication. Always
tell the reader what to look for in tables and figures, and provide sufficient explanation
to make them readily intelligible.
Sometimes results can be summarised most easily through figures or tables, but these
should be used sparingly (because they take up a lot of valuable journal space). A
figure or table should enhance what you have to say about that data. Avoid reporting
the same statistics or summary data in the text and in a table or graph. If your F
values, means, and SDs are in a table, simply refer the reader to the table at the
appropriate timefor instance, Results of the statistical tests and group means are
shown in Table 1.Never duplicate the same information in a table and a figure.
Figures and tables must be referred to within the text and should be an integral part
of the presentation, not ornaments dangling in space. The results section is used only
to present the objective data as they appeared in the experiment. Interpretation of
the results belongs in the next section.

50 Label all of your figures, tables and graphs (graphs should also be labeled as figures)
using a consecutive numbering scheme that starts with the first one of each to appear Result, Analysis and
Discussion of the Data
in the report (i.e. the first table is Table 1, the first figure or graph is Figure 1, the
next table is Table 2 and so on). Then use those labels in your text. .
All of your figures and tables should have detailed, informative titles. Someone
should be able to look at a table or a graph and understand it without looking at any
of the text. (Have a look at how this tends to be done in journal articles).
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the methods of writing the results in the report? Elucidate.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) How do we write the validation of hypothesis by the results?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) How do we present statistics in a report?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) When do we use tables and figures to represent the data?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

4.6 DISCUSSION
After presenting the results, you are in a position to evaluate and interpret their
implications, especially with respect to your original hypothesis. You are free to
examine, interpret, and qualify the results, as well as to draw inferences from them.
Emphasise any theoretical consequences of the results and the validity of your
conclusions. (When the discussion is relatively brief and straightforward, some authors
prefer to combine it with the previous Results section, yielding and Discussion.)
Open the discussion with a clear statement of the support or nonsupport for your
original hypothesis. Similarities and differences between your results and the work of
others should clarify and confirm your conclusions. Do not, however, simply reformulate 51
Report Writing and repeat points already made; each new statement should contribute to your
position and to the readers understanding of the problem. You may remark on
certain shortcomings of the study, but do not dwell on every flaw. Negative results
should be accepted as such without an undue attempt to explain them away.
Avoid polemics, triviality, and weak theoretical comparisons in your discussion.
Speculation is in order only if it is (a) identified as such, (b) related closely and
logically to empirical data or theory, and (c) expressed concisely, Identifying the
practical and theoretical implications of your study, suggesting improvements on your
research, or proposing new research may be appropriate, but keep these comments
brief. In general, be guided by the following questions:
What have I contributed here?
How has may study helped to resolve the original problem?
What conclusions and theoretical implications can I drawn from my study?
The responses to these questions are the core of your contribution and readers have
a right to clear, unambiguous, and direct answer.
Here you shall report the results of your data analyses. However, you should not
discuss, or attempt to interpret them in this section. Sometimes you will come across
research reports that combine the results and discussion section.
Though you might be tempted to do this if you have a large number of results that
need to be discussed, it is better to stick to the standard format.
The first part of the results should say how you calculated the scores for your
participants. This will often be obvious; for example, the score might be the number
of words correctly remembered. Sometimes the method of scoring will be less
obvious, and sometimes it might even be quite complex.
The second part of the results should display descriptive or exploratory statistics.
The third part of the results should display information about any statistical tests that
you carried out.
If you have a number of hypotheses to test, you might prefer to present the descriptive
statistics and the inferential statistics together for each hypothesis. Your results section
would then look like:
Hypothesis A: Inferential statistics, hypothesis A: descriptive statistics.
Hypotheses B, descriptive statistics, Hypothesis B inferential statistics, etc.
It can be difficult to know what level of detail to put in the results section. If what
you are putting into this section will help to answer part of your initial questions or
hypotheses, then you are right to include it.
The Results section should be easy to understand on its own. Make sure that the
reader does not have to keep flicking back and forward to other sections of the
report to understand what you are saying. For instance, students sometimes put into
the Results section abbreviations that were described in the Materials section. Dont
use abbreviations that the reader may not remember.
You can report results in many different ways: using a text description, a table or a
graph. For example, you could write, Group 1 (chocolate) had a mean happiness
52 score of 12.3, higher than group 2 (carrots) whose mean happiness score was 4.1
You could present the same information in a table, or a graph. Generally, you should Result, Analysis and
Discussion of the Data
choose the method that takes up the least space but conveys the information
clearly. In this example, the text description is acceptable anyone reading it has all
of the information needed the graph and the table give no new information, and do
not enhance our understanding in any way. Choosing the method of presenting the
information is, however, a complex issue.
It can be difficult to know how to report statistical tests in text. As a rule, you need
to report the test statistic, either the N, or the df (depending on the test) and whether
the result is significant. There are two ways of doing this, and either would be
appropriate. The first way, is just to list the test statistic, the df and the probability:
& choi;2=1.3,df=1,p>0.05.Thesecondwayistoputthedf(orlesscommonly
the N) in brackets after the test statistic t(88) = 2.4, p < 0.05.
If you use a statistical package, it will probably provide you with an exact p value,
rather than just saying p<0.05, it will say p=0.023. Arguments rage in methodological
circles about how this should be reported. One side of the argument says that you
should simply report whether the result is significant at the 0.05 level, or not. So, if
the statistics package says that p=0.0045, you should write p < 0.05. The other side
of the argument says that you should write the exact value that is given for p, so if
the statistics package says p=0.0045, you write p=0.0045. A sort of compromise
is to use cut-off values of 0.05, 0.01 and 0.001. So if the statistics package says
that p=0.0045, you should write p < 0.01. Whilst many journal articles still use this
technique, it is usually frowned upon in methodological circles. I dont know which
of these your lecturers will prefer you to use the best thing for you to do is to find
out, and use the same one.
If a statistics package says that p=0.000, it doesnt mean it. It has rounded the value
to 3 decimal places, and it means that p < 0.0005.
Dont give excessive numbers of decimals. One decimal more than the accuracy of
your measure is usually enough. If you measured how many digits people could
recall, writing that the mean was 7.1 is fine. Writing that the mean was 7.132384 is
far more accuracy than your measure warrants.
In this section, you state your conclusions on the basis of your analyses. The conclusions
should be related to the questions raised in your introduction section. How is this
study, and these results, relevant to the field? You should open the discussion section
with a statement of support or nonsupport for your original hypothesis. You may
want to point out differences or similarities between other points of view and your
own. You may remark on certain shortcomings of the study, but avoid dwelling on
flaws. In general, this section allows you relatively free rein to examine, interpret, and
qualify your results. The overall purpose of the discussion section is to evaluate you
experiment and interpret the results. As you learned in the previous chapter, the
discussion should tie things together for readers. In the introduction you reviewed the
literature and showed readers how you arrived at your hypothesis and predictions.
In the method section, you described the details of what you did. In the results
section, you presented what you need to explain what you have accomplished: How
do your findings fit in with the original problem stated in the introduction? Was your
hypothesis supported? How do the findings fit in with prior research in the area? Are
they consistent? If not, can any discrepancies be reconciled? The discussion section
is also the place to talk about what you think your results mean: What are the
implications of the research? Can you generalise from the findings? Does further
research suggest itself? 53
Report Writing Begin the discussion section with a clear summary sentence or two restating your
results (in words only). And explain whether the hypothesis was supported or not,
for example:
The results of the current experiment supported the hypothesis that exposure to
violent music videos would produce greater acceptance of violent behaviour. Subjects
who watched music videos containing violence expressed significantly more positive
attitudes toward violence than did subjects who watched music videos without any
violence.
Then, go on the explain how your findings fit into what is already known about your
topic, Explain how your findings are consistent (or inconsistent) with the most important
findings from past studies that you talked about in your introduction section.
These results are consistent with the results of a number of other experiments reported
in the literature. For example {citation} also showed thatIn addition, [citation]
found similar effects when subjects..
In contrast, if your results are not in agreement with findings reported by other
researchers try to explain why you believe you findings differed from theirs:
The present findings, however, are inconsistent with those reported by [citation].
The present study demonstrated that.; whereas [citation] found that .. The
most likely explanation for the inconsistency is that [citation] used a different procedure
for.Their procedure could have resulted in..
Any sources of confounding or problems with the experiment that might influence the
interpretation of the data need to be reported. But be reasonable; it is not necessary
to mention things that are probably irrelevant. Whether or not all subjects had
breakfast probably is not critical, especially if you assigned them to conditions at
random. However, if half the experimental subjects walked out on the experiment
before it was over because they were faint from hunger, your readers should know
that, as well as how that could have affected the data.
Do not get caught up in offering excuses for why your results were not significant.
Rethink both your procedures and your hypothesis if necessary. Apologies for small
samples often lead to this common error; If more subjects had been tested, the
results probably would have been significant. Avoid being tempted to make something
out of nonsignificant findings, even if they go in the direction you predicted. A trend
in the right direction does not guarantee a significant outcome with a large sample.
Very small samples are unreliable; the trend could easily reverse itself if you had a
larger sample! Running the experiment with more subjects is the only way to validate
your hunch.
If you believe your study suggests a new theoretical model or has practical, real-
world implications, you may say so here, but be humble about it. The results of a
single study are rarely earth shattering. If another study would clarify the findings, you
can propose your idea for future research.
Keep in mind that when readers finish the discussion section, they should have a
sense of closure. They should know where you were going and why. They should
know how you got there, what you found, and where it firs in the context of what
was already known about the problem.
The discussion section is where you are freed a little from the strict rules about what
54
you should put in your practical report, and you are finally allowed to get a little
creative. Whilst this is a good thing in some ways, it also means that you have to Result, Analysis and
Discussion of the Data
think a lot more about what to put in this section.
The discussion section can be very difficult to write, and if you leave it to the last
minute, you can find that you lack the necessary inspiration and end up with a rather
poor (or even non-existent) discussion section.
The discussion falls into three sections:
What did the study find?
What do the findings mean?
What are the implications?
The first section involves a description of your findings an outline of what was
found, this is a summary of the results section, putting an emphasis on answering the
questions posed in the introduction. The second section should be a discussion of the
possible interpretation of these data, including any flaws in the experimental design
or execution that may limit the usefulness of the data.
In the third section of the discussion you should: (i) to assess the implications of your
study particularly with regard to any issues that you outlined in your introduction,
and (ii) what questions has your research left unanswered, and what new questions
has it suggested to you.
In this section, you elaborate upon the argument you began in your introduction.
What this means is that a good discussion depends on having a good introduction.
This section should include very little new material or literature.
Do not feel afraid to point out issues that have arisen in your research. No one, ever,
has carried out a perfect experiment. Lecturers ask you to carry out practical work
so that you learn, so dont be afraid to show that you have learnt from the experience.
Sometimes students are afraid to point out possible flaws in their study because they
think that lecturers will think that they carried out the research badly, and will therefore
give them a lower grade. You can be reassured by two thoughts. First, if there are
flaws in your study, your lecturer will notice them whether you point them out or not
(they have probably read hundreds of practical reports in the past). Second, your
lecturers will be happy to see that you have learned from the experience of carrying
out the research.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What is the purpose of discussion chapter? What questions to ask to make
the discussion chapter worthwhile?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is the standard format nfor putting up the results through statistics?
Explain.
.....................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................... 55
Report Writing
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What are the dos and donts to follow while presenting the results?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) How will you relate the questions raised in the introduction with the results?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
5) What is meant by sense of closure ? How will you ensure this in the report?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
6) What are the three sections into which the discussion falls?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

