Control of Variables A1

Question 1

Define Extraneous Variables (EV)

Answer 1

A variable that can impact the effects on the DV if they are not controlled.
They DON’T vary systematically with the IV

Question 2

Give an example of a Extraneous Variable

Answer 2

Age of ppt

Lighting in Lab

Question 3

Define Confounding Variables

Answer 3

A variable that can affect the outcome of the DV - cannot be controlled

Varies systematically with the IV

Question 4

Give an Example of a Confounding Variable

Answer 4

Personalities

Question 5

Define Demand Characteristics

Answer 5

Cues from the researcher/situation that can be interpreted as revealing the aim of the investigation

Question 6

What can Demand Characteristics lead to?

Answer 6

A change in ppts behaviour

Question 7

What type of variables are Demand Characteristics?

Answer 7

Extraneous variables

Question 8

Define Investigator Effects

Answer 8

Effects of the investigator’s behaviour on the DV - this can be conscious or unconscious and varies from the studies design to the whole research process

Question 9

Give an example of an Investigator Effect

Answer 9

Leading Questions in EWT

Question 10

How can you minimise the effect of Extraneous/Confounding Variables?

Answer 10

Through the use of Randomisation

Question 11

Define Randomisation

Answer 11

The use of chance wherever possible in order to reduce researchers’ influence

Question 12

Define Standardisation

Answer 12

Using the exact formalised procedures and instructions for all ppts in a study