Practical / Applied Psychology Component
This component tests experimental design, psychological testing, case study, and project work. You must show methodological reasoning, not just a result.
Experiments
An experiment tests a hypothesis by manipulating an independent variable and measuring a dependent variable, with control of extraneous variables and random assignment. Counterbalancing controls order effects. A report states aim, method, results, and conclusion.
Testing
A standardised test has uniform administration, norms, reliability, and validity. Follow instructions exactly, score objectively, and interpret cautiously. Do not diagnose from one score.
Case study and project
A case study uses interviews, observation, and records to understand one person or case in depth; generalisation is limited. A project begins with a research question, uses an appropriate method, analyses data, and reports ethical safeguards.
Worked example
A student tests whether noise affects memory. Independent variable: quiet versus loud condition; dependent variable: number of words recalled. Participants are randomly assigned, the word list and study time are held constant, and order is counterbalanced if repeated measures are used. If the loud group recalls fewer words, the causal claim is limited by sample size and setting.
Traps
Confounding variables ruin causal claims; testing one person and generalising is overreach; changing procedure mid-test destroys standardisation; plagiarism and missing consent are ethical failures.