The Experimental Method

Question 1

What is the definition of an experiment?

Answer 1

Involves the manipulation of an IV to measure the effect on the DV

Question 2

What is an aims of an experiment?

Answer 2

1. Statement of what the researcher wants to investigate.
2. Purpose of the study.
3. Based on past research

Question 3

What is a hypotheses?

Answer 3

Prediction or statement made at the start of a study

Question 4

Whats a directional hypotheses?

Answer 4

A statement that states the difference between 2 conditions - states the direction of the effect

Question 5

What’s a non-directional hypotheses?

Answer 5

States there will be a difference - doesn’t give the direction of the effect

Question 6

When do you use a directional hypotheses?

Answer 6

When findings from previous research suggest a particular outcome

Question 7

When do you use a non-directional hypotheses?

Answer 7

When there is no previous research or findings from earlier studies are contradictory

Question 8

What are the two levels of the IV?

Answer 8

Control condition - no manipulation of the IV
Experimental condition - IV is manipulated

Question 9

What is operationalising variables mean?

Answer 9

Clearly defining variables in terms of how they can be measured