Adapted from J. Galsuha (2012)

AP PSYCHOLOGY UNIT II PROJECT: RESEARCH METHODS PORTFOLIO

During Unit II you are learning about a variety of research methods. This project

will help you become more familiar with the components of a case study,

naturalistic observation, and survey. After completing all three parts of the

project, you will create a cover page and submit your work in a portfolio as your

final product.

Due date: ____________________________________________________

Part 1: Case Study

Select a naturally-occurring, public human behavior to observe. The behavior must occur in a setting that is clearly in the

public domain (places such as a cafeteria, library, or mall are acceptable; restrooms and locker rooms are not acceptable

because people assume some degree of privacy in these types of places). Your observation may not disrupt a class or

otherwise interfere with learning &/or any school activities. Your observation must be a minimum of 30 minutes

(preferably consecutive).

Simply observe; do not try to intervene or manipulate and control the situation. Do not tell anyone what you are

observing (this could alter their naturally occurring behavior.)

Take notes during your observation. Turn in your observation notes along with a 1 page summary (typed or neatly

hand-written) of your observations and the conclusions you reached based on your research. Use specific examples and

details to demonstrate understanding.

 Reflect on any trends or outliers that were evident in your data. Overall, do you feel your sampling gives an

accurate representation of the larger population? Explain.

 Provide any additional thoughts or reflections on the survey and its results.

Adapted from J. Galsuha (2012)

Final Product: Research Methods Portfolio

Your completed portfolio should contain each of the following, typed or neatly hand-written.

Cover Page

Part 1

 1-page (minimum) reflection

Grading

Parts 1-3: This rubric will be applied to each of the 3 parts of the project.

Cover Page