Choosing the right method
IB Psychologyยท Research methodologyยท 11 min read
1. Core concept
Selecting a methodology means matching the method to the research aim and question. If the aim is to establish cause, an experiment fits; to study a rare or unique case in depth, a case study fits; to capture behaviour in its natural setting, an observation fits; to measure a relationship at scale, a correlational survey fits. A method is 'appropriate' only if it can actually measure the behaviour in question โ and can do so ethically and practically.
2. Key studies
IB Psychology answers must be supported by named studies. Learn these to cite as evidence:
Scoville & Milner (1957)
The in-depth case study of H.M. after hippocampal surgery revealed intact procedural memory alongside severe anterograde amnesia. โ The RIGHT method for the aim โ a unique, unrepeatable brain-damage case demands the depth of a case study, where an experiment would be impossible and unethical.
3. Evaluation (AO3)
Strength โ fit determines usefulness โ A well-matched method yields data that answer the question; the choice, not the effort, often decides whether a study can succeed.
Limitation โ constraints force compromise โ The ideal method may be unethical, impractical or impossible (you cannot experimentally lesion a human brain), so researchers accept trade-offs that limit conclusions.
4. Scope
5. Common Pitfalls
Wrong move:
A prestigious or familiar method (an experiment, or a case study) is a good choice for any aim.
Why:
A frequently penalised misconception in IB Psychology exams.
Correct move:
Judge fit to the AIM: a case study suits a unique individual but not a behaviour done by millions; an observation cannot measure internal states like recall. Choose the method that can actually answer the question, and say WHY.
Going deeper
- Types of research methodthe menu of methods to choose from is RM_11.
- Ethical considerationsethics constrains which methods are permissible (RM_14).