Do Now What are the benefits to using the scientific method when trying to prove a point or solve a problem?

Unit 2 : Research Methods The Need for Psychological Science

Problems We Encounter Hindsight bias Overconfidence Aka “I knew it all along phenomenon” To some extent, we seek answers that support of beliefs EX: After hearing the answer you said you knew the answer EX: When you found out the dress was blue and black rather than white and gold you said you knew it was black and blue Overconfidence We tend to be overconfident – What does this mean? Examples? We think we know more than we do Hindsight bias + overconfidence = overestimate our intuition Scientific inquiry can help us sift reality from illusion

Little Practice Our errors explain why we need psychological research. Let’s take a look at some claims and see if you can get the right answers On the next slide will be a series of questions. Record your answers…somewhere

ANSWERS 1 – F 2 – T 3 – F 4 – T 5 – F 6 – T 7 – F 8 – T 9 – F 10 – T

The Scientific Attitude Three main components Curious eagerness Want to know info Skeptically scrutinize competing ideas Welcome contradicting ideas Open-minded humility before nature Know that you too can make mistakes Scientists have big egos and may cling to their ideas despite contradicting evidence

Critical Thinking The scientific attitude prepares us to think smarter and engage in critical thinking Critical Thinking “Smart thinking” Four elements Examines assumptions Discerns hidden values Evaluates evidence Assesses conclusions EX: comparing different psychological perspectives when trying to understand someone’s behavior

Today Questions? HW = How do Psychologists Ask and Answer Questions PART 1 – Research Methods