is research methods in paper 3 psychology

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• December 31, 2022

Your Ultimate Guide for Acing IB Psychology Paper 3 (HL only)

Written By Rashi S.

Before beginning, feel free to check out how to tackle IB Psychology Paper 1 and Paper 2 if you have not yet and/or are interested!

Paper 3 (P3) is only for HL students, focusing on the research methods in psychology. It consists of 3 parts, all of which must be answered (no choice of questions). A research scenario is presented and students answer questions related to the methods and conclusions of it.

Question (Q) 1 consists of 3 parts, all of which must be answered for a total of 3 marks each, 9 marks in total.

  1. (a) Identify the research method used and outline two characteristics of the method.

I do not recommend using bullet points for this question; nevertheless, ensure that your answer is clear for the examiner. Generally, the IB requires that the number of maximum marks you can gain on a question is the number of points that you need to make. In this case, you need to make three points as the question is worth three marks; one mark for identifying the correct research method and two marks for stating its two correct characteristics. Additionally, I would recommend mentioning an additional point to the two points that you are already made, to ensure that you maximize the number of marks you earn (i.e. in case the point you make is not on the mark scheme or a point made is ambiguous).

• The research method used is semi-structured interviews. Some characteristics of it are that the interviewer pre-determines topics or themes to explore. Moreover, it contains both open-ended and close-ended questions; whilst the former allows the respondents to elaborate, the latter invites brief and precise answers. Lastly, semi-structured interviews are informal and conversational, facilitating a rapport between the interviewer and the interviewee.

(b) Describe the sampling method used in the study.

The strategy to employ for tackling this question is the same as the one used in 1(a). This question requires that you correctly identify the sampling method used in the study (1 mark), and state two correct characteristics of the sampling method (2 marks). I do not recommend using bullet points for this question as well and recommend mentioning an additional point to the two points that you have already made.

• The sampling method used is purposive sampling. Participants are chosen because they possess characteristics salient to the research study, in this case, those who have some experience with taking drugs. Participants are recruited through advertising in places where those with the selected criteria can be found. In this case, in school magazines, for instance. Finally, purposive sampling may include snowball sampling.

(c) Suggest an alternative or additional research method giving one reason for your choice.

For this question, I recommend suggesting an additional research method instead of an alternative one. This is because it is suggesting an additional research method is easier to justify instead of arguing for using an alternative method.

• An additional research method is to utilize a quantitative survey, in which objective questions are used to gain insights from respondents. Subsequently, interviews can be conducted with some randomly selected participants to gain deeper insight into their cultural identity. The survey would enable the researchers to design questions to elicit the required data. Moreover, it can be quantified to make comparisons and enables larger samples size compared to only 19 participants, as in the study.

N.B. Connect your answer to the stimulus material presented when you can.

  Q2 on the exam can be on any ONE of the two prompts (no choice) for a total of 6 marks.

  1. Describe the ethical considerations that were applied in the study and explain if further ethical considerations could be applied.

• You are required to write about six different ethical considerations (because question = 6 marks maximum)
• The question is divided into two parts: first, students need to write about the three ethical considerations that were taken in the study, and second, you must explain three additional ethical considerations that can be accounted for. Although the question mentions “ if further ethical considerations could be applied,” it is, in fact, not asking that. Instead, think of it as “ how further ethical considerations could be applied”
• Thus, this requires you to explain three additional ethical considerations which were not mentioned/taken in the stimulus material.
• Informed consent or parental consent (if the participant is a minor)
• Confidentiality
• Right to withdraw before the study, during the study, or after the study
• Any use of concealment or deception is justified
• Approval from an ethics review board
• Coercion (is there any pressure to participate?)

  2.Describe the ethical considerations in reporting the results and explain additional ethical considerations that could be taken into         account when applying the findings of the study.

• This question is different from the first one in that it specifically asks students to refer to ethical considerations that could be taken into account when applying the findings of the study and not general additional ethical considerations.
• Your answer can refer to any of the following:
• Anonymity/pseudo anonymization: involves removing names or using fake names respectively for the publication of results
• Right to withdraw
• Informed consent/parental consent: informing people how their data will be used
• Debriefing: informing people how the results will be reported/published

N.B. Connect your answer to the stimulus material presented, at least once.

