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(a) Describe one method used to collect information on mental factors - Scottish Highers Physical Education - Question 1 - 2023
Question 1
(a) Describe one method used to collect information on mental factors. (b) Explain the validity and/or reliability of the method described in (a).
Worked Solution & Example Answer:(a) Describe one method used to collect information on mental factors - Scottish Highers Physical Education - Question 1 - 2023
Step 1
Describe one method used to collect information on mental factors.
Answer
One effective method used to collect information on mental factors is the use of questionnaires.
Questionnaires are structured tools that consist of a series of questions designed to gather information from respondents in a systematic manner. They can either be administered in person, via telephone, or distributed online, allowing for a wide reach and ease of access. Typically, these questionnaires include a variety of question types such as multiple choice, rating scales, or open-ended questions.
The primary goal is to collect data on various mental factors, such as cognitive functions, emotional states, or behavioral tendencies. For example, a questionnaire may assess anxiety levels by asking participants to rate their feelings in specific situations. The standardized nature of questionnaires ensures that responses can be quantitatively analyzed, facilitating the identification of patterns in mental factors.
Step 2
Explain the validity and/or reliability of the method described in (a).
Answer
The validity and reliability of questionnaires largely depend on their design and the clarity of the questions involved.
Validity refers to the degree to which a questionnaire measures what it is intended to measure. For instance, a well-constructed questionnaire that has been validated through pilot testing can provide accurate reflections of mental states. However, if questions are ambiguous or leading, they could yield misleading data.
Reliability, on the other hand, refers to the consistency of the results obtained from the questionnaire. For a questionnaire to be reliable, it should produce similar results when administered to the same respondents under similar conditions.
To enhance both validity and reliability, it is essential to pre-test the questionnaire and make necessary adjustments based on feedback, thus ensuring it effectively captures the intended information.