1. experiments

2. case studies

6 main methods that researchers use to conduct their studies

3. observational studies

SLA = scientific study of society + culture can affect behaviour

4. interviews

5. surveys

6. correlational studies

triangulation = incorporate 2 or more research methods

• increases credibility

• researcher bias - researcher's expectations subconsciously / consciously affect the findings of the study
• observer bias - pp acts differently due to awareness of being observed

certain biases are present in research:

main methods used in SLA = observations + experiments

lab experiments = easy to replicate + eliminates irrelevant factors

example of lab experiment in SLA = Asch 1951

attempts to control extraneous variables

Aim: investigate conformity in an unambiguous task

quantitative research method

IV = confederates line of judgement

researchers manipulate IV + measure DV

DV = pp's line of judgement

used to determine a cause + effect relationship between 2 variables

used these results to determine % of conformity amongst pp's

experiment allowed him to develop cause + effect relationship between the 2 variables

field / natural experiments = high ecological validity

cause = group situation formed when pp's gave their answers

effect = level of conformity between individuals in the group

this relationship wouldn't have been found using other research methods eg. survey / interview