4.7 TABLE CHECKLIST: A BRIEF GUIDE TO

MANUSCRIPT TABLES IN APA STYLE
All tables included in a paper should be necessary for understanding the data.
Tables should be simple, clean, and free of elaborate detail.
Always double-check to make sure the data are correct.
All tables should be mentioned in the text.
Tables are included within a paper after any appendices and before any figures.
Each table should be typed on a separate page.
All tables are double-spaced.
Table pages, just as every other page in a manuscript, should have the short title
56 and page number in the upper right-hand corner.
 All table labels should be numbered consecutively (Table 1, Table 2, etc.). Result, Analysis and
Discussion of the Data
The data are listed in an orderly fashion with the decimal points falling in a
straight vertical line.
All tables include a caption which is located directly below the table label and
is capitalised just as a title would be, underlined, and is not followed by a
period.

4.8 FIGURE CHECKLIST: A BRIEF GUIDE TO

MANUSCRIPT GRAPHS IN APA STYLE
All figures included in a paper should be necessary for understanding the results.
Figures should be simple, clean, and free of elaborate detail.
Always double-check to see if data have been plotted correctly.
All figures should be mentioned in the text (see Figure 1).
Figures are included within a paper after any appendices and tables.
Each figure should be typed on a separate page.
Figure pages, just as every other page in a manuscript, should have the short
title and page number in the upper right-hand corner (unless a photograph).
All figure labels are numbered consecutively (Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.).
The length of the vertical (Y) axis should be approximately 2/3 the length of the
horizontal (X) axis.
The dependent variable is plotted on the Y-axis, and the independent variable
is plotted on the X-axis.
Clearly label each axis with respect to what was measured, quantity measured,
and units in which the quality was measured.
Choose the appropriate scale units (length of intervals) so that the figure will not
distort actual data points.
Make sure that the scale points on each axis have equal intervals.
All figures are followed by a caption, which is written below each figure and
ended with a period.
Figure labels beginning each caption are underlined and followed by a period.
For example: Figure 6.Reactiontimeinsecondsasafunctionoftheintensity
of the stimulus.
Completed figures as they should appear in a written manuscript can be seen
in the publication manual itself.
General Guidelines of Results and Discussion
1) Do not purposely start a new page for this section. Simply center the
wordresultsandcontinuetypingontheverynextdouble-spacedline(i.e.,do
not insert any extra blank lines here).

57
Report Writing
2) Look carefully at the results. That is, take a good hard look at all those
numbers you collect. Think of different ways to summarise them (describe),
as well as to make sense of them (analyse). You might find my Psychological
Statistics Site helpful. This section will be easier to write if you make any
tables and/or figures you intend to use first.
3) Briefly state the main findings in words. That is, first give a general description,
then go into the details.
4) When presenting the results of statistical tests, give descriptive statistics before
the corresponding inferential statistics. In other words, give means and/or
percentages (perhaps referring to a table or figure), before talking about the
results of any statistical tests you performed.
5) When presenting means, it is reasonable to use one additional digit of accuracy
than what is contained in the raw data. In other words, if the raw data
consisted of whole numbers, then the means should contain one decimal
place.
6) When presenting nominal or ordinal data, give the percents rather than
frequencies (since percents are independent of the sample size).
7) The general format for presenting an inferential statistic is: Statistic(df) =
value,probability=value.Notethatexactpvaluesarepreferred.Also,if
the computer output says the probability is .0000, then report it as .001.
8) When possible, include some statistical estimate of effect size.
9) When actually presenting the results, try to emphasise the meaning of the
statistics. That is, clearly describe what it is you are testing and what significance
means for the variables involved.
10) Seesome examplesof the correct way to present the results of several
common statistical tests.
11) Do not discuss the implications of the results in this section.
12) Do not talk about the meaning of the alpha level or the null hypothesis, and
what chance factors have to do with it. Since you are writing for the scientific
community, you can assume the reader will have a working knowledge of
statistics.
13) If you are presenting a lot of material here, you may wish to employ subheadings
(as is done in the methods section). These subheadings should have meaning
and relevance to the data and should help to organise your presentation of
it. In other words, they should not be organised by the type of analysis
employed. Since this is not expected by the reader, it is a good idea to
precede the subheadings with a paragraph informing the reader of the logical
organisation of this section.
14) In cases where the reader would expect something to be significant and it is
not, you should address the issue.
15) Do not provide raw data unless, for some reason, you require a single
subject approach. whether you point them out or not (they have probably
read hundreds of practical reports in the past). Second, you lecturers will be
happy to see that you have learned from the experience of carrying out the
58
research.
 Result, Analysis and
16) Do not purposely start a new page for this section. Simply center the Discussion of the Data
wordDiscussionandcontinuetypingontheverynextdouble-spacedline
(i.e., do not insert any extra blank lines here).
17) The purpose of this section is to evaluate and interpret the results, especially
with respect to the original research question.
18) Start off with a brief, non-technical summary of the results. In other words,
tell the reader about the main findings without using statistical terminology.
19) Then go on to discuss the implications of the results. In other words, whatever
was found needs to be discussed.
20) It is also important to discuss how the results relate to the literature you cited
in the introduction. In other words, emphasise any theoretical consequences
of the results.
21) You might (or might not) also mention any limitations of the study and any
suggestions for future research in this section.
22) Finally, you need an ending paragraph in which you make a final summary
statement of the conclusions you have drawn. You are also encouraged, when
appropriate, to comment on the importance and relevance of your findings.
How are your findings related to the big picture?
Thus, this section should contain an absolute minimum of three paragraphs: the non-
technical summary, discussion of the results and their implications, and the concluding
paragraph.
Be careful with the word prove. Since statistical tests are based on probability and
can be in error, they do not really prove anything.
You can only use wording that implies causality if you actually manipulated the
independent variable (i.e., performed an experiment). For example, suppose you
manipulated whether subjects received a drug (while employing appropriate control
procedures, etc.) and found a significant difference in memory performance (with the
drug users performing more poorly than nonusers). In this case, you would be able
to conclude that the drug caused the difference in memory ability; it impaired it. As
another example, suppose that you compared drug use (as determined from the
results of a survey) with memory ability and found a correlation (greater use went
along with poorer memory performance). Since correlation doesnt say much about
causality, we could only conclude that there is a relationship between drug use and
memory ability.

