PSYC 100: General Psychology (Julie Reese) - Spring 2022

PAPER I

Research Method Paper

This paper provides an opportunity for you to practice finding research that answers a question. Various research methods exist to answer test hypotheses. The purpose of this assignment is to expose you to research studies addressing similar questions in different ways and to give you practice in identifying what information each study provides and what is not addressed. This is a critical skill as a clear-thinking person, given that we are persuaded by research findings.

You will select a topic that examines an IV and a DV. To begin, you will look for a correlational study. Next, you will find an experimental study. Finally, you will find a study, regardless of the research method, that is a bit contradictory to the other two findings.

This assignment is divided into two parts. Part I is a broad overview of the paper. Part II is the final paper.

Part I:

1. Select One of the following:

                Multitasking and academic performance (single test and/or long-term)

                Cramming and test performance

                Social media usage and mood

2. Find 3 published research studies from academic journals: a correlation study, an experimental study, and a third study that has some seeming contradictions to the other two.
3. Create an outline of the entire paper:

1. Thesis statement
2. Paper outline of phrases for each point – I. Intro and Thesis; II. Summary of correlation study; III. Summary of experimental study; IV. Summary of contradictory study; V. Evaluation that makes sense of the findings (What do we know from these studies?); VI. Conclusion and remaining questions

4. Submit the outline

Part II:

                Write the paper, being sure to include feedback from Part I. See the rubric on Moodle for more details.