RESEARCH METHODS: Field Experiments

Question 1

What is a field experiment

Answer 1

These take place outside of the lab, in a natural environment but the basic scientific procedures are still followed as far as possible.
The IV is manipulated. The effect on the dependent variable is measured

Question 2

Advantages of a field experiment

Answer 2

• Less artificial than a lab but still an experiment (higher mundane realism)
• So represents reality
• Completed in natural environments so avoid participant effects (if they are not aware of the study), therefore should produce behaviour which is more natural & valid (less demand characteristics)

Question 3

Disadvantages of a field experiment

Answer 3

• Extraneous variables are less easy to control, therefore less able to show cause & effect
• Ethical issues - participants unlikely to know they are being studied - cannot give informed consent