Control of variables

Question 1

What are extraneous variables (EVs)

Answer 1

Any variable,other than the IV, that may have an effect on the DV
-Does not vary systematically with the IV
-If it is not controlled EVs are nuisances

Question 2

What are confounding variables

Answer 2

Any variable, other than the IV, that may have affected the DV, so we cannot be sure of the true source of changes to the DV
-CV vary systemtaicaly with the IV

Question 3

What are Demand charcteristics

Answer 3

Any cue from the researcher or from the research situiation that may be interpretted by participants as revealing the purpose of the investigation
-This may lead to a participant changing their behaviour within the research situiation

Question 4

What are investigator effects

Answer 4

ANy effect of the investigators behaviour on the researchs outcome
-This may include everything from the design of the study to the selection of and intercation with the participants during the research process

Question 5

What is randomisation

A way to reduce the effects of extraneous or confounding variables

Answer 5

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

Question 6

What is standarisation

A way to reduce the effects of extraneous or confounding variables

Answer 6

Using exactly the same formalised procedures and instrutcions for all participants in a research study

Question 7

Participant reactivity

Answer 7

participants actively trying to find out what they are being resreached for