Practise IB Psychology SL 2.1.3 by explaining how brain-imaging technologies investigate biological factors and behaviour, then evaluating what imaging evidence can show in research.
Evaluate the use of two brain imaging technologies in investigating the relationship between biological factors and behaviour.
Refer to the paper 1 section B assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term "evaluate" requires candidates to address the strengths and limitations of brain imaging technologies. Candidates need to clearly identify two brain imaging technologies, give examples of how they have been used in research, and then evaluate their use. Although a discussion of both strengths and limitations is required, it does not have to be evenly balanced to gain high marks.
Examples of brain imaging technologies could include, but are not limited to:
- EEG (for example, Davidson et al., 2004, on meditation)
- TCI (transcranial imaging) in studies of PTSD
- PET (for example, Raine et al., 1997, on violent behaviour;
use of PET in the study of Alzheimer's disease)
- MRI (for example, Corkin, 1997, study of HM)
- fMRI (for example, Harris and Fiske, 2006, on prejudice;
Wang et al., 2007, on stress).
It is important that candidates evaluate the use of the technologies, and not simply evaluate studies.
If a candidate evaluates more than two brain imaging technologies, credit should be given only to the first two evaluations.
If a candidate evaluates only one brain imaging technology, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [5 marks] for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension, up to a maximum of [4 marks] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2 marks] for criterion C, organization.
If a candidate discusses only strengths or only limitations, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [5 marks] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2 marks] for criterion C, organization. Up to full marks may be awarded for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension.