Experimental Designs Flashcards
What is an independent variable in an experiment?
The variable that is manipulated by the researcher to observe its effect.
True or False: A dependent variable is the outcome that is measured in an experiment.
True
Fill in the blank: In a repeated measures design, the same participants are used in __________ conditions.
all
What is a key advantage of using a matched pairs design?
It reduces the impact of participant variables.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a disadvantage of independent groups design? A) Less time-consuming B) Participant variables C) Order effects
B) Participant variables
What does ‘random assignment’ refer to in experimental design?
The process of randomly allocating participants to different conditions to reduce bias.
True or False: A field experiment is conducted in a controlled environment.
False
What is the main purpose of a control group?
To provide a baseline to compare the effects of the independent variable.
Fill in the blank: In a laboratory experiment, the researcher has __________ over the environment.
control
What is a confounding variable?
An extraneous variable that correlates with both the independent and dependent variables.
Multiple choice: Which design would best control for order effects? A) Independent groups B) Matched pairs C) Repeated measures
B) Matched pairs
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?
Qualitative data is descriptive and non-numerical, while quantitative data is numerical and can be measured.
True or False: A quasi-experiment lacks random assignment.
True
Fill in the blank: In a cross-sectional study, data is collected from __________ at a single point in time.
different participants
What is a longitudinal study?
A research design that involves repeated observations of the same variables over a long period.
Multiple choice: Which type of validity is concerned with whether the results can be generalized to real-world settings? A) Internal validity B) External validity C) Construct validity
B) External validity
What is an operational definition?
A clear and precise description of how a variable is measured or manipulated.
True or False: A pilot study is a small-scale version of a larger study conducted to test feasibility.
True
Fill in the blank: __________ variables are those that are kept constant to ensure a fair test.
Control
What is the purpose of blinding in an experiment?
To prevent bias by ensuring that participants or researchers do not know which condition participants are in.
Multiple choice: What is the primary goal of experimental research? A) To describe behavior B) To establish cause and effect C) To predict outcomes
B) To establish cause and effect
What is a demand characteristic?
A cue that might inform participants of the purpose of the study, potentially influencing their behavior.
True or False: Ethical considerations do not need to be addressed in experimental designs.
False
Fill in the blank: The __________ variable is the one that is measured to assess the impact of the independent variable.
dependent
