control of variables

Question 1

extraneous variable

Answer 1

any variable other than the independent variable
(IV), that may have an effect on the dependent variable (DV) if it is not controlled. considered to be nuisance variables.

Question 2

confounding variables

Answer 2

Any variable, other than the IV that may have
affected the DV in a way that we cannot be sure of the true source of the changes to
the DV. may vary systematically with the IV.

Question 3

demand characteristics

Answer 3

A cue from the researcher in the research situation that may be interpreted by participants as revealing the purpose of the investigation.

Question 4

investigator effects

Answer 4

Any effect of the investigator’s behaviour (conscious or unconscious) on the research outcome (the DV).

Question 5

standardisation

Answer 5

Using exact formalised procedures and instructions for all participants in a research study.

Question 6

randomisation

Answer 6

the use of chance in order to control the effects of bias when designing materials and deciding the order of conditions.