Introduction

There are many ways to approach research involving human (and sometimes animal) participants. Methodology can often take the form of Descriptive Research, which involves mostly observing and describing participant behaviors and processes, however this typically does not allow researchers to address the question of “why” the participants are doing what they are doing. Given the emphasis on experimental data collection in the field of cognitive psychology, this refresher chapter will primarily focus on the following:

• The scientific method and research cycle
• Correlations
• Experimental and quasi-experimental design
• Research considerations and cautions
• Neuroimaging