  Q3 on the exam is on any ONE of the three prompts (no choice) for a total of 9 marks.

However, before discussing the questions and how to answer them, it is salient to note that the top most markband for P3 Q3 mentions the following:

• 7 – 9: The question is understood and answered in a focused and effective manner with an accurate argument that addresses the requirements of the question. The response contains accurate references to approaches to research with regard to the question, describing their strengths and limitations. The response makes effective use of the stimulus material.

From my research, there seems to be ambiguity regarding how exactly to earn the 9 points in Q3 and it is not as clear-cut as it is for the previous questions.  Therefore, from a quality answer key from Pamoja online IB psychology, I mention the principle characteristics of two answers for two prompts and direct you to a sample answer for the third one:

    1.Discuss how a researcher could ensure that the results of the study are credible.

• Begin by defining “credibility”
• Moreover, you can discuss the internal validity, member checking, peer debriefing, and triangulation. Provide a definition for each of this concept before discussing it and relating it to the stimulus material.

    2.Discuss how the researcher in the study could avoid bias.

• Start by defining “bias”
• Moreover, you can discuss sampling bias, researcher bias, participant bias, and triagulation. Similar to above, provide a definition for each of this concept before discussing it and relating it to the stimulus material.

        3.Discuss the possibility of generalizing/transfering the findings of the study. The relevant term, generalizing or transferability is used in exams depending on whether the question relates to a quantitative or qualitative study.

• When I was in the IB DP, Dixon’s IB psychology website and youtube videos were of huge help; hence, I suggest utilizing this resource. Scroll to the bottom of this blog to see an example answer for this question.

Time yourself

P3 is one hour. Thus, I recommended using 10 mins for Q1, 20 mins for Q2, and 25 mins for Q3, leaving the last 5 mins to proofread.

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Your Ultimate Guide For Acing Ib Psychology Paper 3

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IB Psychology

IB Psychology Paper 3 (HL only) is a critical component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, specifically designed for students pursuing higher level (HL) studies in psychology. This comprehensive guide, authored by Rashi S., aims to equip students with the essential knowledge and strategies to excel in this challenging exam.

The guide focuses on research methods in psychology and consists of three parts. Question 1 requires students to identify the research method used, outline its characteristics, describe the sampling method employed, and suggest an additional research method with a valid rationale. Question 2 revolves around ethical considerations in study and reporting, necessitating a discussion of six different ethical considerations. Additionally, Question 3 may inquire about ensuring credibility, avoiding bias, or generalizing findings.

This article provides an overview of Paper 3, including question types and format, time allocation, and valuable tips for success. Written in an objective and analytical style, this guide offers evidence-based strategies to help students navigate this challenging examination and achieve exceptional results.

Key Takeaways

• Paper 3 focuses on research methods in psychology and consists of three parts.
• Understanding research methods is crucial for gathering reliable and valid data.
• Mastering research methods is essential for conducting scientifically rigorous studies.
• Managing time efficiently and employing proofreading strategies can maximize performance on Paper 3.

Table of Contents

What is Paper 3?

Paper 3 is a component of the IB Psychology HL curriculum that focuses specifically on research methods in psychology. It consists of three parts that require students to identify and outline the characteristics of research methods, describe sampling methods used in studies, and suggest additional research methods with reasoning. Understanding research methods in psychology is crucial as it allows researchers to gather reliable and valid data to support their hypotheses. By analyzing research methods used in studies, students can evaluate the strengths and limitations of different approaches. This involves identifying the specific research method used, such as semi-structured interviews, and outlining its characteristics. Additionally, students need to describe the sampling method employed in the study, such as purposive sampling, which helps ensure representative and diverse participants. Lastly, suggesting an additional research method, like utilizing a quantitative survey, requires students to consider the specific research question and the strengths of different methods in addressing it. Overall, mastering research methods in psychology is essential for conducting scientifically rigorous studies and obtaining valid and reliable results.

