Writing an ERQ
APRC - Describing Studies
Aim, Procedure (basic) Results and Conclusion of study
ERQ is Contrast two studies.
Introduction (Theories, Relevance of this question) Theory # 1: Explain theory (including all definitions) Theory # 2: Explain theory (including all definitions) Difference between two theories #1: Cultural Bias Difference between two theories #2: Testable Difference between two theories #3: Applicability Conclusion with explicit statement of key differences between theories
ERQ is Evaluate two studies of the theory
Introduction - TDR APRC x 1 - PEEL x 1 CARAT T - Good triangulation PEEL x 2 CARAT A - Uncontrollable Confounds APRC x 2 PEEL x 1 CARAT A - controls for culture PEEL x 2 CARAT C -conflict with bio Conclusion and future research Overall, how much do these studies help us to understand the theory? Include ideas for future research?
ERQ is Evaluate the Theory - TDR
Introduction - TDR APRC x 1 - link the c to the theory APRC x 2 - link the c to the theory PEEL x 1 TEACUP B - Bias PEEL x 2 TEARUP P - Not good at predicting behaviour PEEL x 3 TEARUP A - Possible Applications PEEL x 4 TEARUP E - Other evidence you know about Conclusion and future research Do you think that this is a good theory? Ideas for future research?
ERQ is Evaluate the use of one research method in the study of the individual and the group.
Introduction: Definition of an experiment. Use Asch (lab experiment) and Piliavin's metro study (field experiment). Paragraph 1: Outline characteristics of an experiment. Distinguish between a lab and field experiment. Paragraph 2: Explain the Asch study - link it to the method - evaluate. Paragraph 3: Explain the Piliavin study - link it to the method - evaluate. Paragraph 4: Evaluate the use of experiments in general. Advantages and disadvantages of lab and field experiments. Conclusion
TEACUP - strategies for evaluating theories
Is the theory testable? Do we have high-quality, triangulated evidence? Can the theory be applied in a narrow or broad manner? Are the constructs well operationalized and measurable? Is the theory and its research unbiased? Does the theory have predictive validity, or does it just describe things after the fact?
EVALUATE
Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths AND limitations of something. For theories: TEACUP For studies: CARAT
DISCUSS
Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
PEEL
Point/topic sentence Explanation of theory/model and evidence Evaluation - relevant critical thinking Link - to the question using the key words in the question to conclude.
TO WHAT EXTENT
Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. You always need to present another side of the argument or an alternative explanation, and then EXPLAIN why one side is stronger than another.
CARAT - Strategies for evaluating research
Contradictory evidence or alternative theories or explanations Assumptions & biases (sampling, cultural, approach) Research design and methodologies (sampling bias, internal validity; construct validity, demand characteristics; replicable, ecologically valid) Areas of uncertainty (what's next to study? Research? What can't we know or control for?) Triangulation (data, method, theory)
CONTRAST
Give an account of the differences between two or more items, referring to BOTH of them throughout. Briefly introduce both, and then focus on differences Not many questions can be asked here: Contrast two models of memory, two techniques for studying the brain, etc.
