Class 11 Psychology - KARNATAKA
Methods of Enquiry in Psychology
Chapter 2 of Karnataka (KSEEB) Class 11 Psychology, 'Methods of Enquiry in Psychology', introduces students to how psychologists scientifically study human behavior and mental processes. It covers the goals of psychological enquiry, steps in scientific research, and major research methods such as observation, experimental method, correlational research, survey research, psychological testing, and case studies. You will also learn about ethical issues in psychological research. This chapter is extremely important for board exams as it forms the methodological foundation for all subsequent chapters, carrying significant weightage in both objective and subjective questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Experimental Method
A research method where the investigator manipulates an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable while controlling extraneous variables.
Observation Method
A qualitative method involving the systematic, organized, and objective listening and recording of behavior as it naturally occurs in real-world or laboratory settings.
Correlational Research
A non-experimental method used to measure the strength and direction of the relationship between two or more variables, ranging from -1.0 to +1.0.
Case Study
An in-depth, intensive investigation of an individual, small group, or situation using multiple sources of information to understand complex behavioral patterns.
Survey Research
A research technique using questionnaires or interviews to gather information about the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of a large group of people.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Karnataka (KSEEB) Class 11 Psychology board exams, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions frequently include 1-mark multiple choice questions, 2-mark definitions, 3-mark short notes on methods like observation or survey, and 5-mark descriptive questions explaining the steps in scientific enquiry or experimental design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable?
An independent variable is the factor that the researcher manipulates or changes to test its effects, while the dependent variable is the measured outcome that depends on the independent variable.
Why is observation alone not enough in psychology?
Natural observation can be biased by the observer's expectations, and people may alter their behavior when they know they are being watched (Hawthorne effect). Therefore, multiple scientific methods are needed.
Are ethical guidelines mandatory in psychological research?
Yes, researchers must follow strict ethical guidelines like informed consent, confidentiality, debriefing, and ensuring minimal physical or psychological harm to human and animal participants.
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