Question Types and Format

The question types and format of IB Psychology Paper 3 (HL only) include three parts that must be answered. Question 1 has three subparts, each worth 3 marks. In Question 1(a), students need to identify the research method used in a study and outline its characteristics. Bullet points should not be used for this question. Question 1(b) requires students to describe the sampling method used in the study. An example given is purposive sampling. Question 1(c) asks students to suggest an additional research method and provide a reason for their choice. An example given is utilizing a quantitative survey. Question 2 focuses on ethical considerations in the study and reporting the results. Students are expected to write about six different ethical considerations. The final question, Question 3, can be on ensuring credibility of study results, avoiding bias, or generalizing the findings. Time allocation for the paper is 10 minutes for Q1, 20 minutes for Q2, 25 minutes for Q3, and 5 minutes for proofreading.

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Time Allocation and Tips

Time allocation and strategic planning are crucial for effectively completing IB Psychology Paper 3 (HL only). Managing time efficiently allows students to allocate sufficient time to each question and ensures that all aspects of the paper are adequately addressed. It is recommended to allocate 10 minutes for Question 1, which involves identifying the research method used and describing its characteristics. For Question 2, which focuses on ethical considerations, allocating 20 minutes allows for a comprehensive discussion of six different considerations. Question 3, which may involve ensuring credibility, avoiding bias, or generalizing findings, should be given 25 minutes for a thorough response. Finally, setting aside 5 minutes for proofreading is essential to catch any errors or make improvements. It is also advisable to employ effective proofreading strategies, such as reading aloud or seeking feedback from peers, to ensure the accuracy and coherence of the final answers. By following these time allocation guidelines and employing effective proofreading strategies, students can maximize their performance on IB Psychology Paper 3.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many marks is question 1 worth in ib psychology paper 3 (hl only).

Question 1 in IB Psychology Paper 3 (HL only) is worth a total of 9 marks, with each part of the question being worth 3 marks. This question focuses on research methods in psychology and requires students to identify the research method used in a given study, describe the sampling method used, and suggest an additional research method with a reason for the choice. It is important to study psychology as it provides valuable insights into human behavior and mental processes. To effectively prepare for the exam, students can employ strategies such as reviewing key concepts, practicing past papers, and seeking clarification on any unclear topics.

What is the recommended format for answering Question 1 in Paper 3?

The recommended format for answering Question 1 in Paper 3 of IB Psychology (HL only) involves a structured approach to effectively address all three parts of the question. It is suggested to avoid using bullet points and instead provide a detailed response. To successfully answer Question 1, students should identify the research method used, outline its characteristics, describe the sampling method employed, and suggest an additional research method with a justified reason. Following this format ensures a comprehensive and well-structured response.

Can bullet points be used in answering Question 1?

Bullet points should not be used in answering question 1 of IB Psychology Paper 3 (HL). It is important to address ethical considerations in research methods. Using bullet points may hinder the ability to provide a comprehensive and well-structured response. Instead, a more detailed and coherent explanation is expected, highlighting the characteristics of the research method used and describing the sampling method employed in the study. This approach ensures a thorough understanding of the research process and demonstrates analytical skills.

How many ethical considerations should be discussed in Question 2 of Paper 3?

In question 2 of IB Psychology Paper 3, it is important to discuss several ethical considerations in psychological research. Factors influencing ethical considerations include the potential harm to participants, informed consent, confidentiality, deception, and the use of vulnerable populations. The discussion of these considerations is crucial as they ensure the protection and well-being of participants, maintain the integrity of the research, and uphold ethical standards in psychological research. It is essential for researchers to carefully consider and address these ethical considerations in order to conduct valid and ethical studies.

What are the possible topics for Question 3 in Paper 3 (HL only)?

Possible topics for question 3 in Paper 3 (HL only) include cognitive processes and abnormal psychology. In this question, students may be asked about how to ensure credibility of study results, avoiding bias, or generalizing the findings. They would need to provide evidence-based analysis and discuss strategies for minimizing bias and ensuring the reliability and validity of the study’s findings. This requires a thorough understanding of research methods and a critical evaluation of the study’s design and implementation.