4.9 LET US SUM UP

This section of the main body is the results whose purpose is to provide sufficient
information about how the conclusion was reached. The heart of this section is the
presentation of data relevant to test the hypotheses. All relevant data are presented
including those that dont support the hypotheses. Tables and figures are commonly
employed for supplementing textual material. A table consists of several numbers that
summarise the major findings of the experiment. A figure is a graph, photograph,
chart of like materials, which are relevant particularly for certain kinds of data like
showing the progress of learning or maturation over a designated period. Data in the
text and in tables or figures should not be redundant, rather, they should be
59
Report Writing complementary. Results of the statistical analyses carried should be provided. However,
they should not be interpreted and discussed in this section.
The final section of the main body report is discussion. The major function of this
section is to interpret the results of the study and to relate those results to other
studies. The implications of the study including the hypotheses, supported or not
supported, are discussed. If the findings are contrary to the hypotheses, some new
explanation is required so that a new hypothesis may be advanced. New hypotheses
may also be advanced about any uncommon deviation in the results. Sometimes
faulty hypotheses can be modified to make them consistent with the results obtained.
Negative results should also be discussed. Such results occur when a hypothesis
predicts something but the results dont support that prediction. A brief speculation
about why they occurred, is sufficient. A brief discussion of the limitations of the
present study and proposals for future research is appropriately discussed here. Here
the researcher finally includes conclusions that reflect whether the original problem is
better resolved as a result of the investigation.

4.10 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) What is the significance of Results in Research Report writing?
2) Discuss the relevance of Discussion and Analysis of Results in Research Report
What are the strict APA guidelines for writing Discussion and Analysis of Results?
3) Carve out a befitting Research Report Results and Discuss with the help of an
example.

4.11 SUGGESTED READINGS

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (Sixth Edition,
2009). American Psychological Association. Washington, DC.
Singh, AK. (2009). Test Measurements and Research Methods in Behavioural
Sciences (Fifth Edition). Bharti Bhawan Publishers & Distributors.

60
UNIT 5 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
Structure
5.0 Introduction
5.1 Objectives
5.2 Summary, Definition and Description
5.3 Guidelines for Writing a Summary
5.4 Summarising
5.5 Writing the Summary and Choosing Words
5.6 A Process for Paraphrasing and Summarising
5.7 Summary of a Report
5.8 Writing Conclusions
5.9 Strategies for Writing Effective Conclusion
5.10 Important Points for Writing Conclusion
5.11 Strategies to Avoid Ineffective Conclusions
5.12 Let Us Sum Up
5.13 Unit End Questions
5.14 Suggested Readings

5.0 INTRODUCTION
The summary and conclusion is a chapter which is the last of all the chapters in a
research report. It is almost equivalent to an abstract but more elaborate than an
abstract. In this unit we will focus on how to write the summary and conclusion of
a research report. We have already presented how we went ahead with the research
and what have been our findings etc. Now is the time to indicate to the reader what
exactly was done and what have been the result in a succinct and summary format.
It must be remembered that when a person reads the summary and conclusion of a
report he or she should get an almost comprehensive idea of what the research had
been all about. In order to do this a high degree of skill is required to write this
chapter making sure that everything is well summarised and at the same time nothing
has been left out.

5.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
explain what is the Summary and Conclusion component in a Research Report.
describe how to write Summary and Conclusion in a scientific manner in a
Research Report.
learn the art of writing Abstract as substitute of Summary and Conclusion as per
APA format.
explain where the sub-section Summary and Conclusion is incorporated as per
APA format. 61
Report Writing According to the Publication Manual of American Psychological Association (APA,
4th, 5th, 6th, edition) Report Writing in APA format has no provision for writing the
heading Summary and Conclusions. Instead, the trend is to substitute Summary of
Conclusion with Abstract.
An Abstract is a brief, comprehensive survey of the contents of the article. A well
prepared Abstract not only needs to be dense with information but also readable,
brief and self-contained. A good Abstract should be accurate, concise, specific, non-
evaluative and coherent and reliable.
An Abstract of a report of an empirical study should describe in 100 to 120 words
the problem methodology, apparatus, data collecting procedures, tests, findings,
significance level and Conclusions and implication and application. An Abstract for
a review or theoretical article describes in 75 to 100 words comprising topic, purpose,
thesis and scope along with sources and Conclusions.

5.2 SUMMARY, DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION

A summary, synopsis, or recap is a shorter version of the original. Such a simplification
highlights the major points from the much longer subject, such as a text, speech, film,
or event. The purpose is to help the audience get the gist in a short period of time.
All of you would have done the exercise of summarising what you have read in your
school and college. We do this almost in all writing assignments that we get in school.
The teacher gives us a novel and asks us to read it and come back tomorrow and
present a summary of that novel. While doing so, we try not to lose the main theme
of the novel, highlight the important events and then present the entire thing with a
beginning, a middle and an end of the novel. We may or may not give much of a
description of the characters in the novel except the hero, the villain and any other
important member. We all have seen and heard people telling a story, some make
the same story absorbing while others may make the story too prosaic and a few
more may make the story sound totally boring. Thus summarising anything is a skill
and it is important though, to recognise when you must go beyond describing,
explaining, and restating texts and offer a more complex analysis. In academic writing
summarising is very important which requires considerable skill about which we will
in the following sections.

5.3 GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A SUMMARY

First of all the one most important things to keep in mind is the audience to whom
the summary is made. Is this person a common man, layman, professional, media
personnel, children etc. As we write the summary we must keep in mind first of all
the audience, the person who is going to read the summary. Second important thing
is to keep in mind the assignment itself. Here it is the report which is to be summarised.
Whether it requires an argument or a statement of the problem or does it require
supporting evidence etc. Summary can be used to provide the background to the
topic, set the stage and illustrate the evidence that is supporting the main theme. But
all these should be very brief and not at all too elaborate lest the summary becomes
a full fledged writing of an essay arguing back and forth. A few sentences should
focus on your argument.
Now let us see what is an argument. In academic writing, an argument is usually a
main idea, often called a claim or thesis statement, backed up with evidence that
62 supports the idea. Argument is something like a claim, in which you state, for instance
that children taught by audio visual method will be able to show greater innovativeness Summary and Conclusion
in their writing than those who do not get taught by audio visual method. Such claims
require supporting evidence which have to be provided.
1) An important step in the process of writing effective arguments is understanding
the concept of argumentation. If your writing does not have a main point, it
cannot be arguing for anything. Hence ask yourself this question as to what is
your point and then put forward in your mind the evidence to support that
argument. This would help in focusing on what you want to argue. Thus the
summary that you are writing may focus ton the topic of argument and then give
supporting evidence or you may merely state the main issue relating to the
research that you had conducted.
2) Another important thing is pre-writing. You may also want to try some pre-
writing activities that can help you develop your own analysis. Pre writing
involves outlining, freewriting, and mapping. That is whatever you want to state
in the report make an outline of it by stating the main points which can be later
elaborated. Write all that comes in your mind that is free writing and later on
edit it so that all points that you want to cover get covered in the summary. Pre
writing also involves mapping that is, make a map of what points to be covered
and in what order and which should come first , which second and which last.
Such mapping helps in writing the report comprehensively without missing any
point.
3) Another point to remember is the focusing on the main plot. After all, the plot
is usually the easiest part of a work to understand. If there is no plot as such
and you are not able to understand you can repeat what you had earlier stated
as the main theme or the title.
4) Another point to keep in mind is to focus on the elements that are relevant to
your report. If possible, carefully consider your report, what had gone into it,
chapter by chapter and understand the basic issues.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Define and describe what is summary.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the important things to keep in mind while writing a summary.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What is menat by pre writing. What are its advantages?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
63
Report Writing

.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
4) What is meant by argument? Give a few examples of how to argue a point in
a tresearch report.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

5.4 SUMMARISING
How to know that we are summarising. The questions that should be put to yourself
while summarising are the following:
1) Is what I am stating is obvious to the readers?
2) Does the summary cover the main plot, the main argument and other important
events in chronological order which has been used in the report?
3) Is that my summarising is merely describing something of what, where and
whom?
These three questions if kept in mind and answered every now and then as we
proceed to write the report will be of great value. The answer to these questions if
is yes it indicates you are in the right direction.
Explaining of the why or how aspect of the text is important. It is generally worthwhile
to have the entire text in the mind , look at it from a holistic point of view and then
start summarising.
Avoid the following phrases while writing the summary:
This report is about .
The report is the realistic picture of ..
This author writes about the report..
Avoid unnecessary wordings and descriptions. Be strictly precise and use words
economically. Give in the sentence importance to the main plot. Always try to relate
the summary to the main plot and do not lose sight of the plot.
Take the following steps in order to analyse a text:
Look for evidence that supports the main point or theme .
Also look for things that contradict it.
Find out if the writing and the pictures or figures given are well related and
linked.
Find out if the visuals that you have given in the report will catch the attention
of the reader.
64
 Find out the assumptions underlying your main theme Summary and Conclusion

What strategies to follow to avoid excessive summary?

