research control!

Question 1

what is random allocation

Answer 1

Allocating participants to experimental groups or conditions using random techniques

eg names in a hat, random number generators etc

Question 2

what is counterbalancing

Answer 2

An experimental technique used to overcome order effects when using a repeated measures design.

Ensures that each condition is tested first or second in equal amounts

2 methods:

1) AB or BA
- divide participants into 2 groups
-group 1 does A then B
-group 2 does B then A

2) ABBA

Question 3

what is randomisation

Answer 3

The order of tasks or presentation of data (etc.) in an experiment or study is decided on the toss of a coin or another random method of selection to control for order effects.

Question 4

what is standardisation

Answer 4

=using a standard procedure for all participants.

Things which should be standardised include:

Giving all participants the same instructions.
Completing briefing and debriefing in the same way and at the same time.
Conducting the experiment in the same location and at the same time of day.
Making sure that all materials are the same for all participants.
All aspects of standardisation are necessary to avoid extraneous or confounding variables affecting the results