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How to answer Paper 3, Question 1 (a, b & c)

Travis Dixon October 7, 2021 IB Psychology , Revision and Exam Preparation

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The following has been adapted from our textbook “ IB Psychology: A Revision Guide .” (Now available as an online textbook ).

All HL students should score 100% (9/9) for the first questions in Paper 3 because it’s so easy. But most don’t because they make basic mistakes. Let’s look at the best and simplest way to answer these three questions.

IB Psychology Guide, pg 32.

We know exactly what the Paper 3 questions will be. What we don’t know is the study because in Paper 3 students read a study they’ve never seen before and answer questions (scroll down for examples).

The first three questions (Question 1a, 1b, and 1c) are as follows:

I) Identify the method used and outline two characteristics of the method. (3 marks)

II) Describe the sampling method used in the study. (3 marks)

III) Suggest an alternative or additional research method giving one reason for your choice. (3 marks)

Example from May, 2019. These first three questions are always the same.

Let’s look at how to answer these with example answers based on the practice Paper 3 (on power posing) included in the revision textbook.

1a. Identify the method

You need to be able to state the research method used in the stimulus (1 mark) and outline two characteristics of the method (2 marks). The methods you need to know about are in the guide.

Example:  If a study used a true experiment, your answer might look like this:

This study was an experiment (true/laboratory). A true experiment tests causal relationships between and IV and a DV (the IV in this study was the type of posing and there were three DVs, including sense of power, hormone levels and confidence). They often take place in controlled environments and random allocation is possible (random allocation was used in this study).

1b Describe the sampling method

Answer this in the exact same way as 1b, but for the sampling method. The sampling method will be one of the following:

• volunteer/self-selected
• convenience/opportunity
• snowball sampling

Example:  If a study used a self-selected sample, your answer could look like this (bullet points are acceptable):

Sampling method = self-selected (volunteer) sampling. Two characteristics are:

• Participants are the ones that approach the researchers to volunteer to participate in the study
• There is typically some form of marketing that calls for volunteers. In this case, they were responding to an advertisement in a school magazine

1c Suggest another method

You need to state the alternative or additional research method (1 mark) and explain how and why the method could be used (2 marks). Include at least one characteristic of the method and apply details from the stimulus to support your answer.

Mr Dixon’s Top Tip: It will be easier to explain an additional method, rather than an alternative one. Explaining how an additional qualitative method (e.g. interview) is often much easier than explaining an alternative quantitative method.

Here’s an example answer:

A semi-structured interview could be used to follow-up the experimental results. A semi-structured interview has a list of open and closed questions with the researcher free to deviate as the interview unfolds. Researchers could ask questions about how powerful and confident the participants felt before and after doing the posing. This helps to triangulate findings and gathering qualitative data might help get a deeper understanding of the psychological effects of power posing, not just the behavioural and biological effects.

How to Prepare

Use flashcards to review two characteristics of each of the research methods and sampling methods. Use the past papers (find some linked above) to practice using this information in response to stimulus papers. Make sure you can answer all three questions in about 20 minutes or less.

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• Be concise:  State the method and get straight into the characteristics.
• Use one detail from the stimulus:  This shows you’re doing more than just memorizing.
• Pre-plan for 1c:  This is the toughest question to answer so have a generic response ready to go in case you get stuck on exam day.
• Triangulation : Is a good reason to use any additional research method. Hint hint!

Tricky Bits: Experiments

This is extremely frustrating but in Paper One and Paper Two the IB assessment team considers “experiments” as  one  method. However, this same team considers them unique in Paper 3. In the May 2019 Paper 3, the correct answer for 1a was a “lab/true experiment.” This was quite controversial as many, including myself, could see how it would be a field experiment. However, zero marks were awarded if a student wrote “…field experiment, natural experiment, quasi experiment, field study.”  BUT… “Stating ‘experiment’ without specification (was) acceptable.

So, if you know it’s an experiment but you don’t know what type, just state experiment. The characteristics of any experiment is that (a) they have independent and dependent variables and (b) researchers try to control extraneous variables so they don’t confound the results, which allows them to draw conclusions about cause and effect.

Travis Dixon is an IB Psychology teacher, author, workshop leader, examiner and IA moderator.

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