Read and re read the report.
Go back to the main report everytime as you are summarising
Identify the main plot, history, the background, assumptions, theory etc.
While wrtring the summary, critically analyse what the report contained. The
questions and doubts that come to your ind as you are sumamrising.
Find out which parts of the report you agree with and with which you do not
agree.
Find out also if this work reminds of any other work you have read earlier.
Whatever your report states , is the main theme comes out clear in the report
and in the summary that you are writing?
Do you want the statement or the main plot to be the focus and come out strong
in the summary
Ask yourself the question as to which part of the report will be of use to the
reader and which part of the report can be deleted or not include in the
summary
If you are able to keep the above in mind and start writing the summary your focus
and your writing will be precise, concise and would throw light on the main issue
which you want to communicate to the reader.
Self Assessment Questions
1) How do we know we are summarisign?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What strategies do we follow while writing a summary?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What is meant by excessive summarising? What strategies to follow to avoid
excessive sumamrising?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
65
Report Writing
5.5 WRITING THE SUMMARY AND CHOOSING
WORDS
Writing is a series of choices. As you start writing the summary of the report, you
choose your topic, your approach, your sources, etc. When you are ready to write,
you must be careful to choose the right words to use and express varied things in
your summary. These words chosen by you must have to be arranged in sentences
or paragraphs so that the right expression and appropriate words are used to convey
the correct meaning. Never be satisfied with one time writing. Whatever is written
read through it many times and every time you read you will find there is scope for
improvement. As you read and re read the draft that you have written, ask yourself
the question if this is what you really wanted to convey or is there something else
or the same thing needs to be conveyed in a different manner. Another important
question to ask yourself is that will readers understand what you have written. Is this
what you really meant etc.
Finding words that capture your meaning and convey that meaning to your readers
is challenging. When you use any word make sure it is not awkward, vague or just
wordy. Each word must convey the correct meaning.
Sometimes a sentence is hard to follow because there is a grammatical problem with
it or because of the way the words and phrases are put together. Heres an example:
Having finished with the studying, the movie was immediately seen. This is a bad
sentence. If the comma is not there, it would appear as if the person was studying
the movie. The best way to write the sentence is Having finished with studying, the
students moved on to see the movie immediately. Sometimes, the problem with
clarity is the word that has been chosen. Given below are some words which are
examples of wrongly chosen words.
Misused words: The word chosen does not reflect what the author wanted to mean.
E.g. The chi square was used to convey the differences.
The right sentence is chi square was used to convey the association between the
variables.
Words with unwanted connotations or meanings. The word chosen has a meaning
attached to it which is unwarranted and the author actually does not mean it. For
example: The questionnaire was administered to participants in their private places.
The right sentence would be The questionnaire was administered to participants in
privacy.
Using a pronoun when readers cant tell whom/what it refers to: The word chosen
is meant to indicate one and not the other but when the reader reads it the sentence
will be confusing. For example: He collected the information through interview with
the priest but he did not like it. Here the he in he did not like it refers to the priest
and not to the investigator. So the right sentence is He collected the information
through interview with the priest but the latter did not like it.
Jargon or technical terms: Dont use jargons and technical words when a summary
is meant for a layman who has no idea about these jargons or words. Even if it is
meant for professionals such words and jargons should be used only if it is essential.
To give an example: Polygraph helps to identify friminals. Polygraph is a term that
many may not know. Hence the best way to write this sentence would be The
method or instrument used to identify the criminal is known as polygraph.
66
Loaded language. Sometimes we write some things which causes confusion to readers Summary and Conclusion
because the meaning becomes different from it was meant to be. For example:
Exercising in gym is important for girls and boys for their health but societal attitude
to be changed for this. The right sentence is While it is important for girls and boys
to work out in gyms, that has become a fad these days causing harm to children,
hence attitudinal change in society is required towards the kind of health one wants
the youngsters to develop.
Wordiness
Sometimes the problem isnt choosing exactly the right word to express an idea. It
is being wordy, or using words that your reader may regard as extra or inefficient.
Take Keep an eye out for wordy constructions in your writing and see if you can
replace them with more concise words or phrases. To give a few examples, Instead
of saying In all cases , you can use Always; Instead of saying Regardless of
the fact that you can use Although. Instead of stating that At that point in time
you can state Then It is important to avoid such long words and pick one which
is the most suitable. Yiou can use the thesaurus for this and pick the right word.
In contrast to quoting directly, by summarising or paraphrasing an authors ideas you
are able to present your interpretation of an authors ideas and to integrate them
more fully into the structure of your writing.
Self Assessment Questions
1) How do we choose words to write a summary?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What is meant by selecting the right words to write a summary?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What words should be avoided in writing the summary?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

5.6 A PROCESS FOR PARAPHRASING AND

SUMMARISING
Paraphrasing is useful when dealing with facts and definitions. Here we generally
refer to sentences or phrases in the source text. It is particularly useful when you 67
Report Writing want to rewrite a short section from the text and you can do that using different
words and language but keeping the meaning in tact. Summarising on the other hand
is generally used when there needs to refer to ideas contained in a long text.
Summarising enables the researcher to reduce the authors ideas to key points in an
outline of the discussion or argument. It helps omit unnecessary details and examples.
Whether one summarises or paraphrases, there is still a need to include a reference
citing the source of the ideas the researcher has referred to.
Many students find the following process useful for summarising and paraphrasing
information:
1) Read the text carefully - you may need to read the text several times, and check
the meaning of terms you do not understand in a dictionary.
2) Identify and underline the key words and main ideas in the text, and write these
ideas down.
3) Consider these points as a whole and your purpose for using this information
in relation to the structure of your assignment. You may be able to group the
ideas under your own headings, and arrange them in a different sequence to the
original text.
4) Think about the attitude of the author, i.e. critical, supportive, certain, uncertain.
Think about appropriate reporting verbs you could use to describe this attitude.
5) Think of words or phrases which mean roughly the same as those in the original
text. Remember, if the key words are specialised vocabulary for the subject,
they do not need to be changed. (see Using synonyms below.)
6) Using your notes from the above steps, draft your summary or paraphrase.
7) When you have finished your draft reread the original text and compare it to
your paraphrase or summary. You can then check that you have retained the
meaning and attitude of the original text.
Techniques for paraphrasing a text
1) Use synonyms that is synonymous words
2) Use synonymous forms
3) Use synonymous phrases
To cite an example, if a person has written in the report a paragraph indicating the
various instruments used in collecting the data, the person can state the same thing
using different words but keeping the meaning of the words as they are.
Self Assessment Questions
1) How do we differentiate between paraphrasing and summarising?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

68
 Summary and Conclusion
2) What strategies should we use while paraphrasing?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What is the process involved in summarising and paraphrasing?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

5.7 SUMMARY OF A REPORT

A well-prepared report can be the most important chapter in your report. Generally
a reader will turn to this chapter to find out what this whole project is all about and
will try to either read the entire report or leave reading depending upon how far the
summary of the chapter attracted him. If it is written interestingly drawing the attention
of the reader to certain important aspects of the report, then definitely the reader will
be drawn towards reading the other chapters or else he may just leave the whole
report alone.
The summary has to have the following: (i) Accuracy (ii) Self-contained (iii) Concise
and Specific
i) Accuracy: The summary written ahs to be highly accurate. It shoulect the report
and its main theme unambiguously. No information that is not contained in the
report should figure in the summary. Nothin additional should be posted in
summary except the exact information that hasn been a part of the main report.
In summary you may mention the author of a certain point mentioned in the text
but tthis should be more an exception than the rule.
ii) Self-contained: The summary should be self contained in that one need not go
looking for any references ormaterials while reading the summary. It must contain
all the information , including the units of measurement, analysis of the data, the
statistics used etc. Just by reading the summary the reader must come to know
what exactly has been done in the research and what more needs to be done.
iii) Concise and Specific: Each sentence in the summary should be maximally
informative, though one should aim for brevity. The summary should be small
and should not be long that it takes time to read it . It should be written in such
a manner that all the important information should be available and no unnecessary
information is presented which wastes space and words. (iv) Be as brief as
possible. You can write thee main findings in chronological order serial numbering
them and which actually is the main purpose of summary. The reader must know
what conclusions have been arrived at and how and if this information is put in
chronological order with numbering, it would facilitate comprehension and remove
unnecessary complexities.
69
Report Writing iv) Use digits for all numbers, except those that begin a sentence (consider recasting
a sentence that begins with a number).
While writing the summary you can use abbreviations such as for example you
can say for e.g. And for versus, you can say vs. etc. But these abbreviations
must also be explained elsewhere either at the end or in the beginning of the
summary. While writing summary always use active voice and dont use I and
we. It should be in the third person basically.
v) Make your summary non evaluative. Never give your opinion or arguments
while writing the summary. It should just state the facts and not give any
arguments. Just report your findings and exactly what transpired and keep your
arguments strictly to the discussion section.
vi) The summary must be readable, cogent and continuous. There must be a continuity
between one paragraph and the other and one sentence and the other and one
section and the other. Always relate the various issues that are being put forward
in the summary so that the reader gets a coherent picture of what had gone on
in research and what conclusions have been arrived at.
There is no limit as such to the number of words used in the summary. It
depends on what has the researcher done, what has been presented in the
report and how the problem under investigation has been handled and what are
the final outcome.
vii) It would be ideal to present the experimental method, if has been used in the
research study. The design of the study should be briefly reported without any
elaboration, indicating the manipulation of the independent variable , the
instruments used to bgather the data and the validity and reliability coefficient of
the tests if had been used in the research\h. These must be brief and hardly
should take space more than a sentence.
The summary should contain the findings including statistical significance levels.
It would be ideal also to indicate some of the limitations in the study in terms
of methodology or selection of sample or selection of instruments etc.
Such mentioning of the limitation helps in avoiding then many pitfalls in the
research when another one is undertaken.
A summary that is accurate, succinct, quickly comprehensible, and informative
will increase the interest of the readers and they will then like to read the full
report.
Self Assessment Questions
1) Enumerate the various things to be kept in mind while writing a report.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) How would you write a summary in which you would also indicate the statistical
findings?
.....................................................................................................................
70
 Summary and Conclusion
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What rules do we follow while writing abbreviations and numbering in the
summary?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

