1.7 - Collecting data: research design Flashcards
What is the difference between experimental and correlational research?
Experimental - we manipulate the IV
Correlational - we observe what’s naturally going on in the world
What is longitudinal research?
Measure variables repeatedly at different time points
Advantage of correlational research methods
High ecological validity
Low demand characteristics
Disadvantage of correlational research methods
No control over extraneous variables
Cannot establish a cause
What are 2 method designs?
Independent group design
Repeated measures design
What is another name for independent groups?
Between participants
What is another name for repeated measures design?
Within participants
Explain independent groups
Different groups take part in different experimental conditions
Explain repeated measures
Same group takes part in each condition at different intervals
What is a disadvantage of repeated measures design?
Participants are only naïve the first time round
Boredom effects - may be tired
Practice effects - more familiar with the experiment so may perform differently
What are the 2 types of variation?
Systematic
Unsystematic
Explain systematic variation
Differences in performances are created by experimental manipulation
Explain unsystematic variation
Unknown factors caused differences in performances e.g. time of day
What is a disadvantage of an independent groups design?
There is considerable random variation within and between each condition. E.g. the groups vary in age, gender, IQ, motivation, ability etc. which may skew the results
How can we avoid practice effects?
Counterbalance the order in which a person participates in a condition