P2 Research Methods - Types of Experiments Flashcards
What are the different types of experiments?
- Lab
2.Field - Natural
- Quasi
What is a lab experiment?
An experiment conducted in a controlled environment, usually high in validity because of the high levels of control. However it often has low external / ecological validity.
What are strengths of lab experiments?
- Tend to be reliable
- Easy to replicate
- Precise control of extraneous and independent variables
- High internal validity
What are limitations of lab experiments?
- Impossible to control all variables / conditions
- Demand characteristics
- Low external validity
What is a field experiment?
An experiment conducted in a more natural environment. It may be more possible to control for extra
What are strengths of field experiments?
- More likely to reflect real life due to natural setting
- Less likelihood of demand characteristics
What are limitations of field experiments?
- Makes it hard to control extraneous variables
What is a natural experiment
The study of a naturally occurring situation in the real world
What are strengths of natural experiments?
- More likely to reflect real life due to natural setting
- High ecological validity
What are limitations of natural experiments?
- Lack of control
- No control over extraneous variables
What is a quasi experiment?
Experimental design that’s aim is to establish cause and effect relationship between an independent and dependent variable
What are strengths of quasi experiments?
- Easier to manage as groups are pre set.
- High ecological validity
What are limitations of quasi experiments?
- Cannot randomly assign out groups so there might be uncontrolled variables
