methodology Flashcards
evaluation of lab experiment - strengths
A lab experiment is well controlled with regards to extraneous variables so that there are few cofounding variables. Therefore they should be both objective and scientific - qualitative data
has internal validity. cause-and-effect relationships between variables can be determined because of the controls. therefore this explains if only the IV is altered, any change in the DV must be due to change in the IV
evaluation of lab experiments - weaknesses
lab experiments involves making a situation unnatural in order to test it such as removing certain features of a situation to isolate variables for study. therefore the findings lack ecological and task validity as not measuring real behaviour.
Usually collect quantitive data. Whilst this can be analysed statistically the data is likely to lack depth and detail.
evaluation of field experiments - strengths
more ecologically valid than lavatory experiments because they take place in natural settings. Allow psychologists to measure how people behave in their everyday lives. So the findings have high external validity.
No demand characteristics- the pp do not know they are participating in a study, they will be unaware they are being watched or manipulated.
evaluation of field experiments - weaknesses
harder to control variables than in a lab because the setting is natural. Therefore features of the setting can affect results so may lack internal validity.
Not always possible to control extraneous variables that might affect the IV or the DV. The researcher cannot always draw a cause and effect conclusion
