Research methods overview: how to study the AQA GCSE Psychology research methods topic

This overview maps the AQA GCSE Psychology research methods topic (3.4). Research methods is examined in Paper 1 but underpins the whole course, because you can be asked to apply method, sampling, data and ethics ideas to studies in any topic.

What the research methods topic covers

AQA breaks research methods into four connected areas, each with its own answer page on this site.

• Experiments and variables. The IV, DV, hypotheses, extraneous variables, experimental designs, and laboratory, field and natural experiments.
• Sampling methods. Target populations and samples, and random, opportunity, systematic and stratified sampling.
• Types of data. Quantitative and qualitative data, primary and secondary data, the mean, median and mode, and displaying data.
• Ethics and analysis. The BPS ethical guidelines and the meaning of reliability and validity.

The facts examiners reward

Research methods questions reward precise definitions and the ability to apply them to a scenario.

1. The IV and DV. Identify what is changed and what is measured in any study.
2. The sampling methods. Match each method to its strength and weakness.
3. The measures of central tendency. Calculate and compare the mean, median and mode.
4. The ethical guidelines. Name them and explain how each is dealt with.

How to study research methods

Research methods rewards practice with applied questions.

1. Drill identifying variables. Read a study and state the IV and DV quickly and accurately.
2. Learn the sampling trade-off. Representativeness versus practicality is the key evaluation point.
3. Practise calculations. Be confident finding the mean, median and mode.
4. Memorise the ethics list. Know how each issue is managed (consent, debrief, confidentiality, right to withdraw).

The dot points in this topic

Each area has a dot-point answer page and a quiz. Browse the full set at /gcse-aqa/psychology/syllabus.

For the official specification

AQA publishes the full specification (8182), past papers and mark schemes at aqa.org.uk. Always revise from the current specification and AQA's own past papers, because question style is board-specific.