Control of Variables

Question 1

Extraneous Variables

Answer 1

Additional, unwanted nuisance variables
- removed at start of study by the researcher who takes steps to minimise their influence.
e.g. age of ppts, lighting in the lab

Question 2

confounding variables

Answer 2

Another second unintended IV e.g. personality which could explain changes in the DV.

Question 3

demand characteristics

Answer 3

ppts second guess the aims and alter their behaviour

Question 4

investigator effects

Answer 4

the unconscious influence of the researcher on the research situation

Question 5

randomisation

Answer 5

the use of chance to reduce the researchers influence –> control investigator effects
e.g. order of conditions should be randomised for each ppt

Question 6

standardisation

Answer 6

ensuring all ppts are subject to the same experience