The IB Psychology Internal Assessment (IA) is a unique opportunity to apply psychological research methods practically. Seeing a well-structured example can clarify the expectations and help you confidently craft your own IA.
This article presents a detailed Psychology IA example, outlining the key components and providing tips for success.
Sample IA Topic
Research Question:
Does listening to music affect concentration levels in IB students?
1. Introduction
This study investigates whether listening to music influences concentration by measuring performance on a Stroop test. Previous research shows mixed results, with some suggesting music enhances focus and others indicating it distracts.
2. Hypothesis
It is hypothesized that IB students who listen to instrumental music will perform better on the Stroop test compared to those who work in silence.
3. Method
Participants
- 20 IB students aged 16-18
- Randomly assigned to two groups: music and silence
Materials
- Stroop test printed sheets
- Instrumental music playlist (classical)
- Stopwatch
Procedure
- Group 1 completes the Stroop test while listening to music through headphones.
- Group 2 completes the test in silence.
- Time taken and errors recorded for each participant.
4. Analysis
Results suggest the music group performed the Stroop test faster with fewer errors, supporting the hypothesis. However, individual variations and small sample size limit generalizability.
5. Conclusion
Listening to instrumental music may improve concentration during cognitive tasks like the Stroop test. Further research with larger samples is recommended.
6. Evaluation
- Strengths: Controlled environment, clear operationalization of concentration.
- Limitations: Small sample size, lack of control over participants’ prior music preference, potential learning effects.
- Improvements: Use a crossover design, measure long-term effects, increase sample diversity.
Tips for Your Psychology IA
- Clearly define variables and controls.
- Use ethical procedures (consent, confidentiality).
- Provide detailed methods for reproducibility.
- Analyze data using appropriate statistics.
- Reflect honestly on limitations and improvements.
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