Control Of Variables

Question 1

Investigator effects

Answer 1

Any effect of the researchers behaviour on the research outcome (DV). (Interaction with participants, selection of sample etc)

Question 2

Randomisation

Answer 2

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

Question 3

Standardisation

Answer 3

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

Question 4

Extraneous variable

Answer 4

Any variable other than IV that may have effected the DV if it is not controlled.

Question 5

Confounding variables

Answer 5

Any variable other than the IV that may have affected the DV but the changes made to the DV are not clear.

Question 6

Dependent variable

Answer 6

The variable measured by the researcher.

Question 7

Independent variable

Answer 7

A variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher to see the effect on the DV.

Question 8

Operationalisation

Answer 8

Clearly defining variable in terms of how they can be measured.

Question 9

Demand characterstics

Answer 9

Where the researcher gives a clue to what the aim/purpose of the experiment and leads to the participants changing their behaviour.