1. Experimental Dilemma: A researcher studying developmental differences in problem solving conducted the following study. Groups of 5- or 7-year olds were given a ten-piece jigsaw puzzle to solve and were told to take as long as they needed to complete the puzzle. 20 female and 20 male children were tested in each age group. The results showed that 97% of the 7-year olds and 94% of the 5-year olds were able to complete the puzzle. Since the difference between the groups was not statistically significant, the researcher concluded that there were no differences in problem-solving ability between the two age groups. How would you critique this research experiment? How would you address the potential ceiling effect?
2. How do you distinguish between legitimate research versus "false" research?