5.8 WRITING CONCLUSIONS

Conclusions can be the most difficult part of reports to write. While the body is often
easier to write, it needs a frame around it. An introduction and Conclusion frame the
ressearchers thoughts and bridge ideas for the reader. Just as the introduction acts
as a bridge that transports readers from their own lives into the place of the
research report analysis, the Conclusions too can provide a bridge to help readers
make the transition back to their daily lives.
Such a Conclusion will help them see why all the analysis and information should
matter to them after they put the report down.
The Conclusion is the chance one has to have the last word on the subject.
The Conclusion allows the researcher to have the final say on the issues that have
been raised in the report, to summarise the issues pertaining to the research topic,
ones own thoughts on the subject, how to show the significance of the topic to the
readers, and give them a new idea to mull over in the coming years for research
purposes. It is also an your opportunity for the researcher to make a good final
impression and to end on a positive note.
The researchers Conclusion can go beyond the confines of the research report.
The Conclusion can definitely go beyond the boundaries of the topic and allows the
researcher to consider broader issues, make new connections, and elaborate on the
significance of the research findings.
The Conclusion should make the readers glad they read the research report, as they
get new perspective on the topic and kindles their enthusiasm and motivation to try
out new ideas and inn ovation in research
The Conclusion gives the reader the benefit of obtaining some extra inputs to try out
in their next research project or even mayconsider replicating gthe present research.
The broader implications suggested in the summary would provide the reader
considerable enhancement of knowledge in regard to that topic as well as related
topics.

71
Report Writing
5.9 STRATEGIES FOR WRITING AN EFFECTIVE
CONCLUSION
It would be ideal to follow some of the strategies mentioned below in writing the
conclusion:
1) The researcher should not accept all the findings as is where is but question its
veracity. Keep every finding and keep stating So What. If Researcher gets
stuck and feel that the conclusion that has been arrived at does not say anything
new or novel, then the researcher may ask one of the readers or a friend to read
conclusions.
2) Whenever a statement is read out from the conclusion, ask the friend to say,
So what? or Why should anybody care? Then ponder that question and
answer it. Heres how it might go (Refer to the box below)
Researcher:Basically, I have found out that teaching methodology is
important for enhancing academic performance in children
Friend:So what?
You:Well, it is important because by demonstrating that teaching
methodology makes a difference in the academic performance of children,
one could convey to the teacher training institutes to include the teaching
methodology that they can teach the trainees which the latter can later on
transfer to their class room situation.
Friend:Why should anybody care?
Researcher:Teachers do care because the schools expect better performance
from children and the schools reputation depends also on the student
performance. If due to methodology the children can do better in academics,
it should be a great contribution.
The above is an example of how to make a friend say so what and then try to find
answers which help to clarify the researchers thinking and make the researcher
understand the problem in greater depth. The researcher too on his or her own try
this out by questioning self as to so what and find answers to the questions.
Another important aspect regarding writing of conclusion is that one should always
return to the theme or themes in the introduction. This strategy brings the reader one
full circle. For example, if the researcher begins by stating of objectives of the
research project, he or she can end with the same objectives as to whether the
purpose with which he started his work has been achieved. The researcher may also
use the key words he had used in the introduction and end up with those words orf
parallel concepts and conclude the writing.
Remember that in writing conclusion one should not summarise but only synthesise
the various findings that have emerged in the research study. For this the researcher
could include a brief Summary of the reports main points, but should not however
repeat things that are in the report. Instead, the researcher should show the reader
how the points that were made and the support and examples that the researcher
used fit together. All these should be put together to make the reader understand the
intricacies of the issue.

72
Further more, conclusion should always indicate proposed course of action, a solution
to an issue, or questions for further study. Through this the researcher can redirect Summary and Conclusion
the readers thought processes and make the person contemplate on what all findings
have emerged and the many new ideas the report was able to stimulate in the reader.
Conclusions must always point out the broader implications. For example, if the
report has demonstrated that teaching methodology does enhance the academic
performance of children, the researcher could point out its impact in the school set
ups as well as in teacher training programmes.
Writing a strong Conclusion is an important skill that many researchers lack. They
need to summarise the main points concisely, avoid repetition, avoid the introduction
of new information, and use brief and succinct, simple language.
It is important to end the report with an effective concluding statement. Remember,
a Conclusion is like a goodbye at the end of a meeting, as this is the last chance one
has to convince the reader that he or she should take the research work seriously.
Writing an effective and well-written Conclusion is a skill and to do this there are
certain important points:
Self Assessment Questions
1) What is meant by conclusions? How is conclusion important for a research
report?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the strategies to follow in writing conclusions?What is an effective
conclusion?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What all must be avoided in writing conclusion?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

5.10 IMPORTANT POINTS FOR WRITING

CONCLUSION
It must be noted that there are certain points to be kept in mind while writing the
conclusions to a research report. These are given below:
Summarise the Main Points
The Conclusion needs to summarisethemainpointsofthereport.Tosummarise
means to restate the main ideas in a manner that is as concise as possible.
Typically, the Summary part of the Conclusion includes a brief sentence that sums up 73
Report Writing the main points in a very simple way. It then gives a more detailed account of the
main points.
In a short report, the main points can all be summarised in one sentence, and in a
longer report, each point can have its own sentence.
Avoid Repetition
It must be remembered that in writing conclusion, the researcher must not include too
much detail, and summarise the most important information in the main points.
Another thing to avoid is to cut and paste passages from earlier in the report into
the Conclusion. This should be totally avoided.
Avoid New Information
The researcher should avoid give any new information to the reader at this point,
especially if this new information is not incorporated in the main report. This point
is to be kept in mind even if the researcher considers that the new information is
important.
Use Signpost Words
Signposts are words that the researcher uses to help the reader follow along. These
include words like first, second, next, finally, and in Conclusion. The ending
of a report is an important context to use signpost language because the reader needs
cues that the report is about to end.
Concluding Statements
Reports should end with a statement that mentally brings the reader to a stop. This
statement should be relatively short; three sentences is a good limit. As pointed out
in the APA , the concluding statements might include:
a brief anecdote
an appropriate quotation
a humorous or witty statement
an interesting metaphor or simile
re-emphasising why this is an important topic
a brief statement about the need for future research
The researcher should do the following in order to write a proper summary and
conclusion:
S.No What should be done
1. What was learned from this study, what did the research in fact indicate
2. What remains to be learned , that is directions for future research
3. What have been the limitations in the study.
4. What benefits, new findings, new information and application based
findings have emerged in the study

74
Always the researcher should remember the many problems that may come about Summary and Conclusion
in writing the conclusion. These are listed below:
S.No To avoid
1. Writing long conclusions to be avoided. Conclusion must always be
short and should not become another thesis.
2. Do not give too much detail. Do not repeat the main report at the
conclusion also. Avoid long and unnecessary detail. Do not mention
in detail the methodology or the results as this is not the place for it.
Mention the methodology very briefly highlighting the main aspects and
give your conclusions in points.
3. Remember that the conclusion has to highlight the implications,
evaluations etc and not on the details of the methodology which if the
reader wants he can always go back to the method chapter to
recapitualate.
4. Always remember to think and rethink about the significant and larger
findings that have emerged and which need to be highlighted. By
doing so you will not miss out the main findings and significance of the
research in the conclusion.
5. In the conclusion chapter your focus should be the general issues, that
is how your research will affect the world. Your conclusion thus will
put your research in context.
6. While giving all the findings, never ignore the limitations and the negative
points of the research. It is equally important. The problems faced,
the drawbacks in the research should all be mentioned as part of
qualifying your conclusions itself.
7. It is important to remember that the researcher should put forth in the
summary what has been learned from the study. How the research is
linked to the field or to the discipline to which the researcher belongs.
For this a brief summary would do.
8. Always match the objectives of the research with your conclusion.
Sometimes the research objective may change while the research is
being carried out. All that needs to be done is that within the broad
framework, the changed objectives could be stated in the introduction
by going back to it.

