Research Methods Flashcards
Experiment
An experiment involves the manipulation(changing) of an independent variable to see what effect it has on the dependent variable, while at the same time trying to control other variables which might affect the results
Independent variable
The variable that you manipulate(change)
Dependent variable
The variable you measure
Three types of experimental design:
Independent measures
Repeated measures
Matched pairs
Independent measure
Different participants in the different conditions
Repeated measures
The same participants take part in the different conditions
Matched pairs
Different participants in the different conditions but they have been matched up on some key factors
Independent measures strengths
No order effects
No demand characteristics
Independent measures weaknesses
Individual differences
More participants would be needed
Repeated measures strengths
Control for individual differences
Fewer participants
Repeated measures weaknesses
Demand characteristics
Order effects including tired/bored
Matched pairs strengths
No order effects
Control for individual differences
No demand characteristics
Matched pairs weaknesses
Time consuming
Difficult to match all variables
Extraneous variable
Variable that affect the IV or the DV thats are controlled
Confounding variable
Variables that affect the IV or DV that are not controlled
Lab experiment
The researcher has strict control over variables and uses standardised procedures in a controlled environment. The IV is manipulated
Factors of a lab experiment
Manipulation of IV proof of cause and effect because IV is isolated as the only factor influencing behaviour Quantitative data Controlled conditions Standardised method- high reliability Low ecological validity
Field experiment
The experiment takes place in the subjects own natural environment, but the researcher still manipulates the IV
Factors of a field experiment
The independent variable is still manipulated
High in ecological validity
Few demand characteristics - high validity
Low levels of control- reduces reliability(confounding variables)
Time consuming and expensive to conduct
Difficult to gain informed consent (unethical)
Quasi/ natural experiment
The independent variable is already naturally occurring; the researcher just records the effect on the dependent variable
Factors of a quasi/ natural experiment
IV is naturally occurring
Harder to establish casual relationship- affects reliability
Ethical
