Types of experiment

Question 1

4 types of experiment

Answer 1

• lab
• field
• natural
• quasi

Question 2

Lab experiment

Answer 2

takes place in a controlled environment within which the researcher manipulates the IV and records the effect on the DV, whilst maintaining strict control of extraneous variables

Question 3

Field experiment

Answer 3

takes place in a natural setting within which the researcher manipulates the IV and records the effect on the DV

Question 4

Natural experiment

Answer 4

where the change in the IV is not brought about by the researcher but would have happened even if the researcher had not been there. The researcher records the effect on the DV

Question 5

Quasi experiment

Answer 5

study that is almost an experiment but lacks key ingredients. The IV has to been determined by anyone - the ‘variables’ simply exist, such as being old or young..

Question 6

Laboratory experiments - strengths

Answer 6

• high control over extraneous variables = this means the researcher can ensure that Amy effect on the dependent variable is likely to be the result of manipulation of the independent variable. –> internal validity
• replication due to high level of control

Question 7

Laboratory experiments - weaknesses

Answer 7

• lack generalisability - doesn’t reflect everyday life
• low external validity
• demand characteristics - due to being in a lab

Question 8

Field experiments - strengths

Answer 8

• higher mundane realism than lab experiments because the environment is more natural
• high external validity

Question 9

Field experiments - weaknesses

Answer 9

• cause and effect between the IV and the DV in field studies may be much more difficult to establish and precise replication is often not possible

Question 10

Natural experiments - strengths

Answer 10

• high external validity = they involve the study of real life issues

Question 11

Natural experiments - weaknesses

Answer 11

• limit of scope to generalise findings to other similar situations as event may only occur rarely
• participants may not be randomly allocated to experimental conditions

Question 12

Quasi experiments - strength

Answer 12

carried out under controlled conditions

• control over extraneous variables
• replication

Question 13

Quasi experiments - weakness

Answer 13

• can randomly allocate participants ti conditions and there may be confounding variables