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| Marks | Level Descriptor |
|---|---|
| 5-6 | The choice of research method is explained. The procedure is explained. Relevant ethical considerations are described and explicitly linked to the investigation. |
| 3-4 | The choice of research method is described. The procedure is described but lacks detail. Relevant ethical considerations are described but some are not linked to the investigation. |
| 1-2 | The research method is described with errors in understanding. The procedure is described but is unclear due to errors or omissions. Ethical considerations are described but not linked to the investigation. |
| 0 | The work does not meet the standard described by the descriptors above. |
Students must select one of the four approved research methods:
The method must match the aim of the investigation and be clearly justified.
Students must explain why this method is suitable for exploring the topic and how it will help answer the research question.
The procedure refers to all the steps that would be taken if the research were conducted. This includes:
The procedure should be detailed and logical, showing an understanding of how the investigation would be carried out.
Any relevant tools or materials should be mentioned here, but not described in full (these appear in the next section).
Important points include:
Students should also consider special care if working with vulnerable populations or sensitive topics.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Justify why the selected method fits the research aim | Choose a method without explanation |
| Describe each part of the procedure in detail | Make vague statements like “I will give them a test” |
| Explain sampling strategy and setting | Leave out how participants will be selected or where the study occurs |
| Discuss ethical issues specific to your design | Copy generic ethical statements without applying them to your proposal |
| Think carefully about how participants will be protected | Suggest procedures that are inappropriate or unethical |
| Strong | Weak | |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Semi-structured interview | Interview |
| Justification | Allows for depth and flexibility when exploring how recent immigrants experience acculturation stress | Interviews are good for talking to people |
| Procedure | Participants would be recruited through community centers. Interviews would be conducted in private spaces and last 30 to 45 minutes. Audio recordings would be transcribed. | I will ask them questions |
| Ethics | Interviews would be confidential and participants would give informed consent. Cultural sensitivity would be considered in both the language and questions used. | I will not hurt anyone |
| Concept | Application |
|---|---|
| Causality | Students must consider whether their chosen method allows for cause-and-effect conclusions or only correlational insights. |
| Responsibility | Students must demonstrate ethical thinking in how they design and describe the research process. |
| Perspective | Students should consider how the chosen method fits the psychological approach or theory behind the investigation. |