Topic 3 – Basic Versus Applied Research

Class Activity 1: Basic versus Research (25 minutes)

Can you think of a research hypothesis that is more relevant in (1) basic, and (2) applied
research in psychology? Please describe them briefly (100-200 words)

Basic research prioritizes a complete and accurate understanding of human behavior rather
than a particular practical problem. For instance, the idea that those with higher emotional
intelligence will engage in relationships that function more effectively. This idea claims that an
individual's ability to understand, regulate, and respond to their own emotions as well as those
of others has a substantial impact on the quality of their relationships. If the research supports
this assertion, it might be able to create methods and interventions for enhancing emotional
intelligence, which would then enhance communication and interpersonal interactions. Applied
research is used to address a practical problem. For instance, if mental health counseling and
support services are made available in schools, fewer children will report feeling depressed or
anxious. This theory has the potential to be applied in the educational system right away
because it concentrates on a workable solution to a practical problem. This idea is crucial
because it has the potential to greatly enhance students' mental health and wellbeing and
expand the dialogue around mental health in educational settings.
Class Activity 2 – Causal versus correlation models (30 minutes)

Do you agree with the author’s view toward the first stage, “testing the hypothesis by applying
the casual variable”? What is the correlational model? Could the scientific process involve
correlation models? (100-200 words)

I agree with the author's perspective on the initial stage. It is crucial to manipulate the variables
to prove causality and not merely correlation. The ability to manipulate variables is crucial in
research because it enables the identification of causal relationships, replication, control, and
precision, as well as practical applications. A correlation model is a statistical tool for examining
and quantifying the link between two or more variables. Correlational models can be used in
the scientific process, as they are a crucial component of research. In many respects, such as in
correlational analysis or the creation of hypotheses, correlational models fit into the scientific
method. Researchers create hypotheses about how different variables relate to one another,
which can then be tested further using correlational models.
Class Activity 3: Replication Research and Crisis in Science (30 minutes)

Does this mean that the accumulation of facts is questionable in psychological research? What
are some possible causes of the “perceived” replication crisis? (100-200 words).

Replication is a crucial component of scientific research and the scientific method, which has
naturally led to concerns regarding the validity and reproducibility of findings in the area.
However, I wouldn't suggest that this calls into question the accumulation of facts in psychology.
It only serves to emphasize the need for a more critical and circumspect approach to
understanding research findings. Publication bias, a lack of standards, a lack of power,
inadequate sample sizes, and dubious research methods are some of the potential root causes
of the apparent replication crisis. For instance, journals frequently favor publishing studies with
statistically significant findings, which creates in biased literature that doesn't support earlier
studies. Or even studies with small sample sizes are more likely to yield inaccurate conclusions.