field and lab experiments Flashcards
what is a lab experiment
conducted in a controlled, artificial environment where IV is manipulated, EV controlled to make sure any difference in DV is due to change in IV
what is a field experiment
natural setting where behaviour studies would naturally occur, IV manipulated and as many controls as possible
what are the strengths of a lab experiment
+ extraneous variables controlled so cause and effect relationship established
+ fairly certain IV that is manipulated did have an effect on measured DV
what are the weaknesses of lab experiments
- experimenter effects
- demand characteristics, aware of research
- outcomes may not apply to real life
what are the strengths of field experiments
+ ppts not aware of study so behaviour may be realistic
+ ecological validity, generalise to real situations
what are the weaknesses of field experiments
- no control over setting so EVs can influence, lack validity
- less control so harder to replicate to check reliability
- may be ethical issues if ppts unaware, no consent, no right to withdraw