Controlling Variables

Question 1

what are the ways to try and control extraneous variables?

Answer 1

Blind Experiment
Double Blind Experiment
Deception
Counterbalancing
Standardising Procedures
Experimental Realism
Randomisation

Question 2

what is a blind experiment?

Answer 2

When the participant doesn’t know details of the study - reduces chances of demand characteristics

Question 3

what is a double blind experiment?

Answer 3

When the participant and the research facilitator don’t know details of the study - reduces chances of demand characteristics/experimenter effects.

Question 4

what is deception?

Answer 4

Hiding the true aim of the study until afterwards.

Question 5

what is counter balancing?

Answer 5

Balancing the grouping of experimental groups to avoid bias or extraneous variables.

Question 6

what does counterbalancing deal with? how does it work?

Answer 6

• Used to deal with order effects when using a repeated measures design.
• With counterbalancing, the participant sample is divided in half, with one half completing the two conditions in one order and the other half completing the conditions in the reverse order.

Question 7

what does standardising procedures mean?

Answer 7

Ensuring the procedure allows each participant to receive the same experience - increases reliability

Question 8

what is experimental realism?

Answer 8

Ensuring the study has external validity (the extent to which results can be generalized across populations, places and times). I.e. the study reflects real life. Therefore participants will behave naturally.

Question 9

what is randomisation?

Answer 9

Removing bias by making as many decisions as possible free from researcher choice - reduces bias.