Experimental Design 3.2(b) Flashcards
What are independent and dependent variables?
Independent and dependent variables can be continuous or discrete.
What is the role of the investigator in an experiment?
The investigator manipulates the independent variable.
What is compared in an experimental design?
The experimental treatment group is compared to a control group.
What are the two types of experimental designs?
Simple (one independent variable) and multifactorial (more than one independent variable).
What is a limitation of using existing groups in experiments?
There is no truly independent variable.
What is the strength of observational studies?
They are good at detecting correlation.
What is a limitation of observational studies?
They are less useful for determining causation.
What are confounding variables?
Other variables besides the independent variable that may affect the dependent variable.
How should confounding variables be handled in experiments?
They must be held constant if possible or monitored.
What is a randomised block design used for?
It is used when confounding variables cannot easily be controlled.
What is the purpose of control results in experiments?
They are used for comparison with the results of treatment groups.
What types of controls may be used in experiments?
Negative and positive controls.
What is the placebo effect?
The effect of placebos used in experiments.
Fill in the blank: Experiments involve the manipulation of the _______ variable by the investigator.
[independent]
What does in vitro refer to?
The technique of performing a given procedure in a controlled environment outside of a living organism.
What does in vivo refer to?
Experimentation using a whole, living organism.
What is a key advantage of in vitro studies?
Controlled environment for experiments.
What is a key disadvantage of in vitro studies?
May not accurately reflect biological processes in a living organism.
What is a key advantage of in vivo studies?
Provides a more comprehensive understanding of biological processes.
What is a key disadvantage of in vivo studies?
More complex and ethical considerations are involved.
