Research Issues

Question 1

Extraneous variable (EV)

Answer 1

Any variable, other than the IV, that may affect the DV if not controlled. The researcher takes steps to minimise the influence of EVs

Question 2

Confounding variables

Answer 2

A kind of EV, but varies systematically with the IV so we can’t tell if a change in the DV is due to the IV or cofounding variable

Question 3

Demand characteristics

Answer 3

Any cue from the research situation that may be interpreted by the participants as revealing the purpose of the experiment. This may lead the participant to change their behaviour (the ‘please-U effect’ or ‘screw-U effect’)

Question 4

Investigator effects

Answer 4

Any effect of the investigators behaviour (conscious or unconscious) on the research outcome

Question 5

Randomisation

Answer 5

The use of chance methods to control for the effects of bias when designing experimental conditions

Question 6

Standardisation

Answer 6

Using exactly the same formalised procedures and instructions for all participants in a research study

Question 7

Operationalisation

Answer 7

Clearly defining variables in terms of how they can be measured (be specific)