This document discusses three common research methods used at the biological level of analysis: case studies, experiments, and correlational studies. It provides an overview of the pros and cons of each method. Case studies allow for an in-depth analysis of individual cases but have low reliability and generalizability. Experiments have high internal validity but low ecological validity. Correlational studies can show relationships between variables but do not prove causation.

1. Research
Methods at the
Bio LoA

2. Today’s Learning Outcome
 B3- Discuss how and why particular
research methods are used at the
biological level of analysis.
 I can explain the pros and cons of
different research methods at the
Biological LoA.

3. Ecological Validity
 The measure of the whether an
experiment shows what will happen in the
real-world (w/humans).

4. Research Method #1: Case
Study
 A researcher observes the behavior of an
individual or group in depth.
 Tests, interviews, and detailed observations.
 Pros:
 Allows for an in depth analysis of a problem that
cannot be researched in other ways
 May highlight extraordinary cases and theories
 Cons:
 Not possible to replicate
 Unrepresentative sample  Low
Reliability/Can’t apply directly to the rest of
society.

5. Research Method #2:
Experiment
 Investigations carried out under highly
controlled conditions to draw a
relationship between the IV and DV.
 Pros:
 High Controls  High Validity
 Easy to replicate
 Cons:
 Low Ecological Validity
 Participant/Researcher Expectations

6. Research Method #3:
Correlational Studies
 Research designed to show the relationship
between two variables.
 Positive Correlation: X Increases, Y increases
 More Studying, Higher Test Scores
 Negative Correlation: X Increases, Y Decreases
 More TV, Lower Test Scores
 Pros:
 Shows possible relationship between variables
 Cons:
 Correlation ≠ Causation
 A Relationship does not mean X caused Y to
happen.

7. Your Task
 For each research method…
 Identify and list studies that demonstrate
this method
 For one study, explain why the research
method was selected, including the pros
and cons of the study.