PSY 340 Week 6 Discussion

PSY 340 Week 6 Discussion | Wilmington University

Week 6 Discussion - Generalization

In this week's discussion board, we will explore generalization, or external validity. To prepare for this discussion, review the following resources:

Watch the following video in Sage Research Methods:

Lam, K. (Director). (2012). How results can be misleading: problems with reliability and validity (Links to an external site.) [Video]. SAGE Research Methods Video 

Think about the following study:

A researcher is interested in learning about gaming behaviors in young adults (18-20 years old). She decided to conduct a survey asking participants to report their gaming behaviors. She posts the survey on Facebook and asks her Facebook friends to either take the survey if they meet the criteria or to share with their friends. 

In your initial discussion board post, due Wednesdays by 11:59pm EST:

1. Describe the external validity of this study. How can this researcher generalize these results? Who does the results generalize to?

2. Discuss one issue with external validity. Think about the methods of the study; who are the participants and what did they do. 

In your reply post to peers, due Sunday by 11:59pm EST, suggest one change to the study that would address the issue that they identified. How could the study have been done differently which would have avoided this issue?

Please refer to the Discussion Board rubric for grading criteria. Note: You are required to respond to at least three (3) of your classmates for full participation points.

In completing this assignment, you will be demonstrating the following learning outcomes:

H-11 Discuss issues related to generalizing research results.