Experimental Design

Question 1

Independent Groups

Answer 1

When two separate groups of participants experience two different conditions of the experiment.

Question 2

Repeated Measures

Answer 2

The same participants take part in all conditions of the experiment.

Question 3

Matched Pairs

Answer 3

Two groups of participants are sued but they are related to each other by being paired on participant variables relevant to the experiment.

Question 4

Strengths and Weaknesses of Independent Groups

Answer 4

• Order Effects are not a problem
• Less chance of Demand Characteristics
• Participant Variables
• Less Economical

Question 5

Strengths and Weaknesses of Repeated Measures

Answer 5

• Participant Variables are controlled
• Fewer Participants are needed
• Order Effect Can Occur
• Demand Characteristics can occur

Question 6

Strengths and Weaknesses of Matched Pairs

Answer 6

• Order Effects are not a problem
• Demand Characteristics are less likely
• Participants can never be matched exactly
• Matching may be time consuming and expensive

Question 7

Random Allocation

Answer 7

An attempt to control for participant variables by evenly distributing differences in participants across the conditions.

Question 8

Counterbalancing

Answer 8

Control for Order Effects, ensures they do all conditions but half experience them in one order and the other half in the opposite.