5.11 STRATEGIES TO AVOID INEFFECTIVE

CONCLUSIONS
Do not begin with unnecessary, overused phrase as for e.g. in summary or in
conclusion etc.
Do not state the topic for the very first time in the conclusion.
Do not introduce a new idea or subtopic in your conclusion.
Never end the conclusion with the topic rephrased without any substantive
changes.
75
Report Writing Do not make any sentimental or emotional appeal that is out of character with
the main research report.
Never include any quotations, references and statistics in the conclusion. These
should be only in the body of the report.
Self Assessment Questions
1) What are the important points to keep in mind while writing the conclusions?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2) What are the dos and donts in writing the conclusions?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
3) What should be avoided in writing conclusions?
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................

5.12 LET US SUM UP

Summary and Conclusion of a research report seem to be one of the most difficult
part in the work. The writer does not have anything left to say to his reader.
Moreover, he is at a loss why on earth he should repeat everything again. The thing
is that research reports Conclusion is not a mere repetition of the information presented,
its a general outline, a brief overview of the most important points of the field
studied.IfyouthinkthattheConclusionofaresearchreportisofnoparticular
importance, please, consider the following functions a strong Conclusion fulfills. it
stresses the importance of the thesis statement, gives your work a sense of
completeness impresses much your reader. Conclusion echoes your introduction
restates your researchtopic or thesis statement. Note that the conclusion much depends
on what precedes it, it is a constituent part of the whole report without which it
looks unfinished. Conclusion of a research report should be the best part of it.

5.13 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) Discuss some of the important considerations to be kept in view while writing
Summary and Conclusion in a Research Report.
2) Carve out a befitting Research Report Summary and Conclusions with the help
76 of an example.
 Summary and Conclusion
5.14 SUGGESTED READINGS
Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (Sixth Edition,
2009). American Psychological Association. Washington, DC.
Singh, AK. (2009). Test Measurements and Research Methods in Behavioural
Sciences (Fifth Edition). Bharti Bhawan Publishers & Distributors.

77
 UNIT 6 REFERENCES IN RESEARCH
REPORT
Structure
6.0 Introduction
6.1 Objectives
6.2 Reference List (the Format)
6.3 References (Process of Writing)
6.4 Reference List and Print Sources
6.5 Electronic Sources
6.6 Book on CD, Tape and Movie
6.7 Reference Specifications
6.8 Abstract from Secondary Data Base
6.9 Footnotes
6.10 General Guidelines to Write References
6.11 Let Us Sum Up
6.12 Unit End Questions
6.13 Suggested Readings

6.0 INTRODUCTION
The reference section is a very important component of the report. It contains all the
necessary literature that have been referred to before, during and after the study and
contains books, journal articles and documents from where the materials have been
referred to. References differ from bibliography in that references are those literature
which have been cited in the main text of the report in different places. Bibliography
includes many referred as well as many unreferred literature in the text of the report.
Sometimes a book would have been consulted but not necessarily referred to in the
text. Thus the bibliography will be inclusive of many materials which have not been
referred in the text. Of course it may contain the referred materials also. On the other
hand the references will contain basically the referred materials. In this unit we are
going to focus on references , how to write the same and the importance of reference
etc. Basically we will be depending on the APA source for this purpose.

6.1 OBJECTIVES
After reading this unit, you will be able to:
explain how to write References in a scientific Research Report as per APA;
describe the art of Referencing; and
write a Research Report References in APA format.
78
 References in
6.2 A REFERENCE LIST (THE FORMAT ) Research Report

As per Publication Manual of American Psychological Association (Sixth Edition,

2009) just as data in the paper support interpretations and conclusions, so Reference
citations support document statements made about the literature.
All citations in the manuscript must appear in the Reference list, and all References
must be cited in the text.
The Reference list should be succinct, not exhaustive; simply provide sufficient
references to support your Research. Choose References judiciously and cite them
accurately. For example, if you retrieve an abstract but do not also retrieve and read
the full article, your Reference should be identified as an abstract.
The standard procedures for citation ensure that References are accurate, complete,
and useful to investigators and readers.
Whenever possible, support your statements by citing empirical work, such as method
and results of an empirical study or a review of empirical studies (Lalumiere, 1993).
When you cite nonempirical work, make this clear in your narrative as given in the
examples below (see the box)
Tripathi (1991) theorized that
Pandey (in press) argued that
Parmeshwar ( 1993).
Similarly, when you want to direct the reader to background information, signal the
reader with phrases such as for a review, see and (e.g., see [author, year]).
References section begins at a new page with the label References at the centre.
References comprise all documents including journals, books, technical Reports,
computer programmers and unpublished works mentioned in the text of the Report.
References are arranged in alphabetical order by the last name of the author(s) and
the year of publication in parenthesis or in case of unpublished citations, only the
Reference is cited.
Sometimes no author is listed and then, in that condition the first word of the title or
sponsoring organisation is used to begin the entry. When more than one name is cited
within parenthesis, the References are separated by semicolons.
In parenthesis page number is given only for direct quotations. The Researcher
should check carefully that all References cited in the text appear in.

6.3 REFERENCES (PROCESS OF WRITING)

References should not be confused with Bibliography. A bibliography contains
everything that is included in the Reference section plus other publications which are
useful but were not cited in text or manuscript. Bibliography is not generally included
in Research Reports. Only References are usually included.
References in APA Format
The APA style guide prescribes that the Reference section, Bibliographies and other
lists of names should be accumulated by surname first, and mandatory inclusion of
surname prefixes. For example, Martin de Rijke should be sorted as De Rijke,
M and Saif Al Falssi should be sorted as Al-Falasi, S. (The preference for 79
Report Writing Arabic names now is to hyphenate the prefix so that it remains with the surname.).
Referencecitationsintextaredoneusingparentheticalreferencing.Mostusually,this
involves putting the authors surname and the date of publication within parentheses,
separated by a comma, generally placed immediately after the Reference or at the
end of the sentence in which the Reference is made.
However, it is also common for the authors to be the subject or object of a sentence.
In such a case only the year is in parentheses. In all cases of citation, author name(s)
are always followed immediately by the year in which the article was published. In
the case of a quotation, the page number is also included in the citation.
Full bibliographic information is then provided in a Reference section at the end of
the article. APA style defines that the Reference section may only include articles that
are cited within the body of an article. This is the distinction between a document
having a Reference section and a Bibliography, which may incorporate sources read
by the authors as background but not referred to or included in the body of a
document.
Let us now see how to write references if it is single author, multiple author etc.
Single author
Format should be Authors last name followed directly by a comma, then the year
of publication. When one makes the Reference to the author(s) directly as a part of
the narrative, then only the year (and page number if needed) would remain enclosed
within parentheses. The same holds for multiple authors.
Examples are given below:
A recent study found a possible genetic cause of alcoholism (Pauling, 2005).
Pauling (2005) discovered a possible genetic cause of alcoholism.
Two authors
Authors should be presented in order that they appear in the published article. If they
are cited within closed parentheses, use the ampersand (&) between them. If not
enclosed in parentheses then use expanded and.
Examples are given below:
A recent study found a possible genetic cause of alcoholism (Pauling & Liu, 2005).
Pauling and Liu (2005) discovered a possible genetic cause of alcoholism.
Three to five authors
With three to five authors, the first Reference to an article includes all authors.
Subsequent citations in the same document may refer to the article by the principal
author only plus et al.
All authors must be present in the References section.
A recent study found a possible genetic cause of alcoholism (Pauling, Liu, & Guo,
2005).
Examples are given below:

