Research Methods

Question 1

Experiment

Answer 1

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

Question 2

Independent variable

Answer 2

The variable that you manipulate(change)

Question 3

Dependent variable

Answer 3

The variable you measure

Question 4

Three types of experimental design:

Answer 4

Independent measures
Repeated measures
Matched pairs

Question 5

Independent measure

Answer 5

Different participants in the different conditions

Question 6

Repeated measures

Answer 6

The same participants take part in the different conditions

Question 7

Matched pairs

Answer 7

Different participants in the different conditions but they have been matched up on some key factors

Question 8

Independent measures strengths

Answer 8

No order effects

No demand characteristics

Question 9

Independent measures weaknesses

Answer 9

Individual differences

More participants would be needed

Question 10

Repeated measures strengths

Answer 10

Control for individual differences

Fewer participants

Question 11

Repeated measures weaknesses

Answer 11

Demand characteristics

Order effects including tired/bored

Question 12

Matched pairs strengths

Answer 12

No order effects
Control for individual differences
No demand characteristics

Question 13

Matched pairs weaknesses

Answer 13

Time consuming

Difficult to match all variables

Question 14

Extraneous variable

Answer 14

Variable that affect the IV or the DV thats are controlled

Question 15

Confounding variable

Answer 15

Variables that affect the IV or DV that are not controlled

Question 16

Lab experiment

Answer 16

The researcher has strict control over variables and uses standardised procedures in a controlled environment. The IV is manipulated

Question 17

Factors of a lab experiment

Answer 17

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

Question 18

Field experiment

Answer 18

The experiment takes place in the subjects own natural environment, but the researcher still manipulates the IV

Question 19

Factors of a field experiment

Answer 19

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)

Question 20

Quasi/ natural experiment

Answer 20

The independent variable is already naturally occurring; the researcher just records the effect on the dependent variable

Question 21

Factors of a quasi/ natural experiment

Answer 21

IV is naturally occurring
Harder to establish casual relationship- affects reliability
Ethical