Specification
Two observations (one observation can be carried out if both qualitative and quantitative data are gathered in the same observation). In conducting the practical research exercise, you must:
- design and conduct two observations (or one that gathers both qualitative and quantitative data) and include descriptive statistics as analysis, qualitative analysis using themes and a chi-square statistical test on an aspect of learned behaviour
- make design decisions when planning and conducting the observation(s), including the use of behavioural categories, coding sheets and tallying, control, hypothesis construction, ethics and observer bias/effects
- collect and present and comment on data gathered, including descriptive statistics; percentages, frequencies (as appropriate), graphical representation (bar chart, histogram as appropriate)
- use a chi-square statistical test and explain the significance of the result
- conduct a thematic analysis on the qualitative data gathered and describe the findings
- consider the strengths and weaknesses of the observation(s) and possible design improvements
- write up the procedure, results and discussion section of a report.
Suitable examples
- How age and sex affect driving speed.
- Investigating the differences in helpful or polite behaviour in men and women.
Past Paper Questions
- Describe the sampling method you used in your learning theories and development practical investigation. (2) June 2017
- Describe the procedure of your learning theories and development practical investigation. (4) January 2021
- Describe the results of the quantitative data that you gathered in your learning theories and development practical investigation. (2) June 2017
- Explain one weakness of your learning theories and development practical investigation in terms of reliability. (2) June 2017
- Explain one strength of your learning theories and development practical investigation in terms of validity. (2) January 2021
- Describe the results of your learning theories and development practical investigation. (4) January 2019
- Explain two strengths of your learning theories and development practical investigation. (4) January 2019
- Explain one improvement that may be made to your learning theories and development practical investigation. (2) January 2019
- Explain one improvement you could have made to you learning theories and development practical investigation in terms of reliability. (2) January 2021