Reference no: EM132387359

Assignment: Topic - Applying The Scientific Method

You will pick an issue you are curious about (for example, why do some of your friends drink heavily while others do not? What is the impact of studying in the dorms vs. the library on exam performance?) and discuss how you would use the scientific method to develop a better understanding of the issue

In your paper, you should address the following points:

? Briefly describe the issue and why it interests you. What observations have you made that have led you to be curious about the issue? What question(s) do you have about the issue? (2 to 3 sentences)

? What theory do you have about the answer to that question (e.g., what do you think might cause people to drink heavily; why do you think that studying in the library is more effective (e.g., are there fewer distractions?) (2 to 3 sentences)

? Given your theory, what hypothesis do you plan test with your study? (1 sentence)

? Using the information discussed in class and from your textbook, talk about how you might go about testing your hypothesis. For example, would you use an experimental or non-experimental study? What are your independent and dependent variables? What issues will you consider to ensure that your study has high internal and/or external validity? (This should be the longest part of your paper.)

? If your hypothesis is correct, briefly discuss what that finding would mean for you or the people you care about. (1 to 2 sentences)

? Find an outside source that addresses your research question. Briefly discuss what the research found; did it support or disconfirm your hypothesis? (3 to 4 sentences)