field and lab experiments

Question 1

what is a lab experiment

Answer 1

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

Question 2

what is a field experiment

Answer 2

natural setting where behaviour studies would naturally occur, IV manipulated and as many controls as possible

Question 3

what are the strengths of a lab experiment

Answer 3

+ extraneous variables controlled so cause and effect relationship established
+ fairly certain IV that is manipulated did have an effect on measured DV

Question 4

what are the weaknesses of lab experiments

Answer 4

• experimenter effects
• demand characteristics, aware of research
• outcomes may not apply to real life

Question 5

what are the strengths of field experiments

Answer 5

+ ppts not aware of study so behaviour may be realistic
+ ecological validity, generalise to real situations

Question 6

what are the weaknesses of field experiments

Answer 6

• 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