Class 11 Psychology - RAJASTHAN
Methods of Enquiry in Psychology
Chapter 2 of RBSE Class 11 Psychology, titled Methods of Enquiry in Psychology, introduces students to how psychologists study human behavior scientifically. The chapter covers goals of psychological enquiry, steps in scientific research, and various methods like observation, experimental method, correlational research, survey, and case study. It also explains data analysis and ethical issues in psychological research. This chapter forms the foundation for empirical research in psychology and is crucial for board exams, as it tests both conceptual understanding and application-based questions, carrying significant weight in the theory paper.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Experimental Method
A research method where the researcher manipulates an independent variable to observe its effect on a dependent variable while controlling extraneous variables.
Observation Method
A technique where a researcher systematically watches and records behavior in natural or laboratory settings without interfering with the participants.
Correlational Research
A method used to find the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables, ranging from -1.00 to +1.00, without implying causation.
Case Study
An in-depth, detailed investigation of an individual, small group, or situation, often used in clinical settings to gather rich qualitative data.
Ethical Guidelines
Moral rules and principles such as informed consent, confidentiality, and debriefing that researchers must follow to protect human and animal participants.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Rajasthan Board (RBSE) Class 11 Psychology examinations, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions usually include multiple-choice questions, short answer questions defining specific research methods, and long-answer questions explaining the steps of scientific enquiry or ethical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable?
An independent variable is manipulated or changed by the researcher to see its effect, while the dependent variable is the measured outcome or behavior that is affected by the independent variable.
Why is observation sometimes conducted in a laboratory instead of a natural setting?
Laboratory observation allows the researcher to have strict control over extraneous variables and use specialized equipment, which is difficult to do in a natural setting.
Does correlation mean causation?
No, correlation only shows that two variables are related to each other, but it does not prove that one variable causes the change in the other.
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