Research Issues Flashcards
What is an extraneous variable (EV)?
Any variable, other than the independent variable (IV), that may affect the dependent variable (DV) if it is not controlled.
What distinguishes a confounding variable from an extraneous variable?
A confounding variable varies systematically with the IV, making it difficult to determine if changes in the DV are due to the IV or the confounding variable.
Define demand characteristics.
Any cue from the researcher or research situation that may be interpreted by participants as revealing the purpose of an investigation.
What are investigator effects?
Any effect of the investigator’s behaviour (conscious or unconscious) on the research outcome (the DV).
How is randomisation used in research?
The use of chance methods to control for the effects of bias when designing materials and deciding the order of experimental conditions.
What does standardisation mean in the context of research?
Using exactly the same formalised procedures and instructions for all participants in a research study.
Fill in the blank: An extraneous variable is a _______ variable that may affect the dependent variable if it is not controlled.
[nuisance]
True or False: Confounding variables do not vary systematically with the independent variable.
False
What is participant reactivity?
The tendency of participants to try to make sense of the new situation they find themselves in, which can affect their behaviour.
List two potential participant behaviours influenced by demand characteristics.
- Please-U effect
- Screw-U effect
Why is it important to control extraneous variables in an experiment?
To ensure that the results are not distorted by unwanted factors that could affect the relationship between the IV and DV.
What should researchers do with extraneous variables identified during the study design?
Take appropriate steps to control them.
Provide an example of a situation that could lead to a confounding variable.
Participants being excited due to an unexpected event, which varies systematically with the IV.
Fill in the blank: Demand characteristics can lead participants to _______ their behaviour within the research situation.
[change]
What is the relationship between extraneous variables and nuisance variables?
Nuisance variables are a type of extraneous variable that do not vary systematically with the IV.
