Practise IB Psychology SL 2.4.6 by explaining research methods and evaluating how evidence supports conclusions about biological processes and behaviour.
Discuss how and why one particular research method is used at the biological level [22 marks] of analysis.
4. Discuss how and why one particular research method is used at the biological level of analysis.
Refer to the paper 1 section B assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term "discuss" requires candidates to offer a considered and balanced review of how and why one particular research method is used at the biological level of analysis. Although a discussion of both how and why is required, it does not have to be evenly balanced to gain high marks.
Research methods used in the biological level of analysis could include experiments, case studies, observations and correlational studies. The use of technology to investigate biological factors, for example, brain imaging, can also be accepted as a research method.
Although examples of animal research may be discussed, the use of animals in and of itself is not a research method. Responses should focus on the method used in the study of the animals’ behaviour.
Similarly, if candidates discuss twin studies, the focus should be on the correlational nature of the studies.
Discussion about how the method is used might refer to key features of the method as well as how the method was used in specific research. For example, experimental studies may identify the sampling and allocation procedures, the independent and dependent variables, and the way in which extraneous variables were controlled.
Discussion about why the method is used might refer to the appropriateness of the method, issues of validity and reliability, sample choice and size, ease and cost of the procedure, and the generalizability of findings. Candidates may address the strengths (and limitations) of the method as well as why it reflects the principles of the biological level of analysis, ie candidates could make clear how the selected research methods underpin one or more principles of the level of analysis.
If a candidate discusses more than one research method, credit should be given only to the first discussion.
If a candidate addresses only the "how" or only the "why", the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [6 marks] for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension, up to a maximum of [6 marks] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to [2 marks] for criterion C, organization.