80
Pauling, Liu, and Guo (2005) conducted a study that discovered a possible genetic
cause of alcoholism.
Pauling et al. (2005) discovered a possible genetic cause of alcoholism. References in
Research Report
A recent study found a possible genetic cause of alcoholism (Pauling et al., 2005).
Six or seven authors
The correct format in the text is (First Author et al., Year) or First Author et al.
(Year).
Examples given below:
Brown et al. (2005) discovered a possible genetic cause of alcoholism.
In the Reference section, all authors names should be included if there are six or
seven authors.
Eight or more authors
In the text, the first and all subsequent References should be to First Author et al.
(Year) or (First Author et al., Year).
In the Reference list, list the first six authors, and then put an ellipsis (three periods),
and then list the last author.
Example given below:
Brown, A.B., Johnson, C., Laird, K., Howard, O. P., Evans, S., . . . Pritchard, J.
(2004). ..... (study has eight or more authors)
Multiple publications, same author
If an author has multiple publications that you wish to cite, you use a comma to
separate the years of publication in chronological order (oldest to most recent). If the
publications occur in the same year, the Publication Manualrecommendsusing
suffixes a, b, c, etc. (note that corresponding letters should be used in the Reference
list, and these References should be ordered alphabetically by title).
Example given below:
Recent studies have found a possible genetic cause of alcoholism (Pauling, 2004,
2005a, 2005b).
Pauling (2004, 2005a, 2005b) has conducted studies that have discovered a possible
genetic cause of alcoholism
Multiple publications, different authors
Follow the rules for one author above, and use a semicolon to separate articles.
Citation should first be in alphabetical order of the author, then chronological.
Example given below:
Recent studies found a possible genetic cause of alcoholism (Alford, 1995; Pauling,
2004, 2005; Sirkis, 2003)
Directquotes
The same rules as above apply here, the format being (Author, Year, Page Number).
Example given below:
When asked why his behaviour had changed so dramatically, Max simply said, I
think its the reinforcement (Pauling, 2004, p. 69). 81
Report Writing
6.4 REFERENCE LIST AND PRINT SOURCES
The APA style guide prescribes that the Referencesection,Bibliographiesandother
lists of names should be accumulated by surname first, and mandates inclusion of
surname prefixes. For example, Martin de Rijke should be sorted as de Rijke,
M. and Saif Al-Falasi should be sorted as Al-Falasi, S.
For names in non-English languages, follow the capitalisation standards of that language.
For each of the source types below a hanging indent should be used where the first
line is flush to the left margin and all other lines are indented.
Book by one author
Sheril, R. D. (1956). The terrifying future: Contemplating color television. San
Diego, CA: Halstead.
Book by two authors
Kurosawa, J., & Armistead, Q. (1972). Hairball: An intensive peek behind the
surface of an enigma. Hamilton, Ontario, Canada: McMaster University Press.
Chapter in an edited book
Mcdonalds, A. (1993). Practical methods for the apprehension and sustained
containment of supernatural entities. In G. L. Yeager (Ed.),Paranormal and occult
studies: Case studies in application(pp.4264).London,England:OtherWorld
Books.
Dissertation (PhD or masters)
Mcdonalds, A. (1991). Practical dissertation title(Unpublished doctoral
dissertation). University of Florida, Gainesville, FL.
Article in a journal with continuous pagination (nearly all journals use
continuous pagination)
Rottweiler, F. T., & Beauchemin, J. L. (1987). Detroit and Narnia: Two foes on the
brink of destruction. Canadian/American Studies Journal, 54,66146.
Kling, K. C., Hyde, J. S., Showers, C. J., & Buswell, B. N. (1999). Gender
differences in self-esteem: A meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 125,470500.
Article in a journal paginated separately Journal_pagination
Crackton, P. (1987). The Loonie: Gods long-awaited gift to colourful pocket
change?Canadian Change, 64(7), 3437.
Article in a weekly magazine
Henry, W. A., III. (1990, April 9). Making the grade in todays schools. Time,
135,2831.
Article in a weekly magazine with DOI
Hoff, K. (2010, March 19). Fairness in modern society. Science, 327,1467-1468.
doi:10.1126/science.1188537
Article in a print newspaper

82
Wrong, M. (2005, August 17). Never Gonna Give You Up says Mayor. Toronto
Sol,p.4.
 References in
6.5 ELECTRONIC SOURCES Research Report

For electronic References, websites, and online articles, APA Style asserts some
basic rules, including to direct readers specifically to the source material using URLs
which work include retrieval date ONLY when content is likely to change (e.g.,
wikis) include all other relevant APA Style details for the source.
Online article based on a print source, with DOI (e.g., a PDF of a print source from
a database)
Example is given below:
Krueger, R. F., Markon, K. E., Patrick, C. J., & Iacono, W. G. (2005). Externalizing
psychopathology in adulthood: a dimensional-spectrum conceptualisation and its
implications for DSM-V. Journal of Abnormal Psychology, 114, 537-550. doi:10.1037/
0021-843X.114.4.537
Online article based on a print source, without DOI (e.g., a PDF of a print source
from a database)
Marlowe, P., Spade, S., & Chan, C. (2001). Detective work and the benefits of
color versus black and white. Journal of Pointless Research, 11,123127.
Online article from a database, no DOI, available ONLY in that database (proprietary
contentnot things like Ovid, EBSCO, and PsycINFO)
Liquor advertising on TV. (2002, January 18). Retrieved
fromhttp://factsonfile.infobasepublishing.com/
or
Liquor advertising on TV. (2002, January 18). Retrieved from Issues and
Controversiesdatabase.
Article in an Internet-only journal
McDonald, C., & Chenoweth, L. (2009). Leadership: A crucial ingredient in unstable
times.Social Work & Society, 7.Retrieved
fromhttp://www.socwork.net/2009/1/articles/mcdonaldchenoweth
Article in an Internet-only newsletter (eight or more authors)
Paradise, S., Moriarty, D., Marx, C., Lee, O. B., Hassel, E., . . . Bradford, J.
(1957, July). Portrayals of fictional characters in reality-based popular writing: Project
update.Off the Beaten Path, 7. Retrieved from
http://www.newsletter.offthebeatenpath.news/otr/complaints.html
Article with no author identified
Britain launches new space agency. (2010, March 24). Retrieved
fromhttp://news.ninemsn.com.au/technology/1031221/britain-launches-new-space-
agency
Article with no author and no date identified (e.g., Wiki article)
Harry Potter. (n.d.). In Wikipedia.RetrievedMarch12,2010,
fromhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter 83
Report Writing Entry in an online dictionary or Reference work, no date and no author identified
Verisimilitude.(n.d.).InMerriam-Websters online dictionary(11th ed.). Retrieved
fromhttp://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/verisimilitude
E-mail or other personal communication (cite in text only)
Monterey, personal communication, September 28, 2001)

6.6 BOOK ON CD, TAPE AND MOVIE

Nix, G. (2002). Lirael, Daughter of the Clayr[CD]. NewYork, NY: Random
House/Listening Library.
Book on tape
Nix, G. (2002). Lirael, Daughter of the Clayr[Cassette Recording No. 1999-
1999-1999]. New York, NY: Random House/Listening Library.
Movie
Gilby, A. (Producer), & Schlesinger, J. (Director). (1995). Cold comfort
farm[Motionpicture].UniversalCity,CA:MCAUniversal.

6.7 REFERENCE SPECIFICATIONS

Text citations: Source material must be documented in the body of the paper by
citing the author(s) and date(s) of the sources. The underlying principle is that ideas
and words of others must be formally acknowledged. The reader can obtain the full
source citation from the list of References that follows the body of the paper.
When the names of the authors of a source are part of the formal structure of the
sentence, the year of publication appears in parentheses following the identification
of the authors. Consider the following example:
Wirth and Mitchell (1994) found that although there was a reduction in insulin dosage
over a period of two weeks in the treatment condition compared to the control
condition, the difference was not statistically significant. [Note: andisusedwhen
multiple authors are identified as part of the formal structure of the sentence. Compare
this to the example in the following section.]
When the authors of a source are notpartoftheformalstructureofthesentence,
both the authors and year of publication appear in parentheses. Consider the following
example:
Reviews of Research on religion and health have concluded that at least some types
of religious behaviours are related to higher levels of physical and mental health
(Gartner, Larson, & Allen, 1991; Koenig, 1990; Levin & Vanderpool, 1991; Maton
& Pargament, 1987; Paloma & Pendleton, 1991; Payne, Bergin, Bielema, & Jenkins,
1991). [Note: &isusedwhenmultipleauthorsareidentifiedinparentheticalmaterial.
Note also that when several sources are cited parenthetically, they are ordered
alphabetically by first authors surnames and separated by semicolons.]
When a source that has two authors is cited, both authors are included every time
the source is cited.
When a source that has three, four, or five authors is cited, all authors are included
the first time the source is cited. When that source is cited again, the first authors
84 surname and et al. are used. Consider the following example:
Reviews of Research on religion and health have concluded that at least some types References in
Research Report
of religious behaviours are related to higher levels of physical and mental health
(Payne, Bergin, Bielema, & Jenkins, 1991).
Payne et al. (1991) showed that ...
When a source that has six or more authors is cited, the first authors surname and
et al. are used every time the source is cited (including the first time).
Every effort should be made to cite only sources that you have actually read. When
it is necessary to cite a source that you have not read (Grayson in the following
example) that is cited in a source that you have read (Murzynski & Degelman in
the following example), use the following format for the text citation and list only the
source you have read in the References list:
Grayson (as cited in Murzynski & Degelman, 1996) identified four components of
body language that were related to judgments of vulnerability.
To cite a personal communication (including letters, emails, and telephone interviews),
include initials, surname, and as exact a date as possible. Because a personal
communication is not recoverable information, it is not included in the References
section. For the text citation, use the following format:
B. F. Skinner (personal communication, February 12, 1978) claimed ...
To cite a Web document, use the author-date format. If no author is identified, use
the first few words of the title in place of the author. If no date is provided, use n.d.
in place of the date. Consider the following examples:
Degelman (2009) summarises guidelines for the use of APA writing style.
Changes in Americans views of gender status differences have been documented
(Gender and Society, n.d.).
To cite the Bible, provide the book, chapter, and verse. The first time the Bible is
cited in the text, identify the version used. Consider the following example:
You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you
(Psalm 86:5, New International Version). [Note: No entry in the References list is
needed for the Bible.]
Quotations:Whenadirectquotationisused,alwaysincludetheauthor,year,and
page number as part of the citation.
A quotation of fewer than 40 words should be enclosed in double quotation marks
and should be incorporated into the formal structure of the sentence. Consider the
following example:
Patients receiving prayer had less congestive heart failure, required less diuretic and
antibiotic therapy, had fewer episodes of pneumonia, had fewer cardiac arrests, and
were less frequently intubated and ventilated (Byrd, 1988, p. 829).
A lengthier quotation of 40 or more words should appear (without quotation marks)
apart from the surrounding text, in block format, with each line indented five spaces
from the left margin.
References:AllsourcesincludedintheReferencessectionmustbecitedinthebody
of the paper (and all sources cited in the paper must be included in the References
section). 85
Report Writing Pagination:TheReferencessectionbeginsonanewpage.
Heading:References(centeredonthefirstlinebelowtherunninghead)
Format:The References (with hanging indent) begin on the line following the
References heading. Entries are organised alphabetically by surnames of first
authors.MostReferenceentrieshavethefollowingcomponents:
Authors: Authors are listed in the same order as specified in the source, using
surnames and initials. Commas separate all authors. When there are eight or more
authors, list the first six authors followed by three ellipses (...) and then the final
author.Ifnoauthorisidentified,thetitleofthedocumentbeginstheReference.
Year of Publication: In parentheses following authors, with a period following the
closing parenthesis. If no publication date is identified, use n.d. in parentheses
following the authors.
Source Reference: Includes title, journal, volume, pages (for journal article) or title,
city of publication, publisher (for book). Italicize titles of books, titles of periodicals,
and periodical volume numbers.
Electronic Retrieval Information: Electronic retrieval information may include digital
object identifiers (DOIs) or uniform resource locators (URLs). DOIs are unique
alphanumeric identifiers that lead users to digital source material. To learn whether an
article has been assigned a DOI, go to http://www.crossref.org/guestquery/.
Example of APA-formatted Internet References:Go to
http://www.vanguard.edu/uploadedFiles/Psychology/References.pdf
Examples of sources
Journal article with DOI
Murzynski, J., & Degelman, D. (1996). Body language of women and judgments of
vulnerability to sexual assault. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 26,1617-
1626. doi:10.1111/j.1559-1816.1996.tb00088.x
Journal article without DOI, print version
Koenig, H. G. (1990). Research on religion and mental health in later life: A review
and commentary. Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 23,23-53.
Journal article without DOI, retrieved online
For articles retrieved from databases, include the URL of the journal home page.
Database information is not needed. Do not include the date of retrieval.]
Aldridge, D. (1991). Spirituality, healing and medicine. British Journal of General
Practice, 41,425-427.Retrievedfromhttp://www.rcgp.org.uk/publications/bjgp.aspx
Book
Paloutzian, R. F. (1996). Invitation to the psychology of religion(2nded.).Boston,
MA: Allyn and Bacon.
Informally published Web document
Degelman, D. (2009). APA style essentials.Retrievedfromhttp://www.vanguard.edu/
86
faculty/ ddegelman/detail.aspx?doc_id=796
Informally published Web document (no date) References in
Research Report
Nielsen, M. E. (n.d.). Notable people in psychology of religion.Retrievedfrom
http://www.psywww.com/psyrelig/psyrelpr.htm
Informally published Web document (no author, no date)
Gender and society. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.trinity.edu/~mkearl/gender.html

6.8 ABSTRACT FROM SECONDARY DATABASE

Garrity, K., & Degelman, D. (1990). Effect of server introduction on restaurant
tipping. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 20,168-172.Abstractretrieved
from PsycINFO database.
Article or chapter in an edited book Shea, J. D. (1992). Religion and sexual adjustment.
In J. F. Schumaker (Ed.),Religion and mental health(pp.70-84).NewYork,NY:
Oxford University Press.
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of
mental disorders(4thed.,textrev.).Washington,DC:Author.

6.9 FOOTNOTES
Footnotes:Contentfootnotesareoccasionallyusedtosupportsubstantiveinformation
in the text. A content footnote may be placed at the bottom of the page on which it
is discussed or on a separate page following the References.
Pagination:Footnotesbeginonaseparatepage.
Heading:Footnotesiscenteredonthefirstlinebelowtherunninghead.
Format:Indentthefirstlineofeachfootnote5-7spacesandnumberthefootnotes
(slightly above the line) as they are identified in the text.
Example of APA-formatted
Footnotes:http://www.vanguard.edu/uploadedFiles/Psychology/Footnote.pdf
Tables:Acommonuseoftablesistopresentquantitativedataortheresultsof
statistical analyses (such as ANOVA). See the Publication Manual(2010,pp.128-
150) for detailed examples. Tables must be mentioned in the text.
Pagination:EachTablebeginsonaseparatepage.
Heading: Table 1 (or 2 or 3, etc.) is typed flush left on the first line below the
running head. Double-space and type the table title flush left (italicized in uppercase
and lowercase letters).
Example of APA-formatted Tables.
http://www.vanguard.edu/uploadedFiles/Psychology/table.pdf
Figures:Acommon useofFigures isto presentgraphs,photographs, orother
illustrations (other than tables). See the Publication Manual(2010,pp.150-167)
for detailed examples.
87
Report Writing Pagination: Figures begin on a separate page.
Figure Caption: Figure 1. (or 2 or 3, etc.) is typed flush left and italicized on the
first line below the figure, immediately followed on the same line by the caption
(which should be a brief descriptive phrase).
Example of APA-formatted
Figure:http://www.vanguard.edu/uploadedFiles/Psychology/figure.pdf
Appendixes:Acommonuseofappendixesistopresentunpublishedtestsorto
describe complex equipment or stimulus materials.
Pagination:EachAppendixbeginsonaseparatepage.
Heading :If there is only one appendix, Appendix is centered on the first line
below the manuscript page header. If there is more than one appendix, use Appendix
A (or B or C, etc.). Double-space and type the appendix title (centered in uppercase
and lowercase letters).
Format:Indentthefirstline5-7spaces.
Example of APA-formatted Appendix
http://www.vanguard.edu/uploadedFiles/Psychology/Appendix.pdf

6.10 GENERAL GUIDELINES TO WRITE

REFERENCES
Start on a new page. Center the word References at the top. As usual, double space.
Any citations made in the manuscript must be presented in this section and vice
versa. That is, if something is not cited in the text, then it should not appear in this
section. In still other words, this is not a bibliography.
In any of the previous sections, whenever you say something like studies have
shownyoumustprovideacitation.Thissectiontellsthereaderwheretheycanfind
these citations.
This section is alphabetized by last name (of the first author involved in the study).
A hanging indent is employed for each Reference, that is, the first line is not indented
and the rest are five-space indented.
For each author, give the last name followed by a comma and the first (and middle)
initials followed by periods.
Separate multiple authors with commas and the last author with the ampersand (&)
rather than the word and.
After the author(s) comes the year (in parentheses and followed by a period).
For a journal Reference, italicize the title of the journal and the volume number. Note
that issue numbers are typically not included. Also, capitalize the important words of
the journal title.
For a book Reference, just italicize the title. Only capitalise the first word of the title.
Do include the city, state (as a two-letter abbreviation without periods), and the
publishers name.
88
See the example Reference section. It provides several types of References, including: References in
Research Report
Single and multiple author, journal articles, book, and book chapter, web page, as
well as a government document.

6.11 LET US SUM UP

In this unit we have tried to present how the references shouldbe written. We have
tried to differentiate between references and bibliography. We pointed out that a list
of Reference is an integral part of the Research Report. It may be headed as
References or Bibliography. While Bibliography is a comprehensive term which
includes, in addition to referred literature, other related and very useful literature
which readers may like to read which the Researcher has himself read but not
referred to it in the text of the thesis. All literature referred to in the text must appear
in the Reference list. We learnt all about the guidelines to follow while writing
references, in the style of American Psychological Association (APA) format.
We also discussed how to rite the reference when it is a single author, more than one
author and multiple authors. When there is more than one author, the initial of the first
author must be followed by a comma. The wording of the title should appear
exactly as it does on the title page of the book or first page of the article. The name
of the journal should either appear as it is or be abbreviated according to accepted
abbreviations.
We also learned about how to write the reference for the same author who has
published in different years and also in the same year. How to write a journal
reference and a book reference were also presented.

6.12 UNIT END QUESTIONS

1) What is the significance of References in a Research Report?
2) How will you differentiate between references and bibliography
3) Elucidate the style of Referencing according to the APA format, especially single
author and multiple authors
4) If the same author has multiple books how would you write the reference for
them?
5) Elaborate upon the central guidelines for writing References from diverse sources.
Give suitable examples.
6) How will you write references for the internet resources?
7) How will you write the references for internet books in particular? Give examples.

6.13 SUGGESTED READINGS

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (Sixth Edition,
2009). American Psychological Association. Washington, DC.
Singh, AK. (2009). Test Measurements and Research Methods in Behavioural
Sciences (Fifth Edition). Bharti Bhawan Publishers & Distributors.

89