research methods key terminology

Question 1

define ‘extraneous variable’ (definitions - research methods)

Answer 1

• any variable (not IV) that can affect the DV if it not controlled
• do not vary systematically with the IV

Question 2

define ‘confounding variable’ (definitions - research methods)

Answer 2

• a kind of EV that varies systematically with the IV
• researchers can’t tell if change in DV is due to IV or CVs

Question 3

define ‘internal validity’ (definitions - research methods)

Answer 3

• concerned with that goes in inside a study
• the extent to which the researcher is measuring what was intended

Question 4

define ‘external validity’ (definitions - research methods)

Answer 4

• the degree to which a research finding can be generalised to other groups of people/settings over time