Lab vs Field

Question 1

Lab definition

Answer 1

An experiment that measures human behavior and that is studied controlled environment. Often artificial task set up outside of the natural environment

Question 2

Field definition

Answer 2

An experiment that takes place in the subjects natural surroundings. Those involved are not generally aware they are in an experiment

Question 3

Advantages of lab experiments?

Answer 3

High in Reliability
Objective ( value free)
Allows for correlations to be made easily

Question 4

Disadvantages of lab experiments?

Answer 4

Lacks ecological validity
Volunteer bias
Cost + time
Hawthorne effect (demand characteristics)
Small scale (unrepresentative)

Question 5

Advantages of field experiments?

Answer 5

Natural behavior- higher in validity
Able to control some variables and observe effects
No hawthorne effect

Question 6

Disadvantages of field experiments?

Answer 6

Impossible to control all variables
Ethical issues
Difficult to record findings
Difficult to gain access into closed settings