Study Methods

Question 1

Experimental Group

Answer 1

The subjects in an experiment who are exposed to treatment (IV)

Question 2

Control Group

Answer 2

The group of tested subjects left untreated to some procedures (results are compared to those of the experimental group). They are not exposed to the IV.
-> Provide a basis for comparison

Question 3

Placebo

Answer 3

Treatment / substance designed to have no real effect.

Question 4

Single Blind Testing

Answer 4

Only the participants are unaware of what consisting they are in and what the premise of the study is

Question 5

Double Blind Testing

Answer 5

Both the participants and the researcher interacting with them are unaware of what condition participants are in

Question 6

Randomization

Answer 6

Research participants are assigned by chance rather than choice (using a random generator or hat) to avoid bias.

Question 7

Discuss the importance of study design

Answer 7

Without a good study design an experiment cannot be repeated or used as a reliable data source.

Question 8

Specificity

Answer 8

Fitness tests must asses an individuals fitness of the activity or sport in question (running endurance tests will not provide relevant data on a cyclist’s improvement)

Question 9

Accuracy

Answer 9

The degree to which a measurement represents the true value of something (accuracy of measuring equipment - calibration, type, training of helpers)

Question 10

Reliability

Answer 10

The degree to which a measure would produce the same result multiple times

Question 11

Inter-researcher reliability

Answer 11

Whether different researchers in the same situation get similar results

Question 12

Validity

Answer 12

Fitness tests must measure the component of fitness they are supposed to (putting a cyclist on a bike is specific but making him ride fast for a short amount of time does not test for endurance)

Question 13

Outline the importance of the PAR-Q

Answer 13

The PAR-Q is a one-page form designed to see if a person should check in with their doctor before becoming much more physically active.
When it is used: Before a physical test (health risks)
What if someone answers yes?
They will have to see a doctor before performing any tests or playing sports / joining clubs

Question 14

Evaluate field tests

Answer 14

Def. Any test outside of a laboratory
Advantages: Equipment is easy to get, participants can be observed without them knowing
Disadvantages: Less accurate and reliable, many variables that are unwanted

Question 15

Evaluate laboratory tests

Answer 15

Def. Any test carried out in a laboratory
Advantages: more accurate, more variables can be controlled
Disadvantages: More difficult to access labs and equipment, may lead to a lack of external validity

Question 16

Evaluate maximal and submaximal tests for human performance

Answer 16

Wanting to know the maximum of something would favor a maximal test -> people are likely to stop early and it could be dangerous
Submaximal tests -> estimate of the maximum, useful for children and inexperienced people